Michael Ripoll - Discovery Anew
Born
in Long Island N.Y. Michael Ripoll moved to Miami when he was 16.
Today he lives in Nashville, TN. Influenced by Jazz, Flamenco, Latin,
Funk, R&B and a lot of more genres he has developed a real
personal style. His first album Esperando, published at mp3.com,
showcases his ambivalence and his passion for Flamenco guitar. He has
already played with a lot of famous artists of the Smooth Jazz scene
as Kirk
Whalum, Everette Harp, Brian McKnight, Mary J. Blige, Mark
Antoine, Yolanda Adams, Take 6, Rick Braun, Norman Brown, Boney James,
Peter White, Ben Tankard and more. It's no wonder that his
collaboration is mirrored in his new album, which is temporarily only
available at Michael's website.
The easiest way to
describe his music is to compare Michael with other artists. I would
quote Mark Antoine, Peter White and José Luis Encinas. His new album
"Discovery Anew" is so sensational good, that one cannot
wait to the insecure date of release to review it. Players on this
album are : Michael Ripoll (acoustic & electric guitars, bass,
programming, background vocals), Kirk Whalum (saxophone), John Santos
(percussion, background vocals), Maura Ripoll (vocals), Alex Alzamora
(piano, keyboards), Chris Kent (drums), Tony Morra (drums), Manny
Yanes (bass, background vocals), Rick Jackson (piano, keyboards,
organ), Carlos CC. Gordon (programming), Duawne Starling (vocals) and
Willie Williams & Rod McGohah (trumpet). The album was produced by
Kirk Whalum and Michael Ripoll.
Very strong, very
fresh is Give
Thanx. This
melody convinces every skeptic. Michael Ripoll masters his instrument
and knows groovy licks. This track is ready for his first single with
all best ingredients.
More in the
tradition of his heritage is McGill
Brazil. Samba
rhythm combined with a flamenco guitar, excellent drums and
percussion. At the end of the track Michael's flamenco guitar explodes
to a crescendo.
The vocal
Reason For Livin' has
a hooking line with a memorable engraver of music. You will not forget
this song anymore.
Lullaby gives
some minutes for reflections. A contemplative piece on acoustic
guitar.
Back again to
Latin Music with Cat
Dog. The track
changes between Blues and Latin. What an unique masterpiece.
A highlight for acoustic guitar fans is
Ooh
Aah. Only a magician can play so laid back. Spanish school
mixed with Smooth Jazz. Superb!
A trip to R&B. So Much
In Love is presenting some vocals,
but still Michael's electric guitar stays in the center of
interest.
Play My Guitar,
a re-invention of Carlos Satana. Michael keeps the fire burning.
The final tune
City Of Hope
presents
Michael's acoustic guitar, short and comprehensive.
I highly recommend
this album to all friends of guitar music. If you get the chance to
buy it, do it. This album is a winner.
