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The Arts Intel Report

Francesco Bearzatti

May 30, 2020
Via Faentina 121/D 48124 Ravenna Italy

What do John Coltrane, Woody Guthrie, Tina Modotti, and the Sex Pistols have in common? You’d have to ask reedman Francesco Bearzatti, who has offered votive albums to all four. Whatever its sources, his stream of melody never falters, with a sound that ranges from breathy Ben Websterish warmth to keening, dervish fervency. In this highlight of a transmogrified festival based in Italy’s Emilia Romagna, his trio, The Bears, will presumably—Goldilocks take note—be playing from home. —E.E.