08/02/2024
The new EP “Tierra y Luz” by .uv.ii is out today on Bandcamp and streaming everywhere tomorrow. This was a special project that came together in a special way, produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by .
Early last year I heard that , who have been supporting artists and bands with grants for a decade now, was going to start a new grant aimed at producers and honoring the late George Reiff. I thought this was a great idea and imagined a few folks who would be excellent recipients. I really did not expect I would be in the running. To my surprise, I got word last summer that I was among three finalists for the top tier grant. I had a few conversations that evening about what my pitch would be for this project based award.
I pretty quickly settled on .uv.ii, fka Carito. I first met Carol Gonzalez when she recorded with a couple years back. She returned to record what was then a solo project and I realized she was a unique talent both vocally and as a songwriter. I was then introduced to and , who play drums and bass and was further impressed with their talent and approach. The band would also later include on keys.
I found out at the end of the year that I would receive the grant and we started recording in January. The grant funds allowed us to record on a relaxed schedule and explore creative options that may have been out of reach on a tighter budget. We were also able to secure the participation of several friends and colleagues including:
- gaita
- caja and alegre
and Josh Levy - Horns
- Keys
- string arrangements
Samatha Stewart - Violin
Isaac Fuentes - Viola
Cory Blais - Cello
Christabel Lin - Violin
I’d like to sincerely thank everyone involved, especially .uv.ii and . I’m really proud of this work, the music is amazing and I’m lucky to be able to work with such talent, especially young folks with fresh ideas, as I move into geezerdom. Check out the music and catch them live 8/3 w .point.music
