After a Five year hiatus, the phenomenal singer, songwriter, pianist and classical composer, Denise Mangiardi makes her triumphant return with On The Brink. The album, recorded in New Orleans, a city she called home for five years, showcases Mangiardi’s profound love of mastery of strings, singing and arranging through a seamless blend of original compositions and American songbook classics.

Mangiardi has crafted an album that is both intimate and expansive, pulling listeners into a world of rich emotional landscapes and musical depth. The influence of New Orleans, a city steeped in musical tradition, is evident in the album’s vibrant energy and the camaraderie shared among the musicians. Mangiardi herself acknowledges the importance of the city and its people in shaping this project, and that connection shines through in every note.

“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.

On The Brink features a stellar lineup of musicians, including saxophonist Tony DaGradi, drummer Johnny Vidacovitch, bassist Chris Severin, and pianist Michael Pellera. They are joined by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, whose lush strings provide a beautiful backdrop to Mangiardi’s compositions. The inclusion of special guest artists, such as Cindy Scott on alto flute and Emily Mikesell on flugelhorn, further enriches the album’s already vibrant sound. 

Two American standards, Cole Porter’s “Every Time We Say Goodbye” and David Mann’s “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning” are lovingly reimagined under Mangiardi’s meticulous care. Her luxurious string arrangements transform these classics into deeply emotional journeys, with Pellera’s lyrical piano solo on the former and DaGradi’s tender tenor sax on the latter adding a unique warmth and depth.

Mangiardi’s original compositions, however, are the true heart of On The Brink. The opening track, “The Walk,” is a meditative piece inspired by her time on the Isle of Wight, where Cindy Scott’s ethereal alto flute and Luca Boscagin’s gentle guitar paint a serene yet introspective soundscape. The title track, “On The Brink,” serves as a powerful anthem of resilience, with Mangiardi’s poignant vocals and DaGradi’s soprano saxophone weaving a narrative of hope in the face of adversity.

“Portrait of a Lady,” the album’s lead single, is a striking composition that blends Boscagin’s acoustic guitar with the strings of the Louisiana Philharmonic and a haunting electronic bed by composer Arthur Brouns. The song explores themes of loneliness and disillusionment, offering a sharp critique of today’s global leadership.

Another highlight, “Les Rues de Paris,” is a charming French ballad that tells the story of two lovers in the City of Light. Mangiardi’s delicate lyrics are perfectly complemented by Mikesell’s soft-toned flugelhorn, creating a dreamy, romantic atmosphere. In contrast, the poignant “Celeste,” dedicated to Mangiardi’s late sister, resonates with deep emotion, beautifully echoed by DaGradi’s soulful tenor saxophone.

Throughout On The Brink, Mangiardi’s talents as a songwriter, pianist, and arranger are on full display. Her ability to blend different musical elements,from classical strings to jazz improvisation, creates an album that is as complex as it is beautiful. Every track is meticulously crafted, offering listeners a rich, immersive experience that lingers long after the final note fades.

In On The Brink, Denise Mangiardi has delivered a masterful work that reaffirms her place among today’s most creative and expansive contemporary artists. With its compelling compositions, exquisite arrangements, and heartfelt performances, this album is sure to captivate audiences and solidify Mangiardi’s status as a true musical visionary.

Follow Denise Mangiardi – INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X | SPOTIFY | WEBSITE