Search - Al Caiola :: Bonanza 1960-1969

Behind the scenes artistry

Zub | Forks Twp., PA | 04/06/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"While guitar names such as Duane Eddy, Chet Atkins, Santo and Johnny and others are much more familiar to fans of the early age of rock and roll, the sound of Al Caiola is very much a part of the music of that era. Only two of his single releases dented the top 100 of the pop charts but his albums were a part of the music of the 60's for the entire decade. And his guitar can be heard on many of the tracks of big recording stars of the era such as Frankie Avalon ("Venus" and "De De Dinah"), Fabian, Bobby Vinton, Connie Francis and others. Some of the most recognizable tunes he recorded were TV and motion picture themes along with covers of recordings made popular by other artists. This first-ever collection of his works gathers many of his single releases including his two hits, "The Magnificent Seven" and "Bonanza" along with album sides. Here, Raven, the small independent Australian reissue label, has put a massive 33 tracks onto a single CD offering a decade-spanning retrospective of Caiola's work. The sound quality is respectable with many tracks in stereo - the exceptions being 3,5,6,8-11,14,17,20-22,24,25,27,31. A twelve-page liner notes booklet with a history of the artist along with pics and illustrations completes the package. For a great sampling of the sound that drove much of the pop music of the 60's, this is definitely a worthwhile addition to the collector's CD library."

Al Caiola "Bonanza!"

Max S. | USA | 09/04/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Finally, a CD full of Al Caiola's 1960's United Artists recordings! I have the original vinyl LP of "Tuff Guitar" and I have not been able to play it for years because I no longer have a record player.... This fantastic CD has the "Tuff Guitar" title track, plus 32 more excellent songs that capture Caiola's genius musicianship and unique guitar artistry during the 60s decade. The original "Bonanza" theme song on this CD is worth the price alone. The sound quality is very good, plus, there are great photos and highly detailed liner notes in the CD booklet. Thanks to Raven records in Australia for releasing this CD! A must for any guitar fan!"

Magnificent

G. Moore | Burnie, Tasmania Australia | 07/03/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Music is an important part of my life and Al Caiola has been a part of that from the time I was able to earn my own money to buy my first LP which coincidently was Al's "Tuff Guitar". I still have about ten vinyl albums of Al Caiola which I have loved for years but when I came across this compilation album I grabbed it. The feeling of well being that came over me from the first listen is repeated each and every time I put it on. This is truly feel good music from an artist who has specialised in sublime guitar solos for over thirty years. I love it and you will too."