During 1983-86 altoist Bobby Watson recorded fairly regularly for the Italian Red label. On this album he is joined by an obscure but talented Italian rhythm section (pianist Piero Bassini, bassist Attilio Zanchi and drummer Giampiero Prina) called the Open Form Trio. Actually the highpoint of the date is Watson's unaccompanied solo on "If Bird Could See Me Now." Other memorable selections on the well-rounded set include "Watson's Blues," the ballad "Always Missing You" and the spirited "Funcalypso." Bobby Watson (who doubles on this album on soprano) at that point in time was combining advanced hard bop with some influences from the avant-garde, carving out his own style. Recommended. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
1. Appointment In Milano (Bobby Watson)
2. Ballad (Dancing) (Bobby Watson)
3. If Birds Could See Me Now (Bobby Watson)
4. Watson's Blues (P. Bassini)
5. (I'm) Always Missing You (A. Zanchi/B. Watson)
6. Funcalypso (A. Zanchi)
BOBBY WATSON alto saxophone
ATTILIO ZANCHI bass
GIAMPIERO PRINA drums
PIERO BASSINI piano
Recorded February 5, 1985 at Barigozzi Studio, Milano
Red Records RR 123184-2