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 record, mixed by multi-platinum and Grammy award-winning producer Bob St. John, highlights many of Adrian’s Mediterranean influences, and features guest star performances from the legendary Sheila E. (Prince, Ringo Starr) and drummer Kevin Figueiredo (Extreme).
The rockabilly-inspired LP “Liquor Talkin’” with his electric band The Big Deal was released in 2012. On “Devil’s Tale”, his latest CD, Adrian has collaborated with world-renowned Gypsy brass ensemble, Fanfare Ciocarlia. This high-energy recording offers the world an extraordinary musical experience. Special guest performances include John Jorgenson (Elton John) and Rodrigo (Rodrigo y Gabriela). A documentary chronicling the making of this record is being produced by a Canadian filmmaker.
Favourable reviews and critical acclaim have led to Adrian 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 Radio, a Canadian YMCA campaign, and is the proud recipient of an Ontario Arts Council Grant in popular music for 2012-2013. Adrian is considered a guitar virtuoso, an exceptional songwriter, and his jaw-dropping live shows across North America and Europe never fail to impress.
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, charismatic personality, the opportunity to help support the London Children’s Hospital through CD sales, and of course, by the music.
Track Record in Hit-Tracks Top 100:
#09 in 2014 > Quattro Cicci (featuring Fanfare Ciocarlia)
2014 > Cafe Con Leche (featuring Fanfare Ciocarlia)