Max Ionata & Dado Moroni - Two for Duke (2012)

The artistic paths of Dado Moroni and Max Ionata intersect in honor of Duke Ellington, giving life and sound to Two for Duke. A one-way trip to Ellingtonia, a land created by two of the greatest musicians of the 20th century , Duke Ellington and his collaborator Billy Strayhorn -- a man who avoided the limelight yet many believe to be the true inspiring source of Ellingtonian aesthetic. Regardless of who did what, these two contemporary geniuses left an indelible mark on music in general, not only on jazz. Ellington and Strayhorn invented something new, laying the harmonic and melodic foundations of a musical language that was several decades ahead of their time. Produced by Jando Music, in collaboration with Via Veneto Jazz, this album reflects the passion that Dado and Max always shared for Duke's music, heavily influencing them through time. The refined dialogue between sax and piano portrays all the passion, love, and admiration for this great American jazz musician who indelibly shaped world musical heritage. Moreover, Dado Moroni worked extensively with key sidemen from Ellington's band such as bassist Jimmy Woode and drummer Sam Woodyard, allowing him to fully immerse himself into the original sounds of the man who, according to many, is considered the greatest composer in jazz history. Thanks to prominent saxophonist Max Ionata's extraordinary interpretative skills, these sounds are unquestionably present in Two for Duke.