How long have you been playing?

On and off for 40 years (mostly off)!

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Do you play any other instruments besides electric guitar?

I love playing the drums. I can also play some mandolin, banjo and flamenco guitar.

 

Can you tell us about your guitar rig?

My main guitar is an Ibanez RGT220, but my original and still favorite is my 1976 Strat. I also have a PRS Torero and a Taylor "Big Baby" acoustic.  

 

What bands/artists are your biggest influences?

Right now I'm listening to Scott Henderson and Frank Gambale. I'm also inspired by the music of my son Vincent; his compositions are unpredictable and majestic.

 

 

What bands or artists did you love when you were a kid/teen?

I started out listening to Rory Gallagher, Deep Purple, Johnny Winter, John McLaughlin, Jimi Hendrix, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Mike Bloomfield. I also listened to and learned the Italian songs my father played on his mandolin. I still love all of that music.

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What do you think of the current music scene?

To be honest, I don't pay a lot of attention to "pop" music, not because I have disrespect for it, but because it usually doesn't represent the most inspiring playing, to my ears. But in any generation, there are always people with great talent who create wonderful music. Many times these people go unnoticed.

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How would you describe Carpe Nota's sound?

I would say that we are a hard driving rock band with some progressive and melodic elements, and I think we are capable of expanding our envelope with some other influences as well.

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What do you most enjoy about being a member of Carpe Nota?

Well, beside the sheer pleasure of kicking the shit out of our tunes, I enjoy the camaraderie of the band. Everything is more enjoyable when you share it with other people. Also, this band has allowed me to explore some new musical territory.