Mariwô
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The D.C. drummer/percussionist Juan Megna is well versed in many ideas, and here along with Shawn Purcell, Tedd Baker, José Luiz Martins and Leonardo Lucini, as well as a couple of guests, he brings plenty of rhythm to the 7 songs.
The title track starts the listen with Martins’ rumbling keys and Baker’s soulful sax, before guest David Sacks contributes trombone to the dynamic and animated climate, and “Paô” follows with plenty of cultured rhythm, where Megna’s drumming acrobatics shine amid the strategic bass from Lucini.
Further along, the mesmerizing “Si Estuvieras” emits intimate keys and well timed bandoneón from Emmanuel Trifílio for the gripping album highlight, while “Amarelinha” carries a a brighter mood thanks to Purcell’s luminous guitar and Megna’s upbeat drumming.
Close to the end, “Coisa No2”, the only selection with vocals, recruits Alisson Crockett’s playful scatting via a dreamy delivery, and “The Owl Look” exits with a collaborative spirit that’s both cautious and adventurous
A diverse affair that shifts around Afro-Brazilian genres, jazz, and chacareras, to name a few, this is Megna’s first album of mostly originals, and it makes for a worldly and exciting body of work.
Travels well with: Miguel Espinoza Fusion- Gabriella; Shawn Purcell- 180