Irio De Paula

by Yoshio Tokuion Posted on

Irio De Paula

Album Title: Irio De Paula Trio/Quartet
Catalog Number: philology W262.2
Released in: Italy
Release Date: 2004
Media: CD

Irio De Paula, a Brazilian guitarist, left his homeland after being dubbed “Queen of Samba” in 1970, the Brazilian vocalist Elza Soares—who must be nearing 70 by now? He went on a tour in Italy and ended up settling in Rome.

Recently, Italy has become a treasure trove for modern hard bop, almost surpassing America, with numerous fantastic hard bop albums being released one after another. Amidst this scene, Irio De Paula has truly risen to become Italy’s number one guitarist, both in name and in reality.

The CD being introduced here remarkably features interpretations of mostly Wes Montgomery’s songs. The performances are raw yet reveal an octave-rich atmosphere and enthusiasm.

  1. JINGLES
  2. BOCK TO BOCK
  3. FOUR ON SIX
  4. FOR HEAVEN’S SAKE
  5. WEST COAST BLUS
  6. FRIDE PIES
  7. BUMPIN’
  8. THE THUMB
  9. ROAD SONG
  10. THE TRICK BAG
  11. MY THING

Recorded in Rome in 2003, the album includes organ, drums, and vibes on some tracks.