Masquerader
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The inimitable Matt Bianco returns with a 17th album, where an all star cast flesh out the Latin, jazz and pop tunes.
The lively energy of “Playing With Dynamite” opens with Sebastian de Krom’s frisky drums complementing Mark Reilly’s animated pipes amid plenty of rhythm, and “A Memory For Lovers” follows with an indeed romantic spirit thanks to Martin Shaw’s bright trumpet and Graham Harvey’s flowing keys.
“Wanderlust” and “Rectify My Soul” land in the middle. The former recruits much richness via Dave O'Higgins' warm sax, while the latter is a calmer moment thanks to Geoff Gascoyne’s skilled bass and Reilly’s smooth pipes that glide along with the breezy melodies.
Getting closer to the end, the lively mood of “You Talk Too Much” is made for the dance floor with its infectious songwriting, and “Matucada” exits with a cultured and rhythmic instrumental.
A fusion effort that’s never short on grooves, Bianco’s vision is full of global appeal and dynamic instrumentation that is timeless and exciting.
Travels well with: Gilad Atzmon/Daniel Bulatkin/Taras Volos/Dušan Černák- Praying For More Songs To Come; Teis Semey-En Massei!