Nephew of jazz legend Wes Montgomery releases new album

The inventive artistry that launched guitarist Wes Montgomery into the realm of legend is a family affair. For keyboardist Miko Montgomery, Wes' nephew, musical wizardry is embedded in his DNA.

Montgomery's latest album, Cryptic Roots, stretches the boundaries of jazz; actually, it proudly refuses to acknowledge that any of them even exists. On Cryptic Roots, Montgomery slips and slides in between various styles, balancing an eclectic menu that includes electronica, New Age, and even folk, each effortlessly caressed by the smooth touch of his synthesizers.

The opening track, "Kiss of the Damned," recalls Danny Elfman's Goth-styled instrumentals for filmmaker Tim Burton. In other words, it is illuminated by a childlike melody with a dark undertow, combining the innocence of youth with the boogeyman fears of that age. Montgomery initially intended this track for a vampire movie; if it ever came to pass, the film should take place at a carnival because it certainly radiates that vibe.

But Montgomery's creative reach quickly unveils how expansive it is by the third cut, "AfroCeltic," which is essentially Irish folk music as interpreted by jazzy keyboards. "TechNuvo," as hinted by its title, ventures into techno but it is the pioneering electronic work of YMO, whose bouncy, throbbing synth beats Montgomery echoes as opposed to the icy drone of modern club music.

Montgomery honors his late, great uncle by following his own uncompromising vision, crafting accessible, memorable sounds from an instrument that, on its own, isn't known for its mass appeal. Montgomery has just signed a publicity deal with Los Angeles-based promoters Wavelength (http://www.wavelengthradiopromotion.com), ensuring that this wildly imaginative talent develops a larger audience, famous lineage or not.

More Information: http://www.mikomontgomery.com

Submitted By:

Wavelength Radio Promotion