Richard Baratta

Richard Baratta – Music in Film: The Sequel (2022)
FLAC (tracks) 24 bit/88,2 kHz | Time – 01:01:57 minutes | 1,20 GB | Genre: Jazz
Studio Masters, Official Digital Download | Front Cover | © Savant

The one thing all but one of the works on this recording have in common is that they were used in a motion picture, though only six of the eleven songs were written for a specific movie. They cover a fairly long period of cinematic history with Charlie Chaplin’s timeless classic, “Smile” being heard in the earliest and latest films on the list: Modern Times (1936) and Joker (2019). The one thing all but one of the works on this recording have in common is that they were used in a motion picture, though only six of the eleven songs were written for a specific movie. They cover a fairly long period of cinematic history with Charlie Chaplin’s timeless classic, “Smile” being heard in the earliest and latest films on the list: Modern Times (1936) and Joker (2019). It is interesting to note that the album’s leader and drummer, Richard Baratta, was an executive producer on Joker. With this Hollywood connection, Baratta’s life has been somewhat cinema-centric, but he actually started out as a jazz drummer, working with Butch Morris, Billy Bang, Hal Galper and others. Today Baratta has returned to his jazz roots and his colorful, propulsive drumming is a real highlight of this recording, a follow up to his 2020 release, Music in Film: The Reel Deal. You won’t find any lengthy, indulgent solos here but you will smile approvingly at his keenly executed flourishes and mini-breaks. Back in the studio with Baratta is Grammy-nominated arranger and pianist, Bill O’Connell, his years of Latin jazz experience influencing a number of tracks. Alto saxophonist Vincent Herring also returns providing an athletic lead on many selections and some coruscant solo work. With guitarist Paul Bollenback and bassist Michael Goetz rounding out the rhythm section and Paul Rossman providing some additional percussion colors, Richard Baratta takes you on another imaginative, jazz-filled trip to the movies. But you’ll have to supply your own popcorn.
(more…)

Richard Baratta – Off the Charts (2023)
FLAC (tracks) 24 bit/96 kHz | Time – 53:18 minutes | 1,16 GB | Genre: Jazz
Studio Masters, Official Digital Download | Front Cover | © Savant

When it comes to musical material, a nexus between quality and reception is never a sure thing. Some choice compositions and performances receive their flowers while others slide into relative obscurity. Off the Charts takes an inspired set list of lesser-known works by the likes of Wayne Shorter, Bobby Hutcherson, Charles Lloyd, Chick Corea and others and brings them back into their well-deserved spotlight. Delving into the past calls for a cast attuned to the present, and Richard Baratta has assembled an incredible lineup. Pianist David Kikoski comes with his own brand of kinetic energy, bassist John Patitucci serves as the backbone of the band, tenor saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi brings his signature sound to the fore, and percussionist Paul Rossman proves to be a vibrant colorist and rhythmic collaborator. Together, with Baratta spurring them on, this crew brings out the best in this superb selection of inspired music.

(more…)

Richard Baratta – Music in Film: The Reel Deal (2020)
FLAC (tracks) 24 bit/88,2 kHz | Time – 01:07:12 minutes | 1,32 GB | Genre: Jazz
Studio Masters, Official Digital Download | Front Cover | © Savant

“I always knew Richie was a great producer of films. When I got to sing some jazz numbers with him and his group I learned something else. The man is a fantastic jazz drummer and an incredible Latin Jazz musician. Enjoy this great music!” – Joe Pesci

(more…)