the project

Driven by the dynamic force of Phil Manzanera (Roxy Music) and Sergio Dias (Flora Purim/Airto Moreira), Mato Grosso charts a course of inspiration from the rainforests of Brazil to the urban contemporary scene. In Mato Grosso, masterful guitar and keyboard tracks by Manzanera and Dias are laid on top of the massive percussive thrust that propels this recording. The compositions in form and content showcase the paradoxes of modern life. Serving as a metaphor for the conflict between development and tradition, Mato Grosso is a compelling reflection of issues especially pertinent to the future of the rainforest which inspired this recording. Characterized by clean production values, the recording is quintessentially modern, even as it pays tribute to the retro yearnings of the 90s and the critical need for a balanced perspective on world affairs, both musical and political. With keen awareness, Mato Grosso links musical styles with visionary zeal and an impeccably contemporary sensitivity.

the artists

Renowned guitarist and composer Manzanera is best known for his role in Roxy Music, working alongside Bryan Ferry and Andy Mackay on a string of best selling albums from Roxy Music (1972) through Avalon (1982). Manzanera has enjoyed increasing demand as a writer and performer, collaborating with Steve Winwood, Godley and Creme (10cc), Robert Wyatt, John Wetton, Eric Stewart, Jim Diamond, and Nico (Velvet Underground), among others. Manzanera was co-writer with Dave Gilmour for Pink Floyd's single, One Slip/A Momentary Lapse of Reason has produced a sequence of successful solo albums, including Diamond Head, Lapse of Reason. Manzanera also completed Southern Cross, with Tim Finn (Split Enz), Gary Dyson, and Ana Maria Velez (Eurythmics). Manzanera has produced a sequence of successful solo albums, 801 Live, Listen Now, K-Scope, Primitive Guitars, and Guitarrisimo. In addition, Manzanera has co-produced classic LP's with John Cale, Brian Eno, and Split Enz.

In a long and productive career, Dias has written, co-produced, and recorded East Side Strut with Eumir Deodato, toured the United States and recorded with violinist, L. Shankar; played with Odyssey and Jeremy Steig; formed Unit with Tony Smith, T.M. Stevens, and Peter Valentine, veterans of Jeff Beck, John McLaughlin, Pretenders, Miles Davis. Dias was an original member of Steps of Imagination, with Marcos Silva, Paul Liebermann, Sergio Brandao, Flora Purim, and Airto Moreira; and of Mutantes with Rita Lee and Arnoldo Dias, with whom he released seven recordings. He has worked extensively as a studio musician with Rita Lee, Gilberto Gil, Eumir Deodato, etc., and composed several film soundtracks, including Las Amorosas, winner of first prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

tracklist