Matt Panayides: With Closed Eyes

PACIFIC COAST JAZZ 93456 (RELEASED SEPTEMBER 20, 2024)

Unlike his two earlier releases (Tapestries of Sound and Field Theory), guitarist Matt Panayides turns his attention from original compositions to investigating jazz standards on With Eyes Closed. It is not only his first recorded foray into these timeless classics, but also his first trio recording. Channeling the trio recordings of Jim Hall and Pat Martino, Panayides explores the melodic and harmonic charms of familiar tunes from Wayne Shorter, Cedar Walton, Joe Henderson, Henry Mancini and others. His strong single note solos are accompanied by his sublime use of chords, not to mention the creative support from bassist Steve LaSpina and drummer Anthony Pinciotti. The three performers are equal participants in this session. Whether the trio is playing a waltz such as Frank Foster’s “Simone,” an angular tune such as Chick Corea’s “Straight Up and Down” or a ballad such as Jule Styne’s “I Fall in Love too Easily,” LaSpina and Pinciotti create melodic and rhythmic sparks that keep these time-worn tunes fresh and interesting. Encouraged by these sparks, Panayides discovers new ways to approach tunes such as Woody Shaw’s “Moontrane,” Cedar Walton’s “Hindsight” and Jimmy Van Heusen’s “Darn That Dream.” He gives LaSpina and Pinciotti a well-deserved rest for an unaccompanied and creative read on Henry Mancini’s “Moon River,” in which Panayides provides the bass line and accompaniment to his own solo. For a musician who was inspired to play the guitar after hearing Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page, With Eyes Closed clearly establishes Panayides as a jazz guitarist steeped in the tradition but always with eyes wide open to the possibilities that these jazz standards have to offer.

BOTTOM LINE: With Eyes Closed demonstrates guitarist Matt Panayide’s good taste – in tunes (11 time-tested jazz standards), in bandmates (bassist Steve LaSpina and drummer Anthony Pinocitti), in inspiration (Pat Martino and Jim Hall) and in his improvisational skills. With Eyes Closed will definitely open your eyes to the musical stylings of Matt Panayides!