“Life,” the debut album from the Maria Grapsa Sextet, is a captivating blend of modern jazz, classical influences, and a rich tapestry of cultural elements. The Athens-born pianist Maria Grapsa, who has firmly established herself in the UK’s internationally-renowned jazz scene, leads the sextet. The album is a testament to Grapsa’s distinctive compositional style, honed at the prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Birmingham, and her ability to empower each member of her ensemble to improvise and explore new musical discoveries.
The album is aptly named “Life,” reflecting Grapsa’s personal journey, particularly her early years. It serves as a musical scrapbook of memories, reinforced by the photo of Maria’s sister circa 1985 on the album cover, her young nephew chatting on one track, and glimpses of long-forgotten folksongs. The album’s sound is highly dynamic, moving from individual spotlights and emotionally charged balladic melodies to the untamed energy of burning saxophone solos over a roaring rhythm section.
The sextet includes Becca Wilkins on vocals, Matthew Kilner on tenor saxophone, Liam Brennan on alto saxophone and clarinets, Kai Chareunsy on drums, and Tommy Fuller on double bass. The album also features guest appearances from Emma Rawicz on tenor saxophone and James Owston on bass in the title track, which is a nine-minute musical journey that builds in intensity.
The album’s nine tracks, all composed and arranged by Grapsa, are a melting pot of styles, combining modern jazz traditions with her classical background, Greek roots, and folk, Middle Eastern, and Latin influences. The tracks range from lively and upbeat to quieter and more introspective, creating a diverse and engaging listening experience.
The album’s title track, “Life,” is particularly noteworthy. It captures the fluid dynamism of the album, with returning themes and internal stamina, a post-rock underpinning, and an air of tension reminiscent of the Esbjörn Svensson Trio (EST). The lyrics, delivered by Becca Wilkins, roll graphically through metaphors, and the guest input from saxophonist Emma Rawicz is understated but sensational.
In conclusion, “Life” is an impressively assured debut album from the Maria Grapsa Sextet. It is a testament to Grapsa’s unique compositional style and her ability to bring together a diverse group of musicians to create a cohesive and engaging musical experience. The album is a journey that takes the listener back and forth, remembering the familiar and discovering new ground, making it a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast.