Nicola Angelucci – ‘Identithree’

Nicola Angelucci, a prominent figure among Italy's mid-career jazz musicians, has introduced his latest project, 'Identithree,' marking his fourth album as a bandleader. Building on a professional journey spanning roughly 25 years, this release follows his previous leader efforts: 'The First One' (2010), 'Beyond the Drums' (2012), and most recently, 'Changes' (2021).

The album embodies Angelucci’s measured approach to releasing music under his own name, opting to lead only when he has a distinct artistic statement to contribute. His career has been equally defined by extensive sideman work, collaborating with key players such as the Roma Trio—featuring Luca Mannutza and Gianluca Renzi—as well as renowned artists including Max Ionata, Mario Biondi, and Fabrizio Bosso, whose quartet counts Angelucci as a significant member.

'Identithree' distinguishes itself through the classic yet challenging piano-bass-drums trio format, a cornerstone ensemble configuration in jazz history. However, Angelucci’s choice to helm the group from the drummer’s seat alters traditional power dynamics. His leadership steers the sonic direction, carving out space for expressive freedom rather than confining it, a strategy that promotes vibrant interplay among the trio’s members.

The supporting musicians are pillars of the Roman jazz scene. Enzo Pietropaoli’s bass work anchors the music with a spacious and resonant tone, characterized by masterful control over timing and texture. Pianist Enrico Zanisi brings a lyrical clarity to the ensemble, his phrasing both reflective of modern jazz traditions and marked by a distinct personal voice. Zanisi’s decade-long prominence in Italian jazz circles lends added depth, even while occupying a complementary role within this project.

The album’s repertoire is largely original, underscoring a tailored creative vision. Angelucci contributes five compositions, while Zanisi and Pietropaoli each add one piece. The trio also interprets two well-known standards: the spiritual 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' and Miles Davis's 'Solar,' providing familiar touchstones within a context of fresh material.

Recorded over two days at Geko Music Factory in Rome in March 2026, the session captures a trio at the height of their collective and individual abilities. The result is an album that is both technically accomplished and emotionally resonant, with Angelucci’s leadership evident in the coherent and compelling musical narrative.

'Identithree' reinforces Angelucci’s reputation not only as a versatile and skilled drummer but also as an insightful bandleader capable of shaping a trio that balances structure and spontaneity. For followers of contemporary Italian jazz, this recording presents a significant artistic statement and a trio that merits close attention.

While Angelucci’s discography as a leader remains deliberately concise, his impact on the scene through sideman roles and this latest project demonstrates a commitment to quality and meaningful musical dialogue. 'Identithree' stands as a testament to a mature artist’s ability to revisit a classic format with renewed vision and authenticity.

Further details about the album’s reception and future projects remain limited at this time, but the contributions of Nicola Angelucci, Enrico Zanisi, and Enzo Pietropaoli firmly place 'Identithree' among notable contemporary jazz releases from Italy, reaffirming the vitality of the country’s jazz tradition.