For those unaware, after a critically lauded release with his Trio Libero, successful quartet recordings (Surrounded By Sea, 2015, Romaria, 2018) and an internationally acclaimed trilogy of albums in a trio with Carla Bley and Steve Swallow, on Salt Catchers (due out November 9th, 2026 via ECM Records) English saxophonist Andy Sheppard presents a new trio with Italian pianist Rita Marcotulli and French bass player Michel Benita – two musicians “with whom I go back quite a long time but never recorded with collectively.”

Full of captivating melodic beauty, delicate harmony and thoughtful interplay, the album features eight new Sheppard originals plus one tune by Carla Bley, taking shape as a haven of tranquility. Sheppard’s distinctive sound and elegantly phrased lines are complemented here by two fellow travelers of impeccable taste and deep empathy.

1. Certi Angoli Segreti [11:39]
2. Sin Peso [04:38]
3. Le Mie Gambe [03:11]
4. Sun Rava [10:43]
5. Hitchcock at the Beach [04:25]
6. Tone, Shape and Colours [05:36]
7. Ça va sans dire [03:20]
8. Bowery Dance [05:09]
9. Mamma [06:39]

Recorded in March 2025 at Auditorio Stelio Molo RSI in Lugano and produced by Manfred Eicher, the new recording opens on the resplendent fare of Certi Angoli Segreti and then brings us the dulcetly hued Sin Peso, the emotively sultry Le Mie Gambe, the affectingly atmospheric Sun Rava, with the sumptuously supple Hitchcock at the Beach following astutely thereafter.

Along next is the enjoyably playful Tone, Shape and Colours which is in turn backed seamlessly by the lamentingly yearnful Ça va sans dire, the new set rounding out on the upbeat and perky Bowery Dance, coming to a close on the silky smooth tonal melodies of Mamma.

Musicians:
Fearless Five
Enrico Rava - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Matteo Paggi - Trombone
Francesco Diodati - Guitar
Francesco Ponticelli - Double Bass
Evita Polidoro - Drums, Vocals
Joe Lovano - Tenor Saxophone

Official Purchase Link

www.enricorava.com