Night Tales
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The Brazilian bassist Marcelo Maccagnan mashes modern jazz with the sounds of his home country on this progressive listen that takes help from Andrew Cheng (electric, acoustic guitars), Sukyun Kim (keyboards), Maxime Cholley (drums) and Simona Smirnova (vocals).
“Creatures Of Habit” opens the listen with soft guitar and Smirnova’s charming vocal scatting, as a dreamy, playful setting unfolds, and “Glass” follows with hypnotic guitar work that aligns with agile drumming and well timed keys.
Halfway through, a very mature, textured version of “Black Hole Sun” showcases incredible bass lines as it builds into a very thick climate, while “Vital Spark” trims the pace back with a very meticulous interaction between the rhythm section, where Maccagnan’s warm bass makes quite an impression.
“Breaking Out” exits the listen, and displays an incredible fusion appeal where the acrobatic drumming, sturdy guitar playing, and strategic keys cultivate a mesmerizing landscape.
Now based in New York City, Maccagnan’s band come from all corners of the world, and it makes for a diverse, powerful and very unique twist on modern jazz that requires multiple listens.
Travels well with: Mark Winkler & David Benoit- Old Friends; Plinio Fernandes- Saudade