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Manoel Cruz
Manoel Cruz: The Essence of Brazilian Jazz with a Global Accent
About Me
Manoel Cruz is a significant name in Brazilian instrumental music, recognized for his mastery as a bassist, composer,
arranger, and producer. His journey is shaped by extensive experience as a sideman in various Brazilian music styles,
which he originally translates into instrumental compositions. The result is a sound that unites the refined technique of
contemporary jazz with the richness of Brazilian regional rhythms – from baião to samba, maracatu to forró.
Throughout his career, Manoel has released albums that mark his artistic evolution: “Alcatéia” (2002), “Under My Soul”
(2012), and the acclaimed “Brazilian News” (2019). The latter, praised by journalist and music critic Carlos Calado,
brought a special flavor to his work with Latin jazz and featured Italian trumpeter Gabriel Rosati. “Brazilian News” not
only gained over 15,000 listeners in 61 countries on Spotify but also had memorable launch shows at Blue Note SP
and the Extrema MG Jazz and Blues Festival in 2019.
A recent milestone in his discography is the single “Quijingue Impressions” (2021), an international collaboration
featuring the award-winning Indian pianist Charu Suri and Brazilian drummer Manny Monteiro. This release reinforces
Manoel Cruz's ability to navigate different cultures and styles, creating enchanting sonic bridges.
Manoel Cruz has performed on renowned stages, including concert halls, festivals, and Sesc units throughout Brazil.
His international projection began in 2013 when he was invited to close the XIV Santo Domingo Jazz Festival in the
Dominican Republic – a landmark event, being the first Brazilian artist in 14 years of the festival, and featuring Sandy
Gabriel, one of the greatest Dominican saxophonists. In the same year, he recorded for Sesc Instrumental Brasil and
the Programa Passagem de Som TV Sesc. In 2015, he participated with his Trio, alongside Gabriel Rosati (Italy), in the
IV Extrema MG Blues & Jazz Festival and the Iguape SP Jazz and Blues Festival.
Hot New Release: “LEONARDINHO” (2025) – The Electrifying Fusion of Brazilian-Electro-Jazz
Get ready for Manoel Cruz's newest work! In a highly anticipated collaboration with the acclaimed Italian trumpeter
and trombonist Gabriel Rosati, Manoel is pleased to announce the release of the album “LEONARDINHO.” This vibrant
collection of Brazilian-Electro-Jazz arrives on June 7, 2025, on all digital platforms, promising a joyful and inspiring
sonic journey.
”LEONARDINHO” is a musical celebration, inspired by the early years of Leonardinho Santiago, Gabriel Rosati's son.
The album features eight original compositions by Rosati, each track a fun, descriptive, and intense portrayal of
childhood experiences. The work is supported by a top-tier Brazilian rhythm section, including Manoel Cruz on bass,
Ary Holland on piano, Marcio Carriel on guitar, Claudinho Oliveira on drums, and Malli on percussion.
The melodies and improvisations in “LEONARDINHO” exude enthusiasm and positivity, with a noticeable connection
to the instrumental productions of the legendary Sergio Mendes. Tracks like “Running and Falling” and “Dias Felizes”
offer deep and passionate explorations, revealing the album's emotional richness. “LEONARDINHO” is proof of the
fruitful collaboration between Rosati and Cruz, guaranteeing listeners a captivating and uplifting experience.
