Matt Panayides Trio - With Eyes Closed (2024) [Hi-Res]

Matt Panayides is a highly acclaimed guitarist and composer based in the New York City area. Influenced by guitar legends such as Jim Hall, John Scofield, Wes Montgomery, Jimi Hendrix, and Joni Mitchell, he has crafted a unique sound that has earned him worldwide recognition. Known for his distinctive playing style and improvisational skills, Panayides frequently leads his own groups and collaborates with other musicians both in New York City and abroad.

Currently, Panayides is focused on applying concepts developed on his previous three albums to the solo and trio jazz guitar format. He is delving into the American songbook repertoire and compositions by great jazz composers, sculpting arrangements that showcase the natural acoustic sound of his hollow body guitar made by Victor Baker. This marks a departure from his earlier, more electric and effects-driven sound and original compositions.

Adding to his impressive discography, Panayides is planning to release a new trio album in September, titled "With Eyes Closed." This upcoming album, featuring Steve LaSpina on bass and Anthony Pinciotti on drums, will focus on the music of the masters and will be released on the Pacific Coast Jazz label. His previous recordings on Pacific Coast Jazz have highlighted his original compositions: "Field Theory" (2021), featuring Matt Vashlishan (EWI), Rich Perry (tenor sax), Robert Sabin (bass), and Mark Ferber (drums); "Conduits" (2015), featuring Rich Perry (tenor sax), Mark Ferber (drums), and Thompson Kneeland (bass); and "Tapestries of Song" (2011), featuring Rich Perry (tenor sax), Steve LaSpina (bass), and Dan Weiss (drums).

Panayides’ musical journey began in Ohio and Indiana, where he initially played the piano before switching to the guitar, inspired by the likes of Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix. He discovered jazz in high school and continued his education at the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with jazz guitarist Rodney Jones and pianist Garry Dial, both of whom have had a lasting impact. Panayides holds a BM from the Manhattan School of Music and an MM from William Paterson University.

Through his evolving artistry and commitment to exploring new musical landscapes, Matt Panayides continues to make significant contributions to the world of jazz guitar, captivating audiences with his innovative approach and dedication to the craft.