Canadian guitarist and composer David Occhipinti returns with Camera Lucida, a genre-defying new album that brings together jazz improvisation and contemporary chamber music. Featuring eight original compositions, the recording highlights Occhipinti’s innovative writing and lyrical guitar playing, supported by an ensemble of some of Canada’s most distinguished classical and jazz musicians.
From the first moments of Ice Dance, where clarinetist Virginia MacDonald delivers a fiery, expressive performance, it's clear that Camera Lucida is a work of artistic depth. On Promised Kiss, the introspective marimba of Michael Davidson and a graceful solo by violinist Aline Homzy create a reflective, romantic mood. Homzy appears again on Octavia, this time in an intimate duet with Occhipinti. Bassoonist Fraser Jackson of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra also brings his rich, woody tone to Octavia, blending beautifully with the ensemble.
The album isn’t without playfulness. Playtime explores sound design through whistling, radio static, and wind effects performed on clarinet—an abstract and experimental piece that reveals Occhipinti’s curiosity and imagination. Southwark features the full ensemble in a collective improvisation, merging classical textures with the spontaneity of jazz. Throughout the recording, bassist Dan Fortin anchors the music with taste and inventiveness, enhancing the group's dynamic range. On Promised Kiss, Andy Ballantyne adds a sparkling piccolo part, while Max Christie—a member of the National Ballet of Canada orchestra—delivers nuanced performances on both clarinet and bass clarinet.
Camera Lucida follows Occhipinti’s acclaimed 2012 Camera Ensemble release, which was praised by legendary guitarist Jim Hall, who described it as: “An absolute gem… his writing is unique, his playing is completely original and stunning… an absolute work of art!” That earlier project laid the foundation for Occhipinti’s ongoing exploration of blending composed chamber music with improvisational jazz.
With several Juno nominations to his name, David Occhipinti continues to push boundaries. In addition to Camera Lucida, he has a new recording with his String Trio slated for release in 2026.
Visit: www.davidocchipinti.com
Featured Musicians on Camera Lucida:
-
David Occhipinti – Guitar
-
Aline Homzy – Violin
-
Virginia MacDonald – Clarinet (featured on Track 1: Ice Dance)
-
Michael Davidson – Vibraphone, Marimba
-
Dan Fortin – Double Bass
-
Max Christie – Clarinet, Bass Clarinet
-
Fraser Jackson – Bassoon (featured on Track 7: Octavia)
-
Andy Ballantyne – Piccolo (featured on Track 5: Promised Kiss)
No comments:
Post a Comment