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Sicilian Project blows down the doors at Centre 64
By Ferdy Belland
Toronto-based guitarist-wunderkind Michael Occhipinti (pictured above) is more than a bandleader; he’s a visionary. And with his vaunted Sicilian Project undertaking its current Canadian tour, us lucky folks in the East Kootenay can see his vision for ourselves in the warm comfort of Kimberley’s venerable Centre 64 Theatre (64 Deer Park Ave.) on the evening of Thursday, July 13.
The Sicilian Project is a clever amalgamation of traditional Sicilian folk music (the somber yet passionate sounds usually sung by fishermen and sulphur miners), melded with modern New World sounds delivered through electric guitars, funk-reggae rhythms, modern jazz aesthetics, and the mindsets of chamber music. Signore Occhipinti presents a decidedly Mediterranean trip that also encompasses the musical elements of Mali, Jamaica, and New Orleans – much to the delight of the average ear.
“Sicilian tempers run legendarily high,” says Georgia Straight journalist Alexander Varty, “but the inhabitants of that Italian island – and their descendants – have a matching appetite for fun; even a raging downpour couldn’t have doused this group’s raucous energy!”
Michael Occhipinti’s sonic triumph is accomplished through the collaboration of Rome’s own astonishing post-diva Ilaria ‘Pilar’ Patassini (who deserves a press release all her own), who possesses a heartfelt, soulful voice that’s fiery enough to boil icebergs…and crystalline enough to shatter plate steel. Ms. Patassini’s presence is her fourth Canadian tour with the Sicilian Project in almost half a decade.
“Rarely have I seen performers – and particularly vocalists – immerse themselves in their music as much as Pilar,” states reviewer Alayne McGregor of the Ottawa Jazz Scene: “It was an emphatically hot concert.”
The Sicilian Project is rounded out by the musical muscle of bassist Scott Kemp and drummer Tony Ferraro, two of Toronto’s most in-demand rhythm-section players.
“What can I say?” says Raul da Gama of JazzDaGama. “Occhipinti’s brilliant guitar? The divine Pilar? No pomp. No circumstance. Just wonderful and magically-made music.”
Admission is $35 at the door. Doors open 7 p.m. on Thursday July 13. The show starts 7:30 p.m. in Centre 64’s upper auditorium.
The concert will be recorded and mixed live by Rocky Mountain Media. There will be a post-performance meet-and-greet session (wine and appies courtesy of the lovely Duane and Jaime Funk of the Green Door Bistro) in the ground-floor gallery.
Memories: Priceless. See You There!