JP Cervoni EPK

“JP is one of the baddest cats I know...his playing shows a lot of fire and feeling - that's the Italian showing through. He has a bluesy undertone to his style that I like allot..." – Michael Thompson

JP Cervoni - Blues & Beyond Guitarist Promo / EPK

History:

J.P. was born in Ceprano, Italy, a peaceful town in the Ciociaria region that stretches out amongst the green rolling countryside of the historic province. He grew up in a musical family that always encouraged JP to further his musical interest. At the age of 12, JP started his musical career playing keyboards for a top 40 band. At age 15, after seeing an English band playing Led Zeppelin, it was then he switched to the electric guitar and formed his own rock band called TRIM. The young man taught himself to play the guitar by listening to LPs by his favorite bands like Free, Zeppelin, Hendrix, Cream and the Beatles.

At 18, after high school, the youthful and eager musician moved to Toronto, Canada where he studied piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music. He performed with several rock bands to include touring north eastern Canada with a highly sought after Van Halen Tribute Band. While at school, JP went to a Buddy Miles concert in London, Ontario, (Hendrix, Band of Gypsys, Santana) and went backstage to meet him. With his astonishingly accomplished guitar playing, Buddy was so impressed with his virtuosity, and knowledge of Hendrix songs and the fact that he played the guitar left-handed-backwards (like himself), that he invited JP to jam with him the following night. Buddy then asked the young-gun to join his band back in Los Angeles, so at 21, JP moved to LA.

The seasoned guitarist says, “I first started to copy licks from Rory Gallagher, Paul Kossoff, Eric Clapton/Cream, Leslie West, Dave Gilmore, and what I got from them was two folded, ONE, the guitar-into-distorted-amp thing, TWO, more important, the phrasing that was part of their style, which for me, was coming from the blues. Learning their licks felt like "going to school" with people that, being bit older then me, where coming from the teaching of BB King, Albert King, Buddy Guy and like guitar Masters, and I always felt that I was getting the best of both worlds, making the Blues-rock connection, Then, after getting hold of Jimi’s and Page’s Albums, I went one step further, in understanding how much you could really do with a guitar. From there on, going through Jeff Beck, I developed the virtuoso part of my playing and landed where I am now, a mix of classic blues, with a rock edge and extra licks to keep things interesting.”

This was the beginning of JP’s professional musical career. From a 3 piece rock group to a full 16 piece Latin / funk band and everything in between, JP has toured the world, learning first hand many styles of music. He has since played and continues to work with a myriad of talented artists. JP’s talent goes beyond guitar playing. He is also an accomplished producer/writer, with many CD productions and songs under his belt.

"I truly dig this record. It’s refreshing to hear a guitar player sound like he means it! I also like the variety of tunes and the patience in the solos."-- Kirk L. Covington

He has work with Atlantic Records, BMG Records, Warner Bros, Z Records, Quantum Records, CGD Records, indie labels, TV shows on Fox, Rai2 TV, and has written songs on multi platinum recordings for multi-plantum artist, The seasoned musician has done clinics in the top music schools, and has had ads in the top music magazines. These are just some of JP accomplishments.

"JP, I LOVE your CD! You sound fantastik!! JP is amazing. When I listen to him play I hear shades of Jimi. He has all the soul and chops to go with it! Bravo!"-- Steve Trovato

JP Cervoni's career traces the history of rock and roll. Drawing from influences as diverse as rhythm and blues, jazz, fusion and beyond. JP has won the hearts of fans worldwide. He is revered by a new generation of rock performers. He has played everywhere from tiny roadhouse clubs to huge rock showcases and national television. “Many sponsors are now running full page ads featuring JP in Guitar Player, Guitar World, Vintage Guitar, Chitarre, AXE and 20th Century Guitar. JP has his own by-line in Chitarre magazine and is much respected in the Italian music market.

“As long as I’ve known JP he’s been an inspiration to me because of his dedication to music and his guitar playing. But now, his powerful and seriously tasty licks are sounding better than ever.” -- Lita Ford

“JP, is one of the finest guitarist I have ever had the pleasure of working with, his tone and emotion floored me on every song we recorded together. I think his album is one of the best I've personally recorded. Looking forward to the next one. Best of Luck! “ -- Tony Brock (R. Stewart/J. Beck)

Among the projects slated for this year JP is scheduled to do a fusion album with Massimo Varini, the multi-million selling Italian session player/producer, a Latin/Rock project with Walfredo Reyes, Jr. (Santana/Steve Winwood), and a duet CD entitled, "JP & MT" a collaboration with renowned session player Michael Thompson. JP has just been asked to write and co-produce with Tony Brock (member of Babies, writer/producer/drummer for Rod Steward 10+ years and Jeff Beck) for a Disney Records artist.

“JP always plays to a full house and is truly a crowd pleaser. It’s a pleasure to work with him.” -- Karina, Manager, La Ve Lee Jazz Club, Studio City, CA

Instrumentation

JP Cervoni has the ability to grab your attention and hold it within the palm of his hand. His captivating phrasing and endless blues riffs shows just how free he is in expressing his heartfelt blues rock music. The music just pours out of him. The seasoned guitarist can play with such fire one moment, and then turn around, and play with such subtleness the next. The guitarist versatile work continues to embody a mixture of white and black roots music like rock, blues, and soul. JP Cervoni brings them all together for a sound that has been all his own for nearly 25 years.

Discography

--- As a side note, I want you to be aware of JP's involvement with other aspects of the music business:

As a writer, JP has written 50 pieces of music for "W.O.W Beautiful women of wrestling" at live show, filmed live at the LA Forum. And, he enjoyed a year run on Fox TV, generating over $250.000.00 dollars worth of royalties for people involved.

Other JP songs have been featured on various TV shows. One of JP's songs was on a multi platinum CD, for "La Mafia" a Top Latin group.

He's co-written with Carmine Grillo (Tower of Power/Chicago), Beppe Cantarelli (A. Franklin/Mariah Carrie), Tony Brock (Rod Stewart/Keith Urban/J.Beck), Derek St. Holmes (Ted Nugent) Buddy Miles (Hendrix/Santana)

Mr. Cervoni songs have been directly responsible for record deals for various artists; he’s produced for Warner, Fonit Cetra, BMG International, Z records, and lastly Quantum Records.

He's currently writing with Shane Sparks (choreographer), of "So you think you can Dance" and “Best Dance Crew" TV shows fame, one of their ballad is going to a new Hip-Hop artist on Disney Records.

The Artist’s interest goes beyond guitar playing, he's interested in writing/playing music that goes beyond the guitar player/fan, he likes songs that reach a wider audience, like "Europa"/Santana, and Gary Moore's "I still got the Blues".

--- Please listen in particular to "Little Grace". HDH Records, a record company owned by Hollad-Dozed-Holland, the Motown team writers of many of Motown's Top hits (their catalog is compared with the Beatles Catalog) has offered JP a deal, after listening to "Little Grace". The company loved the song and wanted a duo/sax version of it; JP has declined the offer, in lieu of not wanting to become a soft-jazz artist, as the record co. suggested.

Link:

www.jpcervoni.com

JP Cervoni Blues and Beyond Debut CD Review by Scott Thomas

Red House

Blues and Beyond Artist - JP Cervoni understands the meaning playing for the song. His moniker says it all... JP takes blues guitar playing to an all new level with his wide ranging styles of writing and his comfortable approach to all. This CD blankets the wide spectrum of the blues... From down home blues to Motown; from instrumental rock guitar, on to smooth jazz and a few contemporary soundz ta boot. JP has got it all and doesn’t hesitate to pull out all the stops on this all-star cast blues-rock album. And, talk about class... You should see the other high profile artist he has playing on it. It’s like a celebrity showcase of awesome musician’s... Folks like; Buddy Miles, Simon Phillips,Tony Brock, Carl Verheyen, Scott Henderson, Michael Thompson, Vinnie Colaiuta... I mean, imagine just getting to rub elbows with those exciting, high-profile musician should tell you what kind of album you are in for and the caliber of musicianship JP Cervoni brings to the table/stage.

I actually met JP Cervoni at a NAMM after dinner get together courtesy of another great fusion guitarist Prashant Aswani. So as things happened, JP and I swapped info and then I didn’t hear from him in awhile. Nevertheless, several months past and JP reached out to me to tell me he had his Debut CD coming out and was wondering if I would be so kind as to give it a review. Of course we chatted and he told me who musicians were on the CD and things of that nature. As he was telling me the cast players, my heart started skipping beats. I wasn’t so sure I was up to the task to write a review w/ all involved... However, I gave JP my address and within a few days I had his CD jammin’ in my favorite music player. I remember thinking right away with his first tune that JP’s tone and Texas style blues playing was right up there with my Texas guitar heroes. Now he has my ATTENTION !!!

Now that I have said my opening schpeal, I will give y’all a quick rundown of each song...

Dr. Feelgood – Wow ! The open tune is pretty much a slow blues vamp in the style of the great blues tune Stormy Monday... JP’s guitar prowess in the introduction of this song is evident. His tasty blues licks and tone are very reminiscent of other great electric blues masters. When it comes to the blues, I’m always looking for the next great player who can get that perfect tone in their playing. I mean, I’ve heard some of the greatest rock / metal players jammin’ to some killer blues in concert. However, not one of them had any tone what’s so ever when trying to prove their blues prowess. Well maybe there are a few exceptions... Neil Schon can go from bombastic hard rock to straight blues just like that. For example the infamous Journey song “Lights” and the Hendrix influence there. Of course, a lot to do with that type of tone is in the meat on the artist’s finger tips and how they roll and sqeeze that tone out of those strings. This first song Dr. Feelgood shows some real class with the arrangement. Singer Belinda Skinner’s vocals on this tune remind me of the great Etta James. She really sings with conviction... You know, like she’s lived it for real !! JP’s lead solo on this tune shows passion, conviction and fire in the likes of Gary Moore and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Jimi on my Mind – I was taken back a bit on this tune... Song writing and arranging is a skill and an endowment. Either you got it, or you don’t... JP’s got it !!! The music has that early Arc Angel’s, Ian Moore, StoryVille flair. I mean, the music fits right in with what’s coming out of Austin City Limits these days. I thought I was listening to Doyall Bramhall II or something.The very sassy licks just pour out of him like sweet sugary syrup from an early-spring maple tree.The guest appearance from studio great Michael Thompson, with his smooth humbucking solo opposite of JP's Strat sound, makes a beautiful union of two different styles, complement each other. The song starts out with a double-stop chord progression... Very Hendrixy. The clarity and tones captured on this tune are also noteworthy. I guess to sum up this tune would have to be the word “SWEET!!’

Hendrix Riff – This song says Hendrix Riff, it reminds so much of Pat Travers when he came out with his 3rd album “Putting It Straight”. Remember the CD cover where he’s auditioning in front of the music promoter ? Then, on the inside cover the promoter’s office is turned up side down and the promoter’s wig / hairpiece is all messed and lopsided on his head. The pictures on the walls are all turned every which-way. This was a great album for it’s time back in 1977. This song has that same type of feel and attitude of that ‘ol Pat Travers’ – “Snortin’ Whiskey and Drinkin’ Cocaine” flamboyance. Yeah ! Hard Rock Electric Blues Guitar Playing !!! The percussions on this tune are phenomenal... Oh! No wonder why... Drum Surgery is done by no other than the infamous Vinnie Colaiuta

Little Grace – This ballad has definitely caught me by surprise. I thought I was listening to a new Santana tune. This song triumphantly rings out style and talent. What can I say...? This is just one beautiful piece of music... It is very reflective and blue. I can hear a song like this getting a Grammy if the tune got into the right hands and got the right airplay and rotation. I know that is a big statement... If you don’t believe me, buy the CD and check it out for yourself. This is Top-Notch writing, arranging, and guitar playing at its best.

Sad State of Affairs – I kept thinking to myself as I was listening to the introduction of this tune that Eric Clapton was going to start singing at anytime. This is one of those tunes that just grabs you... I’m tellin’ ya... this is very classy blues music. The production is some of the best I’ve heard in years. This reminds me of a Baby Face blues production. And of course, JP’s guitar playing is just extra special on this piece. I love the way he uses the bouncing guitars between the channels. It tickles the ears ! A couple of more blues personality that come to mind are Buddy Guy and Robert Cray... JP’s song has that taste and flamboyance in his writing style. If this song doesn’t chill you out in LA. Traffic, then nothing will. Pristine...To be noted, the beautiful voice performance from Arnold McCuller( Phill Collins Band )

Sangin’ The Blues – This tune sounds live and has that straight ahead 12- bar blues vamp... Real down and dirty, and real mean !!! The solo is done very-well, the thumping-shuffle rhythm is provided by no other then Kirk Covington, JP does the ‘ol cutting heads routine with his call and response wicked licks and motifs. This tune reminds of the movie “CrossRoads” staring Ralph Machio as this young kid who wants to learn the blues and find that lost Robert Johnson blues song no matter what it takes... He is even willin’ to go up against Steve Vai and puts his soul on the dotted line for the Devil to possibly take if he looses the infamous guitar-duel Eugene’s Bag of Tricks. The young gun has to cut headz against ‘ol stevie boy... Talk about great writing, filming and awesome guitar playing for you guitar aficionados. There is an element of big band sounds here too. JP’s guitar can sing the blues for sure. Final word – Now that’s some nasty shit !!!

Alone – This is an instrumental tune... That’s right, just Guitar, talent, and tone... I love JP’s use of the reverb and bounch echo. This stimulates and excites the track, keeping the underlying lead chord progression moving along nicely in the mix... I can’t say enough about the tone and sound of JP’s strat. JP told me he used his 1971 old SuperLead Marshall head for this trax. There are not many engineers that can get that sound from the amp to the mic, then to the board and on to CD without loosing something in the guitar sound. Not Here !!! JP’s axe-sound on this track is in your face and pushes air between your ears.

Hummin’ The Blues – Here is another one of those award winning tunes in the style of Clapton / Babyface and their new upbeat sounding blues collaborations. The electric lead comping along with some beautiful vocals from Belinda Skinner sounds as smooth a satin... I swear I was listening to Anita Baker... this is some uptown contemporize blues all the way. The beautifully recorded acoustic guitars follow lightly along in the mix. Like I said, the writing here is in definitely in the major leagues. Pass the fine wine, sit back and relax "Cent Anni" ( means 100 years in Italian. It is most commonly used as a toast as if to say "may we have 100 years of life, love, health and happiness" ).

Birds of a Feather – This song starts out with a delightfully played piano and an pleasantly sounding resonance acoustic guitar going through a cool but slow jazzy type vamp and then... Boom !!! Yeah, this tune will get that foot and head just be-boppin’... I’m diggin’ the tightness of the track as well... The song has that ala Alannah Miles’ – “Black Velvet” taste to it with a real sexy and sultry groove. The bass and drums a right on the money with keeping the bottom end moving along like a warmed up Lincoln Continental... So much so, that you can’t help but to get a mean lean and a gold tooth display from jamming to this tune. Carl Verheyen provided extra licks and a beautiful solo.

Funky Scott – Hit Me !!! As the hardest working man in show business and the godfather of soul James Brown would say... Welcome to America !!! Poppa’s got a brand new bag too... I love funk / percussive music. This music also brings me back to the days of Jeff Beck’s Wired and Blow by Blow albums... Yeah, these musicians on this CD definitely got the chops. No two ways around it... And yes, very technical too !!! Scott Henderson on the Left, JP on the right. I think this is something Bootsy Collins and Maceo Parker would be proud of. Get on the good foot !!!

Red House (Live) – Now if this doesn’t bring you back to “in the day”? JP’s got his live Woodstock guitar reverberation goin’ on just like Hendrix. A rare trax from a young JP when he was the Buddy Miles Band. The music makes me feeling like I’m down at infamous Auditorium Shores in Austin , TX . I’ve seen so many blues greats there that I would need a few sets of hands and fingers just to count them all. Of course Buddy Miles is in rare form on this cut. God bless his passed soul... I’m sure he’s up there playing w/ Jimi Hendrix once again, and here comes Stevie Ray now... Great rendition of an awesome blues classic.

JP CERVONI

Resume:

Recorded/Played/Produced:

Nina Hagen Renato Neto (Rod Stewart, Prince)

Simon Phillips ( Toto, The Who, J. Beck ) Carlos Hatem (Tito Puente, C. Korea)

Frank Gambale Steve Trovato (G.I.T. & USC music prof.)

Greg Bessonette Edsel Dope (Dope)

John Patitucci Robbi Rob (Tribe after Tribe, Peal Jam)

Buddy Miles (Hendrix, Santana) Joey Heredia (Sheila E, Stevie Wonder)

Steve Lukather (Toto) Cecilia Noel & The Wild Clams (All Star Band)

Lee Retinour James Raymond ( CS &N )

Tony Levin Joshua Todd (Buckcherry)

John 5 & Ginger Fish (Marilyn Manson) Francis Benites (Sergio Mendez)

George Clinton Tony Brock ( Rod Stewart, Jeff Beck )

Carl Vereheyen Cheche Alara (Cristina Aguilera)

Robert Trujillo (Ozzy, Suicidal Tendencies, Metallica) Jeff Babko (S. Phillips, R. Ford, Tim Mc Graw)

Vinnie Colaiuta Cleto Escovedo (Mark Antony)

Jeff Pilson (Dokken) Killah Priest (Wu-Thang)

Mike Hansen (En Vouge, Dave Navarro, Jane's Addictions) Sin Dog(Cypress Hill)

Traa Daniel (POD) Him (Him)

Mike Inez (Ozzy, Alice in Chains) Wayne Static (Static x)

Jimi Crespo (Aerosmith, R.Stewart) Eric Gale

Alfonso Johnson Ray Orpeda (Downset)

Jimmy Earl (Stanley Clark, Pino Daniele) Kevin Brandon ( 6 Grammy winner )

Gilby Clark (Guns & Roses) Lita Ford

Dave Carpenter Killah Priest ( Wu-Tang)

Peter Erskin J.B. (Cuck Mangione, En Vouge)

Matt Laug (A. Morissette, Slash, Vasco Rossi) Tracii Gunns

Arik Marshall (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Macy Gray) Larry Antonino ( Crusaders )

Carlo Rios (Madonna, G. Vannelli) Gisa Vatky (Louis Miguel)

Bill Chaplin (Chicago) Derek St. Holmes (Ted Nugent)

Bernie Dressel (Brian Setzer Orchestra, Robben Ford) Derek Sheridian (Alice Cooper, Dream Tether)

Larry Dunn (Earth Wind & Fire) Charles Fearing (Michael Jackson)

Steve Tavaglione (G.R.P., A Holsworth) John Platero (Cher)

Eric Singer ( KISS ) Eros Ramazzotti (50 million CDs sold)

Marco Mendoza (T.Nuget, Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake) Kirk Covington (Tribal Tech, A. Holsworth)

Scott Henderson Steve Weingart ( Dave Weckl )

Albert Wing (Frank Zappa , Diane Ross ) Carmen Grillo ( Tower of Power )

Brain Ray ( Paul McCartney ) Larry Antonino ( Crusaders )

Brandon Fields

Also worked with:

Laura Pausini (Alfredo Cerruti) Atlantic Records CBS TV

Dado Parisini Warrner Braos. RAI 2 TV

Mario Lavezzi/ Mogol Fonit Cetra FOX TV

Mark Wolfson (Tom Hanks) Z Records

Claudio Poggi (Pino Daniele) Quantum Records

B.Cantarelli (A. Franklin, M. Carrie) CGD Records

Danny Diante (B. Streisand, B.B. King) HDH Records

Dannis McKay ( Judas Priest ) BMG Records

JP Cervoni Live at the La Ve Lee - Blues

“JP always plays to a full house and is truly a crowd pleaser. It’s a pleasure to work with him.” -- Karina, Manager, La Ve Lee Jazz Club, Studio City, CA