"Moulin Rouge" is a direct invitation to dance and lose yourself in time without complications: the track features a lively jazz waltz with manouche influences that captivates with its elegant rhythm and the band's precise execution, with Marisa Balistreri dominating the vocals in a light and engaging way, while Stefan Hall on guitar, Jeff Weiss on bass, and Noah Brooks on drums create a solid and pulsating foundation. The balance between energy and sophistication makes the song work for both classic jazz fans and those looking for something different and accessible. We decided to promote "Moulin Rouge" because it instantly combines technique, personality, and charisma. It's a track that captivates the listener from start to finish and deserves to be heard on any playlist that values well-executed, urban, and elegant music. Rafael Edson, Rádio Armazém
"The song is the aural equivalent of a creamy dark chocolate with something mysterious at its center." - Michael Steinman, Jazz Lives.
"The song is a great treat for anyone who wants to understand how musical elements, such as the relaxing bossa nova groove, the bass groove and the percussive groove, can paint a vivid scene without saying a word, transporting the listener directly to those winding roads of the 60s. It is a lesson in sound ambiance that is, at the same time, sophisticated and extremely accessible, functioning as a perfect gateway to the universe of our album." - Rafael Edson, Rádio Armazém
"A former opera singer, Balistreri brings her theatrical experience to jazz, accompanied by a trio of excellence: [Stefan Hall, guitar], double bassist Jeff Weiss and drummer Noah Brooks. The result is a lively piece, where the blues tradition is dressed in Italian lyrics and an atmosphere reminiscent of wind, dangerous curves, and a time that will never return. A debut that promises to leave its mark, brimming with passion and adventure." - Mario Ferraioli, Jazz in Family.
“The composition is warm, intimate, and full of character, and the blend of jazz, folk, and bossa nova creates a very charming world-jazz atmosphere. The storytelling is touching as well; the lyrical theme about heritage, family threads, and Icelandic sagas adds a poetic depth that really stands out. Vocally, the performance is gorgeous — expressive, controlled, and delivered with a sincerity that fits the message perfectly. Production-wise, everything feels carefully crafted and sonically elegant.” - Morning Café Jazz
About Marisa Balistreri's Group
Marisa Balistreri is a Madison, Wisconsin-based vocalist. A former professional Italian opera singer, Marisa currently collaborates with her songwriter-guitarist husband, Stefan Hall on original jazz tunes inspired by music from around the world. Marisa's group performs as a duo, trio or quartet and plays jazz standards, Latin jazz and originals in several languages. They play music to make people feel hopeful about humanity.
The Marisa Balistreri Quartet played to a full house recently at North Street Cabaret for a Jazz at Five fundraiser, and will make their debut at Festa Italia in May. Additionally, The Marisa Balistreri Trio has had a months-long residency at Cafe Coda, and have played as either a duo, trio or quartet at Bierock, Brix Cider, Cargo Coffee East, The Cave of the Mounds, D-Street Porch Sessions, Harmony Bar and Grill, Leopold's Books, North Street Cabaret, Pyramid Event Venue, The Red Rooster, The Rigby and many others. The Marisa Balistreri Duo was recently featured on Live in the Lair on Max Inc, Radio and on Channel 3000.
Marisa will release her fourth single “Hear Me” this spring followed by the release of the full album