El Samuraichi CD Bio

For his CD, "El Samuraichi", guitarist Chris Dunnett takes listeners south of the border, and to other exotic locales. The 10-track release combines steel string and nylon string styles, for a combination of sounds that complement the traditional flamenco feel of the songs. More than just a self-indulgent guitar album, "El Samuraichi" displays arrangement abilities, and is song-oriented; Chris`s expressive playing evokes complex feeling and emotion.

While traditional flamenco influence is a strong factor in the selections, there are also Middle Eastern, Gypsy, and neo-classical influences throughout the pieces. "El Samuraichi" is a diverse blend of fiery guitar work and innovative songwriting. "I try to create imagery with music," says Chris. "The songs become very picturesque." In addition to playing guitar on all tracks and producing the CD, Chris also performed all mandolin and keyboard parts.

Guest performances on "El Samuraichi" include violin on three selections by Paul Patterson, violinist with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra; Michael Sharfe of Latin X-Posure on bass; and Charlie Schweitzer, percussionist for Tropicoso.

Take a brief journey to destinations past and present with "El Samuraichi"...

El Samuraichi - this western/flamenco-styled track has a feel of old New Mexico.
Duende - this piece is more traditional flamenco; it is inspired by flamenco dancing and features a special guest appearance by Adrian Paul of "Highlander: The Series".
Almos Air - this selection is more in the Ottmar Liebert vein, and centers around melody.
Gratzi Peppino - this mostly solo acoustic piece is performed on steel string guitar.
Yo Se Que Yo Puedo - an up-tempo, Latin type track; it brings to mind a warm, summer day in the marketplace.
Samson & Dilemma - this Middle Eastern track comes complete with a live bellydancer's accompaniment.
Maleguena - this inventive, colorful arrangement of a traditional Spanish guitar piece is played on a nylon string guitar.
Gypsy Dance - the ultimate happy occasion; be it a wedding reception or dance around the campfire, toes will tap in spite of themselves.
Festiva Latina - the air of a festival, a lively cantina filled with stories of life in the old country.
Seppuku - this variation on theme from the title track ties the CD together as a complete piece.

"El Samuraichi" was mastered by Trevor Sadler, who masters all Narada Records releases, and has worked with Live, Crash Test Dummies, Nine Inch Nails and Triumph.

For more detailed information about the tracks on "El Samuraichi" or other Chris Dunnett releases, visit his website: www.chrisdunnett.com.