This writer has always had a soft spot for jazz musicians from Italy and especially Spain (whose newcomers are so well documented on Fresh Sound New Talent). It's probably the sun that gives their work such soulful warmth. Italian pianist Frederico Bonifazi is no exception. And how nice to hear a contemporary player who lists as his influences people like Wynton Kelly, Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett, not to mention Brad Mehldau. Originally a student at the American School of Modern Music in Paris and then at the Conservatory of Turin, he'd always been a fan of American greats and longed to record with them. On a visit to New York, he became friendly with bassist John Webber. John was impressed with his music and fixed up this SteepleChase date for the following January. Eric Alexander is the hornman on the eight tunes, at times, sounding remarkably like Stan Getz. Webber, a member of Alexander's quartet, is excellent and Miles Davis veteran Jimmy Cobb swings with such unobtrusive good taste, you hardly know he's there! Bonifazi's solos bring back happy memories of bygone days.