For those not in the know, on a gig in March 2018, Phil Ravita and Skip Grasso talked about a profound desire to do a project of original music.

Phil subsequently brought together a stellar group of musicians to rehearse and perform. It was immediately evident to them all that the chemistry of this group of musicians was a rare and significant creative opportunity.

So, why do a project of all original music when jazz has such a vast repertoire in its tradition? Musicians know the safest course – the homage to the tradition – when recording a project.

Furthermore, the musicians in this ensemble have all played that repertoire for many years.

"It’s this tradition which we have loved, respected, and devoted our lives to that moves us collectively," Grasso himself explains. "The musicians who have most inspired us composed their own music nonetheless."

"In the writing of our “vehicles for improvisation,” we challenge ourselves to define a more personal language within the tradition, thus become our true selves revealing pieces of our unique narrative."

1. 'Jagged Spaces'
2. 'Her Life Incomplete'
3. 'Songhai'
4. 'Blue Sunshine'
5. 'Circles'
6. 'All About Cynthia'
7. 'Latin For Leandro'
8. 'The Homecoming'
9. 'Chasing Shadows'

With their brand new album Jagged Spaces set for release come January 15th, 2021 (via Grassvita Music), they open with the free flowing majesty of the title track itself, and back that up with the lush orchestrations of 'Her Life Incomplete,' the more forthright stance of 'Songhai,' and then both the gentle dancefloor swing vibe of 'Blue Sunshine' and the beautiful, soulful essence of 'Circles' are brought forth.

Next up is the congenial quietness of 'All About Cynthia,' which is followed by the more robust 'Latin For Leandro,' with the album rounding out on the full on hipsway of 'The Homecoming,' closing on the luxuriant, late evening imbibed 'Chasing Shadows.'

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www.grasso-ravitajazzensemble.com/

The Grasso-Ravita Jazz Ensemble @ Facebook