Area Libera is pianist Thanassis Valsamis’ debut album. Featuring 14 of his original compositions, it is a worthy addition to the modern European jazz scene.

The title of the album is inspired by a note at the end of the score of the song “Round a Turn” by the Italian jazz musician Paolo Damiani which said: “Improvisazione intorno alla propria linea verso un area piu libera e rarefatta”, which means: “Improvisation around the given line towards an area more free and sparse. ” The same idea is reflected in the composition of the pieces and in the production of the music: the simple rendering of the themes and the melodic motifs as they are inherent in solos and group improvisation, in a sparse and / or open form.

Personnel:

Leonidas Sarantopoulos – Flute,
Andreas Polyzogopoulos – Trumpet,
Thanassis Valsamis – Piano,
George Ventouris – Double Bass,
Vangelis Kotzambasis – Drums