Victor Lazzarini’s new album, Palimpsest, is a profound exploration of musical memory, history, and reinvention. Drawing inspiration from the idea of a palimpsest—a manuscript written over and layered with traces of the past—the album layers decades of musical influences, genres, and techniques to create a singular sonic tapestry.
Released on June 12, 2024, through Farpoint Recordings, Palimpsest showcases Lazzarini's mastery of keyboards and synthesizers, supported by the dynamic contributions of Mumbai-based drummer and composer Aman Jagwani. Together, they navigate through a spectrum of jazz, electronic, and contemporary music, blending innovation with reverence for tradition.
A Musical Odyssey
The album opens with “If I/The Singing Wind”, a seamless pairing of solo electric piano improvisation and a layered composition with interlocking parts and a floating rhythm. These tracks set the tone for an album rich in texture and movement.
The journey continues with “Estrada do Patrimônio”, a piece composed in 1991 and inspired by a winding road near Londrina, Brazil. This track’s rhythmic intricacies are complemented by “Sideral”, a shimmering, polyrhythmic synthesizer piece whose title evokes the stars and the celestial realms.
The mid-section features a fascinating juxtaposition of Eastern influences. “Al-Nisr Al-Ta’ir”, a synthesizer improvisation evoking the soaring eagle, flows directly into John McLaughlin’s “Meeting of the Spirits”. Both tracks reflect a deep engagement with Eastern modes, rhythms, and phrasing, creating a bridge between past and present.
On the latter half of the album, the focus shifts to piano-centric and experimental compositions. “Stephen’s Vamp”, developed from a 2020 improvisation recorded during lockdown, moves through contrasting sections of introspective piano and dreamlike interludes. This is followed by “A Moment Regained”, a minimalist and reflective piece whose title subtly nods to literary inspiration.
The album closes with “Continuum (for John Taylor)”, an ambitious tribute to the late pianist and composer. Lazzarini weaves shifting harmonies and cascading glissandos into a compelling finale that builds from a sparse piano solo to a climactic organ statement, leaving the listener with a sense of resolution.
Craftsmanship and Collaboration
Palimpsest was recorded at the Music Tech Lab in Maynooth, Ireland, with engineering by Joshua Muthu Chaiphas and Lazzarini himself. The album’s meticulous production is evident in its intricate layering and clarity. Lazzarini’s instrumental prowess is complemented by Jagwani’s deft drumming and synthesizer contributions, creating a vibrant interplay of rhythm and melody.
Critical Acclaim and Availability
Described by Bernard Clarke of RTE Lyric FM as “brilliantly crafted, intellectually rigorous,” Palimpsest is already earning praise for its innovative approach and emotional depth.
The album is available for streaming and purchase on Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms.
About Victor Lazzarini
Victor Lazzarini is an Irish composer and keyboardist known for his work in jazz, electronic, and contemporary music. His compositions, performed both in Ireland and internationally, span genres and formats, reflecting his boundary-pushing artistry.
With Palimpsest, Lazzarini invites listeners to explore the layered connections between memory, culture, and sound. It’s an album that rewards repeated listening, revealing new depths with each play.
