Album Review: Totally Gone by Italian Instabile Orchestra
Alright, so let’s talk about Totally Gone, the 2010 jazz album by the Italian Instabile Orchestra. If you’re into jazz that doesn’t just sit still and behave itself—think free improvisation, contemporary vibes, and some wild free jazz moments—this one’s for you. It’s like a big musical potluck where everyone brings their own flavor, and somehow it all works. Released under Rai Trade in Italy, this record feels like a party where no one’s quite sure what’s happening next, but you’re having too much fun to care.
The lineup? Oh man, it’s stacked. You’ve got Gianluigi Trovesi pulling double duty on alto sax and clarinet, Tiziano Tononi and Vincenzo Mazzone keeping things spicy on drums and percussion, and a whole crew of other talented folks like Paolo Damiani on cello and Fabrizio Puglisi tickling the ivories. There’s even a French horn player (Martin Mayes) because why not? The variety of instruments makes this album feel like a living, breathing thing—chaotic but in the best way possible.
Now, let me tell ya about two tracks that stuck with me. First up is “Ciao Baby, I’m Totally Gone/It Had to Be You.” Yeah, yeah, I know, long title, but hear me out. This track starts off with this cheeky, almost playful vibe, like someone’s whispering secrets into your ear. Then BAM!—it flips into this totally unexpected mashup of free jazz madness mixed with a classic tune (“It Had to Be You”). It’s weird, but it works. Like peanut butter and pickles—it shouldn’t make sense, but somehow it does. The horns go nuts, the rhythm section keeps shifting gears, and before you know it, you’re grinning like an idiot. That combo of old-school charm and chaotic energy? Love it.
Then there’s “Gargantella,” which might be my favorite. Honestly, I think they were just messing around in the studio when they came up with this one. It’s got this wild, almost carnivalesque vibe, like you’re walking through some surreal Italian festival where everyone’s slightly tipsy and dancing however they feel. The trombones (shoutout to Giancarlo Schiaffini and Lauro Rossi) are doing these ridiculous slides, and the percussion feels like it’s trying to break free from reality altogether. It’s messy, loud, and completely unforgettable. Every time I listen to it, I imagine a bunch of musicians laughing their heads off while recording it. Pure joy.
This album isn’t perfect, though. Some tracks drag a bit, and if you’re not into experimental stuff, you might get lost in all the twists and turns. But honestly, that’s part of its charm. It’s like hanging out with a group of friends who are all ridiculously talented but refuse to take themselves too seriously. They’re just vibing, exploring, and seeing where the music takes them.
Here’s the thing: Totally Gone reminds me that jazz doesn’t have to be stiff or overly intellectual. Sometimes it can just be… fun. Like, who else would throw a French horn into a jazz orchestra and make it sound cool? Only Italians, probably. And hey, isn’t that kinda beautiful?
So yeah, give this one a spin if you’re feeling adventurous. Just don’t blame me if “Ciao Baby” gets stuck in your head for days. Trust me, it’s worth it.
