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Yussi ALBUM Releases

Acoustic Albums

Electric Albums

"flamenco-ish demons" - The LA Weekly

"go check out Yussi& Django, who we caught twice in the same week 'cause they were so good!  Alternately intense and relaxing, it's kind of like Strunz and Farah, but with a younger, hipper twist..."- BAM Magazine.

Born in Frauenfeld, Switzerland Yussi began to play guitar in 1985 and studied at the Jazz Conservatory St. Gallen. After forming and playing in  a dozen bands and recording an album with "The Minimals" he moved  to Los Angeles to attend Musicians Institute in Hollywood where he graduated with honors. In 1993 he enrolled at L.A.V.C. to study classical guitar, arranging and orchestration, attend master classes and perform recitals. Then, in 94' Yussi began to play mandolin, banjo and other exotic string instruments, developed a strong interest in flamenco guitar and studied with L.A. teachers.

While Indian master Hari Har Rao tutored Yussi in the art of sitar playing Narada recording artists Axiom of Choice invited him in 1994 to join the band for their debut album "Beyond Denial."

In 95' he designed a series of guitars with Luthier Boaz Elkayam, recorded and released Yussi & Django's album "Bandidos de Amor" and also played on Ricky Martin's "A Medio Vivir" featuring the hit song "Maria." He was later called up to play on Ricky's Grammy Winning 98 release Vuelve. Yussi's solo debut "El Pirata" was released in 2000 and he has finished his second solo album "Velvet Rebel" both released on X DOT 25 Music. Since 1995 Yussi played on 80 plus albums, numerous film scores, TV shows and documentaries.

He also appears in the movies "Paulie" and "Love and Basketball," recorded two albums with his rumba band Bandidos de Amor and gives more then 230 live performances each year. Yussi has performed or recorded with many Latin and Middle Eastern Stars: Ricky Martin - Cristian Castro - Lucero Nydia Rojas - Robi Rosa - Cheech Marin Fernando Allende - Mostafa Amar - Ragheb Alama - Andy - Faramarz Assef - Baila Habibi - Eden's Crush - El Chicano Other Credits Include: The Mexican - Popstars - Doubletake - Love and Basketball - Paulie - Gunshy - Shasta McNasty - Party of Five.

After successful release of "Bandidos De Amor" by Yussi & Django, Yussi releases "El Pirata" as his first solo album and his second solo release "Velvet Rebel". In these releases, Yussi plays an exotic and energetic style of instrumental guitar music that is spiced with fiery improvisations in the tradition of Eastern European Gypsy, Spanish flamenco and American jazz players. His original compositions blend Spanish and Middle Eastern guitar melodies with powerful Latin and Persian rhythms. His music has sweetness, soul, precision, and youthful energy.

His original compositions blend Spanish and Middle Eastern guitar melodies with powerful Latin and Persian rhythms, and the result is an intriguing and playful sound similar to the Gypsy Kings, Ottmar Liebert, Strunz and Farah (with whom he has studied), and even John McLaughlin. This is an incredibly musical partnership, utilizing fluid ensemble lines and intelligent harmonies to showcase an amazing technical abilities. The music has sweetness, soul, precision, and youthful energy.

Yussi has composed the musical score to the feature drama Stellina Blue, wrote music for TV Shows such as TMZ, Extra, The Bachelor, The Bachelorette, Miss Universe. 

His music has also have been heard on The Food Network, Nat Geo, Sundance Channel, Africa Channel and many more. His music has been placed in the films Two Weeks Notice, Collateral, Help Wanted, We are Egypt. Since 1995 Yussi has played on more than 150 albums, numerous film scores (The Mexican, Doubletake, Gunshy), TV shows (Nikita, Party of Five), Commercials ( Pepsi, Coca Cola) and two dozen Documentaries (Lost in La Mancha, Bloodline, Pandemic, The Longing, Finding Kukan, The Fence, Absolute Wilson).

Yussi also appeared in the movies Paulie, Love & Basketball, Collateral and a United Healthcare Commercial.

Yussi recorded/performed with Rick Springfield, Ricky Martin, Paulina Rubio, Lucero, Christian Castro, Taboo, Robi Rosa, Cheech Marin, Benise and many Latin and Middle Eastern Stars.

His full albums include Bandidos de Amor, El Pirata, Velvet Rebel, Atomik Inferno, Exotic Wizard, Galactic Vampire and Phantom Radio. All released on the X DOT 25 Music label. He also released two album with his Latin band Bandidos de Amor.

Yussi plays an array of exotic string instruments such as the Sitar, Bouzouki, Cuatro, Tres, Requinto, Mandolin.

Since 2003 Yussi has been an active Faculty member at Musicians Institute in Hollywood.

YUSSI IS ENDORSED BY: 
GHS STRINGS, ROCKTRON, ORTEGA GUITARS, FISHMAN, GODIN, CLING ON TUNERS, GREG BENNETT GUITARS, L.R BAGGS, GIANNINI, JOHN PEARSE, STRUM’N’COMFORT PICKS

For more information on Yussi and his TV and Film and up to date news please visit:
Website: http://www.yussi.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yussi.wenger
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yussiwenger/?hl=en
Record Label: http://www.xdot25.com/yussi

Albums Detals

Sound Pilot

This is prog rock without the usual trappings. The guitar lines for the most part have a very vocal quality to them, almost like instrumental versions of pop songs. There is a generous portion of retro keyboard sounds here which lend to its prog ethos, placing the sound picture somewhere in the early-to-mid ‘70s. The overall effect and blending of elements is engaging and intriguing. - Marcus Gerakos, Los Angeles

A follow up to Galactic Vampire and Phantom Radio, Sound Pilot reaches outside of the familiar musical orbit and serves up organic slices of acoustic and psychedelic moods, wrapped in silvery vintage and intimate ethnic stylings. Sound Pilot is Yussi’s new full length solo album of original compositions. This is his 8th release on the X DOT 25 Music label.

Release Date: July 30, 2021

1. Plastic Thrills 4:13
2. Vignette for a Silhouette 05:19
3. Neon Chrome Brigade 05:43
4. The Talisman of Thrym 07:09
5. Lords of the Midnight Temple 03:09
6. To Whom the Night Whispers 04:30
7. Klangraum Paragon 05:03
8. The Last of Your Devils 03:24
9. Remnants of Opulence 04:46

Item # 1036

Composed, Arranged, Performed, Recorded and Mixed by: Yussi
Mastered by: Jeff Gross
Album Cover Digital Processing by: C.G. Ryche

Distributed by The Orchard/Sony Music Group

Sound Pilot Review

By: Marcus Gerakos

Overview: This is prog rock without the usual trappings—no bombastic Mahleresque orchestrations, myriads of odd time signatures or virtuosic unison lines to be found here. Yussi is thinking and writing more like a pop songwriter. The guitar shredding one would expect from him is heard only sparingly, and the guitar lines for the most part have a very vocal quality to them, almost like instrumental versions of pop songs. There is a generous portion of retro keyboard sounds here which lend to its prog ethos, placing the sound picture somewhere in the early-to-mid ‘70s. The overall effect and blending of elements is engaging and intriguing.

1. Plastic Thrills: quirky, elusive harmonic progression. Guitar melodies have a very vocal quality

2. Vignette For A Silhouette: retro backbeat instrumental pop where the guitars once again play vocal-sounding parts

3. Neon Chrome Brigade: early ‘70s retro keyboards: also sounds like it’s designed as a vocal piece

4. The Talisman of Thrym: more intriguing harmonic movement, driven by Yussi’s nylon-string and seasoned with various old-school keyboard colors

5. Lords of the Midnight Temple: ‘70s rock tune that begs for vocals/sounds almost like a backing track for ELO

6. To Whom The Night Whispers: engaging cinematic layered pop with retro keys to a persistent two-four beat that cleverly morphs into a kaleidoscopic waltz halfway through.

7. Klangraum Paragon: cinematic, spacious

8. The Last Of Your Devils: an intriguing blend of Jethro Tull meets Strunz and Farah meets Blue Oyster Cult with full-on metal shred at the close

9. Remnants of Opulence: we hear his exotic nylon-string stylings, almost like the sun emerging from the clouds

Phantom Radio

Phantom Radio, a genre bending blend of harmonically rich acoustic compositions, progressive guitar work and complex electronic musicianship with futuristic cryptic vocals. It is Yussi’s 7th full length album on X DOT 25 Music.

Release Date: November 6, 2020

1. Curse of the Acid Goddess (7:36)
2. Master of Your Shade (6:11)
3. Revenge of the Laser Demon (6:57)
4. Mephisto’s 7th Seal (3:38)
5. Spectral Radio (5:07)
6. Under the Water (3:07)
7. Gamma-Ray Stereo (3:25)
8. Die Astronauten (2:23)
9. Spectral Silence (Bonus Track) (1:55)

Item # 1030

Composed, Arranged, Performed, Recorded and Mixed by: Yussi
Mastered by: Jeff Gross
Album Cover Digital Processing by: C.G. Ryche

Distributed by The Orchard/Sony Music Group

Lyrics

Master of Your Shade

The secret is not save with me
You know that time is running out
Hide your shadow from the sun
It waits for you to end your run

Time is never by your side
It makes you pay the Devil’s price
Burn the pages of your life
Temptation night will make you cry

Murder in your memory
Filled with ancient history
Graphic books that want to show
What’s the secret way to go

Be a master of your shade
Cut into your enemies
Let the battle take it’s course
Kill the inner beast

The secret is not save with me
You know that time is running out
Hide your shadow from the sun
It waits for you to end your run

The fangs of time are reaching out
The seeds of death are in the sky
To clean the chambers of your soul
It’s time to rise and pick your side

Mephisto’s 7th Seal

You put your life on the line again
The perfect crime written in the sand

It crossed my mind like
Nostradamus a thousand times

The bells of hell ring For those who believe
The hidden magic of a prophesy

A fever dream on
Aldoush Huxley’s mescaline

A bloody spirit
With dragon’s eyes

It roams the landscape
Of a fiery sky

A declamation of Mephisto’s 7th seal

Under the Water

Under the Water
Under the Water

I’m gonna hold my own
I’m gonna hold my time

Under the Water

Under the Water
I’m gonna hold my turn

Under the Night

GALACTIC VAMPIRE

Galactic Vampire, the new Album release by Yussi Wenger is released on April 17, 2020 worldwide through TheOrchard/Sony Music Group. Galactic Vampire is Yussi’s 6th full length album on X DOT 25 Music. It sends his robotic mood vocals on a cosmic Space Trip of lush Retro Synths, Twangy Guitars and Close Encounters of the acoustic Kind.

This is the Yussi’s electronic follow up to the all acoustic Exotic Wizard and all electric Atomik Inferno full album releases on X DOT 25.

Composed, Arranged, Performed and Mixed by: Yussi
Mastering by: Jeff Gross
Album Cover Photo by: Alexandre Magno and C.G. Ryche

1. Galactic Extinction (4:41)
2. If We Sleep Alone Tonight (5:01)
3. Cosmic Blitz (5:19)
4. I Don't Wanna Dance With You Tonight (3:08)
5. We Are Machines (4:18)
6. Space Tracers (5:24)
7. Astro-Men (4:16)
8. Roboter (6:35)
9. The Neptune Chronicles (5:32)

Item # CD1023-5

Lyrics

Galactic Extinction

Do you remember
That we were not born here

Do you remember the Purple Sky

Galactic Extinction brought us together

The System you came from did not survive

Stellar Impressions left in the Bone Yard
The dying of Stars on your mind

If we Sleep Alone Tonight

If We Sleep Alone Tonight
They’re coming down to take our Minds
We’ll never make it out alive

Close the windows of your Mind
Don’t let them take away your Time
You weren’t meant to see the Signs

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I don’t wanna Dance with anyone

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I don’t wanna Dance with anyone

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I don’t wanna Dance with anyone

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I don’t wanna Dance with anyone

Don’t tell me what to do don’t tell me what to be
I don’t wanna be you I can only be me

What I can become is not what you see

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I don’t wanna Dance with anyone

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I don’t wanna Dance with anyone

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight
I’m gonna have a Party getting high

I don’t wanna Dance with you Tonight

We Are Machines

Born onto a Human
Wired with a Heartbeat
Made to walk the Mainstream
Wear the global Skin

Homo Sapien Footprints
In a digital Jungle
Hologram Assembly
That’s the World we’re in

We now live as Robots
We are just Machines
Anywhere we go they show us
That we can not be free

Electronic Sunsets
Made to entertain us
Digital Illusions
Made to keep us still

We now live as Robots
We are just Machines
Anywhere we go they show us
That we can not be free

Astro-Men

Going through the Tunnels of Expectations
Stuck with the Reality of Disengagement

Enslaved by Human Corruption
Released to the Star Man Abduction

If you just look up to the Sky
And turn off the Lights

You will truly get he Answers
From the Third Kind

Exotic Wizard

Exotic Wizard, the 5th full length album of originals by Yussi is an acoustic explosion of exotic wizardry; delivered passionately on an adventurous array of instruments.

This progressive jazz-tinged portrait valiantly juggles European, south American, middle-eastern and Americana nuances to make for a fresh and exciting world music experience.

Yussi:

Guitars:
Boaz El-Kayam 6 and 7-string Flamenco Guitars
Ernesto Caro 6 and 7-string Classicals
Martin and Ovation Steel String Guitars
Saga and Ernesto Caro Gipsy Guitars
Greg Bennett Dobro

Other Instruments:
Electric Bass, Quatro, Tres, Bouzouki, Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Oud, Banjo, Charango, Cello, Autoharp, Xylophone, Flute, Voice, Keyboards on “Besjana Remix”. Surdo, Tan Tan, Bombo, Cajon, Djembe, Oji, Caxixi, Doumbek, Shakers, Maracas, Triangle, Tambourine, Rainstick, Bell Tree, Chimes, Cymbals, Bells, Vibraslap, Clave, Shaman Rattle, Flex-a-Tone, Music Box, Lyra.

Yussi uses GHS Strings on all string instruments.

David Herzhaft: Harmonica on #3
Mike Bennett: Drums on #1,2,6
Martin Flores: Doumbek on #8
C.G. Ryche: Taiko Drums on #4
Recorded at the “Guitar Lounge”. 
Drums recorded at Mike Bennett Studios. 
Mastering by Jeff Gross.
Art Direction and Back Photo by Yussi. 
Cover Photo by C.G. Ryche.

Tracks:

1. Blood & Wine (4:12)
2. Kristall Blue (3:51)
3. Six to 9 (6:39)
4. Besjana (6:01)
5. Oxala's Lair (5:19)
6. Celestial Allusion (3:46)
7. Etude #1: Flight of the Gryff (0:51)
8. Magic Circle (5:18)
9. Onyx Temple (4:28)
10. The Last Etude (2:59)
11. Memories of Tomorrow (6:14)
12. Dance of the Kobolds (2:09)
13. Fata Morgana (4:09)
14. Elixir (2:08)
15. Etude #2: Hexenhaus (1:14)
16. Dragonet - Fountain of Sorrow (2:52)
17. Besjana Remix (Album) (3:22)

Item # CD1022-5

Besjana Lounge (Single)

Delicate acoustic string instruments chill with lush keyboards and vibrant exotic percussions on this atmospheric new Lounge track by Yussi. A single remix of the song from Yussi's upcoming fifth full album: "Exotic Wizard".

1. Besjana Lounge (3:32)

Item # CD1021-5

GHOST XX (ATOMIK INFERNO MEDLEY)

A single medley of the songs from Yussi's album Atomik Inferno, an amazing turn for a master guitarist.  The music in this project is complex compositions and superior melodies. Enter the Atomik Race on the digital Speedway of Infernal Guitars, Galactic Synthesizers and Nuclear Beats - where Elektro Pop meets energetic Techno Rock.

1. Ghost XX (Atomik Inferno Medley) 8:21

Item # CD1020-5

Atomik Inferno

Yussi's album Atomik Inferno is an amazing turn for a master guitarist.  The music in this project fits in the Electric/Instrumental Rock/Dance Electronica genre with complex compositions and superior melodies. Atomik Inferno is the 4th full album on X DOT 25 Music by Yussi.

Enter the Atomik Race on the digital Speedway of Infernal Guitars, Galactic Synthesizers and Nuclear Beats - where Elektro Pop meets energetic Techno Rock.

1. Heroin Statik (4:53)
2. Kokain Tracers (4:27)
3. Ghost X (2:50)
4. Opium Salad (6:00)
5. Meth Magnet (5:26)
6. Elektronykon (4:30)
7. Suicide Speedway (3:48)
8. Krack Motel Romance (6:04)
9. Elektro Dolls (3:38)
10. Detox Assassins (4:43)
11. Merkury Rising (1:54)
12. Space Karma (8:21)

Written, Recorded, Mixed, Produced by: Yussi
Mastered by: Jeff Gross

Cover Concept & Graphic Design: Max

Item # CD1019-5

Greene Sleeves - Single

Lounge Version

This is a lounge remix of the song Greene Sleeves by Yussi. Original version is on the full album release Velvet Rebel.

"Greensleeves" is a traditional English folk song and tune. There is a persistent belief that Greensleeves was composed by Henry VIII for his lover and future queen consort Anne Boleyn. Boleyn allegedly rejected King Henry's attempts to seduce her. However the piece is based on an Italian style of composition that did not reach England until after Henry's death, making it more likely to be Elizabethan. One possible interpretation is that Lady Green Sleeves was a promiscuous young woman.

1. Green Sleeves (Lounge Remix) (4:26)

Cover Concept: Max

Cover Graphic Design: Manuel Martin

Item # CD1017-5

Velvet Rebel

Style/Genre: Flamenco/Middle Eastern/Brazilian/Jazz
Instrumentation: Boaz El Kayam 6-String Flamenco Guitar, Boaz El Kayam 7-String Flamenco Guitar, Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar, Ernesto Caro 7-String Y-7 Signature Guitar, Ernesto Caro 7-String Y-7 Signature Guitar, Luis Sevillano 7-String Classical Guitar (High Strung), Ovation Steel String, Octave Mandolin, Flute, Cajon, Surdo, Maracas, Shaker, Oji, China Cymbal, Quatro, Mandolin, Tambourine, Fairy Chimes, Voice, Bouzouki, Doumbek, Castanets, Metal Shaker, Triangle, Chimes, Bells, Palmas, Xylophone, Flex-a-tone, Bellydance Belt, African Shaker, Requinto, Rainstick, Wood Lizard, Caxixi, Shells, Bells Chimes, Bugle, Chains, Bells

"flamenco-ish demons"- The LA Weekly

"go check out Yussi, who we caught twice in the same week 'cause they were so good! Alternately intense and relaxing, it's kind of like Strunz and Farah, but with a younger, hipper twist..."- BAM Magazine.

Featuring "Yussi" (Flamenco Guitar) from "Axiom of Choice"

An ethereal journey into a world of music, mystery and magic. Jazzy-Brazilian, Mediterranean guitars and exotic rhythms carry you through old Europe, mysterious rainforests and the adventurous Far East. Yussi plays an exotic and energetic style of acoustic guitar instrumental music that is spiced with fiery improvisation in the tradition of Eastern European Gypsy, Spanish flamenco and American jazz players. His exciting, virtuosic playing is captured on this CD, accompanied by some of Los Angeles' finest young musicians utilizing fluid ensemble lines and intelligent harmonies to showcase their amazing technical abilities.

Tracks:

1. Zambatria (5:02)
2. Tragik Im Zirkus (5:47)
3. Greene Sleeves (4:03)
4. Mandragora (5:01)
      Nokturnal Suite
5. Pt. I - Nokturnal Prophesy (3:33)
6. Pt. II - Nokturnal Passages (1:49)
7. Pt. III - Nokturnal Afterthought (2:01)
8. Vagabond Voodoo (5:14)
9. Helvetica Dusk (5:05)
10. Impromptu #1 (0:40)
11. The Saffron Paradox (2:57)
12. Mandragora Alchemy (3:13)
13. The Oracle of Othila (3:40)
14. Zambatria Talisman (3:10)
15. Impromptu #2 (0:33)
16. Zen Magic on 7 (3:13)
17. Anno “1291” (0:37)

Item # CD1017-2

Yussi Wenger:
Boaz El Kayam 6-String Flamenco Guitar, Boaz El Kayam 7-String Flamenco Guitar, Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar, Ernesto Caro 7-String Y-7 Signature Guitar, Ernesto Caro 7-String Y-7 Signature Guitar, Luis Sevillano 7-String Classical Guitar (High Strung), Ovation Steel String, Octave Mandolin, Mandolin

Composed, performed and produced by Yussi except “Greene Sleeves” trad. arranged by Yussi P&C 2009 Yussimusic/ASCAP.

Issued under license from Yussimusic Prod. to X DOT 25 Music Productions
P&C 2009 Yussimusic Prod. www.yussi.com

Recorded in July/August 2009 at the “GUITAR LOUNGE”, Sherman Oaks, CA. No Samples or Loops were used.
Mastered by James Murray at Malachi Studio, Burbank, CA.
Photography by Carloslopezphotography.com
Yussi uses GHS Strings on all string instruments.
For news about Yussi go to:
www.yussi.com
www.myspace.com/yussimusic

Special Thanks: Vanina Armendariz, Chris Walters at GHS, Tony De La Rosa at Samick, Greg Bennett, The Wenger and Zahn Families, John Pearse, Rocktron, Boaz El Kayam, Ernesto Caro, James Murray.

Yussi Wenger (acoustic guitar, mandolin) is from Switzerland and has been playing guitar since 1985. In 1988 he came to the United States to study music. He has since been performing and recording with a variety of Latin, pop and middle eastern artists. Yussi is the author of the instructional book "Exotic Guitar."

Instrumentation:

1. Zambatria: Boaz El Kayam 6-String Flamenco Guitar, Flute,Cajon, Surdo, Maracas, Shaker, Oji, Chimes, China Cymbal

2. Tragik im Zirkus: Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar, Ovation Steel String, Quatro, Mandolin, Cajon, Surdo, Shaker, Tambourine, Fairy Chimes, Voice

3. Greene Sleeves: Boaz El Kayam 7-String Flamenco Guitar, Ovation Steel String, Quatro, Mandolin, Bouzouki, Doumbek, Castanets, Metal Shaker, Triangle, Chimes, Bells

4. Mandragora: Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar, Cajon, Surdo, Djembe, Castanets, Palmas, Xylophone, Flex-a-tone, Triangle, Tambourine, Bellydance Belt, Chimes, African Shaker

5. Nokturnal Prophesy: Boaz El Kayam 7-String Flamenco Guitar, Bouzouki, Requinto, Tambourine, Chimes

6. Nokturnal Passages: Requinto,Bellydance Belt, Bell, China Cymbal

7. Nokturnal Afterthought: Requinto

8. Vagabond Voodoo: Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar, Luis Sevillano 7-String Classical Guitar (High Strung), Cajon, Surdo, Tamborim, Triangle, Oji, Shaker, Chimes

9. Helvetica Dusk: Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar, Octave Mandolin, Rainstick, Bellydance Belt, Shaker, Chimes

10. Impromptu # 1: Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar

11. The Saffron Paradox: Boaz El Kayam 6-String Flamenco Guitar, Mandolin, Cajon, Surdo, Tamborim, Wood Lizard, Metal Shakers, Caxixi, Oji, China Cymbal, Chimes

12. Mandragora Alchemy: Ernesto Caro 7-String Y-7 Signature Guitar, Shells, Bells, Chimes

13. The Oracle of Othila: Ernesto Caro 7-String Y-7 Signature Guitar

14. Zambatria Talisman: Boaz El Kayam 6-String Flamenco Guitar, China Cymbal

15. Impromptu # 2: Ernesto Caro 6-String Classical Guitar

16. Zen Magic on 7: Boaz El Kayam 7-String Flamenco Guitar, China Cymbal, Wood Lizard

17. Anno "1291": Bugle, Chains, Bells

El Pirata

Style/Genre: Flamenco/Middle Eastern
Instrumentation: Twelve String/Flamenco/Steel String/Nylon Slide Guitars, Mandolin, Tres, Stick, Double Bass, Fretted Bass, Acoustic Fretless Bass Guitar, Nylon String Bass, Accordion, Violincello, Flute, Trumpet, Drums, Surdo, Congas, Buffalo Drum, Cajon, Flute, Doumbek, Moroccan Bongos.

Man's soul, Equals the water:
From Heaven it comes,
To Heaven it rises, And downward again
It must descend to the earth, Forever changing.
------- Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

After the successful release of "Bandidos De Amor" by Yussi & Django, and his earlier collaboration with "Axiom of Choice" on their debut album "Beyond Denial", Yussi releases El Pirata as his first solo album. In this release, Yussi plays an exotic and energetic style of instrumental guitar music that is spiced with fiery improvisations in the tradition of Eastern European Gypsy, Spanish flamenco and American jazz players. His original compositions blend Spanish and Middle Eastern guitar melodies with powerful Latin and Persian rhythms. His music has sweetness, soul, precision, and youthful energy.

Tracks:

1. A Touch of Satin 3:37
2. Suenos En Morado 5:15
3. La Pistolera 3:30
4. Jaguarbird 0:26
5. Yaxchilan 4:43
6. Estrella 5:52
7. El Pirata 3:57
8. Marrakesh Prelude 0:53
9. Tango in Marrakesh 4:29
10. Capricorn 1:31
11. Dexamenos of Chios 2:00
12. Tijana Interlude 1:47
13. Shadowless Prophet 5:58
14. Terra Sancta 1.53

Item # CD 1009-2

All music composed and arranged by Yussi,
© 1999 Yussi Wenger (yussimusic/ASCAP).

Recorded, mixed and mastered at Studio Le Boudiour by Gil Morales, except songs XII and XIV were recorded at Shawn's Studio by Shawn Staples.

Boaz Elkayam guitars designed by Yussi.

Yussi's portrait on the back cover and the previous page by Linda Jett.

Front cover portraits of Yussi, and all other photography, graphic design and layout by Jasper Johal Photo + Design © 1999. (323) 871-0670, www.jasper-art.com.

Yussi would like to express his gratitude to all the musicians on this recording for their bad ass contributions, to Veena Bidasha, Lisa Franco, and to the baddest mother of them all, Gil Morales. A special thank you to the Creator for inspiration. X DOT 25, Gil, Jasper and Aldoush.

For more information on Yussi (818) 906-0577.

A Touch Of Satin
Yussi Flamenco Guitar
Larry G.Goldman Fretted and Fretless Bass
Martin Flores Drums, Timbales and Congas
Bill Post Trumpet

Suenos En Moradof
Yussi Flamenco Guitar, Tres
Larry G. Goldman Fretless Bass
Martin Flores Drums, Shaker, Cowbell and Cajon

La Pistolera
Yussi Flamenco Guitar
Larry G. Goldman Nylon String Bass
Martin Flores Drums, Timbales and Congas

Jaguarbird
Yussi Flamenco Guitar

Yaxchilan
Yussi Flamenco, Nylon Twelve String and Steel String Guitar, Stick Percussion, Surdo
Larry G. Goldman Fretted Bass
Martin Flores Cajon
Iraj Lashkari Surdo, Hand Bells

Estrella
Yussi Flamenco Guitar, Mandolin, Rainstick, Shells
Larry G. Goldman Acoustic Fretless Bass Guitar
Martin Flores Shaker, Bongos, Congas, Clave

El Pirata
Yussi Flamenco Guitar, Palmas
Larry G. Goldman Fretted Bass
Martin Flores Drums, Timbales, Congas

Marrakesh Prelude
Yussi Flamenco Guitar, Flute, Rainstick Shells, Goat Hooves
Gilberto "Gil" Morales Violincello

Tango In Marrakesh
Yussi: Flamenco and Steel String Guitar, Buffalo Drum
Larry G. Goldman: Acoustic Fretless Bass Guitar
Martin Flores: Shaker, Bell Tree
Iraj Lashkari: Doumbek, Moroccan Bongos
Frank Marocco: Accordion

Capricorn
Yussi Flamenco Guitar

Dexamenos Of Chios
Yussi Flamenco and Nylon Slide Guitar
Larry G. Goldman Fretted Bass
Martin Flores Cajon, Shekere, Dumbek
George Tortorelli Bamboo Flute

Tijana Interlude
Yussi Flamenco Guitar
Gilberto "Gil" Morales Double Bass

Shadowless Prophet
Yussi Flamenco Guitar, Chinese and Japanese Gongs

Terra Sancta
Yussi Twelve String Guitar

Certain selections on this album were recorded live to ADAT with no overdubs.

Bandidos De Amor

Style/Genre: Flamenco/Guitar Duo/Middle Eastern
Instrumentation: Nylon String Guitar, Steel String Guitar, Mandolin, Tombak, Daf, Bass, Cello, Percussion, Congas, Cajon, Drums.

Tracks:

1. Arroyo Seco (Y. Wenger) (4:53) 
2. Bandidos De Amor (Y. Wenger) (4:16) 
3. San Felipe Prelude (Y. Wenger) (1:07) 
4. San Felipe (Y. Wenger) (2:36) 
5. Katalina (Y. Wenger / D. Porter) (4:44) 
6. Zenzontle (Y. Wenger) (3:51) 
7. Pisces (D. Porter) (1:28) 
8. Morenas En Rojo (D. Porter) (3:38) 
9. Turquoise (D. Porter) (5:52) 
10. Messenger (D. Porter) (3:35) 
11. Sufi (D. Porter) (7:24) 
12. Kashghar (Y. Wenger) (0:50) 
13. Snakes of Azhidahak (Y. Wenger) (5:07) 
14. Shaharzad (Y. Wenger) (3:21)
15. Dance of Djinn (D. Porter) (7:52) 

Total time: 61 min

Item # CD1004-2, CA1004-4

A guitar duo that blends Spanish and Middle Eastern guitar melodies with powerful Latin rhythms, backed up by bass, drums and percussion. Their Exotic style of instrumental music is spiced with fiery improvisation in a world beat gypsy guitar style.
 

Yussi Wenger: 
Nylon String Guitar (Right Channel) Steel String Guitar (9)
Voice (15) Mandolin (10)
Rainstick (10)

Django Porter: 
Nylon String Guitar (Left Channel) Steel String Guitar (13) - Voice (15)

Produced by: Aldoush Alpanian 
Co-produced by: Yussi & Django

Pejman Hadadi: Tombak (11,13,14,15) - Daf (11,13)

Felipe Amaya: Bass (4) 
Larry G. Goldman: Bass (1,2) 
Gil Morales: Bass (5,8), Cello (15) 
Ross Wright: Bass (6,11,14) 
Ray Yslas: Percussion, Congas, Cajon, Shaker (1,2,4,10) 
John "Joao" Cardoso: Drums (1,5,8), Percussion (6,8) 
Aldoush Alpanian: Voice (15)

Recorded & Mixed at: 42nd Studio N. Hollywood 
Recording & Mixing Engineer: Yousef Shahab 
Digitally Mastered at: Rocket Lab San Francisco 
Mastering Engineer: Michael Romanowski 
Cover Design: Koorosh Angali 
Computer Graphics: Koorosh Angali 
Yussi & Django Photo: Mark Henauer 
CD Label Photo: Ali Sadeghi

Yussi Wenger (acoustic guitar, mandolin) is from Switzerland and has been playing guitar since 1985. In 1988 he came to the United States to study music. He has since been performing and recording with a variety of Latin, pop and middle eastern artists. Yussi is the author of the instructional book "Exotic Guitar."

Django's father who is also a musician started teaching him at a very early age. Django began playing blues and rock, and later in his teen years he began studying jazz. Django who is always searching for new musical styles, began experimenting with traditional world music. For the last five years he has been playing in the Los Angeles area with numerous world beat , jazz and pop groups.

Yussi would like to thank his parents, the Wenger and Zahn family, Tess Stumbras, Tanya Mongé, Boaz Elkayam, L. R. Baggs Pickups, D'Angelico Strings, all the musicians contributing to this project and God. Yussi exclusively plays D'Angelico Strings.

Django would like to give thanks to his parents for their love and support, Nora M., Westwood Music, Abraham Wechter, and the rest of his friends who supported him. Django uses Wechter Nylon String and Dupont Steel String Guitars.

Yussi & Django play an exotic and energetic style of instrumental music that is spiced with fiery improvisation in the tradition of Eastern European Gypsy, Spanish flamenco and American jazz players. Their exciting, virtuosic playing is captured on this CD, accompanied by some of Los Angeles" finest young musicians on fret-less bass and percussion. Both Yussi and Django have been extensively influenced by a variety of world music, and it shows in their original compositions which blend Spanish and Middle Eastern guitar melodies with powerful Latin and Persian rhythms. The result is an intriguing and playful sound similar to the Gypsy Kings, Ottmar Liebert, Strunz and Farah (with whom both have studied), and even John McLaughlin. These guys have chops to spare, and although one is impressed with the lightning fast and clean lines they play, they are an incredibly musical partnership, utilizing fluid ensemble lines and intelligent harmonies to showcase their amazing technical abilities. Theirs is a music with sweetness, soul, precision, and youthful energy.

Yussi & Django perform extensively around the Los Angeles area. They both play in many other situations; Yussi with the critically acclaimed X DOT 25 group "Axiom of Choice", Ricky Martin (formerly of Menudo and currently appearing on General Hospital) who"s CD has recently been at #1 on the Latin/Pop charts , and many famous Middle Eastern singers; and Django with the famous Persian singer "Andy", with Big Mountain (who's remake of Peter Frampton's "Baby I Love Your Way" was a hit) as well as belly dancers, flamenco dancers, and rock acts. They have recently performed live on local (Fresh and Fun) and national (t.v.) cable TV. Both played on the nationally charted CD "Storyteller" by percussionist/singer Vinx (who has toured with Sting).