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Penseyeview Music & Lifestyle Feature: Sal Piamonte
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Sal Piamonte
Posted on May 15, 2012
Sal Piamonte may not make his living in my backyard (he comes ...Sal Piamonte
Posted on May 15, 2012
Sal Piamonte may not make his living in my backyard (he comes to us from Ottawa, Canada), but boy, does he tell a familiar tale concerning the real problem facing emerging artists today (and he tells it well!). He says, “The struggle of a professional musician is completely about communication. The reality is that in order for you to push your art/music with the MOST efficiency and impact, people have to see you LIVE and in the flesh. I’ve always found that a kick-ass performance in front of an intimate crowd (15-50 people) has always been more effective in impacting and growing a real audience of dedicated followers. A great performance to a small crowd seems to get people ‘doing’ and ‘actively promoting’ rather than just passively acknowledging their approval.”
Preach on brother Sal! A great band or artist isn’t defined by their skills in a studio or by a plethora of followers on twitter… The real worth of an artist is found in the live, in your face, show! I won’t name them here, but more than a couple acts lost favor with the PEV clan following a live experience (you’ll have to ask me offline).
If Sal’s live show is anything like his new record, “Lives in Devil City”, we’re looking forward to getting blown away. He describes it best: “Fans can expect a hard-hitting rock record that they’ll hopefully want to blast in their car stereos, house parties, or during their workouts. This record hits hard from start to finish, with high energy and up-tempo songs to get your blood pumping and heart singing, reflective yet optimistic themes of moving on and dealing with love lost, and just enough ‘fuck you’ bravado to make you feel legit in raising up your devil horns. The album is meant to be edgy, sexy, and full of hooks for those who love their Rock n’ Roll with a side of naughtiness.” Check out “Lives in Devil City” ASAP and keep an eye out for the new single, “Take Me Home” while you’re at it. Big things coming from Mr. Piamonte. There’s a lot more to get into, so keep reading for all the answers to the XXQ’s.
XXQs: Sal Piamonte
PensEyeView.com (PEV): How would you describe your sound?
Sal Piamonte (SP): A bastard rock child conceived in an orgy of Hendrix love and Led Zeppelin haze, accompanied by Kid Rock and Foo Fighter-like passion and fire, sprinkled with harmonies and soul from the Almond brothers to Coldplay.
PEV: Born and raised in Ottawa, Canada, what kind of music where you into growing up? Was anyone your main influence?
SP: I grew up surrounded by the sounds of Top 40, Motown, and Rhythm & Blues music. My mom used to blast Bob Seger, and when I was really young, we shared a flight with Chubby Checker and his band on a flight to Australia…he was totally hitting on her too, go figure. Michael Jackson was the only artist I truly idolized growing up. I learned how to moonwalk because of him, and the infectiously catchy songs he wrote and performed are what really opened my eyes to the beauty of songwriting and strong melodic hooks…not to mention the power of performing with his magnetic and monstrous stage presence. Growing up in a very conservative, safe, and sheltered government town (our nation’s capital) actually didn’t create any type of ambivalent emotion or anything that made me want to lash out in true rock n’ roll fervor.
It wasn’t until I got to college that I started to truly gravitate to the sounds of Rock n’ Roll, appreciating and learning about all the greats that came before…discovering my love for old school Rock n’ Roll, Southern Rock, and soul. I feel that the chronology of my musical education and exposure is the reason that I have developed my own style of Rock n’ Roll, which is edgy and energetic, yet very pop sensible and accessible to a wide audience.
PEV: Tell us about your first ever live performance.
SP: My first ever show “happened” when I was 7 years old. I was just learning to play the guitar and one day I was at my gra
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Aid & Abet Music Critic Album Recommendation!!!
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Sal Piamonte Lives in Devil City (Grand Family)
Blooze and boogie with an industrial underpinning...Sal Piamonte Lives in Devil City (Grand Family)
Blooze and boogie with an industrial underpinning. Not exactly an unwlecome pairing, but one that is a bit disconcerting at first. In the end, these driving songs were too much fun to ignore.
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AWESOME ALBUM REVIEW BY CYRUS RHODES AT MUSEMUSE.COM!!!
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CD REVIEW: Sal Piamonte – Lives in the Devil City
By Cyrus Rhodes - 04/12/2012 – 03:27 PM EDT
A...CD REVIEW: Sal Piamonte – Lives in the Devil City
By Cyrus Rhodes - 04/12/2012 – 03:27 PM EDT
Artist: Sal Piamonte
Album: Lives in the Devil City
Label: Independent Artist
Website: http://www.salpiamonte.com/
Genre: Alternative Rock and Progressive Metal
Sounds Like: Live, Alice Cooper, Weezer, John Mayer
Technical Grade: 7/10
Production/Musicianship Grade: 8/10
Commercial Value: 9/10
Overall Talent Level: 7/10
Songwriting Skills: 8/10
Performance Skill: 7/10
Best Songs: Devil Woman, Take Me Home, Go All Night
Weakness: A few winded songs. Repetive Sound, Bright Mix
CD Review:
Ottawa based singer/songwriter Sal Piamonte just released his latest CD entitled Lives in the Devil City in 2012. Reading from his bio ”He’s rocking Heaven and Earth with a dangerously catchy twist on the timeless battle of good and evil.” So far so good.
The CD starts things off with “Big Sleazy Intro” a short prelude of sorts that leads you head first intro Track 2 ”Take Me Home” a dynamic guitar driven intro-groove that serves up steady rock rhythm against catchy vocal melodies, sizzling solos and hooky chorus from Piamonte. Track 3 is hands down my personal favorite “Devil Woman” keeps things moving with its driving rock rhythm, thought provoking lyrical content against a grand slam chorus. This track evolves into a solid rock groove with clever lyrical content and impressive vocal passion – all in all an amazing piece. Track 4 “Get Up, Get Up” is a hypnotic ditty with rock steady groove painted against impressive musical ambience, well placed harmonies against a heartfelt vocal delivery. As the CD slowly unfolds I can hear many musical influences reminiscent of classic Live, John Mayer, Todd Rundgren and perhaps a splash of Alice Cooper and even Weezer. Despite my pigeonholing I will add Piamonte is one artists that has a unique sound. This CD makes a pretty solid first impression. Right from the start you will notice rich musical textures and ambience overflowing everywhere, full of warmth, variety and strong melodic structure. I would classify this music as catchy hard rock, with a slight aftertaste of alternative and pop. Make no bones about it – this guy is a rocker but the songs themselves are addictive, cathy with subject matter that can push hard. The musicianship is pretty solid across the board. Piamonte showcases good production instincts and knows how to bring the passion. Along the way you will notice lush layers of instrumentation layered everywhere. Besides the 4 piece standard you will also catch impressive things well placed solo guitar, ambient touches and miscellaneous sampling, flute, piano, thick as a brick rhythm section and well placed vocal harmonies layered everywhere. Piamonte’s voice works well across the board as he fills the sonic space reckless abandon. I might add Piamonte brings allot of vocal passion to the table with powerful messages and no holds barred lyrical content. All songs are compelling, thought provoking musical experiences. From heartfelt “Just a Bit” to psychedelic “Tonight” to rocking “Shining Star” to catchy “Nasty Girl” to rocking “Watcha Say” this CD has something for just about everyone. The CD ends with Tack 11 “Go All night” and Track 12 “Big Sleazy Outro” the perfect bookend finale statements for a CD of this caliber.
It’s fair to say Piamonte’s sound is a bit repetitive overall. Track for track, song for song it’s hard to tell one song from the next. It’s also fair to say this is a very bright “in your face” mix. These types of mixes are really designed to maximize radio marketability – I get that. But at the end of these type of productions can be a real wear on the ears. All songs over 3.5 minutes tend to drag you to the finish line.
Lives in the Devil City bySal Piamonte is an impressive musical production from start to finish. The music is consistent; the messages will push you, make you think and are and sung from a deeply honest perspective. It’s strong
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Coral Rose in the UK gets Up Close & Personal with Sal Piamonte!
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Name:
Sal Piamonte
City, Country:
Ottawa, Canada
How old were you when you decided you w...Name:
Sal Piamonte
City, Country:
Ottawa, Canada
How old were you when you decided you wanted to become a singer?
I was musical at a very early age but never truly discovered I had a voice until I was around 17.
Who musically inspired you?
I am constantly being inspired by amazing artists such as Adele, Coldplay, etc…but I grew up surrounded by the sounds of Top 40 music, soul, and the Beatles. My all-time favourite is Michael Jackson, but I didn’t completely find my rock groove until my early 20’s…Overall, I am inspired by many great artists: Bruce Springsteen, Jimi Hendrix, the Doors, the Foo Fighters, Lenny Kravitz, Led Zeppelin, Kid Rock, the Black Crowes, Van Halen, Seether, Dr. Dre and on and on and on…
How old were you when you performed on stage?
The first time I ever performed publicly was at the age of 7 on the front steps of my grandmother’s house for a group of road workers who were asphalting the street in the neighbourhood where my grandparents lived. All of the men were of Italian decent (as was were my grandparents), and were taking their lunch break when my grandmother sent me out on the front steps to play for them. The guitar was bigger than I was, but once I launched into the “Sicilian Tarantella,” they were shocked and sang along as I performed. For the next few days as they finished asphalting the street, they would ask me to play for them at lunch, asking my grandmother to send out the “little boy with the big guitar.”
What is your favourite song of all time?
No favourites, but a number of worthy mentions…too many to name really so I’ll name a few: Billie Jean (Michael Jackson), Sexual Healing (Marvin Gaye), Red House (Jimi Hendrix), LA Woman (The Doors), Panama (Van Halen), California Love (Tupac), Juicy (Notorious B.I.G.), Paradise City (Guns n’ Roses)…and on and on…
Who would you like to be compared to?
Oh wow…that is a tough question to answer. I am not one of those artists that gets too worked up over comparisons because everyone has a different opinion, flavour, subjective preference for style etc…As long as I am compared to people in this world who are creating a positive difference on this planet, or for humanity, be it with their music, voice, work, message, or energy, then I am satisfied with that.
If you had 3 wishes what would you wish for?… (Rules you cannot wish for multiple wishes or to live forever!)
1. World Peace.
2. A cure for all diseases.
3. To know the truth about area 51.
Where do you want to be in 5 years time?
Touring the world with my family and performing my music to audiences (LARGE ONES) all over the planet.
Name one of your favourite films of all time & say why!
ROCKY….who doesn’t love the story of a fighting underdog???
Musically, where are you up to at the moment?
Right now I am full-steam ahead and focused on my new “Lives In Devil City” record. My band and I are honing the live show and working hard to get the album out to the masses….that being said, my creative juices are getting close to impossible to contain so don’t be surprised if some brand new material gets tested and tried at upcoming live shows!
Where can people find out you?
My official website at www.salpiamonte.com is the best source for all things “Sal Piamonte.” From there, you could access my FB, Twitter, YouTube links, and keep updated with my website blog and tour schedule that is always up to date!…AND…you can also order an album via my website or link to ITunes where you will find my newest album, “Lives In Devil City,” as well as my two previous efforts, “Free Money,” and “Rogue.”
Whats next for Sal Piamonte?
Growing my musical message around the world with new videos…new friends and fans…new tour dates…new music…and new adventures (blissfully naughty ones included)!!!!…Tune in and find out! I plan on being everywhere and OFTEN!!!…
More to come!
Raaaaaaaaawwwwwwwkkkk!!!!!!!!!
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PUREGRAINAUDIO.COM features the Sal Piamonte “Take Me Home” Video!!!
SAL PIAMONTE "TAKE ME HOME" VIDEO FEATURED ON PUREGRAINAUDIO.COM!!!
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“Take Me Home” video featured as “Video Of The Week” at MusicSubmit.com!!!
SAL PIAMONTE FEATURED AS "ARTIST OF THE WEEK" ON MUSICSUBMIT.COM!
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SAL PIAMONTE FEATURED ARTIST ON GLOBAL ONSLAUGHT’S WEBSITE!
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SAL PIAMONTE (CANADA)
Sal Piamonte may hail from the same hometown as Alanis Morissette and his vi...SAL PIAMONTE (CANADA)
Sal Piamonte may hail from the same hometown as Alanis Morissette and his vibe may capture some of his homegirl’s rebellious fire, but “Take Me Home”—the blistering first single from the Ottawa born singer/songwriter’ latest album Lives in Devil City—puts the listener square in the heart of Alabama and Louisiana, where soul-driven Southern rock reigns.
As hard hitting as the tunes are, the multi-faceted, dangerously catchy 13-track set (which is bookended by a clever “Big Sleazy” intro and outro) isn’t simply about celebrating Piamonte’s diverse array of influences and the many ways, as he puts it, “Rock and Roll rules my soul.” Devil City is a hard hitting metaphor for a place where disillusionment reigns, the people you thought you could count on let you down and everyone’s in it for themselves. Piamonte’s task throughout is rising above. He’s seen the devil in a flowered dress (“Whatcha Say?”) but in this struggle of good vs. evil, he’s not giving up just because of a few setbacks. Tova Payne from Capital Style Magazine puts it best: “There is no doubt this soul rocker is racing along his musical path. His determination, passion and energy is unstoppable.”
Since his early forays into the music world—he released his solo debut EP Moments They Pass in 2006—Piamonte both in studio and onstage has epitomized the “never say die” attitude. His songs are driven by stories of triumph, tragedy, conquest and a wealth of life experiences connected to a powerful mystical gift of intuition and psychic awareness. A psychological profiler by day and musical shaman by night, he’s bold about declaring his feeling that many of his songs have “written themselves,” as though he is literally pulling the ideas out of the sky. He is currently signed to the publishing company 2850 Music, whose other artists include Lionel Richie, GroupLove and John Waite.
“I think the difference in the efforts leading up to my new record, and my new record itself, is that I became more confident and focused with my message, choice of lyrics and chord progressions, and honing my melodies,” he says. “For a long while, it was hard for me to balance my love for Top 40 music, southern styled rock and roll and soulful elements with my love for more straight up styled rock, I feel that a certain process was necessary to get to this point. I feel that rock allows me the freedom to express my message so as to maximize my positive impact on the world and the people around me.”
Expanding on his numerous past successes, the singer’s deep connections to the universe are translating perfectly to the hearts of thousands of listeners throughout Canada. “Take Me Home” received adds and features on stations such as The Wave in Yarmouth, NS, 99.1 in Wallaceburg, ON, 106.1 The Goat in Lloydsminster AB, Rock 101 Radio and The Wolf 106 in Naniamo, BC. He also recently earned first place as well as Artist of the Month on the New Artist Online voting at CKXSFM’s fan polls. He is currently ranking at #7 (out of hundreds) for a coveted showcase spot in the 2012 MIDEM Showcase competition in Cannes. His upcoming show at the Toronto Independent Music Awards is the latest of hundreds of performances throughout Canada, including performances at Massey Hall in Toronto, where he has shared the stage with Sheriff/Alias, Animotion, Alan Frew of Glass Tiger, Kevin Hearn of Barenaked Ladies and others. Fans have been mesmerized by a sound that the Canadian media has found unique ways to describe over the years.
Jaimie Vernon of Cashbox Canada, Inc. wrote: “Piamonte has managed to assemble a million dollar record on an indie budget. And what a record it is; one part balls-in-your-face misogynist swagger and bravado like tried and true ‘Drop D’ tuned bands a la Nickelback, Theory of A Deadman and Finger Eleven; another part Kid Rock good-time party anthems; and all out exceptional Hedley-styled pop vocals, hooky rock riffs, and speaker busting production… In another era th
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CD Review: Sal Piamonte's 'Lives in Devil City' (4.5/5 ALBUM REVIEW)
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A 4.5/5 Album Review by Craig Hartranft at DANGERDOG MUSIC!
Posted on March 5, 2012 by Sal Piamonte...A 4.5/5 Album Review by Craig Hartranft at DANGERDOG MUSIC!
Posted on March 5, 2012 by Sal Piamonte
Piamonte, Sal: Lives in Devil City
Melodic Hard/Sleaze Rock
4.5/5.0
Website Facebook Twitter YouTube ?Independent/Unsigned?by Craig Hartranft, 03.05.2012
Sal Piamonte seems dislocated in time and place: 25 years from the Sunset Strip. Instead, he’s living and breathing his music in Canada, battling it out with Nickelback for the top spot of melodic hard/sleaze rock, with his second album Lives in Devil City. What’s up with living in the great North? Too cold or too much moose piss in the water? Maybe not enough chicks.
Piamonte has all the skills and elements for creating good melodic hard rock. Not the least of which are his strong vocals and vocal arrangements, hook-laden and catchy song writing, and intense sense of melody and pacing. Add some sterling production and this album buzzes with thrills and intensity. This indie project sounds likes a big budget production, totally first class.
Lives in Devil City hooks you from the start with immensely catchy and groove driven Take Me Home (also a single), Devil Woman, and Get Up Get Up. In the center, a ballad follows, Just A Little Bit, which displays Piamonte’s softer vocal side. (He’s a damn fine singer.) Tonight reminds of simple AOR melodic rock, but also proves, as do other songs, that Piamonte isn’t merely a Nickelback clone.
Then, from Shining Star to the end, he returns to the style and pace set at the start: simply fine melodic hard rock, with the wildly groovy Shining Star, Whatcha Say, and Go All night the better picks. Nasty Girl, not so much. But considering the strength of the whole, you can’t hold it against him.
The majority of the lyrical content mirrors that other Canadian band: sleazy misogynist themes where women are something between imaginary pornstars and basic sex objects. You may have to take a shower after listening to Lives in Devil City, but you know you had a rocking good time as you got down and dirty. Always remember, most rock lives below the belt.
Sal Piamonte’s Lives in Devil City is catchy and entertaining, dirty and sleazy, melodic hard rock. Practice safe sex when you listen. Recommended.
CHECK IT OUT AT: http://www.dangerdog.com/2012-music-reviews/sal-piamonte-lives-in-devil-city.php
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SAL PIAMONTE ‘LIVES IN DEVIL CITY’ (GRAND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT/CANADA IMPORT) (8.4/10 ALBUM REVIEW)
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Canadian rocker SAL PIAMONTE definitely has got all it takes to become the next big Rockstar. His mu...Canadian rocker SAL PIAMONTE definitely has got all it takes to become the next big Rockstar. His music is quite typical Northern American and resembling a style that combines elements of KID ROCK, LENNY KRAVITZ, KING OF THE HILL and some DAUGHTRY/NICKELBACK/BO BICE. A little Southern Rock here, a lot of groovy gang-vocal driven midtempo Heavy Rock there and even a typical late 80s radio-ready Melodic Power Rockballad is thrown in for good measure as well (“Just a little bit” is basically pure WARRANT circa “Heaven” and “Sometimes she cries”), but Sal also goes for uptempo catchy Melodic Rock sometimes, such as during the best song “Tonight” that has a chorus that would not be out of place on a FRONTIERS RECORDS release! However, these are only a few songs that could be qualified as pure Melodic Rock, because most of the album is a mix of Classic Rock the groovy American Hardrock way and Modern Rock, like KID ROCK meets AEROSMITH meets a rockier THREE DOORS DOWN. Anyway, Sal still has an own identity, as he takes the best of all kinds of Rockstyles, mixes it up and thanks to his very strong production, the overall feeling of this CD is quite good. Sal impresses more than on one occasion and truly delivers here a high quality major label ish release, on which he by the way does a lot on his own (not only the excellent singing, but also the production, guitars and bass). It surely sounds like a 2011 record, very fresh and still interesting enough for the melodic rockfans with an open-mind to check out at: http://www.salpiamonte.com and http://www.facebook.com/salpiamonte and http://www.myspace.com/salpiamontemusic
(Points: 8.4 out of 10)
http://www.angelfire.com/ma/strutteraor/HOTNEWREVIEWS180.htm
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SAL PiAMONTE EMERGES ViCTORiOUS AS ROCKWiRED.COM's ARTiST OF THE MONTH!!!
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FEBRUARY 1, 2012 - The polls have closed for ROCKWIRED.COM's recent ARTIST OF THE MONTH campaign. Vo...FEBRUARY 1, 2012 - The polls have closed for ROCKWIRED.COM's recent ARTIST OF THE MONTH campaign. Voters from all over the U.S. made their vote count and HILLBILLY VEGAS and their latest release RINGO MANOR are the first ARTIST OF THE MONTH winners for 2012. SAL PIAMONTE may hail from the same hometown as ALANIS MORRISETTE and his vibe may capture some of his homegirl’s rebellious fire, but “TAKE ME HOME”—the blistering first single from the Ottawa born singer/songwriter’ latest album LIVES IN DEVIL CITY—puts the listener square in the heart of Alabama and Louisiana, where soul-driven Southern rock reigns. As hard hitting as the tunes are, the multi-faceted, dangerously catchy 13-track set (which is bookended by a clever “BIG SLEAZY” intro and outro) isn’t simply about celebrating PIAMONTE’s diverse array of influences and the many ways, as he puts it, “Rock and Roll rules my soul.” DEVIL CITY is a hard hitting metaphor for a place where disillusionment reigns, the people you thought you could count on let you down and everyone’s in it for themselves. PIAMONTE’s task throughout is rising above. He’s seen the devil in a flowered dress (“WHATCHA SAY?”) but in this struggle of good vs. evil, he’s not giving up just because of a few setbacks. “I think the difference in the efforts leading up to my new record, and my new record itself, is that I became more confident and focused with my message, choice of lyrics and chord progressions, and honing my melodies,” he says. “For a long while, it was hard for me to balance my love for Top 40 music, southern styled rock and roll and soulful elements with my love for more straight up styled rock, I feel that a certain process was necessary to get to this point. I feel that rock allows me the freedom to express my message so as to maximize my positive impact on the world and the people around me.”
SAL PIAMONTE won with 29% of the vote followed by ENGLORIA who took home a close 26% of the vote. Trailing behind them at a close third with 24% of the vote was blues rocker ALASTAIR GREEN. Other nominees for ARTIST OF THE MONTH included JANETE LABELLE, SHAUNA BURNS, RICHI ONORI and JJ CROWNE.
ROCKWIRED.COM will be launching its latest ARTIST OF THE MONTH campaign on JANUARY 2, 2012. Nominees for this latest wave include UNTIL CHAOS, DRASTIC ANDREW, DONNA DESTRI, RIVET HEAD, SAVING DAMSELS, FIVE MINUTE SIN and THE PORTER DRAW. Polling is provided by MICROPOLL and is as simple as making a selection and clicking 'vote'.
While there is no trophy or huge payday for being an ARTIST OF THE MONTH winner, the benefits that come along with the title include expanded coverage and promotion. An ARTIST OF MONTH winner is awarded a month's worth of free site-wide advertising on ROCKWIRED.COM. A 60-second commercial spot promoting the winner and their album will be featured on ROCKWIRED.COM's entire programming for an entire month. The winner is also featured in a special edition of ROCKWIRED RADIO PROFILES. Banners are also given to the winners to further promote their ARTIST OF THE MONTH status on their own website or press packets. Lastly, winners are mentioned on all ROCKWIRED-related announcements/press materials.
"So far it is shaping up to be a good year for rock n roll here at ROCKWIRED" says ROCKWIRED founder BRIAN LUSH. "SAL PIAMONTE's got this great, rebellious sound and I hope that we see more of it in the year to come."
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SAL PIAMONTE (CANADA)
[+ Show ]
SAL PIAMONTE (CANADA)
Sal Piamonte may hail from the same hometown as Alanis Morissette and his v...SAL PIAMONTE (CANADA)
Sal Piamonte may hail from the same hometown as Alanis Morissette and his vibe may capture some of his homegirl’s rebellious fire, but “Take Me Home”—the blistering first single from the Ottawa born singer/songwriter’ latest album Lives in Devil City—puts the listener square in the heart of Alabama and Louisiana, where soul-driven Southern rock reigns.
As hard hitting as the tunes are, the multi-faceted, dangerously catchy 13-track set (which is bookended by a clever “Big Sleazy” intro and outro) isn’t simply about celebrating Piamonte’s diverse array of influences and the many ways, as he puts it, “Rock and Roll rules my soul.” Devil City is a hard hitting metaphor for a place where disillusionment reigns, the people you thought you could count on let you down and everyone’s in it for themselves. Piamonte’s task throughout is rising above. He’s seen the devil in a flowered dress (“Whatcha Say?”) but in this struggle of good vs. evil, he’s not giving up just because of a few setbacks. Tova Payne from Capital Style Magazine puts it best: “There is no doubt this soul rocker is racing along his musical path. His determination, passion and energy is unstoppable.”
Since his early forays into the music world—he released his solo debut EP Moments They Pass in 2006—Piamonte both in studio and onstage has epitomized the “never say die” attitude. His songs are driven by stories of triumph, tragedy, conquest and a wealth of life experiences connected to a powerful mystical gift of intuition and psychic awareness. A psychological profiler by day and musical shaman by night, he’s bold about declaring his feeling that many of his songs have “written themselves,” as though he is literally pulling the ideas out of the sky. He is currently signed to the publishing company 2850 Music, whose other artists include Lionel Richie, GroupLove and John Waite.
“I think the difference in the efforts leading up to my new record, and my new record itself, is that I became more confident and focused with my message, choice of lyrics and chord progressions, and honing my melodies,” he says. “For a long while, it was hard for me to balance my love for Top 40 music, southern styled rock and roll and soulful elements with my love for more straight up styled rock, I feel that a certain process was necessary to get to this point. I feel that rock allows me the freedom to express my message so as to maximize my positive impact on the world and the people around me.”
Expanding on his numerous past successes, the singer’s deep connections to the universe are translating perfectly to the hearts of thousands of listeners throughout Canada. “Take Me Home” received adds and features on stations such as The Wave in Yarmouth, NS, 99.1 in Wallaceburg, ON, 106.1 The Goat in Lloydsminster AB, Rock 101 Radio and The Wolf 106 in Naniamo, BC. He also recently earned first place as well as Artist of the Month on the New Artist Online voting at CKXSFM’s fan polls. He is currently ranking at #7 (out of hundreds) for a coveted showcase spot in the 2012 MIDEM Showcase competition in Cannes. His upcoming show at the Toronto Independent Music Awards is the latest of hundreds of performances throughout Canada, including performances at Massey Hall in Toronto, where he has shared the stage with Sheriff/Alias, Animotion, Alan Frew of Glass Tiger, Kevin Hearn of Barenaked Ladies and others. Fans have been mesmerized by a sound that the Canadian media has found unique ways to describe over the years.
Jaimie Vernon of Cashbox Canada, Inc. wrote: “Piamonte has managed to assemble a million dollar record on an indie budget. And what a record it is; one part balls-in-your-face misogynist swagger and bravado like tried and true ‘Drop D’ tuned bands a la Nickelback, Theory of A Deadman and Finger Eleven; another part Kid Rock good-time party anthems; and all out exceptional Hedley-styled pop vocals, hooky rock riffs, and speaker busting production… In another era the opening quartet of tracks off the top of the album of “Take Me Home”, “Devil Woman” and “Get Up, Get Up” and the balladry of “Just A Little Bit” would have meant a whole A-side of charting singles. Piamonte has loosely woven the tracks into a narrative of dark and dangerous exploits in the metaphorical Devil City…Imagine comic icon Frank Miller’s ‘Sin City’ as a Broadway musical.”
“Take Me Home” is the song on Lives In Devil City that’s getting the most early traction, but the collection has numerous emotional focal points. Piamonte and his band have shot a video for that single, as well as a promotional video for the “Get Up, Get Up” single,” an inspirational percussive rocker which the singer penned as a note of encouragement to a young cousin; it’s about having the strength to be forward and not be ashamed of who you are. “Tonight”’s classic dancey pop-rock vibe reflects on love lost with a positive message that is painted with a mysterious ambience of images of nighttime, including vampires. “Just A Little Bit” is the power ballad of the set, also reflecting on the regret of what’s behind but with a forward thinking twist.
Piamonte says, “This record paints a quasi-narrative in a fictional ‘Devil City’ that highlights my personal dealings with these shady characters-from so-called ‘friends’ to lovers, to acquaintances, and how their selfishness and short-sightedness helped me to discover what I truly had to offer, while sending a message that I will never let anyone break or bring me down, no matter the odds. From a songwriting point of view, that has always been my forte, but writing this record didn’t really come with a whole lot of digging or soul searching in the typical sense…the material was simply there, at-the-ready, for me to sift and sort through, and to present on an edgy, yet pop-sensible enough canvas, to be able to accurately convey the message.”
Transcript thank you to -Jonathan Widram for Rainmaker Media
Follow on Twitter @SalPiamonte
www.salpiamonte.com
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CD Review: Sal Piamonte's 'Lives in Devil City' Too Good
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Canadian Rocker Sal Piamonte pours mounds of devilish guitar licks into ‘Lives.’
On the first lis...Canadian Rocker Sal Piamonte pours mounds of devilish guitar licks into ‘Lives.’
On the first listen, the listener does not feel the torque of rocker Sal Piamonte’s voice. That seems to be the theme ofLives in Devil City. He moves the listener into this grungy – electronic – sonic burst rock anthems. It takes a bit, but the listener gets there. He creates these pieces that while dark in the sense of not being saccharin-laced modern pop tracks, the lyrics actually have positive messages.
The journey starts with “Big Sleazy Intro,” which is nothing more than a Wolfman Jack-like jock character setting the tone. “Evil ways lead to darker days,” says this radio ham. It doesn’t quite mesh with the following track, but okay, kinda fun. (the album also ends with this character)
Like Newer INXS Tracks
“Take Me Home Tonight” is one of the album’s stand out tracks. The chorus really shakes things up and the incredible wall of sound Piamonte has orchestrated is shivering. This track is radio ready – and yet his voice is still not warmed up. In “Devil Woman” Piamonte’s voice is beginning, it seems, to charge itself more.
It’s as if he’s an Indy 500 driver, and just settling back in the back line, waiting patiently to make his move to the front. He really holds back in these first tracks – but still showcases his natural rock instincts. There is something about “Devil Woman” that reminds this writer/listener to think of some of the newer INXS tracks (with J.D. Fortune - who is also Canadian for the scorekeepers at home!).
Okay, Piamonte’s voice is sexy, but not as sensual as Fortune. There, it has been said.
In “Get Up, Get Up” Piamonte really transforms this song with his vocal command. The chorus is catchy and this track is another standout. Get this on the radio – preferably AAA or rock radio as soon as possible. Fans of the Sick Puppies might like this one, but will most likely be disappointed no poignant bass solos are featured.
“Shining Star” is almost industrial-rock, a bit NIN. A bit. This song sounds like it might be a bit demented at first, but again, Piamonte has this intriguing ability to still be calming; his energy is positive even though he’s talking about choking and spitting. Maybe if his tone had more anger to it, the song would take a complete turn. As is, it is a pretty sick track.
Overall CD Review
Overall, Lives in Devil City is a trip to Piamonte’s (albeit positive at times) underworld that garners a solid A rating. Totally unexpected at times and through and through the guy can write and belt out some very modern rock tracks. Fair warning to parents out there–Piamonte drops some F-bombs, and sometimes the lyrics might cause some confusion in some younger listeners.
Besides “Take Me Home,” “Get Up, Get Up,” “High Road” (slows things down a bit and has this killer guitar intro/tone) and “Go All Night” fans of Sick Puppies, Collective Soul, Nickelback, Escape Club, Grant Lee Buffalo and light, modern rock will dig Lives In Devil City.
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Sal Piamonte, Lives In Devil City (5/5 ALBUM REVIEW)
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Sal Piamonte, Lives In Devil City
January 13, 2012 | by Skope
I’d like to start out by saying Sa...Sal Piamonte, Lives In Devil City
January 13, 2012 | by Skope
I’d like to start out by saying Sal Piamonte kicks major ass and his latest release ‘Lives In Devil City’ is a true testament to that. Sal is a jack of all trades playing to the tune of singer/songwriter, producer and rock ‘n’ roller. This record really offers so much with Sal Piamonte not allowing one dull moment.
‘Lives In Devil City’ is a fictional place created by Sal with the overall theme centered around the classic tale of good vs. evil. The album title may be a fictitious city but the concepts and ideas behind it are very real my friends. Sal Piamonte is battling between the good guys & bad guys and so who will win? Which side will you gravitate toward when listening to ‘Lives In Devil City’?
I do have to say that Piamonte has a true rock ‘n’ roll spirit which shines through on this 12-track recording. Rock & roll is alive and well inside Sal Piamonte! Right from the start on “Take Me Home” you are hearing incredibly catchy rock melodies & riffs that drive hard. Sal proves to be one solid front man with a presence that is well-received. Sal is bringin’ you aggressive, in-your-face energy like on the song “Shining Star” along with a party-like atmosphere on “Go All Night”. Don’t be mistaken though because it’s not all fun & games as Sal & company slow things down a bit and offer up a sensitive approach on “Just A Little Bit”. You’ll also get some major Pop appeal with a powerful sound that fully grabs you on “Tonight”. I also can’t say enough about the excellent harmony that Sal and his bandmates display throughout this record with the track “High Road” really standing out in my opinion. And what a band Sal Piamonte has backing him!
I am definitely a Sal Piamonte fan now and ‘Lives In Devil City’ would be an awesome addition to your music collection. Rock & substance collide to make up one killer album. There is also that cool edge and overall nice-sounding vibe that carries on throughout ‘Lives In Devil City’. I can’t say enough good things about Sal Piamonte and this LP so go get your copy right now! I highly recommend this record and I can not wait to hear what Sal cooks up next!
By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)
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Sal Piamonte-LIVES IN DEVIL CITY (4.5/5 ALBUM REVIEW)
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Canada’s Sal Piamonte first broke into the music scene with the release of his EP “Rouge” in 2008. ...Canada’s Sal Piamonte first broke into the music scene with the release of his EP “Rouge” in 2008. In 2010, he released the self-produced LP, “Free Money”. Now, Piamonte is rocking eardrums with Lives in Devil City. I repeat… rocking.
The first single, “Take Me Home” is already getting radio play. Piamonte sings about a very unique girl who will “rock your world”. Who can resist a rocker’s love song? The album gets more impressive after each track. “Devil Woman” and “Get Up Get Up” really shows the compatibility between Piamonte’s strong voice and his backup band.
The album takes a slower twist with “Just A Little Bit”. Perfectly placed on the album, the song shows the softer side to Piamonte. I hope to see similar tracks like this on his future releases. “Tonight” might be my favorite song. The opening bass beats and Piamonte’s echoing voice will stick in your head, and for good reason. If there is that one song you repeat immediately after listening to it, it will be this one.
In “Shining Star”, Piamonte puts the ballads aside and rages. He creatively gets his meaning across with the lyrics, “Now you’re reeking/ all the lies and the shit that you sold me/Like a pretty little cake/That I ate, yeah/That I choked on/And tried not to spit out/So you would be ok”.
The rest of the album does not falter. In fact, I already recommended Lives in Devil City to my friend who is a fan of Hinder and Scott Stapp. Although, I do not like comparing artists to one another, Sal Piamonte is someone my friend needs to hear. “Go All Night” ends the album and will leave you wanting more. Although I have never seen Piamonte live, I am curious to see him and his band rock out on stage.
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ROCKWiRED RADiO PROFiLES PRESENTS: THE BLiSTERiNG SOUND OF SAL PiAMONTE AND HiS LATEST CD LiVES iN DEViL CiTY DECEMBER 13, 2011
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SAL PIAMONTE may hail from the same hometown as ALANIS MORRISETTE and his vibe may capture some of h...SAL PIAMONTE may hail from the same hometown as ALANIS MORRISETTE and his vibe may capture some of his homegirl’s rebellious fire, but “TAKE ME HOME”—the blistering first single from the Ottawa born singer/songwriter’ latest album LIVES IN DEVIL CITY—puts the listener square in the heart of Alabama and Louisiana, where soul-driven Southern rock reigns. As hard hitting as the tunes are, the multi-faceted, dangerously catchy 13-track set (which is bookended by a clever “BIG SLEAZY” intro and outro) isn’t simply about celebrating PIAMONTE’s diverse array of influences and the many ways, as he puts it, “Rock and Roll rules my soul.” DEVIL CITY is a hard hitting metaphor for a place where disillusionment reigns, the people you thought you could count on let you down and everyone’s in it for themselves. PIAMONTE’s task throughout is rising above. He’s seen the devil in a flowered dress (“WHATCHA SAY?”) but in this struggle of good vs. evil, he’s not giving up just because of a few setbacks. “I think the difference in the efforts leading up to my new record, and my new record itself, is that I became more confident and focused with my message, choice of lyrics and chord progressions, and honing my melodies,” he says. “For a long while, it was hard for me to balance my love for Top 40 music, southern styled rock and roll and soulful elements with my love for more straight up styled rock, I feel that a certain process was necessary to get to this point. I feel that rock allows me the freedom to express my message so as to maximize my positive impact on the world and the people around me.”
TO LISTEN TO THIS RADIO INTERVIEW ONLINE, PLEASE VISIT:
http://www.rockwired.com/rockwiredprofiles204.html
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Sal Piamonte – Lives in Devil City (CD) (8.4/10 ALBUM REVIEW)
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Sal Piamonte is able to imbue rock music with a vitality that is matched only by the asheer array of...Sal Piamonte is able to imbue rock music with a vitality that is matched only by the asheer array of styles and influences that are present during Lives in Devil City. Fans of Hinder, Papa Roach, and even Lostprophets will find something to sink their teeth into. Take Me Home is a track that just feels destined for radio rotation; with a set of vocals that will ensure listeners and tight instrumentation that will keep them focused in, Piamonte has an early victory. Devil Woman speeds things up considerably and lets the guitar fight for dominance with Piamonte’s inimitable voice.
With each side (instrumental and vocal) pushing the other higher and higher, the momentum that is achieved during the early measures of the disc is astounding. With Get Up Get Up, the guitar work allows for an incredibly dense arrangement to be created. While the vocals provide the narrative aspect to the track, I feel that the harmonies achieved by Piamonte here are utilized by the guitars, drums, and bass to make for a more full sounding effort. I personally like the inclusion of Just A Little Bit, as this slower-tempo track provides listeners with a decidedly different side of Piamonte. This ballad ratchets up the storytelling aspect of Lives in Devil City, and provides Piamonte with a possible path for his next album. The more emotive and earthy style of Just A Little Bit is continued with Tonight, a bass-heavy track that will remind listeners of artists like Interpol and Alkaline Trio.
Where it is a major struggle for acts to continually innovate and change up their sound on an album, Piamonte is able to come forth with a scintillating tour de force through the different sides of modern and current rock. I feel that Piamonte will be rocketing up the charts just as soon as a wider swath of listeners are able to pick up this album. Check out Lives in Devil City today and see if he is playing anywhere around you.
Top Tracks: Take Me Home, Get Up Get Up
Rating: 8.4/10
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Sal Piamonte "Lives In Devil City" (Grand Family Entertainment) REVIEW
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SAL PIAMONTE “Lives in Devil City” (Grand Family Entertainment)
Ottawa’s Sal Piamonte has crafte...SAL PIAMONTE “Lives in Devil City” (Grand Family Entertainment)
Ottawa’s Sal Piamonte has crafted a rare CD that manages to showcase both songwriting and performance right out of the starting gate with all cylinders firing. We’re not just talking about the skills but the presentation as well. This is a slick, major label looking and *sounding* tour de force.
Aside from a bad-ass Digi-Pack movie poster-looking sleeve and booklet, Piamonte has managed to assemble a million dollar record on an indie budget. And what a record it is; One part balls-in-your-face misogynist swagger and bravado like tried and true ‘Drop D’ tuned bands a la Nickelback, Theory of A Deadman and Finger Eleven; another part Kid Rock good-time party anthems; and all out exceptional Hedley-styled pop vocals, hooky rock riffs, and speaker busting production. You gotta hear it to experience it. In another era the opening quartet of tracks off the top of the album of “Take Me Home”, “Devil Woman” and “Get Up, Get Up” and the balladry of “Just A Little Bit” would have meant a whole A-side of charting singles.
Piamonte has loosely woven the tracks into a narrative of dark and dangerous exploits in the metaphorical Devil City. Imagine comic icon Frank Miller’s ‘Sin City’ as a Broadway musical. The theme over all is the literal and figurative fornication of Piamonte – giving it (“Nasty Girl”, “Devil Woman”, “Do Watcha Say” and “Go All Night”) and receiving it (“Get Up, Get Up”, “Shining Star” and “High Road”). But the melodies are woven in such a way that the songs aren’t bleak but actually uptempo and hopeful. Prime example is “Tonight” which is a rock dance party with a message and might be the best prospect for shaking up commercial radio where Auto-Tune and vacuous performers abound.
Alas, Piamonte’s built himself a hard act to follow. This is a solid debut that’s going to be very difficult to top.
http://www.salpiamonte.com/
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October‘s XS New Artist Of The Month – SAL PIAMONTE
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Sal Piamonte is no ordinary minstrel and his music is no ordinary sound. If Rob Thomas had Santana’s...Sal Piamonte is no ordinary minstrel and his music is no ordinary sound. If Rob Thomas had Santana’s chops on guitar, then you might come close to Sal Piamonte’s sound. Leafing through Sal Piamonte’s biography is a reading exercise in amateur recording accolades. He certainly has the credibility, and when you listen to his music, you know he has the ability. His lyrics are poignant, not pretentious. His guitar work is catchy, not kitschy. His voice is solid, not sprawling. Piamonte knows his groove, hits it early and often, and at a young age seems to have found his niche. He brings a unique sound and style to his music and the energy on the tracks is palpable. As you listen to the tracks, you can tell how near and dear each of them is to Piamonte’s heart. He plays with emotion and it is tangible in every way. There is no doubt this multi-faceted soul-rocker is racing along his music path. His determination, passion, and energy are unstoppable.
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PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILER UNLEASHES FIERY NEW ROCK N’ ROLL RECORD ON THE WORLD
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Sal Piamonte, Rock’s Most Mysterious Up & Comer Profiles the Human Psyche by Day and is a Musical Sh...Sal Piamonte, Rock’s Most Mysterious Up & Comer Profiles the Human Psyche by Day and is a Musical Shaman by Night; Unleashes His Demons with the Deadly New “Lives In Devil City” LP
Hailing from the Great White North, Sal Piamonte, a singer/songwriter/producer/Rock n’ Roller, fires it up with a hot new rock record of undeniably catchy, edgy, and hard hitting songs that make up the new “Lives In Devil City” LP. Reaction to the new record and first album single, “Take Me Home,” have already garnered serious attention with many immediate adds on radio, and by listeners and industry people across North America. Coming off the heels of a freshly signed Publishing deal with California-based 2850 Music (Lionel Ritchie, GroupLove, John Waite etc), Sal Piamonte’s newest “Lives In Devil City” effort, released in October 2011, will prove to showcase his talents as both a singer and a songwriter, as well a world-class producer and performer.
As a follow-up to last year’s Southern-Rock styled “Free Money” LP, Piamonte focuses his infectious brand of rock on his newest effort, creating a bastard rock child conceived in a Rock n' Roll orgy of sound and lyric that combines true pop sensibility with a soulful & energetic old school vibe, mixed with harder edge modern stylings and emotion. Sal Piamonte is gearing up for a very hot 2012 with upcoming North American tour dates and follow-up radio single/video releases. The new video for the “Take Me Home” radio single has been shot and will be released to media in late October/early November 2011, and new album is currently available for purchase on ITunes, Amazon, Napster etc.. and via www.salpiamonte.com.
“Sal Piamonte writes, sings, performs and looks like a rock star. I have had the honor to discover that this is NO act or trick of the light,” Two-time Grammy Award winner Ted Greenberg
“Anyone who enjoys a good time, will want to not only own this record, but see Sal live because any artist that can make someone move that much on just a recording will definitely deliver an unforgettable live show. Versatility is key to making someone great, and Sal Piamonte has just that.” Kendra Beltran, Bryan Farrish Promotions (Los Angeles)
“Sal is the real deal…He’s a true artist who knows how to bring emotion, dynamics and vision together in his music to create an honest, soulful sound. Sal's blend of rock is timeless – a modern classic,” World-renowned guitarist Michael “Fish” Herring (Prince, Christina Aguilera, NKOTBSB, Tupac Shakur, Mariah Carey, LeAnn Rimes & Anastacia)
For more information on Sal Piamonte and his new “Lives In Devil City” LP, please visit www.salpiamonte.com or direct queries to contact@salpiamonte.com.
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Reviewed by Kendra Beltran of Bryan Farrish Radio Promotions
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Sal Piamonte, Free Money
Sal Piamonte's Free Money should be anything but free. This record had t...Sal Piamonte, Free Money
Sal Piamonte's Free Money should be anything but free. This record had the same feel as newer works by Kid Rock, rock mixed with a nice dash of Southern, and a pinch of attitude. Free Money has guitar riffs that will make rock fans want to throw up their devil horns. Country fans will fall for the Southern spin Sal throws in. Lastly, anyone who enjoys a good time, will want to not only own this record, but see Sal live because any artist that can make someone move that much on just a recording will definitely deliver an unforgettable live show. Versatility is key to making someone great, and Sal Piamonte has just that.
Track 2: "The Rogue" is pure fist pumping, guitar driven rock that catches listeners instantly. Sal's vocals are packed full of masculinity and take this track to another level of excellence.
Track 4: "1000 Miles" is ready to invade the minds of America. This catchy tune is nothing short of an instant hit that catches hold of all five senses. The audience can hear the rock beats, taste this woman's "salty lips," smell her perfume, feel the heartache in Sal's voice, and overall envision the woman that he would walk the distance for.
Track 8: "Ain‚t No Time (Like a Good Time)" comes on and everyone at the party knows it is time to start having fun. This track is reminiscent of country superstars Big & Rich because of the livelihood of the lyrics and upbeat music. Also the addition of the piano breakdown sounded like a throwback to the saloon days, which took this track from party jam to party classic.
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Sal Piamonte Nationwide Unsigned
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By: David Esposito
When you’re born into a tight-knit, blue collar Italian family, one might not ...By: David Esposito
When you’re born into a tight-knit, blue collar Italian family, one might not expect you to have commercial success as a pop singer/songwriter. But Sal Piamonte is no ordinary minstrel and his music is no ordinary sound. This is a guy who writes straight-up rock n’ roll for people who like rock n’ roll. If Rob Thomas had Santana’s chops on guitar, then you might be coming close to Sal Piamonte’s sound. For a guy who writes some awfully catchy pop rock, Piamonte might sound like a lot of artists you’ve heard. Yet he surprises the listener by adding layers to his lyrics and melodies that set the songs apart.
Leafing through Sal Piamonte’s biography is a reading exercise in amateur recording accolades. The man has finished in the top five in several songwriting contests and is in regular rotation on L.A.’s indie rock station, IRADIOLA. Piamonte was also invited to be a part of the World Renowned Canadian Music Week Festival for three years in a row. He’s got a song coming out on the SXSW compilation CD, “New Generation 2006” with his hit song “Friends Don’t Come Around.” Piamonte has also been involved in punk projects (nickelbender), funk rock bands (Daisy Ella Mojo Crew), and even tackled straight-on, gasoline rock (Union). He certainly has the credibility, and when you listen to his music, you know he damn sure has the ability. His lyrics are poignant, not pretentious. His guitar work is catchy, not kitschy. His voice is solid, not sprawling. Piamonte knows his groove, hits it early and often, and at a young age, seems to have found his niche.
Of the songs I listened to, “Humble Heart” is the one that rocks out the hardest and if I were to compare it to anything, it would be latter-day Black Crowes, something in the vein of “Soul Singing.” Drum rolls and flourishes play along the organ-infused intro, setting the table for the distorted rhythm guitar and the clean, fat-bottomed bass. The guitar breakdowns are frequent but short and the vocals on the track do much to compliment the sound without overshadowing or taking anything away. It should be noted that this song is Piamonte in his Union guise. To hear Piamonte at his solo best, then one needs to look no farther than “Friends Don’t Come Around.” This track was runner-up in Canada’s 11th Songwriting Competition in 2004 and for four months in the winter of that year, the song was the most requested track in the province of Alberta (crazy Canadians). It was also in the top fifteen hundred for Billboard Magazine’s Annual World Songwriting Contest in 2004.
For all pop rock fans out there, check out Sal Piamonte. He brings a unique sound and style to his music and the energy on the tracks is palpable. As you listen to the tracks, you can tell how near and dear each of them is to Piamonte’s heart. He plays with emotion and it is tangible in every way. For an update on Piamonte’s upcoming events and shows, check out www.salpiamonte.com. He’s definitely an artist worth checking out.
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