Upon First Impression
Orchard Of Pomegranates, 2022
8/10
Listen to Upon First Impression
The Finland native and current Montreal resident Saku Mantere sure does impress us on this debut album, where his very adaptable voice is complemented by some of Canada’s best musicians.
“And Death Shall Have No Dominion” starts the listen with Lex French’s soulful trumpet and Adrian Vedady’s warm bass alongside Mantere’s expressive storytelling, and “Time” follows with lush brass, Riitta Paakki’s graceful piano and the deep singing in the very cozy demeanor of the Tom Waits tune.
“Open Secrets” occupies the halfway spot, and showcases Teppo Makynen’s agile drumming as Mantere’s inviting pipes draw us into the obscure Rush tune, while “Radio Silence” textures the horns with much skill and creativity in the dreamy jazz ballad.
Approaching the end, the swift and swinging playfulness of “Countdown” benefits from Jussi Kannaste’s tenor sax prowess and Heikki Tuhanen’s well timed trombone, and “Leap Of Faith” exits with Jennifer Gasoi’s pretty vocals paired with Mantere’s smooth singing, as swirling brass and hypnotic bass lines populate the timeless and adventurous tango friendly finish.
An excellent first outing, Mantere’s delivery is rich with authenticity, and the all star musicians he’s surrounded by make for a diverse and accomplished listen.
Travels well with: Noah Lemish- Twelve; Avi Granite- In Good Hands