Written by John Splithoff
The last quarter of 2023 saw the release of Chris Botti’s new Vol.1 CD. This album was the trumpet star’s first release in more than eleven years. Vol.1 was produced by David Foster, who came out of retirement to support his old friend and collaborator. Vol.1 can be described as a sophisticated musical project totally devoted to classic jazz. Botti’s main influences were, among others, the legendary Miles Davis and Bill Evans. Those giants were honored with beautiful renditions of evergreens which included “Someday My Prince Will Come,” “My Funny Valentine” and “Blue In Green.”
The nocturne mood of the album was perfectly served by Foster, with his refined touch in the producer’s seat. Foster’s skill and experience added to the magnificent instrumental performances by Botti and all the stellar musicians involved. This CD was evidence of Botti’s genius musicianship, while highlighting the fact that Foster’s talent knows no boundaries with his peerless ability to craft music for pop, rock, soul/r&b and even traditional jazz.
There’s a song on Vol.1 titled “Paris” that’s closer to the Hitman’s pop sensibilities and is the song for this week.
An original composition written and sung by a remarkable young artist named John Splithoff, “Paris” can be called a spectacular romantic ballad with an irresistible bossa nova feel. Splithoff’s smooth voice created the perfect compliment to Botti’s mellow trumpet playing. Top musicians included Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, Taylor Eigsti on piano and Leonardo Amuedo on guitar. They made “Paris” and Vol.1 a killer and a must listen like Impressions before it.
- Trumpet: Chris Botti
- Vocals: John Splithoff
- Bass: Zach Moses
- Drums: Vinnie Colaiuta
- Guitar: Leonardo Amuedo & Shane Fontayne
- Piano: Taylor Eigsti
- Strings: Patrick Warren
- Produced by David Foster
Lyrics
Pour me one more glass of wine before we say goodnight
And lay beside me underneath the stars
And won’t you kiss me one more time before this wine goes to my head
And I wake tomorrow wondering who you are
Because I don’t know your name
And you don’t know my story
But if the wine is the one to blame
Then let’s greet the early morning
Because it’s getting late in Ile St Louis
And it’s only you and me
But the city’s made for passing lovers
Loving leisurely
In a place like this
On a night like this
With someone like you to kiss
Words are meaningless
In a place like this
On a night like this
With someone like you to kiss
Words are meaningless
Won’t you
Pour me one more glass of wine before we say goodnight
And lay beside me underneath the stars
And won’t you kiss me one more time before this wine goes to my head
And I wake tomorrow wondering who you are
Because I don’t know your name
And you don’t know my story
But if the wine is the one to blame
Then let’s greet the early morning
Because it’s getting late in Ile St Louis
And it’s only you and me
But the city’s made for passing lovers
Loving leisurely
You and me in Paris
You and me in Paris
You and me in Paris
You and me in Paris