Home » Staff Directory » Member Page
Manoel Cruz
Member Since: 2013 | Location: Sao Paulo | Page Views: 1,895 
About Me
The Essence of Brazilian Jazz with a Global Accent
Manoel Cruz is a prominent figure in Brazilian instrumental music, widely recognized for his mastery as a bassist, composer, arranger, and producer. Based in São Paulo, his artistry seamlessly fuses the refined techniques of contemporary jazz with the rhythmic richness of regional Brazilian sounds, ranging from baião and maracatu to samba and forró. With a career spanning decades, Manoel has consolidated his reputation both as a highly sought-after sideman for Brazilian icons—such as Adylson Godoy, Pery Ribeiro, and Moacyr Franco—and as a prestigious solo artist with international reach. **Discography and International Milestones** Manoel’s evolution is marked by several landmark recordings: * **Alcatéia (2002):** His debut as a leader, marking the beginning of his original journey. * **Under My Soul (2012):** A live CD and DVD recorded at the Humboldt Theater, exploring the bridge between folklore and modern jazz. * **Brazilian News (2019):** Acclaimed by critic Carlos Calado, this collaboration with Italian trumpeter Gabriel Rosati reached over 45,000 listeners in 61 countries on Spotify. * **Quijingue Impressions (2021):** An international single featuring Indian pianist Charu Suri and drummer Manny Monteiro. * **Leonardinho (2025):** A vibrant Brazilian-Electro-Jazz collaboration with Gabriel Rosati, inspired by childhood experiences. * **Navegante (2026):** A sonic odyssey exploring oceanic themes through the lens of instrumental jazz, featuring Cruz's lyrical fretless bass leading a stellar quintet. **New Release: “Kuanza Sul” (2026)** In his latest work, **”Kuanza Sul”**, Manoel Cruz dives into the sophistication of contemporary jazz through the classic acoustic trio format. Guiding the earthy pulse on the acoustic upright bass, he is joined by the harmonic fluidity of pianist Ary Holland and the rhythmic precision of Manny Monteiro. The single reflects a meticulous, decentralized production effort, with tracking sessions held at Origem Estúdio and CD Audio Studio, and final mixing and mastering completed at his own **88 Major Studio Label**. Complemented by intimate cover photography by James Gavin, the release stands as a masterclass in modern trio interplay. **Global Presence and Performance** A seasoned performer, Manoel has graced renowned stages including Blue Note SP, Sesc Pinheiros, and various international festivals. In 2013, he achieved a significant milestone as the first Brazilian artist in 14 years to perform at the Santo Domingo Jazz Festival in the Dominican Republic. His work has been featured on major Brazilian television programs such as Instrumental Sesc Brasil, Ensaio (TV Cultura), and Jô Onze e Meia. Manoel Cruz continues to push the boundaries of Brazilian jazz, constantly exploring new cultures and styles while maintaining the deep, rhythmic soul of his heritage.
Articles
Jazz Near You
Your Personal Calendar
✓ Receives Newsletter
Upload Single or Recurring Event
Upload Several Events At Once
Photos
Favorite Musicians / Bands
My Jazz Story
My House Concert Story
Favorite Places to See Jazz
Favorite Columns
Favorite Writers
Theme Song
Playlist
This page was last updated on 2026-07-09.
