“Ti Penso” from Nicolás Manservigi

“Ti Penso,” roughly translated to “Thinking of You,” is the sophomore album from Argentinian baritone Nicolás Manservigi. “Ti Penso” is a concept album that draws on his Italian roots, and in his own words, it reads as a “confession or a letter where I express my feelings to different people and beings that I have loved and love.” As such, the material is deeply personal and begins with a narration that sets the tone for the listener.

Nicolás has a rich, throaty sound that seems to combine qualities of both Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban, at times dark, but also surprisingly agile in ornamentation. He possesses an impressive dynamic range, effortlessly transitioning from quieter, more intimate passages to full voice moments such as in “Come Triste Venezia”. “Io Che Non Vivo Senza Te” starts simply with humming, and my, is it delicious!

Nicolás also shines in upbeat numbers like “Il Cielo in Una Stanza,” and “Ho Capito Che Ti Amo.” Of special note is the collaboration with Delcy on “Parla Piu Piano”. The arrangement was a delightful surprise and Delcy’s soaring soprano matched perfectly. It felt more like a passionate dance than a menacing theme. Absolutely gorgeous!

“Ti Penso” is an excellent follow-up album. Nicolás and his team showcase new ideas in their arrangements and repertoire. The use of the harpsichord was unexpected yet ideal in “Dio come ti amo,” and the whimsical approach to “Nel blu di pinto di blu (volare)” is a breath of fresh air. We can only hope that Nicolás continues to produce music of this quality and highly recommend this album.

Natasha Barbieri, Editor

Editor

Creator of Classical Crossover Magazine. For Natasha music has always been closely tied to her faith. At age 18, Natasha made her opera debut playing the part of the mother in Menotti’s ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors’ with the Eastern Festival Opera. At 20, she was a winner of the 2011 Young Artist Competition at Andrews University. Natasha graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor’s of Music. Natasha has released a series of Holiday singles “A Place Called Home” (2020), “One Little Boy,” and “The Perfect Year” (2021). In 2021, she was nominated for the ‘Future Classic Women Awards’ show on Men’s & Women’s Radio Station. Natasha is the creator and editor of ‘Classical Crossover Magazine’ a venture that has allowed her to interview many of the top stars in the genre including Sarah Brightman, Celtic Woman, Mirusia, Paul Potts, and more. During the covid-19 pandemic, she created an online concert series for the magazine that has seen her perform in the same line-up as Alex Sharpe, Lucy Kay, Barbara Padilla, Classical Reflection, and more on the virtual stage. In 2022, Natasha was included on the charity album “Stars of Classical Crossover: Christmas” in benefit of the Wallace & Gromit Children’s Charity.