Massimo De Mattia's 2012 album, Black Novel, is a captivating exploration of avant-garde jazz, showcasing the artist's unique approach to the genre. Featuring a talented ensemble, including Luigi Vitale on vibraphone and marimba, Denis Biason on guitars, Alessandro Turchet on double bass, and Bruno Cesselli on piano, this album is a masterclass in improvisational music.
With its seven tracks, including the haunting 'Hieronymus', the evocative 'Full Blue', and the titular 'Black Novel', this album takes the listener on a journey through a range of emotions and textures. From the intense, free-form improvisations to the more subdued, contemplative moments, Black Novel is an album that rewards close attention and repeated listens.
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Imputlevel Studio in Treviso, Italy, the album's sound is characterised by its clarity and depth, allowing each instrument to shine in its own right. With liner notes by Flavio Massarutto, Black Novel is an album that is as much about the music as it is about the context in which it was created.
Clocking in at 42 minutes, Black Novel is a concise yet powerful statement from Massimo De Mattia, an artist who is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and exciting voices in Italian jazz. Released on Rudi Records, this album is a must-listen for fans of avant-garde jazz and improvisational music. With its unique blend of spontaneity and craftsmanship, Black Novel is an album that will continue to inspire and delight listeners for years to come.
