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| James Zito, Zito's Jump feat: Rodney Whitaker, Joe Farnsworth and more New York based guitarist James Zito has been praised for his masterful touch and soulful melodies, earning him the nickname "The Natural" from Artslife Magazine. Born in Orlando, Florida, Zito's style is deeply rooted in the influences of jazz greats like Wes Montgomery, Les Paul and George Benson. At 28 years old, Zito has already graced many of New York City's premier jazz venues, including Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola, Rose Hall, Birdland Theatre, The Django, Minton's Jazz Club, and The Blue Note, among others. A recent graduate of Juilliard's prestigious "Artist Diploma" program, he toured NYC and abroad with their elite quintet. Zito's notable achievements include winning First Place in the Wilson Center International Guitar Competition and receiving the Special Prize at the Jarek Smietana International Guitar Competition in Krakow, Poland. He has performed with esteemed artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Rodney Whitaker, Wycliffe Gordon, Michael Dease, Jane Monheit, and many others. In 2020, Zito became an endorsing artist for Benedetto Guitars, a leading manufacturer of custom handmade guitars. Currently, he is set to release his debut album as a leader, titled Zito's Jump, in April, 2025. Opening the album with a spirited boogaloo groove, "Zito's Jump" calls to mind the swampy blues of Muddy Waters' "Got My Mojo Working" while channeling the infectious energy of Lee Morgan's "Sidewinder." Driving rhythms, punchy horn lines, and Zito's crisp guitar work converge in a nod to the classic '60s Blue Note sound. This upbeat track immediately sets the tone for the record, highlighting Zito's ability to merge tradition with a modern twist. A tribute to iconic bebop and jazz guitar stylings, "Bird In the Wind" is a cleverly crafted contrafact of "Gone With the Wind." Zito fuses the warm lyricism of Wes Montgomery's approach with Charlie Parker's innovative harmonic expression, weaving together an exquisite blend of fluid improvisations and thoughtful chordal work. The result is a piece that simultaneously pays homage to the masters and captures Zito's own distinctive voice. Soft, romantic, and undeniably warm, "Island Girl" showcases Zito's flair for bossa nova. Inspired by an enduring love, the track unfolds with a gentle sway, underscored by lush chords and a breezy, tropical vibe. Chris Lewis's flute lines add an extra layer of melodic charm, painting a portrait of sun-kissed beaches and late-night serenades—an inviting soundscape perfect for slow dancing or quiet reflection. Featuring a driving 12/8 groove, "Time Zone" salutes the straight-ahead swing of Grant Green while also exploring a modern rhythmic pocket. Rodney Whitaker and Joe Farnsworth form a rock-solid foundation, locking in on a syncopated pulse that accentuates Zito's guitar lines. The propulsive feel mirrors the frustrations that arise from poor communication—full of intensity yet balanced by the band's cohesive interplay. A high-energy homage to both George Benson and the classic Jimmy Smith tune, "Ready 'N Able" crackles with excitement from the downbeat. This vibrant track—one of two original nonet arrangements—showcases the ensemble's tight horn harmonies and Zito's nimble guitar phrasing. Bold, bluesy, and soul-infused, it nods to the organ trio tradition while retaining Zito's trademark modern edge. Meaning "think about it" in Portuguese, "Pense Nisso" ventures into reflective bossa territory. With subtle references to João Gilberto and Luiz Bonfá, Zito's quartet delivers a gentle, intimate sound that invites the listener to slow down and savor each moment. The understated percussion and warm melodic lines create an air of hushed sophistication, making this track a true gem for fans of classic Brazilian jazz. Showcasing Zito's more angular composing style, "Minor Lies" digs into intricate melody lines and unexpected harmonic twists. The piece brims with energy, capturing the essence of hard-hitting post-bop—especially in Zito's picking approach, which draws inspiration from his mentor Rodney Jones. Guitarists will appreciate the technical prowess at play, while listeners of all stripes can enjoy the track's bristling excitement. An intimate vocal duet between Tyreek McDole and Georgia Heers, "The Nearness of You" exudes a tender and sultry mood that's impossible to resist. Languid rhythms and softly brushed drums frame the singers' interplay, gently accenting their lyrical conversation. It's the kind of romantic ballad that invites the listener to reminisce about moments shared with someone special—stirring, heartfelt, and thoroughly captivating. Zito's arrangement of "The End of a Love Affair" captures the fiery and impassioned stage of grief that follows a heartbreak. A restless sense of yearning emerges in the surging horn backgrounds and the raw intensity of Zito's guitar solos. Throughout, the band's dynamic shifts mirror the emotional turbulence of a love on the brink, bringing fresh life to a storied standard. Paying tribute to the legendary Les Paul, Zito employs a Les Paul Custom guitar on this playful rendition of "After You've Gone." The track bursts with a vintage, almost rockabilly-esque flair, showcasing an infectious swing and bright, resonant tones. Zito's crisp articulation and the ensemble's buoyant support usher in a timeless quality that fans of classic jazz guitar will immediately recognize. In this hauntingly beautiful guitar–organ duet performance of "It Could Happen To You, " Zito pairs with Luther Allison for a subtle reinvention of the Van Heusen–Burke standard. Performing the melody entirely with his thumb—a nod to Wes Montgomery's signature technique—Zito creates a warm, intimate feel. The understated organ accompaniment heightens the sense of closeness, ensuring each note resonates with delicate emotional weight. Rounding out the record, this alternate take of "After You've Gone" offers another glimpse into Zito's ongoing exploration of the Les Paul tradition. With spirited improvisation and a touch of spontaneity, the performance underscores Zito's respect for the guitar pioneer while reiterating his own creative approach. It's a fitting conclusion to an album that honors the masters even as it forges new paths. TRACK, TIMES: 1. Zito's Jump 05:21 (James Zito) 2. Bird In the Wind 04:19 (James Zito) 3. Island Girl 05:43 (James Zito) 4. Time Zone 05:07 (James Zito) 5. Ready 'N Able 02:40 (Jimmy Smith) 6. Pense Nisso 05:12 (James Zito) 7. Minor Lies 03:33 (James Zito) 8. The Nearness of You - 05:12 (H. Carmichael - N. Washington) 9. The End of a Love Affair - 04:53 (E. Redding) 10. After You've Gone - 02:29 (T. Layton - H. Creamer) 11. It Could Happen To You - 02:47 (J. Van Heusen - J. Burke) 12. After You've Gone (Alternate Take) - 02:29 (T. Layton - H. Creamer) PLAYER, INSTRUMENT: James Zito (ZEE-TOE) - guitar / executive producer Rodney Whitaker – bass Joe Farnsworth – drums Luther Allison - piano Chris Lewis - tenor saxophone / flute Georgia Heers – vocalist Tyreek Mcdole – vocalist Nicholas Dimaria - trumpet Joseph Miller - alto saxophone Jack Kotze - trombone Jarien Jamanila - baritone saxophone Credits: Artist: James Zito Album Name: Zito's Jump Label Name: Self-Released Street Date: April 18, 2025 Add Date: April 14, 2025 Artist Website: jameszitomusic.com write your comments about the article :: © 2025 Jazz News :: home page |