I Can Pick My Friends

I Can Pick My Friends is the second recording by Chris Buzzelli as a band leader.
This recording features Buzzelli on the seven string archtop guitar and the seven string classical guitar. Also featured with Buzzelli on the CD are several of today’s preeminent jazz guitarists: Gene Bertoncini, Jack Wilkins and Randy Johnston.

Buzzelli’s intimate duets with Bertoncini include a samba-flavored “Angel Eyes” and a shimmering take of “Emily,” Wilkins joins him for the bittersweet ballad “Blame It on My Youth” and Buzzelli’s funky waltz “Islip in Fall,” while Johnston is on board for the slowly savored “Where or When” and a romp through “It’s Almost Like Being in Love.”

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Reviews:

“a treat for mainstream guitar lovers.” – David Dupont, Cadence magazine

“highly recommended” – Ken Dryden, All Music Guide

“great mainstream guitar music performed by some of the best jazz guitarists around today” – Charles Chapman, Just Jazz Guitar
“Chris Buzzelli and friends deliver a fine conversation that’s intended for guitar lovers as well as for all mainstream jazz enthusiasts” – Jim Santella, L.A. Jazz Scene

Track Listing

Steppin’ in It – Chris Buzzelli
Where or When – Richard Rogers & Lorenz Hart
Emily – Johnny Mercer & Johnny Mandel
It’s All Right with Me – Cole Porter
Chega de Saudade – Antonio Carlos Jobim & Vinicius DeMoraes
Islip in Fall – Chris Buzzelli
Angel Eyes – Earl K. Brent & Matt Dennis
A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes – Mack David, Al Hoffman, Jerry Livingston & David Robert Pack
It’s Almost Like Being in Love – Alan Lerner & Frederick Loewe
Lullaby of the Leaves – Bernice Petkere & Joseph Young
Blame It on My Youth – Edward Heyman & Oscar Levant
Be My Love – Nickolaus Brodszky & Sammy Cahn