Giovanni Mirabassi - Viva VERDI

Review by Andy Beach

Giovanni Mirabassi's album, Viva VERDI, is a splendid tribute to the legendary Italian composer, Giuseppe Verdi. The album features a collection of Verdi's most famous opera pieces, reimagined by Mirabassi's piano skills, along with his bandmates Gianluca Renzi on bass and Lukmil Perez Herrera on drums.

The album opens with "Va, pensiero," a popular chorus from Verdi's Nabucco, which Mirabassi transforms into a soulful and melancholic piano solo. The trio's rendition of "Libiamo ne' lieti calici" from La Traviata is equally impressive, with Mirabassi's nimble fingers conjuring up a lively and playful melody.

The album's highlight, however, is perhaps the hauntingly beautiful "La donna e mobile" from Rigoletto. Mirabassi's delicate piano notes and Renzi's gentle bassline create a mesmerizing atmosphere that perfectly captures the song's tragic essence.

Summary by Andy Beach

Viva VERDI is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and jazz aficionados alike. Mirabassi's masterful interpretation of Verdi's timeless compositions, combined with his bandmates' excellent musicianship, make this album a true gem.