Renowned guitarist, composer, and producer Peter Xifaras has taken a bold step, trading in his classical composer hat for a contemporary jazz ride with his latest album, Fusion. With a career spanning multiple genres, Xifaras is just as comfortable writing a piece for a symphonic orchestra as he is laying down a wailing solo on his Les Paul. His music resonates across hundreds of radio stations and has enjoyed over a decade of rotation on SiriusXM, marking his undeniable impact on the music industry.
Xifaras has earned multiple awards, including topping Billboard's Classical and Crossover charts. His recent TELLY award for the classical social justice release Children Of Conflict highlights his commitment to impactful and meaningful music. Known for his genre-defying compositions, Xifaras has collaborated with a diverse array of accomplished guest artists, often enriching his releases under his symphoneX Orchestra® project.
Fusion was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic in various locations, including New York, Los Angeles, Prague, and Belgium. The tracks were meticulously arranged, mixed, and produced by Peter at MusicWithNoExpiration®. This latest recording blends Xifaras' guitar and electronic keyboards with contributions from the great Japanese jazz trumpeter Shunzo Ohno, versatile violinist Xander Nichting, bassist Max Gerl, and drummer-percussionist Scott Jackson, along with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.
The album opens with "Chaos," where an ominous rhythmic vamp sets the stage for Ohno’s wa-wa electrified trumpet, reminiscent of Miles Davis circa 1973. Ohno takes a blazing solo on "Shunzo," complemented by stirring ensembles and a rewarding spot for Nichting. "Wild And Free" showcases an ensemble-oriented piece with backing by the Czech National Symphony, while "B Blues" features a funky vamp with colorful solos from trumpet, violin, guitar, and bass. "Think Quick" stands out with its infectious theme and melodic solos. "While My Guitar Weeps For Mehdi Rajabian" is a showcase for Xifaras' emotional and warm guitar play, supported by strings. The album concludes with the nostalgic "Till We Meet Again," featuring more wa-wa trumpet from Ohno.
Peter Xifaras' career is as diverse as his music. Beginning guitar lessons at nine, he played in a rock band as a teenager and studied classical guitar in college. Post-graduation, he opened a recording studio and founded Music With No Expiration®. Leading his own symphoneX Orchestra®, Xifaras has recorded numerous releases, welcoming guest artists and blending genres from classical and fusion to cinematic and spoken word. His most acclaimed work, Children Of Conflict, focuses on the need for social justice.
Fusion is the latest accomplishment from Xifaras, offering a continually intriguing and invigorating set that is both creative and accessible. For new listeners, Fusion serves as the perfect introduction to his innovative music.
PETER XIFARAS – Fusion
Musicians:
Peter Xifaras - Guitar & Keys
Shunzo Ohno - Trumpet
Xander Nichting - Violin
Max Gerl - Bass
Scott Jackson - Drums & Percussion
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Track Listing:
Chaos – 5:14
Shunzo – 4:23
Wild and Free – 4:12
B Blues – 5:10
Think Quick – 5:21
While My Guitar Weeps For Mehdi Rajabian – 4:54
Till We Meet Again – 1:56
All music written, arranged, and produced by Peter Xifaras.
