Paolo Fresu Quintet

The Profile

An Italian jazz quintet led by trumpeter Paolo Fresu, formed in 1984. Known for melodic, cohesive ensemble playing and recordings including Kosmopolites and Mélos.

Paolo Fresu is an Italian trumpeter (born in Berchidda) and leader of the Paolo Fresu Quintet. The quintet's first album was Ostinato (Splasc(h)). Kosmopolites was released for Blue Note; Melos (Mélos) is widely praised in reviews for its Mediterranean-influenced, melodic sound. Members mentioned in reviews include Bruno Cipelli, Ettore Fioravanti, Tino Tracanna, Attilio Zanchi and Roberto Capelli (personnel varies by recording).

Two DeBaser reviews praise the Paolo Fresu Quintet for melodic, evocative jazz. Kosmopolites (Blue Note) is celebrated as a sparkling, cohesive work of compositions by Bruno Cipelli. Mélos is described as a Mediterranean masterpiece that moves and lulls the listener.