Maria Manousaki - Hidden Trails (2021)

Hidden trails, full of history, lost in the depth of the aeons. Hidden trails that bear witness to Cretan resistance against enslavement. Hidden trails trodden as much by locals as by allies so that Crete remains free as it is today. Hidden trails where the memory of the Cretan struggle has remained for ever, as a reminder for the price for freedom. For all to know and recognize the sacrifice of a people who refuse to succumb and surrender.'

In Hidden Trails, Maria Manousaki invokes images of traditional Cretan Folk melodies into which she weaves bursts of modern jazz with middle eastern elements. Her multicultural and distinguished musicians add their own Ethnic colour to her compositions. The result creates an ear fest of vibrant, dramatic and exhilarating sounds on the one hand, and expressive, melancholic melodies on the other.

Hidden trails is Maria’s second album as a leader. Her inspiration stems from her respect for those who, against all odds, stand up to an overpowering enemy In order to defend their freedom, beliefs and rights.