After a five-year break from recording, Denise Mangiardi, a singer, songwriter, pianist, and classical composer with a deep well of talent, has returned with her new album, On The Brink. Fans of her 2019 release, Brown Book, will be thrilled to dive into this highly anticipated project, which once again highlights Mangiardi’s exceptional skills as a composer and arranger. This time, she takes listeners on a journey that intertwines original compositions with beloved American songbook classics, all while paying tribute to the city of New Orleans, which she called home for five years.
"I wanted to record an album of ballads that was both relaxing and inspiring; and to address the range of emotions so many of us are feeling in these troubling times," Mangiardi shares. Her five new compositions, along with two fresh arrangements of timeless standards, do just that.
The album’s New Orleans roots run deep. Mangiardi’s connection to the city is not just geographical but emotional, as she describes how the love for the city and its people influenced the album’s creation. “Many of the musicians who play on the album are very dear friends of mine and incredible musicians from the New Orleans area. Our love of the city and its people was important for us all as we approached this project," Mangiardi reflects. This sense of community and collaboration is palpable throughout On The Brink, lending the album a warm, organic feel.
The album boasts an impressive roster of musicians, including saxophonist Tony DaGradi, drummer Johnny Vidacovitch, bassist Chris Severin, and pianist Michael Pellera. Adding to the richness of the sound, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s strings create a lush backdrop for Mangiardi’s compositions. Special guest artists like Cindy Scott (alto flute), Emily Mikesell (flugelhorn), Luca Boscagin (guitar), and Jon Thorne (bass) further elevate the album, bringing diverse textures and colours to the music.
Mangiardi’s approach to blending her original songs with timeless standards is seamless. Her renditions of Cole Porter’s "Every Time We Say Goodbye" and David Mann’s "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning" are standout tracks. Both songs are wrapped in her luxurious string arrangements, with Michael Pellera delivering a swinging solo on the former and Tony DaGradi’s tender tenor saxophone lending emotional depth to the latter. These classics feel both familiar and freshly reimagined under Mangiardi’s guidance.
Yet, it’s her original compositions that truly showcase Mangiardi’s artistry. The opening track, "The Walk," sets the tone for the album with its reflective mood. Inspired by her walks on the Isle of Wight, the song features Cindy Scott’s ethereal alto flute and Luca Boscagin’s gentle guitar, creating a serene soundscape that invites listeners to pause and reflect.
The title track, "On The Brink," is another highlight, with its forlorn strings and Mangiardi’s powerful vocals conveying a message of resilience and hope. In a time when the world feels precarious, Mangiardi’s music pushes back against fear and adversity, offering a beacon of positivity.
"Portrait of a Lady," released as a single, merges acoustic guitar, orchestral strings, and an electronic bed by composer Arthur Brouns, resulting in a hauntingly beautiful track. The song reflects on the loneliness and disillusionment of current global leaders, making it both timely and timeless.
"Les Rues de Paris," a charming French ballad about two lovers, adds a lighter touch to the album. Emily Mikesell’s soft-toned flugelhorn perfectly complements Mangiardi’s delicate lyrics, capturing the romance and whimsy of Parisian streets.
One of the most personal tracks on the album is "Celeste," a poignant tribute to Mangiardi’s sister, who passed away a decade ago. DaGradi’s soulful tenor saxophone echoes the deep emotion of the song, making it a truly moving experience.
Throughout On The Brink, Mangiardi’s talents as a songwriter, pianist, and arranger are on full display. Her ability to craft intricate yet accessible compositions, paired with her evocative vocals and expert arrangements, cements her status as one of today’s most innovative and expansive artists. The album is a testament to her creativity and her ability to infuse her music with both technical brilliance and heartfelt emotion.
On The Brink is not just a return for Denise Mangiardi; it’s a statement. It reaffirms her place in the pantheon of modern music, showcasing her evolution as an artist while staying true to her roots. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
As Mangiardi steps back into the spotlight, one thing is clear: she’s ‘On The Brink’ of something truly special.
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