We Did It, We Did It! Vol.1

Italian percussionist Tiziano Tononi thinks in big terms: his thematic projects have grand aspirations. This three-CD set is a tribute of sorts to Rahsaan Roland Kirk, but while many of Kirk's works are played Tononi wisely varies the program to include many of his own fascinating compositions and those of other giants. The recordings are divided into sections. Part I, for example, begins with "(Rah)dom Thoughts," featuring three tunes each by Kirk and Tononi (plus a delicious arrangement of "Amazing Grace") followed by "Echoes of Ellington" and a couple of popular Ellington cuts. Part II, "(Rah)ther Black than Blue," includes three each by Kirk and Tononi, while Part III is divided between "Ar(rah)iving Soon," with three by Kirk and four by Tononi, and "Fats & Bechet," with one each by these masters. Part IV starts with "(Rah) 'N' Roll," splitting seven between Kirk and Tononi, followed by three by Charles Mingus and one by Archie Shepp. Part V is "(Rah)zzle-Dazzle," with four each by Kirk and Tononi, and then "Monk & Trane," with one each by Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane. The final Part VI begins with three of four by Kirk as part of "(Rah)mble in the Jungle" coupled with "Ode to Black Music: Wonder Hendrix Marley," featuring one each by Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, and Bob Marley. The arrangements by the leader turn familiar tunes on their heads, without losing their essential nature. Ranging from big band to trio there is brilliant playing throughout and this ambitious and successful project is full of surprises. Besides Tononi, highlighted soloists include trumpeter Herb Robertson, saxophonist Daniele Cavallanti, violinist Renato Geremia, tubaist Michel Godard, and pianist Alberto Tacchini.