Musicians: Music composed and conducted by Armando Trovailoi with guest artists. Soundtrack from the 1959 film, "Il Vedovo" ("The Widow"). Cam's Soundtrack Encyclopedia series of reissues, 2001.
Review: It is good to see some of the older jazz soundtracks being re-issued in 2001 by Cam Productions. There are many jazz soundtracks that make their immediate mark but are soon forgotten in this era of name stars and name groups. One such to resurface, is the film soundtrack of the Italian movie, "Il Vedovo," ("The Widow"), originally released in 1959. The film is the story of a man who mistakenly believes his wife has died in a train crash and plans to enjoy the inheritance. When she reappears, he decides to kill her and despite his detailed efforts, he ends up being the very victim of his own plans!
There are 13 selections on this CD, each one reflects a jazz motif, such as in the opening, "Widowed," and represents that particular segment of the film as the story unfolds. Armando Trovaioli composed the music and conducts it with various guest artists.
Other selections from the soundtrack include "G.I. boogi," "Jumping," "Chet is the back," "Nocturne," among others. Highly professional in performance and solo work, this is a lively soundtrack that entertains while at the same time giving some clear perspectives on Italian jazz for the movies during the late 1950s.
There is a lot going for "Il Vedovo" ("The Widow"), all of it excellent. I was impressed by the solo work, especially the horn and piano. As a composer, Armando Trovaioli is in top-notch form on this CD. A fine score from a fine film, rediscovered. Enjoyable.
JazzReview.com
