The Maurizio Grondona Group's new EP is truly compelling (Published: April 17, 2020)
The Maurizio Grondona Group is back on the scene with a truly compelling new EP, Looking at the Sea.
One of the first things that you might notice about this release is the highly sophisticated approach to guitar. Unlike many other virtuosos of the instrument, Grondona knows how to keep things simple. He never overplays and it feels like every note is right where it should be. This is actually something that's not easy to do and I would say that the playing on these tunes is deceptively easy because if you really listen closely and consider the guitar in the context of each song, that's when you finally start to realize just how amazing is the music sounding and how rich and nuanced the guitar work actually is.
In addition to Grondona's phenomenal performances on the six string, the rest of the band is a perfect unit as well, creating some mesmerizing instrumental backdrops. Every part on each cut dovetails beautifully with one another, going for a synergy that's artistically balanced and cleverly executed in every regard.
The music on the record is just the perfect combination of emotional musicianship and technical excellence, blurring the lines between these two different directions - why should one exclude the other, after all?
The EP creates a bridge between classic jazz influences and modern ideas, going for a smooth and rewarding listening experience. Whether you are a die-hard jazz fan or a newcomer to this wonderful genre, you should give this record a go because it is definitely worth the while. Grondona carries the torch forward, not only paying homage to the greatest jazz players by continuing their tradition and legacy - but he also puts a completely new spin on this timeless musical culture, embracing other influences and allowing the personality of each band member to shine through and further define the style of this release. In terms of recording and production, the record adds value to the group member's performances, allowing their creativity and vision to come through unmasked, without the burden of excessive production and studio trickery.
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