| Jazz |
Anyone familiar with European jazz will find here a certain kinship with some of its composers and performers, yet with added hues, infused by the artist’s Venezuelan roots. In terms of inspiration, this is a form of world jazz of the highest caliber—both intricate and inviting—where as much care is given to composition as to arrangements, built upon rhythms that may evoke tropical landscapes but ultimately transcend them.
Born and raised in the bustling streets of Caracas, Venezuela, Silvano Monasterios stands as a true virtuoso, one of the most sought-after jazz pianists of his generation. Over the course of an illustrious career spanning more than three decades, Monasterios has captivated audiences worldwide with a mesmerizing blend of technical mastery, soulful improvisation, and an exceptional gift for composition that sets him apart. As Jazzweek aptly put it, “Silvano brings to his compositions a deeply complex and thought-provoking craftsmanship, striking a perfect balance between composition and improvisation.” Such praise is a testament to the profound impact of his artistry and immense talent.
In certain respects, Silvano Monasterios brings to mind the works of Gershwin—particularly in his approach to composition. Both pianists, both visionaries, they share a radiant conception of music, one that defies convention and delves into the finest details of arrangement to elevate each section of a piece, allowing the melody to assert itself with natural elegance. This album, at first listen, seems accessible, yet it requires a deep musical culture to be fully appreciated. It is the kind of work one might liken to a novel, one that holds you captive until the break of dawn, so vivid are the images it conjures.
I have always believed that jazz is akin to fine cuisine—an art where spices are welcome, provided they are masterfully combined. And here, they certainly are. At the heart of this album lies Carmen Elena, undoubtedly the most intense piece in terms of composition. At first glance, it may not seem extraordinary, yet a closer listen reveals an ingenious distribution of instruments across the score. The musical narrative unfolds gently, only to erupt rhythmically like a dazzling firework before settling once more, like waves lapping the shore.
April promises to be a worthy successor to a remarkable March, as Silvano Monasterios continues his extraordinary journey, having shared the stage with an impressive array of artists, including Larry Coryell, Dave Valentin, Nestor Torres, Paquito D’Rivera, Mark Egan, Paul Wertico, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Ira Sullivan, Don Byron, Troy Roberts, Todd Marcus, Juan Pablo Torres, Luisito Quintero, Sammy Figueroa, Candido Camero, Terumasa Hino, Marc Johnson, Othello Molineaux, Melton Mustafa, Nathen Page, Claudio Roditi, David Lee Roth, Shakira, Louie Vega, Arturo Sandoval, Bobby Watson, Akira Jimbo, Bobby Sanabria, Mambo Legends Orchestra, and many more. Such an array of collaborators speaks volumes about his exceptional talent—recognized not only by myself but by many others:
“Silvano brings to his compositions a deeply complex and thought-provoking craftsmanship. He strikes a perfect balance between composition and improvisation.” — Jazzweek.com
“For his fourth album as a leader, the exceptional pianist-composer Silvano Monasterios blends the influences of his American jazz heroes (Chick Corea, Bill Evans, and Herbie Hancock) with the South American rhythms of his native Venezuela.” — JazzTimes
These reviews were for previous albums, and unsurprisingly, his latest opus joins the ranks of our “Essential” records with undeniable brilliance.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, March 4th 2025
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