Below, you can read our interview with Manuel Muzzu and listen to his album From T(h)ree to Four. Check out our full music review of From T(h)ree to Four here.
Q: Great to be speaking with you Manuel! Your roots are in Sardinia; how did growing up in the middle of the Mediterranean influence your musical development?
A: As a musician born and raised in Sardinia, I was surrounded by the beautiful sights and sounds of the Mediterranean. The rhythmic cadence of the waves, the salty sea air, and the lively energy of the people all made their way into my musical soul. This unique mix of elements influenced the way I approach music and helped shape my unique sound as a bassist. It’s an honor to share this part of myself with the world through my music
Q: We last heard from you in 2020 with the release of “3-Ree”. What have you been up to since then?
A: Since the release of my previous disc, I’ve been busy writing and producing my new jazz album through collaborations with some incredibly talented musicians from around the world. Working with diverse artists from different backgrounds allowed me to explore new perspectives and sounds, and I’m thrilled to share our collaboration on this new record.
Q: Your newest record “From T(h)ree to Four” is your 4th full-length work. Do you feel your music has evolved across your releases or does this work resemble your previous albums? Perhaps a bit of both?
A: This new album definitely has a similar sound to my previous work, but it also showcases some new elements that make it stand out. Working with the talented international musicians on this project allowed me to grow and mature as an artist, and that is reflected in the composition of the songs. I was excited to experiment with new musical styles while also staying true to my own sound, and I believe that’s what makes this album special. So to answer your question, it’s a little bit of both – familiar yet fresh, and I hope my fans enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it.
Q: How long did “From T(h)ree to Four” take to record? What was the process like?
A: I started working on my new album right after the release of my last one, so it’s been a long process, but definitely worth it. This time around, the process was a bit complicated as the international musicians I collaborated with recorded their parts individually and sent them to me. It definitely took some extra work to mix and adjust everything until we were all happy with the final product. But I must say, the hard work paid off, and we all came together to create something special. I’m so proud of what we were able to accomplish and can’t wait for everyone to hear it.
Q: This new album has a long and impressive list of featured performers you’ve enlisted to contribute to the project. How did you cultivate such an extensive musical network?
A: I’m fortunate to have built an extensive network of friends and talented musicians who I’ve collaborated with over the years. We share a deep passion for music, and it’s always been a joy to work on each other’s creative projects. We stay connected and continue to collaborate, despite living in different parts of the world. When it came time to create this new album, I reached out to these friends and they were fascinated and excited to be a part of it. I’m so thankful to have such a supportive and talented network of musicians in my life, and I’m looking forward to seeing where our collaborations take us next.
Q: How do you approach the songwriting process?
A: Usually, my writing process starts with building harmonic structures and finding interesting chord progressions that inspire me. Then, everything else comes together almost magically.
Q: What was your first instrument? Do you still have/play it?
A: My first and only instrument has always been the bass guitar. Although I don’t have my very first one anymore, I still have my third bass guitar and enjoy playing it regularly.
Q: Perhaps in some unspecified amount of time, your musical career explodes in the best of ways. What does that look like for you?
A: Well, for me, the ultimate goal of my career would be to have my music reach as many people as possible and bring them joy through my art. It’s not about material possessions or fame, but rather the satisfaction of knowing that my music is resonating with a wider audience and making a positive impact in people’s lives.
Q: You get to collaborate with anyone of your choosing. Who is it?
A: Mozart
Q: Your favorite album of all time? (Yup, you gotta choose one.)
A: You know, as a musician, it’s difficult to choose just one album as my all-time favorite since there are so many incredible works out there. For me, I like to keep looking forward and striving to create an even better album than the last one. So, my all-time favorite album is the next one I’ll be creating – I can’t wait to see where my music will take me next!
Q: Your favorite song of all time? (Again, only one!)
A: Well, as I said for the album, it’s hard to pick just one favorite song, because there are so many amazing compositions out there. So, I’d say that my all-time favorite song will always be the first I’ll write for my upcoming album.
Q: What would you like fans to know about you that they’re most likely unaware of?
A: As I was creating my latest album, one of my biggest sources of inspiration was my partner, who is an incredible dancer with an endless well of musical sensitivity. Her ability to truly feel the music deeply and move with such grace and emotion has been a constant source of inspiration for me throughout the creative process.
Q: Any shout-outs you wanna make?
A: I want to express my deepest thanks to the musicians and friends who have helped me bring this dream to life. I am also grateful to all those who will listen to my music and share it with others, as your support is what enables me to bring my thoughts and emotions to life through music. Thank you to everyone who has given a voice to my creative vision.
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
A: I hope I haven’t bored you too much, and if I have, please accept my apologies. Thank you for your patience and assistance.
(Want to be interviewed by The Ark of Music? Click HERE.)