Toronto pianist and composer Anthony D’Alessandro has quickly become one of the brightest rising stars on today’s jazz scene. Praised by The WholeNote Magazine for his “natural feeling for swing and groove” and “scintillating technique,” D’Alessandro has earned a reputation for his lyrical touch, inventive improvisations, and deep respect for the traditions of jazz. Since the release of his acclaimed 2024 debut album Searchin’, he has toured extensively across Canada, the United States, South America, and Europe, steadily building an international following.
This fall, D’Alessandro takes another major step forward with the release of his sophomore album, City Lights, arriving on Friday, October 24, 2025.
City Lights was born out of D’Alessandro’s travels. Each stop on tour brought new sounds, atmospheres, and conversations that fed into his writing. The album unfolds as a musical suite, with seven original compositions that capture the vibrancy, beauty, and complexity of city life. To balance the modern with the timeless, D’Alessandro also reimagines two stride piano works by James P. Johnson, bridging early jazz history with today’s contemporary sound.
Part of what makes City Lights shine is the remarkable group of musicians who bring D’Alessandro’s vision to life:
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Summer Camargo – trumpet (the youngest-ever member of the Saturday Night Live band, known for her fiery solos and commanding presence)
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Jacob Chung – tenor saxophone (a Canadian-born, NYC-based talent with a soulful, modern voice on the horn)
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Jonathan Chapman – bass (a longtime collaborator whose deep groove anchors the ensemble)
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Ernesto Cervini – drums (JUNO Award winner and one of Canada’s most versatile rhythm-makers)
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Jennarie – vocals (featured on Oversight, a moving ballad co-written with D’Alessandro that highlights her dynamic and emotional delivery)
Together, this lineup blends youthful energy with seasoned artistry, creating an album that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in tradition.
With City Lights, Anthony D’Alessandro is not just releasing an album—he’s making a statement as a bandleader. The record offers a cohesive, thoughtfully crafted program that celebrates jazz history while carving out a voice entirely his own. Listeners can expect a blend of driving swing, lyrical ballads, and inventive arrangements that reveal new details with each listen.
For jazz fans both seasoned and new, City Lights promises to be a must-hear release this fall.
Release Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
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