REVIEWS
Opinions that matter
Jazzit, 2010 - review by Luciano Vanni.
"Flamingo" cd.
Andrea Tofanelli | ACM Records (2010)
“Flamingo” is the final product of a long work of orchestral musical organization, commissioned by the Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli in America. The idea is to equip a big band with infinite stylistic means, drawing on both more retro sounds and more modern solutions. The beginning of the album has a flavor of other times, which evokes the memory of the sound of Maynard Ferguson's orchestra, but already starting from the homage to the composer Giacomo Puccini with the swing elaboration of the "Nessun Dorma", the expressive spectrum becomes decidedly more velvety. The album also contains highly lyrical and intimate moments, such as the duo with pianist Mauro Grossi in “The Last Legend”, Latin fragments tinged with “Father” and smooth funk with “Deal With It”. Andrea Tofanelli's instrumental voice stands out for its virtuosity, for the very brilliant use of vibrato and for a strong emotional charge impressed in every single note emitted.
Jazz Music, July 2010 - review by Gian Mario Maletto
"Flamingo" cd (Blue Stamp: RECOMMENDED BY MUSICA JAZZ)
Andrea Tofanelli | ACM Records (2010 )
There are, even in Italian jazz, musicians of a mold worthy of being defined as “classic”, so much in their expression that they recall the comparison with the great soloists of history. In particular, they have an admirably achieved perfection of style and apparently (but only apparently) privileged on the search for the new and on instinct. In this rare group there is certainly the trumpet player from Versilia Andrea Tofanelli, who is supported by the long collaboration with Maynard Ferguson and the cult he maintains towards the Canadian champion. His new record sees him stand out at the center of an orchestra gathered in California among valued musicians and directed in turn by the arrangers, who make use of all kinds of texts, including Puccini and Modugno (and also the Pino Iodice of "Melodia Infinita "). On the sidelines as an organic are the two songs written by Tofanelli himself: the quartet of “Dania's Theme” and the duo of “The Last Legend”, a very fine dedication to Ferguson, which Mauro Grossi knows how to masterfully share. A good record, "classic" in fact.
Frank Foster
composer and arranger of the Count Basie Orchestra
2-time Grammy Award winner
Liner notes of the cd "More Than Just Friends", winner of the "SWISS JAZZ PRIZE 2010".
Dani Felber Big Band, first trumpet Andrea Tofanelli.
... the song "Discommotion" gives the band the opportunity to demonstrate their musical prowess ... After an exciting interplay between sax and brass, the dazzling ensemble finishes this song with a blinding roar, but not before a very high trumpet (Andrea Tofanelli) you overheat it further with some torrid solo lines that culminate with the ferocious explosion of a C Trisacuto. I have never heard anything like this on any other previous big band recording. "I must emphasize once again that this wonderful ensemble performs practically superhuman deeds in this surprising cd "
International Trumpet Guild, USA - January 2011 - reviewed by David Bohnert, Wayne State College, NE
"Earth Games 2012" cd. Nicola Ferro composer - Andrea Tofanelli soloist | Summit Records (2010)
"Earth Games 2012" is a heterogeneous set of styles, performed by some of the best musicians in the world today. The instrumentation includes a brass quartet (including Andrea Tofanelli, Joe Alessi, Nicola Ferro himself and Justin B. Clark), with a rhythm section and the tuba, but the repertoire is anything but typical for a brass quartet. . The disc is a collection of 4 suites intended to be a "virtual journey through time and space", inspired by the prophecy of Pacal Votan (Mayan ruler of the seventh century) who indicates December 21, 2012 as the closing date of the cycle of this era. of the world. Many sounds on the record are manipulated or created electronically and represent an interesting fusion of jazz, pop, blues, oriental and alternative styles. The performances are exceptional, and Tofanelli's stellar way of playing the trumpet showcases his extremely wide high register and his ease in controlling it.
International Trumpet Guild, USA - January 2011 - reviewed by Thomas Erdmann, Elon University, NC
"Flamingo" cd
Andrea Tofanelli | ACM Records (2010)
Blending popular music with the virtuosity of the high register, Andrea Tofanelli's American recording debut is a collection of original and popular pieces performed in an orchestral jazz style. Tofanelli never disappoints, backed by a solid big band, including trumpet players like Wayne Bergeron, plus a full-bodied orchestral full of strings treated in the Sinatra style. In summary, the Italian trumpeter has never sounded better. Its timbre is even more rounded, its upper register more full-bodied, and its usual perfection in the stratosphere of the trumpet is more acute than ever, which, speaking of Tofanelli, means saying everything. Whether in ballads like his "The Last Legend" or in Puccini's "Nessun Dorma", Tofanelli offers 40 minutes of flamboyant pyrotechnic adventures. The few improvised solos he takes show however that he is as skilled as any other contemporary jazz player.
All About Jazz, ITALY - review by Valerio Prigiotti - 2010
"Flamingo" cd
Andrea Tofanelli | ACM Records (2010)
Requested in America for stages and concerts, present for years in all major television broadcasts, wanted by Bruno Tommaso at Barga Jazz as Prima Trumpet and by Massimo Nunzi in his projects dedicated to Stan Kenton and Maynard Ferguson. Here are some tracks that can give an account of Andrea Tofanelli's role in the Italian trumpet community, within which he is appreciated for his mastery in the high register and his didactic commitment. With Flamingo he reaches his third CD, after Mattia's Walk and an album of classic and Neapolitan arias. The new experience sees him away, at the head of a powerful American orchestra and grappling with a repertoire designed to highlight the dominance of the bisacuti, but without forgetting a central register that has seen a good maturation over the years, acquiring body and warmth. After an opening that winks with taste at the American market ("Volare" and "Nessun dorma") the record takes a much more interesting turn for the jazz enthusiast, offering arrangements of greater depth and original and stimulating songs. "The Last Legend" is a ballad for trumpet and piano, dedicated to Ferguson and able to show how, in the hands of Tofanelli, the extreme register of the trumpet can be played with delicacy and dynamic control. "Flamingo" remembers Bud Brisbois, Maynard's heir to the Kenton band and Hollywood recording studios. The virtuosity present in the best editions of Ferguson's bands is at work in "To Bop", while "Melodia Infinita" is the work of Pino Iodice, whose arrangement is among the most intense of the album and allows us to appreciate Tofanelli also in "normal" register, more singable than the instrument, clearly evident in "Dania's Theme", a ballad for flugelhorn performed with great elegance. Pleasant routine episodes like "Father" or "Who's Your Daddy," alternate with more densely written works, like the funky "Deal with It". Flamingo leaves us with a feeling of energetic vitality, often forgotten by the poses that too jazz today prefers to assume. It presents a repertoire of an alternating level, but always flawless on a professional level. It leaves the desire to see unified roads explored in greater depth on the aesthetic level (for example the one indicated by "Melodia Infinita") and to listen to the tributes to Ferguson, Kenton or Cat Anderson, the subject of many concerts by Tofanelli.
source: http://italia.allaboutjazz.com
All About Jazz 2010, USA - Review by Nicholas F. Mondello
"Flamingo" cd
Andrea Tofanelli | ACM Records (2010)
In 1974, a reckless French tightrope walker named Philippe Petit walked at a dizzying height on a cable that connected the Twin Towers to New York. He was able to electrify the pre-internet, pre-YouTube world by crossing the distance between the two buildings 8 times, an act of incredible skill, competition and courage which he then recounted in detail in his book "To Reach the Clouds" (North Point Press, 2002). Similarly, with this record "Flamingo" the Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli has performed his incredible feat in a magnificent way, playing with skill and brilliance at prohibitive heights. Tofanelli has climbed the heights of the trumpet world, with an almost superhuman ability to bring this instrument into and beyond that rarefied realm frequented by the likes of Maynard Ferguson, Cat Anderson and Bud Brisbois. By avoiding strangling these sounds and playing them as a purely gymnastic exercise, Tofanelli demonstrates instead that he is a pure musician and a magician in all registers, managing to reach the limits of the audible, where no one has ever reached before. "Flamingo" kicks off with a fresh reworking in a Latin key of "Volare", a success of the '60s by Domenico Modugno. The pun is on the word “fly”, and in fact Tofanelli flies beyond the stratosphere, in all its areas. The title could come directly from the repertoire of Ferguson or Stan Kenton, while the inclusion of songs such as "Nessun Dorma" and "Melodia Infinita" highlight the musicality with which Tofanelli uses its extension and its potential. No sounds like that have been heard since Maynard Ferguson (for whom Tofanelli composed and performed "The Last Legend") reigned in the trumpeter Olympus. The skill and the sober taste of the flugelhorn shine in songs like "Father" and "Dania's Theme", which show how he has the artistic intelligence and the heart to always think about music and phrasing, and not only about acute register. In fact, he carefully avoids using the soft sound of the flugelhorn on shrill and high-pitched registers, as many do. And, to his credit, this acutist is also capable of jazz: in the song “To Bop” his phrasing is stellar. With “Who's Your Daddy?”, A seething Latin piece with Sandoval-style high notes, it completes what we can define as a real “tour de force” of its acute potential. Compared to Tofanelli, any other trumpeter could be intimidated by this question ("Who's Your Daddy?" Literally means "Who is your father?", Or "But who are you?"), To which Tofanelli really answers in a definitive way. The rhythmics put together to record this record tastefully support it in “Deal With It”. The songs have a European flavor, but the execution is swinging, intense and with a lot of shooting. The big band also supports Tofanelli with pride and energy. The total judgment on this production is excellent, certainly a challenge also for the powerful executive skills of Tofanelli. Surely Maynard Ferguson, Cat Anderson and Bud Brisbois will be smiling from the "room upstairs", knowing that their baton has passed into the hands of this wonderful musical talent. The name of Tofanelli can easily be added to those of the Pantheon of the great acute players. While music aficionados and musicians themselves will likely pause to consider his artistic prowess, trumpet players will instead bow to the talent, skill and musicality of Andrea Tofanelli, a stellar phenomenon.
source: www.allaboutjazz.com
“Rendez-Vous”, Official Journal of Luxembourg - 02/2007
"Trumpet Summit: Randy Brecker, Claudio Roditi, Andrea Tofanelli, Ernie Hammes (2 March 2007), a summit of the most incredible trumpet players in the world, something never seen in Luxembourg"
Review of the Maynard Ferguson Tribute concert at Rowan Jazz Festival, Philadelphia USA, 2007.
"Some musicians take months to learn music," said prof. Gorge Rabbai from the Music Department “But with Tofanelli everything came out really well with just one rehearsal”.
source: Magazine www.thewhitonline.com
"One Final Trip to Birdland" by The Musings of Kev
review of the "MAYNARD FERGUSON TRIBUT CONCERT" at the Touhill Performing Arts Center in St. Louis (USA)
September 20, 2006.
"The realization that Maynard was undoubtedly an international phenomenon, as personified by two special guests: Japanese trumpet player Eric Miyashiro and Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli, both of whom were outstanding."
source: Maynard Ferguson Official Site
JazzReview.com magazine, complete guide to jazz on the web.
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk and Tribute to Maynard ferguson", by Dr. Ana Isabel Ordonez.
Andrea Tofanelli is a gentleman and is also one of the greatest instrumentalists and trumpet players in Europe. In Italy, where Andrea was born and lives, he is an icon. Directing his bands, appearing on TV for many years in numerous TV shows, teaching trumpet and jazz at the “O. Vecchi ”of Modena, Andrea always appears exceptional, as a trumpet player and also humanly as a person. Andrea is a virtuoso with a Leo's appetite, both in classical music and in Latin jazz. We can consider it as the Pavarotti of the extreme trumpet high register, reckless performer of C and F bisacuti. Although of Mediterranean origins, he has Latin rhythms in his blood as if he were born there in Latin America. This cd was released in 2000, dedicated to his first son Mattia, but it is also a tribute to Maynard Ferguson. The sense of orchestration is perfect and Andrea's skills as a leader are enviable. Tofanelli explores the styles of Latin jazz with absolute mastery of phrasing and explosive passion, in all its dynamics. His trumpet skills are impressive and also drag the rhythm section of the band. His instrumental capabilities are endless and most trumpet lovers are amazed when they hear him play for the first time. Mattia's Walk is a CD where interpretation, improvisation, arrangements, orchestration and multi-rhythmic creation explode and make a great contribution to Latin jazz. Andrea Tofanelli captures attention in the way he controls his trumpet in the midst of stormy waters. In “For So Many Years” his flugelhorn caresses the notes with perfect classical technique. This musician is a virtuoso, plus he is gifted with a kind heart and a sincere emotion that shines through his eyes, which bring to mind the eyes of Chet Baker "but only the eyes! His leadership is powerful, with the 'ability to dig each piece of music down to its roots. The arrangements are phenomenal, proving that Tofanelli is a master of complex Latin rhythms. His work will be highly regarded in New York music circles. That said, "The Boss" Maynard Ferguson must be proud of track 12: the concert "Maynard Ferguson" is a precious tribute to the Legend of the upper register, by this great, talented Italian trumpet player!
source: www.jazzreview.com
Jazz Convention - 2006, by Fabio Ciminiera
"The story of" Le Cittá del Jazz "is thus populated with irony and music, unfolding among virtuosities, such as, for example, the treble of Andrea Tofanelli on the trumpet, and the energy of the wind section"
source: www.jazzconvention.net
2006 "Piacenza Jazz Arrangers" International Competition
"The story of" Le Cittá del Jazz "is thus populated with irony and music, unfolding among virtuosities, such as, for example, the treble of Andrea Tofanelli on the trumpet, and the energy of the wind section"
source: www.jazzitalia.net
International Trumpet Guild, USA
Review of the cd "Memory of Naples"
by Thomas R. Erdmann, ITG Jazz Editor, Trumpet Professor and Conductor, Elon University, Elon NC.
The second leading album by the Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli finds him as a solo voice, accompanied by a reinforced orchestra, of a variety of Italian popular songs. Playing with a robust and clear timbre throughout all registers, including the higher ones inhabited by Bud Brisbois, Tofanelli's ability to genuinely sing melodies through his own trumpet is never in question. Playing with a verve and taste that brings back to Harry James, including wide vibrato, Tofanelli is a great example of how proper use of air can open up a myriad of fully realized possibilities of sound to the trumpet. Great admirer of Maynard Ferguson, Tofanelli's first album as leader is a tribute to the great specialist of high notes, with whom he shares a certain momentum; here, Tofanelli does not aim at the arena of the lightning technique but, on the contrary, at the emotional sphere of feelings. There are no improvisations to speak of, just well-executed, elegant recordings of heart-breaking songs. Perhaps best described as a technically perfect instrumental equivalent of Andrea Bocelli, Tofanelli demonstrates why his fame is growing and consolidating more and more outside his country of origin ..
International Trumpet Guild, USA
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk and Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
by David A. Johnson
harmony professor at Berklee College of Music, Boston MA.
The first solo effort, recorded in 2000, by the Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli is subtitled “Tribute to Maynard Ferguson”. And there is a lot of evidence of Maynard's spirit from the beginning to the end of this collection. Tofanelli possesses frightening control of the extreme high register of the trumpet and is not afraid to use it. In addition to this tour-de-force, "Maynard Ferguson", which Maynard himself performed with Stan Kenton's orchestra in the early 1950s, Tofanelli unfolds his high notes freely throughout this set of contemporary compositions which are for the mostly in the Latin and Latin Jazz genre. In many pieces, through the technological sorcery of overdubbing, Tofanelli creates a section of first trumpets. The rhythm section, with few changes of staff from piece to piece, is excellent, skilfully supporting Tofanelli's solo work. There are also some guest musicians: particularly noteworthy are the solos by Mauro Negri on clarinet and Roberto Martinelli on alto sax. Most of Tofanelli's solos, however, are free sorts on the high-pitched registers. He tends to have much more significant musical content when playing the flugelhorn or trumpet with muted harmon. The sound quality is generally excellent, with excellent clarity and distinction. I must admit that after repeated listening I have come to enjoy this music, just as one can enjoy other forbidden and sinful pleasures. If you subscribe to the "sharpest and loudest" school this CD is for you.
Review of the jazz orchestra arrangement competition
"Barga Jazz" 2003 with the Barga Jazz Big Band and Lee Konitz
by Francesco Martinelli, journalist, jazz critic and writer.
All About Jazz Italia 2003
"Among the Brass, Andrea Tofanelli for his work on the high register is the closest expression to Maynard Ferguson that Italy has produced, as well as being a sensitive soloist who has shown his talent on the flugelhorn playing an intense quartet original song "
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk & Tribute To Maynard Ferguson"
by Marco Losavio
Jazzitalia, May 2003
Andrea Tofanelli is a trumpet player with many and varied experiences ranging from classical to pop music, to jazz, to Latin, to the trumpet section of various orchestras. The most notable feature of this trumpet player is his technique and the way he uses the trumpet in an upper register. The instrument rises until it reaches peaks where the notes are rarefied, oxygen is lacking but the sustain is maintained solidly. Despite being at very high altitude, the sound is clean, full, the phrasing is adequately sophisticated and the dynamics absolutely under control. In short, you do not expect extreme sounds obtained in a circus way but acute, ringing notes, functional to this style deriving from Maynard Ferguson, Arturo Sandoval or Gillespie. The CD is openly dedicated in particular to Ferguson also because it contains a small gem and that is the re-recording of a concert that Ferguson recorded with Stan Kenton in 1954. Since then no one has recorded it anymore and the Tofanelli version is currently the only one. , as well as that of Ferguson himself. Among other things, in this orchestra (the Jazz Art Orchestra), among the trumpets, also Fabrizio Bosso. In this CD we find a lot of Latin: cha cha cha, samba, partido alto, bayon, bossanova but also a ballad: For So Many Years composed by Tofanelli himself (author of most of the songs). Here Tofanelli shows absolute mastery even with a sound I would dare to say, "normal", very Bakerian, very fascinating. Nice song. There is also room for a very pleasant acid jazz contamination: Modern Child also composed by Tofanelli. A note of merit to Tofanelli's travel companions. Sandro Debellis on percussion contributes greatly, together with drummer Tony Arco and bassist Carmelo Isgrò, to making this music impeccably rhythmic, as well as pianist Nelson Betancourt who harmoniously supports Tofanelli's evolutions and is never unprepared when he must take over from him in the suns. Similarly, Mauro Negri's splendid clarinet provides a touch of true class during his interventions. There are many other contributions that should be noted because they are all of excellent workmanship: Roberto Martinelli on alto sax, Massimo Zanotti on trombone, Riccardo Fioravanti on double bass, Mauro Grossi on piano (and also arranger of the Maynard Ferguson concert). In conclusion, a CD that oozes energy, the desire to vent through the notes emitted by your instrument a contagious joy of playing, of getting involved in the rhythm.
Review of the cd "Memory of Naples"
by Alex Sullivan
Il Corriere di Sesto (Mi), March 2003
Andrea Tofanelli's versatile trumpet was needed to create, in a workmanlike manner, an instrumental homage dedicated to the true musical tradition of Naples. A record certainly at the height of the best film soundtracks. The immortals "o Sole mio", "Malafemmena", "Torna a Surriento", "Voce e 'notte", "Na' sera e 'Maggio", "Malafemmena", "Reginella" etc. "never had space, all together , within a record production with such a fresh, direct, not at all commercial appearance. A brilliant idea, because to praise the glory of such popular compositions there is not the usual fat Neapolitan voice of melodious melody and easy grip, but rather a dazzling "first trumpet" ready to engage in thrilling solos, playing now with flute fluency, now with energetic "jazz" lash. A Lady Trumpet who, if necessary, even manages to take the place of the human voice, "vocalizing" decisively those dear homegrown refrains "
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk & Tribute To Maynard Ferguson"
by Alex Sullivan
Il Corriere di Sesto (Mi), February 2003
Well, I confess: I was literally conquered by the tribute to Maynard Ferguson recorded on this CD by Andrea Tofanelli, a trumpeter and musician with an extreme interpretative sensitivity who, assisted by solid technical preparation, makes it a phenomenon of wind notes. A very pleasant jazz adventure on samba, bossanova, Latin jazz rhythms and a pinch of cha cha at the beginning, to dive towards the epilogue in exciting acid jazz and Latin funk sounds. A disc cover (but at the same time by the author, being 6 songs composed as well as performed by Tofanelli himself), "sung" in its 12 tracks by the masterful and very acute trumpet of Andrea, who for the occasion gathered colleagues and friends of the jazz scene of the caliber of Nelson Betancourt and Roberto Martinelli, or the legendary Jazz Art Orchestra here conducted by Carlo Gelmini for the exceptional tribute to Maynard Ferguson, in which Tofanelli is an amazing solo performer. So much so that, on May 7, 2000, he was invited by Ferguson himself to perform with his Big Bop Nouveau Band at the Ponchielli Municipal Theater in Casalmaggiore (Cr). An event, in his rich career, which will remain indelible in the memory of fans of the genre.
Review of the album "Mon Petit Garà on"
by the Italian-French singer YuYu
November 2002
"The music fully satisfies the expectations of the most demanding and cultured public, who know how to appreciate an accurate artistic production, where even the electronics are played live in the studio. An album that transports refinements worthy of the best Sade in full lounge and chill out territory, traveling on the winds of masters such as Claudio Pascoli (sax), Andrea Tofanelli (trumpet and flugelhorn) and Massimo Zanotti (trombone) ...
source: www.italianmusicawards.it,
Review of the album "Mon Petit Garà on"
by the Italian-French singer YuYu
November 2002
"The music fully satisfies the expectations of the most demanding and cultured public, who know how to appreciate an accurate artistic production, where even the electronics are played live in the studio. An album that transports refinements worthy of the best Sade in full lounge and chill out territory, traveling on the winds of masters such as Claudio Pascoli (sax), Andrea Tofanelli (trumpet and flugelhorn) and Massimo Zanotti (trombone) ...
source: www.italianmusicawards.it,
Review of Barga Jazz 2002, Thelonious Monk
All About Jazz
"The Jury however reported the very high level of the competition" Among the soloists, Andrea Tofanelli's trumpet is in evidence "
Review of Barga Jazz 2002, Thelonious Monk
by Alessandro Staiti
All About Jazz
"On Friday 23 the Barga Jazz orchestra interprets the original compositions of section B" Â »then the turn of" Congressional Roll Call "by Scott Reeves, American musician. It is a very articulated and complex composition - perhaps even complicated - in its rhythmic architecture, so much so as to force the orchestra to make an evident effort "About halfway, the piece moves to Latin atmospheres that favor the crystalline only of Tofanelli's trumpet , and then finish moving towards the free ... ... Immediately after it is the turn of Section C "followed by the melancholy" Notte di Marzo ", with an intense solo by Tofanelli that resounds in the total silence of the orchestra" Vince deservedly the section C "March night"
Sound and Images "of the Morenghi-Borgazzi Quartet
Cover notes of the cd
by Aldo Gianolio
... in Metropolitan Tribal Dance, Colors and Sound and Images the quartet is transformed into a sextet with the addition of the brilliant and extroverted trumpet player Andrea Tofanelli, gifted with a crystalline technique that on command and always at the right moments becomes sparkling pyrotechnic with full mastery in the performance of the upper notes ...
Sound and Images "of the Morenghi-Borgazzi Quartet
Cover notes of the cd
by Massimo Monti, Producer MAP.
... Remarkable is the compositional vein in the various tracks of the CD which, as parts with different colors and atmospheres, manage to form a whole, homogeneous framework of "SOUNDS and IMAGES". It is easy to recognize the interpretative originality, the exuberance in the phrasing between the superimposed notes of the winds and that "touch of class" of Andrea Tofanelli's trumpet ...
Top ↑
Barga Jazz 2001 review
by Adamo Cordati
All About Jazz - July / August 2001
... Francesco Martinelli, president of the jury this year, underlined the high overall level of the competition, and the impeccable performance of the orchestra in which soloists such as Andrea Tofanelli on trumpet stood out "
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
by Steven Loewy
Double Time Jazz, 2001
Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli calls this record “a tribute to Maynard Ferguson” and it's easy to see why. The Italian drags the Jazz Art Orchestra out with the same wild exuberance of some sensational flies by Ferguson in the middle and late career. Tofanelli is an authoritarian master of technique, with a stubborn tendency for the stratosphere. Regarding the concert "Maynard Ferguson" written by Shorty Rogers, one could even swear that the Italian is Ferguson himself for how good he is. And, as in Ferguson's style, there are excesses and some blatant emphasis, but everything is played with great and positive fun and his showmanship qualities are impressive. Tofanelli gives this cd a Cuban flavor, with upbeat rhythms and dance times. There are also some excellent solos as Tofanelli has involved some appreciable musicians from the vibrant Italian jazz scene, such as clarinetist Mauro Negri and pianist / arranger Mauro Grossi. The band is sparkling, sometimes even captivating, and will please all those who love the Latin sound of big bands and impressive trumpet technique.
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
by Luigi Sidero
All About Jazz, 2001
An explosive trumpet and a strong predilection for Latin and Caribbean rhythms make Mattia's Walk a concentrate of joy. Treble, bisacuti and trisacuti, are the characteristics of Andrea Tofanelli, a trumpet player who makes virtuosity and power the main expression of his music, articulating daring phrases and pushing higher and higher, while always maintaining full control of the instrument and sound. . A style certainly not sober, but one that fascinates for the excellent solo qualities of Tofanelli, capable of deeply penetrating the spirit of a ballad ("For So Many Years" for example), and of "breaking everything" in wild Latin like " Nigerian Marketplace "or" Round Dance ". A jazz very close to the "Cuban" Gillespie (as Enrico Rava points out in the liner notes, which enhance Tofanelli's talent) attracts, amuses and captivates, with many and excellent musicians on the scene. It's hard not to get drunk following the hyperbolic evolutions of the trumpet!
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson
by Aldo Gianolio
Jazz Music, May 2002
There is a reason why Tofanelli was the only Italian trumpeter to have the honor of playing with the orchestra of Maynard Ferguson (in Casalmaggiore in 2002): his technique, which is close to that of the American maestro, is amazing for the complete mastery in the use of the high notes. This record has the programmatic intention of highlighting them, succeeding fully. United by a certain straight atmosphere there are songs of different levels, mostly based on festive Latin American rhythms (samba, cha cha cha, bossa nova, bayon, mambo). But what counts above all are Tofanelli's solos, some of them really valuable.
Review of the cd "Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
by Jack Bowers
Cadence Magazine, October 2001
Trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli employs a large cast of musicians on this cd and it doesn't take long to identify who is his main role model in the role he holds. But in case it doesn't appear immediately, the title of the last song (the spectacular “Maynard Ferguson” concert written by Shorty Rogers) sweeps away any remaining uncertainty. Tofanelli has obviously practiced his high notes for many years and uses them to great effect in this formidable jazz exercise with a predominantly Latin flavor. While he doesn't play Maynard Ferguson's Superbone, he still manages to transform into an expert five-trumpet section using overdubs. In the trumpet section that accompanies him instead in the concert "Maynard Ferguson" there are two other trumpet players (F. Bosso and A. Guzzoletti) and the whole Jazz Art Orchestra of Parma conducted by Carlo Gelmini. This piece is really the highlight, but there are also many other significant moments in this often wonderful album. Considering Tofanelli 's impressive technique and luminous sound, one is not surprised to learn that he is a musician with a solid classical background who trained working as a first trumpet and soloist in all genres of music, from classical orchestra to big band, collaborating with some of the most famous names in jazz (including Maynard Ferguson). When one can be so talented as to leave a colleague like Enrico Rava after an orchestral rehearsal, then we really find ourselves in front of an important musician. In the liner notes Rava compares Tofanelli's work on this album to that of a another trumpeter notoriously inclined to the high register, Arturo Sandoval, and this is an absolutely right consideration. He also praises the musicians who accompany the leader and here too he hits the mark, as the various formations lend their assiduous and valid support in all the compositions of the cd. Rhythms range from cha cha to bayon, samba to bossa, with a little latin funk, acid jazz and even a ballad or two as a final topping, and Tofanelli proves to be a master of everything. But it is his dazzling interventions in the upper register that leave you breathless, although he is also an expert and penetrating improviser. The recording quality could be improved, but Tofanelli surpasses all of this and gives further convincing proof, if ever needed, that musical talent knows no bounds.
"Memory of Naples"
Disc liner notes
by Fio Zanotti - 2001
Sound, swing and extension are uncommon skills that not everyone has. When you find a musician with all these qualities, you can't help but compliment him. This is the case of Andrea Tofanelli, an exceptional trumpet player now always present in my sessions. And it is with immense pleasure that I wish him a great and well-deserved success.
"Memory of Naples"
Disc liner notes
by Peppe Vessicchio - 2001.
"... big heart, extraordinary technique and an enviable versatility make Andrea Tofanelli excel whether it is a big-band section or if you have to" lyric "with a popular Neapolitan melody. An all-round instrumentalist, in possession of appropriate languages, a very useful example for those who intend to pursue a career as a musician at three hundred and sixty degrees. "
"Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
Cover notes of the cd
by Davide Ielmini - September 2000
For those who make jazz a profession, the name of Andrea Tofanelli has long been a point of reference. Just think of his appearances in the orchestra that every year competes in Barga in the competition for the best arrangements: it is there that Bruno Tommaso wanted him and it is there that he has repeatedly awarded him for his artistic skills that it would be improper to define standards. And it is always on that stage that Enrico Rava has managed to erase the lines of a severe teacher from his face to grant Andrea a friendly smile. Perhaps as an admirer (or as a talent-scout?). But Tofanelli also means Jovanotti (he was part of the horn section that accompanied the singer on the tour “Lorenzo-L 'Albero 1997”), Demo Morselli, Mediaset and RAI (in “Frankly I don't care” by Adriano Celentano). In 1996, then, he calls him Peter Erskine and entrusts him with the role of first trumpet in the orchestra that will be alongside him on tour. A multifaceted musician this Tofanelli, if only for his duplicity: showman (you can hear him from the way he approaches the musical path) with a magnificent predisposition to "sweeten" even the most pretentious compositions, and an artist more of being than of 'appear, inspired by the great masters of jazz and Latin jazz, such as Arturo Sandoval. But not only that: in fact, a small space is not denied to the youthful contaminations of acid jazz, to which Tofanelli gives a solid artistic reason that avoids inconveniences. Tofanelli plays down, entertains, involves, drags. Also and above all when he decides to record (since 1956 nobody had done it in its original version) the hyperbolic “Maynard Ferguson”, a cure-all for the lungs, throat and lips. A piece that is difficult not to consider as the nightmare of all trumpet players: a test, if you like, of a conservatory. The fact is that Andrea is not satisfied with the engraving, he takes the tape and sends it to Ferguson. The gratitude will not be lacking: Maynard will invite him to one of his concerts in Italy and Tofanelli will not be long in coming on stage. Probably someone will recommend to Andrea a change of genre: such a gifted jazz player cannot "get lost" in the frolicking and whirling basins of those who ask for bossa nova or mango. Are your high notes too much are too focused and professional for those who can't stand jazz but love dance? No. Tofanelli is an example of "musical surgery": it assembles seriousness and dedication to entertainment and popular passion. Yet this record will open the ears to those who know jazz: for the arrangements and interventions by Mauro Grossi or Mauro Negri, for the temperament of the Jazz Art Orchestra in "Maynard Ferguson", for the rhythm (which in Latin-jazz it's “almost” everything) and for Andrea's ascents who, between columns of air and pressure on the mouthpiece, are like an ice cube on the skin. Of course, listening to the CD it will not be difficult to think of Cuba, but the island is more that of Ry Cooder with his Buena Vista Social Club (as an artistic depth of the event) than the paradise of beaches and narrow bikinis celebrated by advertising leaflets. The contrast that is generated between a "marketable" consumer product and a work of art to be enjoyed in a "targeted" listening is Andrea's main strength: knowing how to reconcile, without too many compromises, form with content, and this last to the preferences of the listeners. Who, without a doubt, will be able to choose whether to exhaust themselves in the laps of the steps or abandon themselves to the harmonic ones. Davide Ielmini
"Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
Cover notes of the cd
by BrunoTommaso - September 2000
There are many reasons to appreciate the music of this record: first of all the freshness, the panache, the joy of living and therefore of playing as well as the desire to transmit vitality and feelings without delay or intellectualistic barriers. And then the beautiful lesson of professionalism, which is of no small importance these days if we consider how much the wealth of skills, flexibility and willingness to get involved are useful and sometimes indispensable for the realization of artistic projects in the most varied directions. So we welcome instrumentalists, I correct myself, musicians of the stature of Andrea Tofanelli who among other things was able to surround himself with highly respected adventure companions such as Mauro Grossi, Roberto Martinelli and Mauro Negri, the pleasant discovery Betancourt and the formidable rhythm sections that alternate in executions. Certainly Tofanelli's virtuosity is striking and to some it may seem exaggeratedly acrobatic: and why not? The Italian Constitution does not prohibit skipping half measures and if a young artist wants to exaggerate it is good that he does it: he will have time to find more cogitabondi moments, and it is not excluded that they do not already emerge. In reality, behind this apparent light-heartedness we perceive study, passion, dedication and sacrifice that put together give us a real catalog of genres around the phantasmagoric world that oscillates between jazz and Latin American culture, with brilliant strokes of color and accuracy. polyrhythmic, to end with the interesting composition by Shorty Rogers delightfully re-proposed in a non-photocopied version but at the same time with a value that we could risk defining as philological. Bravo Andrea!
Bruno Tommaso
"Mattia's Walk & Tribute to Maynard Ferguson"
Cover notes of the cd
by Enrico Rava - October 2000
At this point in my life I have listened to so much of that music and so many of those musicians that I am no longer surprised by anything (or almost). However, I must confess that this summer, in Barga Jazz, when I first heard the rehearsals of the orchestra and especially when I first heard Andrea Tofanelli lead the trumpet section from the top of the stratosphere with swing, authority and with a sound as big as a house, I was literally speechless and with a great desire to know better this musician for whom the trumpet begins where for most trumpet players it ends. In fact, Andrea gives the best of himself from high C onwards, and in his case the "then" means that he still has another octave and a half (and even more ...) available and not with whistles or effects uncontrolled but with real notes, full, clear and precise as sabers, with an articulated and coherent phrasing, with absolute mastery of dynamics, with a big heart and a remarkable expressiveness. In Barga we worked together for four days and I was able to appreciate more and more Andrea's musical and human skills, his great love for music and for his instrument. I had the opportunity to listen to him both in the orchestra as first trumpet (a role he plays in an exceptional and unusual way, being at the same time first trumpet, acutist and soloist) and in jam sessions as an improviser and he enchanted me for the control of the instrument in forbidden areas. to most people and for the freshness of his inspiration, all accompanied by a rather rare modesty. For these reasons I am very happy to write these few lines of presentation of this CD that introduces us to Andrea also in the role of composer and leader. Roles that he plays with great intelligence and with great awareness of his own means and characteristics. The music that is offered to us is in fact ideal for enhancing the qualities of Tofanelli, whose playing is undoubtedly closer to the world of Latin music or to the "Cuban" Gillespie, or if we want to Arturo Sandoval, than to jazz. by Miles Davis or Chet Baker. In a certain sense, in fact, this is not a jazz record in the strict sense, despite being full of excellent jazz players and high-level solo interventions. In my opinion, it is rather a music between jazz and Latin music on the wave of Paquito D'Riveira or Sandoval. Music of pure fun but full of inspiration, designed to highlight the virtuosity and peculiarities of Tofanelli, and which will not fail to fascinate all trumpet lovers.
SUBSTITUTE DECLARATION OF CERTIFICATION
(art. 45 and 46 DPR 445/2000)
The undersigned Andrea Tofanelli born in Viareggio (Lu) on 07/26/1965, resident in Torre del Lago Puccini (Lu) in Via G. Verdi 7, aware of the penal sanctions referred to in art. 76 of Presidential Decree 28/12/00 n. 445 in the event of false declarations and the forfeiture of any benefits resulting from the provision issued on the basis of untrue declarations, pursuant to art. 75 of the Presidential Decree of 28/12/00 n. 445; pursuant to and by effect of art. 46 of the aforementioned Presidential Decree 445/2000; under its own responsibility DECLARES that all the reviews listed above are true and have been published in specialized magazines or on authorized sources on the Internet. Each of these sources has been specified with each review.
Torre del Lago Puccini, there 20/06/2011