Round is not your typical jazz album. Bobby Selvaggio gathers seven original songs to create a diverse, mesmerizing, sonic treat. Considered one of the most innovative alto players to come out of Cleveland, he's unafraid to try new things. His second CD in as many years, Round furthers Selvaggio's dashing, charismatic style. His genius is heard in spontaneous, risky flights delivered with structured abandon.

Selvaggio has studied under some of the modern jazz greats: Joe Lavano, Dick Oatts and Bobby Watson. He invested four years in New York City where he successfully completed a full scholarship masters program at the Manhattan School of Music. He studied jazz composition with Maria Schneider and frequently played the historical haunts, including the Village Vanguard.

The chemistry between the musicians on Round is stunning. No one buries anyone else. Selvaggio's maniacal attention to detail manifests itself in tunes that force the listener to engage and respond emotionally. His playing is frenetic, yet thoughtful. His solos swagger and his Latin influence shines through.

The first tune, 'Round and 'Round We Go (Where We Stop Nobody Knows) is a laid-back soprano quartet piece that sets the mood for the rest of the CD.

Christian Howes'electric violin makes its first appearance on the next track, Bobby's Blues. Aidan Plank's walking bass line and Matt Perko's cymbal ride create a nice foundation for Selvaggio and Howes. This upbeat tune features a spirited piano solo by Mike Murray. Playing alto, Bobby's signature runs include some inspiring, vibrant musical ideas.

The next tune, appropriately named A Simple Love Song, is a tranquil ballad quartet that creates a serene mood. Even at the slower tempo, the listener still senses the underlying energy waiting to emerge from within Selvaggio's solo.

Next, Einstein's Violin builds from a straight-forward bass intro by Aidan Plank. As the tune unfolds, the surprisingly even 11/4 meter pulls in the listener, creating a sense of unrest. Einstein's architecture showcases Selvaggio's composing prowess and Howes' playing is almost haunting.

The next tune, Lily Pad Leap, is the kind of melody that stays with you all day. The classic trio setup showcases Selvaggio on alto, leaving bassist Aidan Plank with room to blow.

Following is another trio setting that departs from the other tracks. Darn that Dream comes at you in a more straight-ahead style and begins with Selvaggio's acapella interpretation of this classic tune.

The seventh track, Mr. Cari Will Be In Soon spins a Montuno-Carribean feel with alto and guitar backed by piano, bass and drums. Combining swagger and whimsy, Cari uses dynamics nicely. Selvaggio's supporting cast compliments his unusual arrangement and Dan Bruce adds mellow guitar sounds.

One of the CD's brightest points is the eighth tune, Need a Light Bulb? The disjointed delivery gets the listener's blood moving. It's a great tune with tight, jovial playing that captures Selvaggio's humorous, intrinsic style. The arrangement deconstructs the classic Benny Carter tune, When Lights are Low.

The CD finishes with a reprise of the first tune and brings Round to an appropriate close.

Building off his previous CD First Steps, Selvaggio pushes the creative envelope on Round. A fair-haired, slight Sicilian, he's opinionated, aggressive, and passionate. His inspired talent --- through both composing and playing --- makes him one of the most innovative, passionate musicians in Cleveland today. He has a fire burning in his soul; he lives for jazz. He's political and believes that all art isn't above and beyond the social and political system. He fights for all he believes in --- art, humanity, respect and dignity. An outspoken proponent for social transformation, he remains true to what he defines as "his calling" Though nothing compares to his live performance, Selvaggio's obvious talents come full circle on Round.

Jeffrey J. Guritza October 2001

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Copyright © 2002 Bobby Selvaggio