Tommaso Starace’s “Power of Three” Trio

Born in Milan, Tommaso Starace first came to the UK in 1995 to study jazz at Birmingham Conservatoire, before undertaking post- graduate studies at the Guildhall in London. He has led working bands in both Britain and Italy and has recorded albums with both.

Tommaso’s latest project represents a return to roots and getting back to basics with all three players recording as in a jam session, in the same room at the same time, allowing greater interaction between the musicians, the true “Power of Three”.  As Tommaso explains in the album liner notes: “I wanted to explore a more intimate setting.  In this album, the trio setting allowed all instruments to be lead players, stretching out and aiming to be more adventurous in improvisation.  I also wanted to create a ‘live’ recording where we were all together in one room, facing each other and without separations.  This method of recording was the norm in the old days, allowing greater interaction between the musicians”.

Of the trio’s choice of material Starace comments; “The choice of music was also important to me. I wanted to include a variety of styles from past to present composers, as well as music not confined to the jazz tradition.”  Among the composers featured are the late Ennio Morricone, Bobby Timmons, Stevie Wonder, Chick Corea, Michel Petrucciani and Charlie Parker.

“This is the sound of a trio having ‘serious fun’ and that sense of enjoyment readily transmits itself to the listener” Ian Mann – The Jazz Mann

“It was good to hear Tommaso in a trio setting .  .  .  .  giving full reign to his improvisational talents. Combined with this were the sometimes-explosive skills of the wonderful pianist Jim Watson providing some sizzling solos with Tommaso throughout the two sets, making it a stimulating concert.” Review of gig at Chichester Jazz Club, Oct 2022

Tommaso Starace  –  Sax;
Jim Watson  –  Piano;
Luke Fowler –  Bass

About Fleece Jazz:

Fleece Jazz is an independent, non-profit association run by a voluntary committee who have been providing modern and contemporary jazz for 28 years. They book talented musicians and jazz bands from the UK and beyond to perform at Stoke by Nayland Resort, providing the perfect backdrop for these cherished and popular events.

Fleece Jazz events are generally held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.