Artist Spotlight: Meet Mafalda Minnozzi
How does 'Natural Impression' reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
‘Natural Impression’ reflects my musical journey and my life’s journey. I was born and raised in Italy but my musical path brought me to an over 25-year career in Brazil where I absorbed the many musical styles of that rich country. The repertoire on ‘Natural Impression’ captures this cross-cultural song base which is my life. There are songs from Italy, Brazil and France and songs sung in English from my many years performing in NY. The growth best represented on the album is the development of a language beyond all those idioms to a universal instrumental jazz style where I can become a horn and just flow on the melodies and grooves.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for 'Natural Impression?'
The level of seriousness and talent and concentration from the great band in just two afternoons of recording generated one giant memorable event. The spirit and light-hearted joy of everyone there made the music feel just at joyous. Certainly a good part of this approach has rubbed off on us from the Brazilian culture and the great band of Helio Alves, Rogerio Boccato and Eduardo Belo with my arranger Paul Ricci.
What is your personal favorite song from 'Natural Impression' and why?
So many of them are my favorite. I’ll choose Coraçao Vagabundo because it unites the great tradition of Bossa with the modern approach of the brilliant composer Caetano Veloso, and also with the fresh sonic approach of mix master Kassin from Brasil. Kassin twisted up the sonic to set it apart from a typical acoustic Bossa Nova sound. I love what he dreamed up with the help of all star jazz players like Michael Wolff on piano and John Patitucci on bass.
What's your favorite part about performing live? How do you connect with your audience during a performance?
My favorite part about performing is entering into the hearts of the public. How can you alter their reality and change their perspective? It’s not thanks to me, it’s thanks to the music. It’s a river that flows and brings absolute truth.
I connect to them with transparency and honesty. I don’t hold back and don’t fear being too real. In the beginning it can be a big surprise but I find they go with me. In the end people appreciate this experience and journey. After, they know me better and I know them better.
Are there any collaborations you've been a part of that have been particularly memorable or rewarding?
There have been many, but sharing the stage with Brazilian legend Milton Nascimento singing in a duet on his composition Travessia stands out since he is probably my favorite voice in any language. The song “Bruma” on ‘Natural Impression’ is a duet with another Brazilian legend Roberto Menescal. That song was so rewarding to us both that we have already recorded what will be a future CD together.
