D. Oscar Groomes, O’s Place Newsletter
O’s Notes: Chiara has a soft voice that bodes well on these mostly pop ballads. Co-leader Kevin Hays (vocals, keyboards) joins Izzi with several originals in a varied collection. Their voices blend together beautifully on “I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face”. What initially appears to be a standard set of contemporary pop ballads is extended to jazz space with the addition of several talented guest artists. Chris Potter (tenor and soprano sax) shines on “Viaggio Elegiaco”. Gregory Maret adds harmonica to three selections notably “Across The Sea”. Omar Avital (oud) adds mystique to “Tierna Nardis”. Our favorite is the Latin-tinged “Verso II Mare” with Maret and Rogerio Boccato (perc).