Jay Soto - Mesmerized
Well, two years later Jay Soto had himself established on the charts and signed a contract with NuGroove Records releasing his sophomore album Stay Awhile. And his career continues with his new album Mesmerized (2009). The title sums up the effect of Jay's guitar performance. Like on his previous album Jay is supported by great producers. Michael Broening, Darren Rahn and Mark Riddick signed as responsible. But Jay produced this time a great part of his album himself at his own SotoPop Studio in Glendale, Arizona. Jay is joined by such veritable artists as Freddie Fox (rhythm guitar), Mel Brown (bass), Michael White (drums), Michael Broening (keyboards and programming) and some more guest musicians. With huge confidence Jay
uses great titles for his songs. Take for example the starting
Fascination. And indeed captivating riffs set us in motion. No wonder,
Jay is backed by the cats of L.A., which we already admired on other NuGroove recordings.
A Love Like Mine is featuring Bryne Donaldson on
alto saxophone. Bryne can play in a wide range of genre but his true heart
beat is in smooth jazz. His tone is excellent and his technical skills are
outstanding!! Yes, I trust the comment on Bryne's
website. Jay shines on some West Coast smooth jazz with
Oasis. This is the uplifting we-drive-along-the-coast-song. Let the
Californian sun into your heart. The new recording technology opens a wide
range of possibilities. Jay lays down smooth chords on keys while he
performs on guitar the melody of Together At Last
perfectly accompanied by Mark Dolin on sax. Listen to Diggin' It. There is some Marvin Gaye
in the air. Jay Soto has a blessed talent for infectious compositions.
Moments like a Sunday Smile lighten our life. Jay's music is like a
canned food of happiness we can open at every time. The stomping Mesmerized is a fantastic platform
for Jay's brilliant guitar play and when Jodi Light breaths her ahs and
oohs, we all go goose-pimply and crazy. Dreamsville is a song I
would await by Philippe Saisse or Alex Bugnon, but no it's Jay on piano.
Bravissimo! While Jay jams on Bayou Blues in the style of
Eric Clapton, he tries a more funky and experimental way on Cacophony.
Dominic Amato is the featured sax player between smooth and edgy. Steve
Culp adds a maniac Rhodes solo overshadowed by Jay breathtaking guitar
excess. Mesmerized is guitar ecstasy. Jay Soto has
reached his aim of one of the leading guitarists. Now the audience has to
recognize this. 
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