Album of the Week – Nic Vardanega ‘Inverno’
December 1st 2014 saw the release of rising young talent Nic Vardanega’s debut album ‘Inverno’. Having already rubbed shoulders with industry heavyweights such as Mike Nock, Brendan Clarke, Andrew Dickeson, Dave Goodman and Richard Maegraith, it’s clear to see Vardanega’s career is set for great things. Just two years prior, Vardanega completed his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance at the coveted Sydney Conservatorium of Music which saw the artist retain a ‘Board of Governors’ merit scholarship.
This accolade opened doors for the artist to further develop his sideman and bandleader skills, shaping him to become the professional and undeniably talented guitarist that he is. Vardanega has shared his craft with audiences across the nation at festivals including the Manly Jazz Festival, the Noosa Jazz Festival and the Darling Harbour Jazz Festival. He has also been recognised international after recording with two of New-York’s most highly regarded musicians, bassist Marco Panascia and drummer Ulysses Owens Jr.
Vardanega debuted the album in front of a live audience as part of the 2014 Jazzgroove Festival. He showcased his compositions with the full album quartet featuring Steve Barry (Piano), David Groves (Bass) and James Waples (Drums). Tracks to look out for include ‘Revelation’; the opening track sees Vardanega outline a beautifully melodic head against the subtle suspended tones of the accompanying keys. ‘December’ is structured around a haunting repetitious phrase echoed by both keys and guitar. ‘Asolo’, the album’s longest track, is drenched in Latin undertones preluded by a passionate guitar solo from Vardanega and brought to life as the remaining quartet joins in with a strong pulse driven by the core of the groups engine room, the drums.
“Talented guitarist/composer Nic Vardanega’s debut CD features his outstanding Sydney based quartet, in an attractive collection of well crafted originals that is a great introduction to his music, of which I’m sure we’ll be hearing much more in the years to come.” – Mike Nock
Drop Nic a line on Facebook, Twitter or at his website: www.nicvardanega.com/
