Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Michael Wolff - Live at Vitellos (March 19, 2021 Sunnyside Records)

Award-winning pianist Michael Wolff, known for an impressive and eclectic career that has spanned nearly five decades, presents his new live recording, Live at Vitellos. Surfacing a decade after its capture at the iconic Los Angeles club Vitellos in 2011, Live at Vitellos is a stirring snapshot of a stunning live performance - something that is so sorely missed during these modern times.

Live at Vitellos showcases the dazzling chemistry between exquisite instrumentalist and composer Mark Isham, who joins here on trumpet and flugelhorn, and the ever-lyrical Wolff as they perform this intimate set in top form. Though Wolff and Isham's friendship dates back to the 1970s, this stint at Vitellos marks their first official collaboration. "From the very beginning, Mark was always a beautiful player and a master of harmony," reflected Wolff. "I knew on day we would do a project together." That day finally came in the form of two nights in late August in 2011. Located in Studio City, Vitellos was one of Wolff's favorite venues to play in the city and served as the ideal spot to record a live album.

The resulting work is a multifaceted, warm live recording, that instantly transports listeners to this beloved jazz club, recreating a night of magic and mystery with musical giants.


1. Ballade Noir

2. Lagniappe

3. Fall

4. Falling Down

5. The Conversation

6. Nefertiti

7. Loft Fun


Michael Wolff - piano

Mark Isham - trumpet & flugelhorn

John B. Williams - bass

Mike Clark - drums