Greg Foat's "Live at Villa Maximus, Mykonos" is a vibrant and captivating live album that showcases the fusion of nu jazz and indie jazz with a Mediterranean twist. Recorded in the picturesque setting of Mykonos, this album features Greg Foat's Greek Jazz quartet, including the talented Sokratis Votskos, Warren Hampshire, and Ayo Salawu. The six-track, 41-minute journey is a testament to the band's dynamic chemistry and improvisational prowess.
The album opens with "Tsamykonos," setting the stage with lush synth bass lines and psychedelic undertones that immediately transport the listener to the sun-soaked shores of Mykonos. Each track, from the intimate "Kiki's Tavern (For Vasilis)" to the expansive "Secret World" trilogy, reveals the band's ability to blend intricate compositions with spontaneous, live energy. Foat's piano work is both delicate and powerful, while Votskos' guitar weaves through the arrangements with fluidity and grace. Hampshire's synth bass provides a deep, groovy foundation, and Salawu's drums drive the music forward with infectious rhythms.
"Live at Villa Maximus, Mykonos" is a celebration of live jazz performance, capturing the essence of the quartet's live shows. The album's production quality is top-notch, with a vinyl release that promises an immersive listening experience. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or simply appreciate innovative, high-quality music, this album is a must-listen. Released on April 19, 2024, by Blue Crystal Records, it's a standout addition to Greg Foat's discography and a highlight of the contemporary jazz scene.
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