Michael Bland

Adrian Raso is a respected guitarist/composer from Guelph, Ontario, Canada. Adrian has recorded two instrumental EPs and six full-length instrumental albums. Black Mamba (2005) showcased Adrian’s stunning versatility and musicianship over a variety of styles, ranging from Gypsy to Latin flavours. Adrian’s work is a fine example of the balance between commercially accepted music that is also readily embraced by the technically minded musician. In 2006, Adrian released his second full-length all-acoustic album called Tales of a Travelling Bohemian. This fiery, passionate guitar-driven CD accentuates his ease of moving from Middle-Eastern to Mediterranean to Gypsy styles of music. C’est La Vie (2008) is Adrian’s tribute to Gypsy Swing. These 15 new compositions reflect his love of Django Reinhardt and traditional French Gypsy music. This album was mixed by Nick Blagona (Gypsy Jazz legend Stephane Grapelli). In 2010, Adrian got back to his scorching hot electric roots with the release of Clean Up The Mess, featuring the drumming of Jeff Consi (Nuno Bettencourt). In February of 2011 he released the high-energy rockabilly single “Dead Man’s Hand” featuring Lee Rocker (The Stray Cats) on bass and Kevin Figueiredo (Extreme) on drums. This single was mixed by Bob St. John and artwork was created by the incomparable Vince Ray. Adrian released Nina del Sol in 2011. This high-energy record, mixed by multi-platinum and Grammy award-winning producer Bob St. John, brings out many of Adrian's mediterranean influences, and features guest star performances from the legendary Sheila E. (Prince, Ringo Starr) and drummer Kevin Figueiredo (Extreme). Reviews regarding Adrian’s body of work consider him a guitar virtuoso, an exceptional songwriter, and his jaw-dropping live shows never fail to impress. Favourable reviews and critical acclaim have led to Adrian being commissioned to write original music for independent film and theatre productions, and artist endorsements from Gretsch guitars, Godin Guitars, Gitane Guitars, and Biltmore Hats. Adrian has also been featured in many magazines, on CBC, and a Canadian YMCA campaign. Proceeds from Adrian’s acoustic discs go to the London Children’s Hospital, in memory of his daughter, Ava Amelie. The audiences at these shows are captivated by his superb playing technique, personality, the opportunity to help support the London Children’s Hospital through CD sales, and of course, by the music.