| Jazz |
What a joy it is to see so many female artists taking center stage this year with projects as captivating as they are diverse. Simply listening to her music, one might not immediately discern the Greek origins of this extraordinary violinist and composer. A subtle Eastern touch can be detected, yet that is not the defining element of this great artist’s compositions. Above all, she has the rare ability to channel her inner world and draw from her violin an enchanting dialogue—romantic and poetic expression elevated to its highest form. Her arrangements, of remarkable intelligence, transform intricate musical architecture into a nectar that can be appreciated on multiple levels.
This new album follows Manousaki’s two previous solo records, both recorded during her time in New York: her award-winning debut Sole Voyage (2015) and Hidden Trails (2021). Praised for their innovative fusion of Cretan influences and polyrhythmic jazz, these albums cemented Manousaki’s reputation as a visionary artist, one who builds bridges between genres and cultures. Unfortunately, we did not have the chance to discover those earlier works, and listening to this latest release, we cannot help but regret it—for those of us who cherish originality and the arts that preserve a refined aesthetic.
Comprising five original compositions and two inspired reinterpretations, Behind Closed Doors captures the emotional depth of loss, grief, and renewal. Inspired by the natural transition from winter’s darkness to the vibrant rebirth of spring, Manousaki channels these themes into an intimate and powerful musical narrative, carried by the voice of her violin.
Now based in New York, she seamlessly blends cultures throughout this album, which possesses the rare ability to be both urban and folk-infused, even classical at times, all against a jazz backdrop. The rhythms, too, traverse multiple landscapes. And then, it must be said—Maria Manousaki draws sounds of astonishing beauty from her instrument. It is all the more admirable considering that jazz and the violin are a perilous combination, often falling into clichés. Yet her mastery is such that she stands apart from any comparison. One can only be in awe, knowing that behind such an offering lie years of relentless dedication.
The album brings together the violinist and an exceptional ensemble, including her core quartet—Dimitris Verdinoglou (piano), Michalis Evdaimon (double bass), Alekos Roupas (percussion)—as well as special guests such as Kyriakos Stavrianoudakis (lute), Stratis Skarakis (vocals), Christos Rafailidis (vibraphone), Andreas Polyzogopoulos (trumpet), Thomas Meleteas (oud), and the internationally renowned bassist Petros Klampanis. Together, they breathe life into Manousaki’s compositions, delivering a performance of profound emotional depth and unparalleled textural richness.
But what must be understood is this: Behind Closed Doors is more than just an album—it is a poignant tribute to those we lose along life’s journey. Dedicated to her late father, Manousaki invites listeners on a voyage where grief gives way to resilience, and where music becomes a path to healing.
An album of beauty and hope, far removed from the noise of current events, it restores faith in humanity. I have listened to this record countless times before writing about it, for fear of losing its essence in translation. As always, I sought to know nothing about the artist before my first listen, which proved to be a revelatory experience—so much so that I instantly imagined it among our “Essential Albums.”
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, March 19th 2025
Follow PARIS-MOVE on X
::::::::::::::::::::::