Maria Manousaki | Behind Closed Doors | April 4, 2025

Standing out as one of Greece’s most versatile and successful jazz and world music talents, violinist Maria Manousaki has come to be known for her trademark fusion of Cretan tradition and contemporary world jazz, as well as global performances alongside the likes of Grammy winning vocalist Arooj Aftab and jazz guitar icon Gilad Hekselman.

An exploration of hope, recovery and the strength of the human spirit, her third album ‘Behind Closed Doors’ is set to release on PKmusik on April 4th, 2025.

The release follows Manousaki’s previous two solo albums recorded during her time in New York – her award-winning debut ‘Sole Voyage’ (2015) and ‘Hidden Trails’ (2021). Featuring collaborations with world-renowned jazz talents, Manousaki’s albums are celebrated for their innovative fusion of Cretan and polyrhythmic jazz influences, solidifying her reputation as a visionary artist bridging genres and cultures.

Featuring five original compositions, as well as two imaginative reinterpretations, Behind Closed Doors captures the emotional depth of loss, sorrow, and renewal. Inspired by the natural transition from winter’s darkness to the vibrant rebirth of spring, Manousaki channels these themes into an intimate and powerful musical narrative centered around the sound of her violin.

The title track, composed during the first lockdown upon her return to her hometown of Chania after many years in New York, reflects a period of solitude and introspection that ultimately gave way to artistic reinvention.

The album sees the violinist joined by a stellar ensemble, including her core quartet of Dimitris Verdinoglou (piano), Michalis Evdaimon (bass), Alekos Roupas (percussion), and special guests Kyriakos Stavrianoudakis (lute), Stratis Skarakis (vocals), Christos Rafailidis (vibraphone), Andreas Polyzogopoulos (trumpet), Thomas Meleteas (oud), and internationally celebrated double bassist Petros Klampanis. Together, they bring Manousaki’s compositions to life, delivering a performance rich in emotional depth and textural complexity.

Beyond her solo work, Manousaki is a dedicated advocate for the world music scene. As the founder of the Cretan World Music Festival and musical curator for the Vlatos Jazz series, she is committed to creating platforms for diverse musical voices. ‘Behind Closed Doors’ is more than an album—it is a poignant tribute to those we lose on life’s journey. Dedicated to her late father, Manousaki invites listeners into a space where sorrow gives way to resilience, and music becomes a pathway to healing.

Line up

Maria Manousaki | Violin
Dimitris Verdinoglou | Piano
Michael Evdemon | Bass
Alekos Roupas | Percussion

Track Listing

Anapolo
Behind Closed Doors
Introversion
Lovesong
Dragonfly
Poni tis Panayias
Departed

PR Quotes

Making a Scene (US)
“a composer of lovely, heartfelt music… Clearly, Ms. Manousaki is a visionary and a violinist who is bridging genres and cultures“

Paris-move (FR)
“the rare ability to channel her inner world and draw from her violin an enchanting dialogue—romantic and poetic expression elevated to its highest form”

Blue in Green (UK)
“continues to build upon the violinist’s impassioned stance on jazz and composition”

Backseat Mafia (UK)
“music of hidden depths and shifting emotions that will take you to different shorelines each time”

FREQ (UK)
“a varied and satisfying journe”

La Habitacion del Jazz (ES)
“An album where jazz and Greek folklore come together, resulting in a beautiful, rhythmic, and exciting album.”

Wilderness Viking (NO)
“A tasteful, elegant and solid creation… compelling and memorable music“

Linea Trad Magazine (IT)
“”Behind Closed Doors” is more than an album, it’s a touching tribute to those we lose on the journey of life, where pain gives way to resilience and music becomes a healing path”

Jazz Views (UK)
“world jazz that feels authentic and personal, effortlessly blending tradition and innovation”

Era Jazzu (PL)
“one of the most versatile and successful Greek jazz and world music talents”

Blogcritics (US)
“showcases her memorable blend of Cretan music and modern jazz”

Esensja (PL)
“”Behind Closed Doors” is another beautiful and spectacular album by Maria Manousaki, sparkling with many colors, which should appeal not only to fans of jazz combined with world music.”

NRW Jazz (DE)
“creates beautiful pieces of music with her fusion of Cretan musical tradition and contemporary world music jazz”

SK Jazz (SK)
“Accompanied by great musicians, the result is world-class jazz that feels authentic and personal, effortlessly blending tradition and innovation. It’s one of my albums of the year. Get it now!”