Mediterraneo (Jazz at Berlin Philharmonic VIII) [Live] [with Mitglieder der Berliner Philharmoniker, Vincent Peirani, Jesper Bodilsen & Morten Lund]

With his sprightly, crystalline piano touch, Stefano Bollani interprets music of his native Italy on *Mediterraneo*, backed by his working trio and a 14-piece chamber ensemble. The arrangements, by Norway’s Geir Lysne, are often rhythmically and harmonically ambitious. There are movie themes by Nino Rota and Ennio Morricone; arias by Puccini, Leoncavallo, and Rossini; and an uptempo jazz waltz reading of the 1968 pop hit “Azzurro.” Guest Vincent Peirani, on accordion, adds unmistakable Italian flavor but also serious improvising chops.