Lotus Blossom

Matt Criscuolo is a native of the bronx, New York. Studied at manhattan music with steve slagle,dick oatts,walt weiskofph, and rich perry. He has worked or recorded with greats such as gerry mulligan,david murray,rich perry, harold danko,etta jones,artt frank. This album features great original compositions and solos by larry willis (piano),steve davis (trombone),ray mantilla (percussion),eric McPherson (drums) and phil bowler (bass). The arrangements are hip,the alto and trombone front line sound so sweet and rich. This is matt's second release as a leader and composer and he has definitely staked his place as a recognisable and respected musician. His approach to improvisation is genuine. It's not rooted in acrobatics for the sake of showing off chops like so many saxers. When you hear his tone, you hear a thick warm sound that is both tender and edgy. Sweet and confident. Matt is currently gigging in the tristate area and is working on his next project with strings (and not elevator music strings).