Track By Tracks: Mario Rossi Band - Smoke Burst (2023)

1. Smoke/Burst:

MR: This track is very inspired by songs like Eric Clapton’s ‘Steppin’ Out’, something of Gary Moore with wind instruments, and the result is very close to something from Thin Lizzy. I really love this instrumental track!

2. Leavin' for a Walk:

MR: Well, it’s not about just getting out and living for a walk but I’m talking to run from bad news. Sadly nowadays the world is facing a lot of bad news constantly appearing on a cellphone, tv, or computer screen. Scenarios that I’d never expect to see in modern years.

3. It Means Blues (Feat. Lu Vitti):

MR: A very inspired slow blues track. I wrote thinking in a fusion between B.B. King with Carmen McRae. It’s really sounding beautiful with Lu Vitti on lead vocals. She’s a brilliant blues singer.

4. There's no Hope for Willie Brown (Feat. Steve Bell):

MR: I've been looking forward to recording this one. I had all arrangements in my head since the beginning. It’s sounding very spiritual, a Gospel from Mississippi. Steve Bell is a killer harmonica legend!

5. Don't Tell Me What to Do:

MR: Well, this is a Hendrix vibe, power trio. I’m talking about something that always existed but more and more nowadays. You know, there’s always someone judging and telling you how you need to be or talk or whatever. If you’re not approved you are in trouble. It’s old but really present everywhere.

6. Jammin' for Jimi:

MR: A tribute to the master. I really like this instrumental, I always record a cool guitar riff idea when it happens, there’s a mix of selected riffs and a good groove, very funny to play. This is nothing but a tribute to Jimi.

7. Expensive Instinct:

MR: One of my favorites from the album. I like the guitar riff, licks, and vocal melodies. The lyrics, well, it’s blues, it’s about being a fool in a relationship.

8. Cold Lonely Nights:

MR: Slow blues standard. My main inspiration to write and arrange this song was John Mayall and The Blues Breakers. There are wind instruments talking to my singing and guitar. Very typical in the British Blues! I recorded all guitars with a thumb pick.