A few weeks ago, I hinted at a musical project brewing in my studio—a heartfelt tribute to the legendary CandyRat Records . For those unfamiliar, CandyRat is a powerhouse in the world of acoustic guitar, showcasing incredible virtuosity and innovation. They’ve nurtured artists who have not only pushed the boundaries of the instrument but have also profoundly shaped my own musical journey.

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I’m thrilled to announce that this project has officially come to life! As of today, my CandyRat tribute album is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all other major streaming platforms. It’s been a labor of love, a chance to express my gratitude to the artists who have inspired me for so many years.

CandyRat Records isn’t just a label; it’s a community of incredibly talented musicians who have redefined what’s possible with the acoustic guitar. From percussive techniques that turn the guitar into a drum kit to intricate fingerstyle arrangements that sound like an entire orchestra, these artists have consistently blown me away.

Think of names like Andy McKee, whose “Drifting” became an internet sensation and introduced many to the world of modern fingerstyle; Antoine Dufour, known for his melodic sensibility and breathtaking harmonics; Don Ross, a master of complex rhythms and intricate compositions; and Ewan Dobson, whose technical prowess and unique approach to the instrument are simply mesmerizing. The list goes on, each artist contributing their unique voice to the rich tapestry of CandyRat’s catalog.

My tribute isn’t a collection of covers; it’s something a bit more personal. Each track on the album contains a musical “Easter egg”—a phrase, a melodic fragment, or a harmonic idea borrowed from a CandyRat artist. Some of these references are subtle nods, woven seamlessly into the fabric of my compositions; others are more overt, recognizable to even casual fans of the label.

The idea was to create a musical dialogue between my own work and the music that has inspired me. It’s a way of acknowledging my influences while still expressing my own musical identity. It’s like having a conversation with these artists, not by copying their words, but by responding with my own musical language.

Why CandyRat? A Personal Connection

My first encounter with a CandyRat artist dates back to a visit to a bookstore in Rome. While I was browsing, a stunning piece of music played over the sound system caught my ear. Inquiring with the bookseller, I discovered it was the work of Don Ross, and I was instantly captivated.

From that moment on, I delved deep into the world of CandyRat, discovering one incredible artist after another. Their music became the soundtrack to countless hours of practice, experimentation, and musical exploration. They pushed me to expand my own playing, to explore new techniques, and to think about the guitar in a completely different way.

This album is, in essence, a thank you letter to these artists. It’s my way of expressing how much their music has meant to me and how deeply it has influenced my own creative path.

Finding the Easter Eggs

Now, for the fun part: I invite you, the listener, to embark on your own journey of discovery. Listen to the album and see if you can identify the musical Easter eggs. Some will be obvious, others might require a more discerning ear. It’s like a musical scavenger hunt!

If you’re already a fan of CandyRat, you’ll likely recognize some of the references right away. If you’re new to their music, this album might serve as a gateway to a whole new world of acoustic guitar.

While technical mastery is certainly a hallmark of CandyRat artists, what truly resonates with me is the emotional depth of their music. It’s not just about playing fast or playing complicated; it’s about conveying feeling, telling stories, and connecting with the listener on an emotional level.

This is something I’ve strived for in my own music, and it’s something I hope comes through in this tribute album. It’s not just about paying homage to technical prowess; it’s about celebrating the emotional core that makes this music so special.