February 24, 2005-Rumford, RI-Al Basile remembers Patti Page singing "Tennessee Waltz," Les Paul and Mary Ford's "Mockingbird Hill," and the first day he heard Elvis sing "Heartbreak Hotel." His world would never be the same. Melody and tone became an important facet of his listening experience early on. Basile is a multi-faceted talent. In addition to his musical talents writing jazz, blues and roots music, he is the author of poetry, plays, and fiction.

Basile takes a lifetime of the blues and musical experiences and puts it all into his latest release Blue Ink. He reaches back to those roots, his early years as a member of Duke
Robillard's band Roomful of Blues, and his many years with Duke as a
writer and player on Duke Robillard Band CDs, to record a modern day
blues classic. Robillard and his band backup Basile in typically grand fashion on all 13 tracks. Duke’s tasteful and potent guitar licks make each song weep the tears of the blues while Jerry Portnoy’s harp (whose resume includes playing with Muddy Waters and Eric Clapton) answers the calling of the guitar parts in one synchronous beat of the heart.

The many styles of the blues take shape in a natural way during the progression of each song on Blue Ink. Basile’s experience as a coronet player takes a back seat on this project, as he is the featured vocalist. His sweet and warm delivery will put you front row and center in every song. Each track has a character and color that finds a home in your heart rather quickly.

Al Basile will continue to record new music and perform regularly. Check his website for news and information.

Contact Al Basile:

Sweet Spot Records
PO Box 4723
Rumford, RI 02916
Phone & Fax: 401-438 -7431
E Mail: basile@albasile.com
Website: http://www.albasile.com