In order to improve my playing skills, my sax teacher used to tell me to play as if I were singing the lyrics with extra schmaltz, as in an opera. This collection of duets between Lou Caimano/as and Eric Olsen/p goes to one of the most lyrical and expressive songbooks of all time; opera composer Giacomo Puccini. Irresistible and famous melodies such as “Nessun Dorma” and “Che Gelida Manina” are performed here; the problem is that Caimano works more on a clear lyricism instead of milking the melody. Very little dynamism is present; isn’t this supposed to be delivered “bel canto”? “E Lucevan Le Stelle” works the best in this style, but a little more verrisimo, along with a switch once in awhile to tenor or bari sax, would have made us yelling “encore” instead of just heading for the aisle after the performance.
Ringwood Records