Frank DiBussolo – Average White Cats

On Average White Cats, Eight-time Grammy nomine =e and master guitarist Frank DiBussolo leads a dynamic quintet through a program of his own compositions. Frank uses both acoustic and electric guitars as he takes us through a journey of textures and colors. Serving up Latin grooves on “Blue Heron,” “Ha! Gringo” and “Una Samba Pequeno” just the right amount of spice is added into the mix.

A stop along bluesy lane, heats up the trail with “Loco Linda” and “Average White Cats.” The ensemble really digs in, creating great interaction with each passing solo. DiBussolo really shines with racing lines and facile dexterity, culminating with lush chordal passages.

A tasty jazz waltz on “Gracie and Kate,” makes a nice half-way point texture change, DiBussolo creates nice counterpoint lines with saxophonist Greg Edwards lending warm tones to the melody. “Barbara” is simply just a gorgeous ballad in every way, spice with a Latin tinge.

“Vin Dolce” and “When You’re Smiling” are two slices of unaccompanied guitar, with Frank singing on the latter in tribute to his late friend Kenny Rankin. His vocals are pure and heartfelt, a fitting tribute to a friend.

Frank DiBussolo has been a professional musician since 1965. During this time he has worked with Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Diana Ross, Diane Carroll, Vicky Carr, Bob Hope, George Burns and Dom DeLouise and others. As a soloist he has been featured with the bands of Buddy Rich, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Bucky Pizzarelli, Howard Alden, Lester Lannin and more.

He is a graduate of Widener University and the Combs College of Music where he earned the Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees. He has served on the faculties of Swarthmore College, Moravian College, Lehigh University and the Combs College of Music.

Dr. DiBussolo has recorded extensively and can be heard on the Naxos, DBK and Lost World record labels. For his work in the recording industry, he has been nominated eight times for The Grammy Award in various categories.

He is published in Guitar Player, The Educator and Just Jazz Guitar magazines as well as in the Groves Dictionary.