(DMJ-1074)
"Music has always been a family affair for John Pastin. Growing up in a musical environment exposed him to great writing and inspired him to write as well. 'Potenza' reflects this with a blend of classic standards and original compositions.
Leading off with 'Junior’s Shuffle' (a tribute to Pastin’s brother), the rich sound of Pastin’s tenor saxophone is paired with Behn Gillece’s vibes as the band lopes nicely through the tune. Maeve Royce keeps time on the bass and Pastin keeps it in the family with son, Chris, on the drum chair. We hear from Larry Scott at the piano with a solo that recalls a mid-sixties Ramsey Lewis. Solos are passed around with Royce wielding the bow to good effect...
The title cut, 'Potenza' is another self-penned composition. Named for the region in Italy where his father was born, we hear Pastin doubling the folk-inspired melody on tenor and flute as the band sambas on.
Things change up with a bouncy 'Symphony Sid.' The familiar melody is nicely propelled by the drumming of the young Pastin who possesses a maturity of style that belies his years. A nice reading of the Comden-Green classic, 'Body and Soul' is next, made all the more interesting by it’s waltz treatment. The oft-played 'Lullaby of Birdland' also gets a face-lift with the first chorus played initially by sax and bass alone, with the others joining in successively building to an ensemble melody...
Pastin’s poignant homage to his sister follows. 'Josie’s Lament' begins with Scott’s gospelly piano leading us into a beautiful and touching flute performance. A fun but traditional rendering of 'Perdido' takes us to the final cut, a tasty and unhurried 'Foggy Day' duet, featuring flute and vibes.
That John Pastin is a versatile performer should come as no surprise. He is as multi-dimensional in real life...Holding multiple degrees in music education, he is also distinguished by his Naval career, having been honored by Bill Clinton when retiring from his tenure as conductor of the United States Navy Band."
- Record-Breeze
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