Shiri Zorn & George Muscatello | Looking For the Light Review

by Illiam Sebitz

Looking For the Light is an alluring project where three seasoned musicians converse in a jazz-informed language all their own. Shiri Zorn’s voice, crystalline, warm, and unmistakably expressive, floats atop George Muscatello’s richly resonant guitar work. The pair are anchored by Mauricio Zottarelli’s fluid Brazilian‑style percussion, a rhythmic undercurrent that never intrudes but gently moves each piece forward.

What makes this record stand out is its balance of reverence and invention. Classic standards such as “Garota de Ipanema” are treated with affection as Zorn and Muscatello strip away the familiar veneer, revealing fresh harmonic twists and lyrical nuances. In “It’s Alright With Me,” for instance, Zorn’s phrasing glides effortlessly over Muscatello’s arpeggiated chords, turning a well‑trodden tune into an imaginative expression.

Original compositions like “Shadow Soul” and “Prayer” showcase the trio’s collective imagination in songwriting. “Shadow Soul” begins with a muted guitar timbre before blossoming into a lyrical dialogue between voice and guitar, while “Prayer” builds a quiet intensity through percussion and a slowly unfurling harmonic progression that reflects the trio’s European, Latin, and Middle Eastern influences.

Throughout the album, the musicians demonstrate deep listening to one another. Muscatello’s guitar often mirrors Zorn’s vocal contours, echoing a phrase just as she releases it, while Zottarelli’s percussive accents punctuate moments of emotional climax without ever stealing the spotlight. This conversation creates a soundscape where the music has energy and focus, and is highly musical.

In short, Looking For the Light is a compelling blend of jazz tradition, Brazilian rhythm, and contemporary songwriting. It invites listeners to linger in its musical glow, rewarding repeated plays with new subtleties, a testament to the chemistry and craftsmanship of the trio. Shiri Zorn and George Muscatello bring us a talented project based in creative collaboration in a unique and adventurous blend of voice, guitar, and percussion.

Artist: Shiri Zorn & George Muscatello Featuring: Mauricio Zottarelli
Album: Looking For Light
Label: Self-Released

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Release Date: May 2, 2025

About the author

Illiam Sebitz

Born and raised in a picturesque European village, my fondness for music began during my formative years, when the charismatic tones of the recorder first filled the halls of my primary school. This early fascination escalated into my lifelong pursuit of embracing the melodious charm of the flute; I have even spent time refining my skills at a music conservatoire. As a seasoned music connoisseur, I find myself captivated by the multifaceted world of music. I enjoy writing music reviews to better enable me to explore genres as diverse as world, rock, jazz, classical, folk, and film music, each offering a unique auditory journey that enriches my life and intellect.

In my spare moments, you'll likely find me meticulously crafting my latest woodworking project, sharpening my skills with flute etudes, or inventing tales of fantasy through the art of creative writing. My eclectic interests and expertise harmonize to create a symphony of passion and curiosity that resonates within every aspect of my life as a music enthusiast.