Andrea Ciceri x Esatomic - Fisse [Aut Records 127]

Released via the ever buzzing Italian imprint that is Aut Records on April 16th, 2k25 is "Fisse", the most recent album by the six piece ensemble operating under the name Esatomic, led and operated by composer x saxophone player Andrea Ciceri. Presenting a menu of seven pieces rolled out over the course of approximately 56 minutes total playtime the group explores a surprisingly classic and traditional angle on Jazz in direct comparison to the labels oftentimes rather free floating, Improv-oriented and at times experimental releases of late and even touches base with elements harking back to the Swing era in the opening piece "Chiuso, Il Pensiero" followed by the complex, dramatic and undeniably dark, grating and restrained sonic landscapes brought forward by "E L'Abisso - Discesa" whilst "E L'Abisso - Sul Fonda" presents thundering drums and intense piano rolls on hyperspeed as a foundation for yearning, sustained brass pulses with an undeniably melancholic undertone before "Delle Solite Cose" is back at a more traditional, easy and late night suitable Jazz vibe once again. Furthermore "Fisse", the albums title track, sees the Esatomic ensemble not only cross the 15+ minutes mark in one single composition but also indulge in tender Jazz romanticisms slowly working their way up to a lively, multi-layered finale sporting a multiple of interwined melodies responding to one another whilst the follow up "Miraggio" shines like polished chrome in terms of execution and presentation of a certainly vintage-informed vibe, adding surprisingly muscular drums to its recipe in its final quarter whereas "Blue A La Monk" waves goodbye one a swinging note once again for a closing. If you're in for a quite diverse Avantgarde Jazz album you need to check this one out for a reason.

Album artwork on Instagram!