Reviews
A highly assured and engaging debut, offering an enticing and contemporary blend of cinematic, classical & middle-eastern themes. Inventive improvisations, first rate arrangements & variety on offer keep the entertainment level high. All in all, a remarkable debut. [Neil Duggan- All About Jazz]
A highly impressive debut from a composer and band leader who is clearly going places. [Ian Patterson- All About Jazz]
As you step back from ‘Life’ you recognise that this is an album that has drawn its own subtle arc, that’s taken you back and moved you forward, remembering the familiar and finding new ground. The Maria Grapsa Sextet have written excellent first chapter in a story that looks set to run and run. [John Parry - Backseat Mafia]
Athens born Grapsa beautifully fuses her classical background, her love of modern jazz plus her Greek roots, middle eastern and latin influences. [Tim Larsen Jazz Views]
The sextet’s sound is highly dynamic, moving from pin drop/knife’s edge individual spotlights & emotionally charged balladic melodies, to the untamed energy of burning saxophone solos over a roaring rhythm section. [Women in Jazz Media]
Brimming with Grapsa's distinctive compositional voice and powerful musical performances from the players, Life marks a stunning debut from a composer clearly destined for big things. [Twisted Soul Music]