Don Guillermo

Don Guillermo began brainstorming material in October of 2005. From the inception of the project, their sound was built on a combination of Jim's guitar work providing a tone and texture that effectively extrapolate Singer/Programmer John Paul sequences while providing a tonal center for his unique vocal stylings. Together, they put construct a sound that entertains and stimulates with pulsating synth-bass, ever-present melodic hooks that haunt at times while, on other passages, add to the character of John Paul’s thematic choruses.

The music is versatile, yet focused, exhibiting tonal and stylistic continuity. The mood fluctuates from a synth-pop club banger you might hear at the local Electronica and fishnets night, to a refined guitar-drone with an appropriate dose of electronic-swells and starchy machine-driven thumps designed by to mobilize mini-skirted posteriors. Jim's ability to adapt to the dynamics of a song, and deliver some in-the pocket riffs and melodies is a major asset. After getting the live act started with the temporary assistance of some talented friends, the current lineup is now solidified with synth player Audrey using her MC-505 to blip, beep and bump the songs into a glazed electron shell while Alfi’s hard-hitting, hyperactive live drums push the accents, keeping the material metronome-tight, adding continuity and energy to the mix. Additional guitar work by John Paul adds icing and melodic texture where needed. Altogether, the elements blend effectively with an impassioned lyrical delivery speaking of obsession, substance abuse and even the occasional sober laugh at the expense of its author.

The ladies at Don Guillermo shows can be spotted busting their best Regan-era moves, while shaggy haired boyfriends look on in bewilderment, nodding to the infectious, familiar, yet still eclectic sound. An evening’s performance provides the chaser for a night of bottomless mixed drinks and mood music for would-be drunken romantic preludes. Even after the smoking ban, you could still smell the clove cigarettes over the perfumed gyrating darlings who dare to play their rude game of dress up. Don Guillermo is plastered (quite literally) with a style and an attitude that is typically found across the pond. Luckily, local New York/New Jersey scenesters have their beloved Guillermo right at home… for now.