Richard Galliano Quartet feat. Richard Bona, Gonzalo Rubalcaba & Clarence Penn

(FRA/CAM/CUBA /US)
jazz with classical, Latin & African influence

A magician of moods and one of the worldwide tops in accordion jazz now offers us what might seriously be called a super band as it features the Cuban killer pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba, the Cameroonian bass virtuoso Richard Bona and Clarence Penn, the American drummer with a superbly sensitive touch.

Coming from an Italian family, Richard Galliano started playing the accordion in his father’s guidance. Then he finished conservatoire with a brilliant degree and won competitions playing everything from Tchaikovsky to Gershwin. The French took him to heart in the 70’s when he played chansons with Charles Aznavour, Juliette Greco and Allain Leprest. In the 80’s he toured with jazz men, like Chet Baker, Joe Zawinul and Ron Carter. Later Galliano has focused on his own bands recording with them often. 2008’s Love Day is his latest album.

Gonzalo Rubalcaba, also an excellent drummer, digs deep into the rich Afro-Cuban heritage, but knows the secrets of Thelonius Monk, Bud Powell and Oscar Peterson, too. He has worked with Chick Corea, Charlie Haden and Michael Brecker and recorded over 20 albums as a leader.

Now living in New York, Richard Bona attracted attention already in his home village with his exceptional musicality. From his homemade guitar of moped tank and break wires he has progressed to playing bass for Salif Keita, Paul Simon and Steps Ahead. The latter also included Clarence Penn, who has kept the beat for Roberta Flack and Dizzy Gillespie, among others.