A Spectacular Return

After five long years of silence, Denise Mangiardi is back, and her return is nothing short of spectacular. The singer, songwriter, pianist, and classical composer has just dropped her new album, On The Brink, and it’s a beautiful reminder of why she’s so beloved in the music world.

Mangiardi, who previously wowed me with her 2019 album Brown Book, continues to showcase her deep love for music, especially strings, vocals, and intricate arrangements. This time, she blends original compositions with a couple of timeless American standards, creating an album that feels both fresh and familiar.

One of the coolest things about On The Brink is that it was recorded in New Orleans, a city Mangiardi called home for five years. The influence of the city is palpable, and it’s clear that her love for New Orleans played a huge role in shaping the album. She brought in some of the city’s top musicians, many of whom are close friends, which adds a real sense of warmth and connection to the music.

The album features an impressive roster of talent, including saxophonist Tony DaGradi, drummer Johnny Vidacovitch, bassist Chris Severin, and pianist Michael Pellera. And let’s not forget the lush strings of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, which take the album’s sound to a whole new level. Special guests like Cindy Scott on alto flute and Emily Mikesell on flugelhorn also make appearances, adding their own unique touches to the tracks.

Mangiardi doesn’t just stop at her own songs—she also gives her take on Cole Porter’s "Every Time We Say Goodbye" and David Mann’s "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning." Her arrangements of these classics are luxurious, to say the least, with Michael Pellera’s swinging piano solo and Tony DaGradi’s tender saxophone bringing them to life in new ways.

But let’s talk about Mangiardi’s original compositions, which are truly the heart of the album. The opening track, "The Walk," is a gentle, reflective piece inspired by her time wandering the Isle of Wight. Featuring Cindy Scott’s flute and Luca Boscagin’s guitar, it sets the tone for the rest of the album beautifully.

The title track, "On The Brink," is all about resilience and staying positive in tough times. With forlorn strings and Mangiardi’s emotional vocals, it’s a powerful reminder that we can push through adversity. Then there’s "Portrait of a Lady," a standout single that blends acoustic guitar, orchestral strings, and an electronic bed by composer Arthur Brouns to create a hauntingly beautiful piece that reflects the loneliness and disillusionment of today’s world.

And if you’re a fan of French ballads, "Les Rues de Paris" will be right up your alley. It’s a sweet song about two lovers in Paris, with Emily Mikesell’s flugelhorn adding a touch of romance. On the other hand, the track "Celeste" hits all the emotional notes—it’s a tribute to Mangiardi’s sister who passed away a decade ago, and Tony DaGradi’s saxophone perfectly echoes the song’s poignant vibe.

In On The Brink, Mangiardi shows once again that she’s a master of her craft. Her songwriting, piano playing, vocals, and arrangements are all top-notch, making this album a must-listen. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her music, you’re sure to find something to love in this beautiful collection.

Denise Mangiardi is back, and she’s better than ever.

COMMENTS