ArtistInfo

Mike Armando
The Count Down

Album US 2014 on MJA Records label
Jazz (Contemporary Jazz, Free Improvisation, Cool Jazz)

Album Notes Jazz/blues guitarist Mike Armando was born in Brooklyn, NY. Mike Played many years with Screamin Jay Hawkins band. He was the guitarist for the late Screamin Jay Hawkins for three years. One of Mike's recording's, Half Steppen on the mja Record label, a jazz/blues recording was rated one of the top ten records on radio play list in Bill Board Magazine. Mike has recorded with drumming great Bob Moses on his latest CD The Count Down. Mike has performed on radio and TV stations across the country. WOWI Radio music director Larry Dinger, Norfolk, Va. held many events at the station where Mike performed live. Mike has performed live events also at WPKN, Jazz Adventures with radio host Phil Bowler in Bridgeport, CT. Mike Armando recordings on the mja Record label have been played throughout the USA and in Europe.... Mike Armando, guitar, plays jazz / blues as though he was born with them. I like his ideas, his lines, his chord changes and his time. Mike was born in New York City and has paid his dues many times over. He has always loved jazz and blues music because “it comes straight from the soul-and the soul is from God.” Music is his life, and he thanks God for the opportunity of being able to help other musicians to express themselves through this music called Be Bop and lyrical jazz. (Review by Artt Frank drummer for the late great Chet Baker) Mike's latest CD, The Count Down features some of the finest musicians around. The Great Ra-Kalam Bob Moses on drums and John Lockwood on the bass along with Boris Kurganov on sax and piano with Gezim Sherifi on percussion. His new recording is a mix of soulful jazz, blues and is very creative because it was music that was created on the spot. Music that is very real. CD REVIEW - The Muse's Muse music review by Anastasia K Artist: Mike Armando Album: The Count Down Label: MJA Jazz Website: http://mjajazz.wix.com/mike-armando Genre: Jazz/Blues Technical Grade: 10/10 Production/Musicianship Grade: 10/10 Commercial Value: 8/10 Overall Talent Level: 10/10 Songwriting Skills: 10/10 Performance Skill: 10/10 http://www.musesmuse.com/mver-mikearmando-rollrainbow.html CD Review: To me, jazz is a complex genre, but mostly in the creative process. My only experience with it really is listening to it. What I love about these tunes from Mike Armando’s new CD “The Count Down” is their ability to get you moving the way only good jazz can. Even without lyrics, the instruments take over the vocals, and become the words. I found myself singing along with the guitar, piano, and various other distinct sounds each instrument contributes. And the titles are simply spot on! I received these two tracks for review: “Roll Over” – Oh, I could have Mike Armando and his band playing on my radio as I work, relax, entertain, or go for a drive. It’s the stuff that makes jazz tick for me, and the perfect accompaniment to any activity! The bopping tempo, the smooth atmosphere, I was thinking to myself that this track feels like it’s rolling by me. And then I looked at the title and thought, perfect. “Rainbow Sunset” – This is a very adventurous tune. I mean, as calm and smooth as “Roll Over” is, this one has so many twists and turns, it’s a musical rainbow. (Note the title, once again!) Love the many “voices” of the instruments, the tempo change near the end, bringing the sunset to its denouement. To me, it sounds like these guys are not only enjoying themselves, but they surely know what they’re doing. And they feel the music, so it’s no surprise that you will feel this too! I think there is so much more to be discovered by listening to an entire album. Yes, we’re buying individual tracks these days, but I think that we’re depriving ourselves of the full listening experience. Though you can get a good sampling of Mike Armando’s “The Count Down” from these two great tracks, I am pretty certain the rest of the album is just as enjoyable! Check it out! Received reviews Comments: Comments from All About Jazz. - Cruising, catchy and off the beaten track. Hipster chic. Comments The Count Down contain great unique compositions and playing; I really appreciate the various techniques you explore with your music and on the guitar. In "Rainbow Sunset," I really enjoyed the playing; outstanding feel, very nice melody, interesting arrangement, great guitar sound, and the music is enjoyable and creative. Jeff

Musicians

	Mike Armando g, US guitar, producer, album by
	John Lockwood b, US acoustic bass
	Ra-Kalam Bob Moses syn, dr, drums
	Gezim Sherifi percussion
	Boris Kurganov saxophone, piano

Producers

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