Mancuso, Matteo: Route 96

One of my highly anticipated releases for 2026, guitar virtuoso Matteo Mancuso is back with his sophomore effort Route 96. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, every so often a special player comes along and shakes things up, and Mancuso has done just that. Mancuso been praised by many musicians including Steve Vai who guests on the opener “Solar Wind�. That’s certainly one way to make a strong first impression, and as you would imagine these two get to rip on this rousing opener. It’s so cool to have these two virtuoso’s collaborating, and hope we get to hear more from these two in the future.

As with Mancuso’s debut, Route 96 offers a variety of styles and moods. You’ll find “Fire and Harmony� just as impressive and tasteful, as the track blends Matteo’s acoustic and electric playing. The second guest appearance is from acoustic guitarist Antoine Boyer on “Isla Feliz�, make sure to check out the video too, beautiful guitar work from both players. The tracks are melodic and accessible, and of course the playing is incredible. As much as I love Steve Vai, the truly lethal combination is Mancuso teaming up with keyboardist Valeriy Stepanov on “The Chicken�. A mind-blowing track of dazzling musicianship from all involved, I’d love to hear more from these two (hint!). You want Matteo going for broke, he lets it all out. Stepanov compliments the track with his impressive electric keys, and check out miss great bass lines running through the song.

Mancuso shows many facets to his playing, and even on the tracks where the music feels a bit safe, his soloing always adds that wow factor . That said, this is essential listening for all guitar enthusiasts, I’m blown away by his playing and technique, he’s truly a gift to the world of guitar.

Favorite Tracks: “Solar Wind�, L.a. Blues�, “Black Centurian�, “The Chicken�

Track Listing
1. Silk Road (feat. Steve Vai)
2. Fire and Harmony
3. Isla Feliz (feat. Antoine Boyer)
4. L.a Blues One
5. The Great Wall
6. Warm Sunset
7. Black Centurion
8. In The Morning Light
9. The Chicken (feat. Valeriy Stepanov)

Added: May 3rd 2026
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Matteo Mancuso online
Hits: 8
Language: english

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