“Opus EP” has been in the vaults for over two decades. However, the previously unreleased jazz/fusion EP registered at Quad Studios in New York City, USA, during the 90s, and mastered by Steve Cappelli for Sound Suite Recording Studios, is an immediate gem for anybody into avant-garde jazz and crossover experimentations.
“Sunset Boulevard,” the opening track of “Opus EP,” is mellow chillout jazz instrumental featuring the legendary American saxophonist Michael Brecker and Steve Gadd on drums. Other tracks that need to be highlighted are the beautiful latin Jazz ballad “Se Ela Soubesse” featuring Mariosa Fedele and Steve Gadd on sultry grooves and “The greatest love of love” (featuring Billy Cobham on drums and again Michael Brecker on saxophone).
“Tobacco” is the most Latin-inspired track of the album, with a fantastic work on drums by Billy Cobham and a modern arrangement by Leo Washington and Luca Valsiglio.
“Good for Me” is the only track that could have been part of a separate project. A sensual vocal performance provided by singer Ela Brando that sometimes reminds the vocal tones of Gloria Gaynor and Róisín Murphy, “Good for Me” captures the spirit of dance music of the 90s with a mix of jazz fusion. Another stunning vocal performance captured in the 90’s album is “Woman In Blue,” beautifully sung by Danila Satragno.
Tracks like “Prelude to bossa” shine a light on the mysterious figure of Leo Washington. “Prelude to bossa” is a virtuosic piano solo introducing the beautiful “Se Ela Soubesse.”
Legendary British producer Paul Hardcastle (best known for his song “19”, which went to number 1 in the UK Singles Chart in 1985) provides a remix of the futuristic jazz track “Tekno Mode” featuring Gato Barbieri on saxophone and percussions by Billy Cobham.
A single version of “Sunset Boulevard,” featuring a remix by Italian DJ / producer Francesco Zappala’ will be released on the 3rd of June.
