Expansion Records

by Diane

Collector’s Spotlight: The Modern Standard Mario Biondi & The High Five Quintet – "This Is What You Are" (XEXPAND1020M)

Published: 27 February 2026 03:04:16

There exist certain recordings that define a genre, whilst others define an entire era. When Mario Biondi released "This Is What You Are," he did not merely produce a successful record. He delivered a timeless anthem which proved that the grand, baritone-led soul of the 1970s remained vibrant and relevant in the twenty-first century.

The Significance for Your Collection

The XEXPAND1020M twelve-inch vinyl represents the definitive pressing for the discerning collector. It captures the natural, acoustic warmth of The High Five Quintet’s instrumentation with a level of depth that digital formats cannot replicate.

Upon the A-Side, one finds the original masterpiece. It is a masterclass in Italian Nu-Jazz that possesses the character of a lost Barry White session recorded in a prestigious Milanese studio. The B-Side features the celebrated Opolopo Remix. This is a meticulous reimagining that transformed a jazz-club staple into a global soulful house phenomenon.

The Verdict

Whether you are an audiophile seeking vocal texture or a disc jockey in search of the pre-eminent crossover record to bridge a set, this twelve-inch remains a cornerstone. It represents that rare moment where high-art jazz musicianship met mainstream appeal without compromising its integrity.