"Whether it’s one of Mannutza’s original compositions that make up half the “Circles” recording, a composition by past jazz greats, or a standard, everything comes out inventive, exciting, and challenging. Luca Mannutza has barrels of technique and ideas to match, and his harmonic sense is advanced with interesting cycles of chords and complex modal ideas in his compositions. All of the tunes transform as they develop, too, changing moods and energy. Jordan Corda’s vibes often double Paolo Recchia’s sax melody lines, and he adds a decorative harmonic touch alongside Mannutza’s piano chords in sections and solos with mallets flying, as well as ringing atmospheres like at the start of “December.” Recchia’s sax solos are intense and have a lot of variety throughout. Daniele Sorrentino’s bass work is rhythmically versatile, sometimes providing the main pulse, and sometimes working interesting cross rhythms. His solos show a fine melodic sense, too. And Sasha Mashin’s drums are powerful, really cranking up the intensity behind solos and at climaxes. The whole recording is bursting with energy and ideas."