Sam Fazio Let's Go

Sam Fazio
Let's Go
Self-Produced

Chicago-based vocalist Sam Fazio handles a variety of jazz and pop numbers on this new recording, which is produced by Tuck & Patti. Fazio is a singer of warmth who subtly phrases the songs to reveal the nuances of meaning in the lyrics he delivers. For this recording, his core band members of pianist Chris White and guitarist Tom Fitzgerald traveled with him to the San Francisco area. There the three set up shop in Tuck & Patti's home and studio. They were joined on this recording by Michael Peloquin, harmonica; Leon Joyce, drums; James Henry, percussion; Ron Belcher, bass; and Tuck Andress, bass. Fazio sings songs from the Great American songbook, some pop tunes, and originals from his pen and those of Tuck & Patti.

The opening song is "Pure Imagination" by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. White's understated accompaniment provides the foundation for Fazio's delivery of the lyrics. The selection also is a showcase for Peloquin's harmonica accompaniment and solo. Fazio's warmth and nuanced phrasing is quite evident starting here. The spare setting is followed by the effervescent "Let's Go," composed by Fazio, guitarist Fitzgerald, and Patty Cathcart Andress." Joyce's drums and Henry's percussion help propel his swinging performance along with concise solos from White and Fitzpatrick.

Other intriguing performances include the reflective rendition of Patti's "Reverie," and a perky "S'Wonderful," both with Chris White's thoughtful, restrained backing. Then there is a standout interpretation of Tom Waits' "Downtown Train." Fitzgerald's guitar and Peloquin's harmonica provide the foundation for a performance that displays Fazio's interpretive skills. Tuck Andress' bass provides the backing for a straight-forward reading of "Eleanor Rigby," while Fitzgerald's guitar provides the support for an energetic vocal on "Teach Me Tonight." Fitzgerald leads a small combo that provides a Latin-tinged backing for "Do You Want To Dance."

Sam Fazio's marvelous singing and the understated backing he receives results in a thoroughly captivating recording.

I received a review copy from a publicist. This review originally appeared in the January-February 2020 Jazz & Blues Report (Issue 388). Here is a video of Sam Fazio performing.