The Ernie Felice Quartet - Oodles Of Boodle And Batches Of Scratch Love Me Or Leave Me

Review by Carrie-Ann Baron

The Ernie Felice Quartet's album Oodles Of Boodle And Batches Of Scratch Love Me Or Leave Me is a delightful collection of jazz tunes that showcase the group's exceptional musicianship and artistry. The quartet, which comprises Ernie Felice on piano, Tony Rizzi on guitar, Joe Mondragon on bass, and Stan Levey on drums, delivers a mix of upbeat and mellow tracks that will keep listeners engaged from start to finish.

The album opens with the title track "Love Me Or Leave Me," a swinging number that features Felice's nimble fingers dancing across the piano keys, while Rizzi's guitar adds a jazzy flair to the melody. The quartet's chemistry is evident in tracks like "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter," where Mondragon's bass and Levey's drums provide a solid foundation for Felice and Rizzi to improvise and showcase their skills.

The album's standout track is "Lullaby Of The Leaves," a hauntingly beautiful tune that highlights Felice's ability to create a mood with his piano playing. The quartet's rendition of "Begin The Beguine" is also noteworthy, with Rizzi's guitar taking center stage and adding a Latin-inspired flavor to the classic tune.

Summary by Carrie-Ann Baron

Oodles Of Boodle And Batches Of Scratch Love Me Or Leave Me is a must-have for jazz enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates exceptional musicianship. The Ernie Felice Quartet's talent and passion for their craft shine through in every track, making this album a timeless classic.