Gianni Basso pays tribute to the legendary Swedish jazz clarinetist Lars Gullin with his album "For Lars Gullin Vol. 1," released on May 24, 2010, under the Philology label. This captivating collection of 12 tracks, with a total runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes, showcases Basso's virtuosic clarinet playing and his deep admiration for Gullin's musical legacy.
The album features a mix of original compositions and reimagined classics, including the enchanting "Fata Morgana" and the soulful "Gabriella," both appearing twice in different arrangements. Basso's rendition of "Dedicato Per Renato Sellani" is a standout track, highlighting his technical prowess and emotional depth. The album also includes the playful "Lars Meets Jeff," a delightful dialogue between Basso's clarinet and a saxophone, presumably played by Jeff Lindberg, who is known for his work with the Chicago Jazz Ensemble.
Throughout the album, Basso's warm and expressive tone shines, making "For Lars Gullin Vol. 1" a testament to his artistry and a fitting homage to Gullin's enduring influence on the jazz world.