Search - Lino :: Miami Jam

Smoothjazz.com Review

Sandy Shore | Monterey, CA | 09/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Virtuoso guitarist Lino has done it again! His third release is an eclectic, sometimes fiery collection of nine original tunes and two covers (Mason Williams' "Classical Gas" and Mozart's "Turkish March"). Like the two albums before it, MIAMI JAM sparkles with memorable compositions and brilliant playing. Lino brilliantly fuses elements of classical, world, and Latin textures into what he calls "Lino Music," utilizing his signature layered-guitar sound accompanied by sax, flute, violin, and piano. He's surrounded himself with World-class players for this project, including the extraordinary Richard Hardy (3rd Force, Carole King, Dave Matthews, Lyle Lovett) on sax, flute and pennywhistle, Chris Frazier (Edgar Winter, Steve Vai, Eddie Money) on drums, and Philip Bynoe (Steve Vai, Kevin Eubanks, Slash, John Robinson) on bass and cello. Lino, originally from Ohio but now L.A.-based, has degrees in both History and Pre-Med, possesses movie-star good looks, and plays with sensitivity and unbridled passion. On MIAMI JAM he once again combines solid writing, masterful performances, and outstanding production. From his sparkling version of "Classical Gas" to the Baroque "Carnaval de Vie" with string quartet accompaniment, from the delightful "Chardonnay after Noon " to the dynamic title track, this is an exceptional collection of music. Lino's MIAMI JAM shines brightly and creatively throughout, and should, without a doubt, be a part of every music connoisseur's collection. It comes highly recommended, from my ears to yours! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN"