Album Notes

The music of John Mazzarella features catchy pop hooks, thoughtful, intelligent lyrics and an inventive use of alternate guitar tunings. His earthy lap steel slide guitar excursions and tasteful use of looping technology, along with his energetic performances and honest, humorous personality, have captivated audiences throughout New Jersey.

John's musical vision has been cultivated during countless tri-state area coffee shop and bar gigs, and through university study in music. While at school, John immersed himself in classical guitar pedagogy as well as harmony and counterpoint studies and was greatly influenced by the guitar virtuosity of Steve Morse, Alex Lifeson, Steve Howe and Jimmy Page.

Following his time at school, John developed a fascination with songwriting. He fell in love with the Beatles and spent many hours singing, playing and studying their music. This endeavor led to the discovery of many other great songwriters including Neil Finn, David Gray, Ben Folds and Dave Matthews. He developed his own rich baritone voice in order to convey in words the emotions that had been coming solely from his guitar for years.

John Mazzarella has combined all of his previous influences and experiences and has emerged fully-formed as a dynamic solo performer. By employing a real-time looping device, John creates a virtual orchestra of sound by mixing his exotic open tuned acoustic guitar, percolating electronic effects, soaring electric guitar solos, and choir-like layers of his soulful voice.

"John Mazzarella's music combines the grace and sensitivity of the singer/songwriter tradition with an inventive and exciting approach to the guitar. He creates a balance not often heard in music these days." - Toltec Entertainment

"John Mazzarella writes catchy songs with a musician's strong pop sensibility, an artist's eye for detail and a lyricist's knack for turning a phrase." - Erik Balkey, songwriter

"His voice is a pure expression of the joy, pain and passion of living." - Roberta Lipp, songwriter