Paolo Damiani
Italian jazz cellist and double-bassist, member of Italian Instabile Orchestra.
Paolo Damiani (born 1952) is an Italian jazz cellist and double-bassist. He was a member of the avant-garde jazz band Italian Instabile Orchestra and has worked with notable musicians including Gianluigi Trovesi, Kenny Wheeler, Tony Oxley, Paolo Fresu, and John Taylor. His career spans jazz, progressive rock, and world music, with appearances on albums by Deep Forest and the Italian jazz-rock band Bauhaus.
- born
- 1952
- field
- Jazz cellist and double-bassist
- nationality
- Italian
- known_for
- Member of Italian Instabile Orchestra; bassist for Buon Vecchio Charlie
Lore & Background
Paolo Damiani was born in 1952 and became a prominent figure in Italian jazz as both a cellist and double-bassist. He was a member of the avant-garde jazz band Italian Instabile Orchestra, contributing to several of their albums including 'Live in Noci and Rive-De Gier' (1991) and 'Skies of Europe' (1994). He also served as the bassist for the progressive rock band Buon Vecchio Charlie, which released one album in 1971.
Damiani's collaborative work extends across many projects. He has performed and recorded with Gianluigi Trovesi, Kenny Wheeler, Tony Oxley, Paolo Fresu, and John Taylor. His discography as a leader includes albums such as 'Unisoni' (1989), 'Eso' (1994), and 'Ladybird' (2004). As a sideman, he appeared on albums by Deep Forest ('Made in Japan', 1999) and the Italian jazz-rock band Bauhaus ('Stairway to Escher', 1974).
His work also includes collaborations with the Orchestre National De Jazz and Anouar Brahem on the 2002 ECM release 'Charmediterraneen'. Damiani's versatility is evident in his range from avant-garde jazz to progressive rock and world music, making him a notable figure in Italian contemporary music.
Reader's Guide
Paolo Damiani's significance lies in his dual role as a cellist and double-bassist within the Italian avant-garde jazz scene, particularly as a member of the Italian Instabile Orchestra. This ensemble, known for its collective improvisation and experimental approach, helped define a distinct Italian voice in European jazz. Damiani's work with the orchestra on albums like 'Skies of Europe' (ECM) and 'Litania Sibilante' (Enja) showcases his contribution to that legacy.
Beyond the Instabile Orchestra, Damiani's collaborations with international figures such as Kenny Wheeler, Tony Oxley, and John Taylor place him within a broader network of European jazz innovators. His discography as a leader, including 'Unisoni' and 'Eso', demonstrates his compositional and improvisational skills. His involvement with the progressive rock band Buon Vecchio Charlie and appearances on albums by Deep Forest and Bauhaus highlight his stylistic range.
Damiani's legacy is that of a versatile musician who bridged genres—from avant-garde jazz to progressive rock and world music—while maintaining a strong Italian identity. His recordings continue to be reference points for Italian jazz of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Did You Know?
- Paolo Damiani was the bassist for the progressive rock band Buon Vecchio Charlie, which released one album in 1971.
- He has played on albums by Deep Forest and the Italian jazz-rock band Bauhaus.
- Damiani was a member of the avant-garde jazz band Italian Instabile Orchestra.
- He has worked with musicians including Gianluigi Trovesi, Kenny Wheeler, Tony Oxley, Paolo Fresu, and John Taylor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Paolo Damiani?
Paolo Damiani is an Italian jazz musician born in 1952 who plays both cello and double bass. He is best recognized as a long-time member of the avant-garde ensemble Italian Instabile Orchestra.
What instruments does Paolo Damiani play?
He is a cellist and double-bassist, switching between the two string instruments depending on the project. This dual role lets him cover both melodic and rhythmic bass duties in ensembles like Buon Vecchio Charlie.
What is Paolo Damiani best known for?
His most prominent association is with the Italian Instabile Orchestra, an avant-garde jazz group known for experimental and free-form compositions. He has also served as bassist for the project Buon Vecchio Charlie.
Who has Paolo Damiani collaborated with?
He has recorded and performed alongside a range of notable artists, including Gianluigi Trovesi, Kenny Wheeler, Tony Oxley, Paolo Fresu, and John Taylor. His work also extends beyond core jazz, with contributions to albums by Deep Forest and the Italian jazz-rock group Bauhaus.
What genres has Paolo Damiani worked in?
His career stretches across jazz, progressive rock, and world music. This versatility is evident in his appearances on projects ranging from free-jazz ensembles to the ambient, nature-inspired recordings of Deep Forest.
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