Matt Panayides Trio — With Eyes Closed (Pacific Coast Jazz PJ93456, 2024)
Matt Panayides, a New York City-based virtuoso guitarist and composer, is recognized for his unique sound influenced by guitarists such as Jim Hall, John Scofield, and Wes Montgomery. Known for his improvisational skills, Panayides has led various musical groups and collaborated with musicians both domestically and internationally.
Panayides’ current work centers on adapting concepts from his previous three albums to a trio format, focusing on the American songbook and classic jazz compositions. This marks a shift from his earlier electric and effects-driven style to a more interactive, freewheeling improvisatory approach, utilizing his Victor Baker hollow body electric guitar.
Panayides’ new album, With Eyes Closed, features Steve LaSpina on bass and Anthony Pinciotti on drums. The album, released under the Pacific Coast Jazz label, highlights his exploration of jazz standards. His prior albums on the same label, Field Theory (2021), Conduits (2015), and Tapestries of Song (2011), primarily presented his original compositions.
Originally from Ohio and Indiana, Panayides began his musical career playing piano before transitioning to guitar, inspired by rock musicians like Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix. He discovered jazz in high school and pursued formal education at the Manhattan School of Music and William Paterson University, studying under notable jazz musicians Rodney Jones and Garry Dial.
Musicians: Matt Panayides on guitar, Steve LaSpina on bass, and Anthony Pinciotti on drums.
Buy With Eyes Closed.