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Brent Gunter's Andalucia
By Brenda Eichinger
Brent Gunter is not only a world-class flamenco guitarist, but also a music-stylist, as he generates sensual melodies to stimulate the soul through his breakthrough independent release of Andalucia. Gunter explores his eclectic abilities by the production of ten global-infused songs, which capture the quintessence of the Spanish town of Andalucia. The Oregon-based musician emanates both a grooving and sensuous sound by the use of flamenco guitars, keyboards and percussive beats, which include shakers, congas and cajons, among others.
Gunter was previously inspired by another guitarist to start his own label, known as Sandia Crest Entertainment, thus creating Andalucia, which has already received a significant amount of airplay on college radio programs as well as the nationally syndicated NPR's "Echoes," and hit #2 on Myspace's Flamenco Chart.
While listening to the unforgettable opening track, "Villa De Amor," I am immediately encouraged to get to my feet and move. It's a lovely piece of music that persistently flows up, down and throughout your body and soul, allowing various sensations of freedom. Andalucia is filled with haunting melodies of mystery like "Solitude" and "The Storm Is Near" in addition to the saucy romantic grooves of "Bella Noche," or the near provocative beats of "Touch." The ambient album also includes the cross-cultural rhythms of "Secret Of The Tower" and "Moorish Groove." At times it might be possible to hear vocals included with some of the songs, but Gunter is able to let the guitar speak on it's own.
What makes Gunter's music so distinctive is that the musician grew up in central New Mexico, as he was greatly influenced by the region's authentic Spanish quality. He has stated, "New Mexico, in some ways, parallels Andalucia in that it represents a fusion of many cultures and how, through many cultures, one can emerge." From beginning to end, Andalucia transcends the body and soul while Gunter pays tribute to the guitar through his classic flamenco style.
A simple heart; a charming sound
By Nancy Dunham
Hans York seems to be a man who draws strength and musical inspiration from other's stories and struggles.
That was the case when the German born nephew of a jazz musician and the son of an aspiring opera singer read a "third-generation used book" about famed pilot Amelia Earhart and thought of the struggles she likely endured. York knew hardships. After his fathered returned from World War II and suffered several heart attacks, his mother shelved her musical aspirations and worked as a teacher to support the family.
"I just found [the Earhart story] amazing…especially considering I saw my mom going out and working all the time," said York. "I was raised by my father, a true gentle man. I'm glad I had that experience because I learned part of being out there is seeing and building new communities."
It seemed York would do just that - with world class musicians - when he received a full scholarship to Berklee School of Music, Boston. Yet when he realized he couldn't afford the living expenses needed to attend, he took a lesson from the struggles of others and looked for other avenues to hone his musical art.
The beauty of York's music as showcased in his latest CD "Young Amelia," was honed through alliances with jazz, rock, and acoustic musicians. The sound is purely his own, rich, but never overdone with subtle percussion and side effects that wrap the musical packages in elegance.
"Music comes alive when musicians play it together," he said. "My heart is fairly simple. I just want to play music and become immersed in the sound."
From First to Last
Post hard-core band From First to Last has got its groove back.
By Nancy Dunham
The band, which hit all kinds of musical bumps in 2007, is now arguably on the path that's going to lead them to some big-time gigs. The band's self-titled CD, slated for release April 28 on SureTone Records, has all the punch, hard-driving axe work, and throbbing drums you'd want expect from top bands in this genre. Produced by Josh Abrahams (Velvet Revolver, Linkin Park), the new 11 tracks share a rhythm and story line that allows them to flow naturally.
Perhaps that can be attributed to the band member's new cohesiveness which formed after lead singer /founder Sonny Moore packed his metaphoric bag and took with him the excessive screaming, over sentimental lyrics and lack of consistency that stalled the band's earlier efforts.
"We're getting to radio stations now and touring," said drummer Erik Bloom. "It's a blast."
If the band stays with this new formula, it's a good bet those good times will continue.
Editors note:
Hear samples of this CD at
http://fromfirsttolast.flux.com/
From First To Last (artist & CD)
SureTone Records
Release Date: April 28, 2008
List price: Unavailable at press time
Stratospheerius
By Nancy Dunham
Some people's first instinct upon hearing that the electro jazz/funk/rock group Stratospheerius is comprised of classical musicians might be to stifle a yawn. After all, how many classically trained musicians seek to break into jazz, blues, and funk each year - many with the same ho-hum results?
That's not the case with "Headspace" the newly released effort by Joe Denizon's band. Deninzon, who's been called the "Jimi Hendrix of the violin" takes listeners on a roller coaster ride of energetic electro blues funk that's almost impossible to resist. Right from the first song "New Material" with its electric-violin-on-uppers sound to the classic-rock- with-haunting-strings inspired "Today is Tomorrow, and beyond, the listener is invited into Deninzon's sophisticated yet welcoming musical world.
Let's just hope Stratospheerius continues its musical journey for years to come.
Editors' note:
Hear samples of this CD at www.stratospheerius.com/pages/home.html