Feb. 19 – He has performed all over the world, from America to Europe, but his natural curiosity and passion for adventure brought him to Africa, a land that bewitched him. PIetro Tonolo is one of the most well-known jazz saxophonists in Europe. The 55 year-old musician from Mirano, near Venice, debuted when he was young, to later collaborate with leading Italian and European jazz musicians and gain a reputation among his overseas colleagues. In recent years, he devoted himself mainly to his beloved Africa and in particular to a project for the revival of the origins of African-American music. Tonolo flew numerous times to Senegal to contact local artists, especially young percussionists, thus creating the basis for “Dajaloo,” an album that combines elements of European jazz with typical African rhythmic percussions. “Dajaloo,” in the most commonly spoken language in Senegal – Wolof – means “Being Similar,” and was originally only a concert tournée in Italy. It only became an album after the successful tour and a formal engagement by Parco della Musica Records. Of all the musicians met in Senegal, a fundamental role in “looking for a musical encounter between Africa and Europe” was played by the “African Djembe Junior.” With them, Tonolo was able to immerse himself in their typical polyrhythm and get inspired to compose the eleven songs and original arrangements that make up “Dajaloo.” Among these, “Pafode” was written during the long session, and “La Dernière Chaloupe” is dedicated to Gorèe island, where the musical project first began. “Dajaloo” contains thirteen original tracks and two interpretations: African Flower by Duke Ellington and Dakar by Teddy Charles, made famous in its John Coltrane interpretation. The album was made with a small horn section, four drummers and a guitar that serves as a trait d’union. Tonolo is on sax (tenor and soprano), Giampaolo Casati is on the trumpet, Roberto Rossi is on trombone, Giancarlo Bianchetti on guitar, the late Alex Bottoni is on percussions alongside three African musicians, Naby Camara, Moulaye Niang and Dudu Kouate, Senegal, all active for several years on the Italian and European music scenes.
