Porter & Gershwin On Harmonica by Antonio Serrano, released 9 February 2024.
This version of Porter & Gershwin On Harmonica comes as a 1xCD. -
"Porter & Gershwin on Harmonica" on CD presents a refined and intimate tribute to two of the greatest American songwriters, Cole Porter and George Gershwin, reimagined through the lyrical voice of the harmonica. Led by harmonica virtuoso Antonio Serrano together with pianist Ignasi Terraza and bassist Federico Lechner, this recording explores timeless standards with a warm acoustic jazz trio sound. The harmonica steps into the role traditionally held by a vocalist or horn, singing the melodies with expressive bends, subtle vibrato and improvisations that respect the original themes while giving them a fresh, modern jazz character. Sensitive arrangements, elegant swing and space for interplay between the three musicians make this album ideal both for concentrated listening and for creating an atmospheric backdrop in sophisticated settings.
Artistically, the album focuses on melodic clarity and harmonic richness rather than sheer virtuosity, though the technical mastery of the trio is always evident. Ballads are treated with a lyrical, almost chamber-jazz intimacy, while mid-tempo and swinging tunes gain lightness and groove through the dialogue between piano, harmonica and bass. The repertoire, centered on Porter and Gershwin, offers a journey through the Great American Songbook: romantic, melancholic, playful and urbane. Jazz listeners will appreciate the tasteful solos and dynamic nuances; fans of classic standards will enjoy the respectful, song-oriented approach.
Antonio Serrano is internationally regarded as one of the most accomplished contemporary jazz harmonica players and has distinguished himself through his work in jazz, classical and popular music contexts. His tone control, phrasing and stylistic versatility have made him a sought-after collaborator and a prominent figure in harmonica performance on the concert stage and in the studio. Ignasi Terraza, a well-established jazz pianist, and Federico Lechner, an experienced bassist and improviser, each bring a mature musical voice; their interplay with Serrano emphasizes communication, balance and taste rather than showmanship.
The CD is released by MarchVivo, a label dedicated to high-quality acoustic productions with a particular focus on jazz and related styles. MarchVivo stands for carefully curated projects, audiophile recording standards and an emphasis on artistic integrity over mass-market trends. With "Porter & Gershwin on Harmonica", the label underlines its commitment to intimate ensemble recordings that highlight both compositional heritage and contemporary interpretation, making this disc a compelling choice for jazz enthusiasts and lovers of classic songwriting alike.