Noli Me Tángere
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The saxophonist, composer and educator Matthew Muñeses pays tribute to the late 19th century Philippine national hero José Rizal with these 7 originals that embrace very worldly jazz ideas with an all star cast behind him.
“Alin Mang Lahi” starts the listen with Muñeses’ soulful sax complemented by Zubin Edaji’s animated trumpet and Dana Hall’s playful drumming in the cultured jazz climate, and “Kundiman Nj Rizal” follows with Stu Mindeman’s graceful piano adding much emotion to the cautious delivery.
Further along, “I. A Son Returns” showcases Clark Sommers’ bass amid the reflective, pretty tone, while “II. Cruelty And Injustice” recruits Miguel Zenón on sax for dueling brass that’s quite adventurous and unpredictable.
The record exits on “IV. Revolution And Liberation”, where brass, keys, bass and drums all intersect in dynamic and flowing ways that finish the listen much too early.
A very poetic, moving and often exciting sophomore album, Muñeses and company bring much melody and richness into this modern jazz outing that will resonate with fans of the genre around the globe.
Travels well with: Jonathan Barber & Vision Ahead- Poetic; Anthony Fung- What Does It Mean To Be Free?