In just a short period of time, Italian-born Los Angeles-based drummer, producer and DJ Tommaso Cappellato‘s Domanda Music label has quickly established itself with some strong releases, including Rosa Brunello’s recent Sound Like Freedom recording, which is definitely one of the best albums of 2022. The label continues their string of impressive releases with a superb debut full-length, titled Transforma, from another of Cappellato’s collaborative projects, Collettivo Immaginario.

The Italian-rooted trio, also featuring electric bassist and flautist Nicolò Masetto and pianist/keyboardist Alberto Lincetto, have put together an incredible 9-track recording that pays homage to some of their greatest influences such as Azymuth, Lonnie Liston Smith, Herbie Hancock, and Italian film composers Piero Piccioni and Piero Umiliani. The album brilliantly blends together jazz-funk grooves, spacey electronics, lush celestial tones, and funky percussion rhythms that result in a mixture of both meditative pieces and selections that can just as easily make it’s way into any jazz-dance set.

The record definitely has a warm 70’s inspired feel, especially given the strong presence of Rhodes and analog synths throughout. Rhythmically, their is a strong presence of Brazil and West Africa influences that really compliment the session’s cosmic feel. It’s the kind of record that you can really get lost in — and in the best way.

Overall, this is outstanding debut for the Collettivo Immaginario trio, and another remarkable and foundational release for Domanda Music. Definitely one of the year’s most standout jazz releases!

Collettivo Immaginario — ‘Transforma’
(Domanda Music)

1. Non Ancora
2. Trasforma
3. Ora Basta
4. Verso Te
5. Salice
6. Nel Domani
7. Pescatore
8. Davanti A Se Stessi
9. Aperture

BUY RECORD

• Cosmic
• Jazz
• Jazz Funk
• Spiritual Jazz