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Sei Miguel: (Five) Stories Untold
ByMiguel is little known outside his native surroundings though he has been active for thirty years and worked with well-known western artists such as guitarist

Joe Morris
bass, acousticb.1955
"Asterion" is a trumpet and trombone duo; a low key excursion where Mariam alternates her trombone between melody and drone effects. Miguel strikingly uses his trumpet in sharp bursts to cut his way out of long pauses in the music. The unembellished elegance of "Abrigo Dos Pássaros" is duein large partto Moz Carrapa's acoustic guitar providing a backdrop through which Miguel and Mariam interact in a crystal clear trio discourse. The computer of Carlos Santos adds a peculiar, somewhat eerie feeling to "Os Céus," an otherwise duo piece. Santos remains on board for the more abrasive "Oito Lan?amentos para Pedro Caveira" where Miguel plays in the upper register, contrasting Mariam's deep growls. Reeds and flute bring the formation to a octet for the closing "Sentinela" but even at its most full-voiced, the ensemble exudes minimalism.
(Five) Stories Untold has an almost intangible appeal in its avant-garde melodicism. The live recording can be stark or warm at turns while consistently unconventional throughout. While the billing may favor Miguel, this is equally a showcase for Mariam who guides her difficult instrument through some very long and complex improvisations. It's a rewarding album and the duo deserves some long overdue recognition.
Track Listing
Asterion; Abrigo Dos Pássaros; Os Céus; Oito Lan?amentos para Pedro Caveira; Sentinela.
Personnel
Sei Miguel
trumpetSei Miguel: trumpet; Fala Mariam: trombone; Moz Carrapa: acoustic guitar (2); Carlos Santos: computer (3, 4); Nuno Torres: alto saxophone (5); Rodrigo Amado: tenor saxophone (5); Bruno Parrinha: alto clarinet (5); Paulo Curado: flute (5); Pedro Louren?o: electric bass (5); Hern?ni Faustino: electric bass (3, 4, 5); Luìs Desirat: drums (3, 4).
Album information
Title: (Five) Stories Untold | Year Released: 2017 | Record Label: Clean Feed Records
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