JOEY TAFOLLA INFRA BLUE 12" Vinyl LP Album

Joey Tafolla's 1991 release, "Infra Blue," is a captivating instrumental rock journey showcasing his virtuosity. The album seamlessly blends technical prowess with emotive storytelling, featuring dynamic arrangements and melodic sensibilities. The LP format adds a nostalgic touch, enhancing the warmth of Tafolla's guitar work. A genre-defying experience, "Infra Blue" remains a timeless gem, transcending geographical boundaries and leaving an indelible mark on instrumental rock music.

 

High Resolution Photo #10 JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue https://vinyl-records.nl

"Infra Blue" Album Description:

In the vast landscape of instrumental rock music, guitarist Joey Tafolla carved a niche for himself with his second studio album, "Infra Blue." Released in the year 1991, this LP vinyl album stands as a testament to Tafolla's virtuosity and musical prowess.

The early '90s marked a significant period for the evolution of rock music, witnessing an array of styles and influences. In this sonic tapestry, "Infra Blue" emerges as a distinctive piece of art, showcasing Tafolla's ability to blend technical proficiency with emotive storytelling.

The album opens with an arresting energy, immediately captivating the listener with its intricate guitar work and dynamic arrangements. Tafolla's command over his instrument is evident from the first track, setting the tone for a musical journey that spans across various moods and textures.

The mid-tempo grooves and melodic sensibilities prevalent in "Infra Blue" reflect the musical landscape of the time. Tafolla, with his keen sense of composition, takes the listener on a rollercoaster of emotions, seamlessly transitioning between moments of intensity and introspection.

The LP format of the album adds a nostalgic touch, inviting listeners to engage with the music in a way that transcends the digital era. The warmth of the vinyl sound enhances the listening experience, allowing the nuances of Tafolla's guitar work to shine through.

"Infra Blue" doesn't merely serve as a showcase for Tafolla's technical skills; it also reveals his growth as a composer. The album's composition goes beyond mere virtuosity, incorporating elements of blues, jazz, and rock to create a genre-defying experience.

As we reflect on Joey Tafolla's "Infra Blue" in the context of the European music scene, it's clear that the album transcends geographical boundaries. Its universal appeal lies in the fusion of diverse influences, making it a timeless piece of instrumental rock that continues to resonate with audiences across the continent.

Music Genre:

  Instrumental Rock 

Album Production Information:

The album: "JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue" was produced by: Steve Fontano, Mike Varney

This album was recorded at: Prairie Sun Studios, Cotati, CA.

Mastered at Rocket Labs, San Francisco, CA

Album cover photography: Pat Johnson, Ross Pelton

Pat Johnson, an esteemed American photographer, has left an indelible mark in the world of photography with his remarkable talent for capturing the essence of great personalities in music, sports, and entertainment. Through his lens, he has immortalized some of the most iconic moments in history, creating a visual legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

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Born and raised in the vibrant city of New York, Pat Johnson discovered his passion for photography at an early age. Armed with a camera and an unwavering curiosity, he began honing his skills, capturing the energy and spirit of the people and places that surrounded him. As he delved deeper into his craft, his unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects became evident.

During the 1980s, a defining era in both music and photography, Pat Johnson found himself in the midst of a creative explosion. He became an influential figure in the music industry, collaborating with renowned musicians and contributing to some of the era's most iconic album covers. His distinctive style and innovative approach allowed him to perfectly capture the essence of the artists and their music, turning each album cover into a visual masterpiece.

With his keen eye for detail and an intuitive understanding of his subjects, Pat Johnson worked with a wide array of musicians, including legends such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen. His photographs adorned the covers of critically acclaimed albums, becoming an integral part of the music's visual narrative.

Beyond the realm of music, Pat Johnson's talent extended to sports and entertainment. His work appeared in prominent magazines, capturing the intensity and grace of athletes in motion, the allure of Hollywood stars, and the vibrant energy of live performances. Through his photographs, he brought forth the emotions, stories, and struggles of those he captured, offering a glimpse into their world for all to witness.

Pat Johnson's ability to establish a deep connection with his subjects, putting them at ease in front of the lens, was a testament to his genuine curiosity and respect for humanity. His photographs were not merely snapshots but narratives that conveyed the essence of each person he photographed, revealing layers of their personality and leaving an everlasting impression on the viewer.

As the years passed, Pat Johnson's work continued to evolve, adapting to changing trends and technological advancements. His photographs not only documented the past but also served as a source of inspiration for aspiring photographers, constantly pushing the boundaries of the craft and redefining what it meant to capture a moment in time.

Today, Pat Johnson's legacy as an American photographer remains unparalleled. His images continue to inspire generations, resonating with their raw emotion and artistic brilliance. His ability to immortalize the great personalities of music, sports, and entertainment in a single frame has solidified his place among the legends of the craft. Pat Johnson's remarkable career serves as a testament to the power of photography, reminding us that a single image has the ability to transcend time and capture the very essence of the human experience.

 

Collector's Notes:

Discover the story behind Mike Varney, the visionary founder of Shrapnel Records, who redefined rock and heavy metal by launching guitar legends—explore his journey on his dedicated webpage

Explore the legacy of Steve Fontano, the masterful producer and sound engineer behind some of Heavy Metal’s most iconic albums, on his dedicated webpage

"Prairie Sun Recording Studios" In the world of music, recording studios play a vital role in capturing the essence and creativity of artists. Two prominent studios, Prairie Sun Recording Studios and Fantasy Studios, have made their mark in the industry by providing exceptional recording experiences and producing award-winning albums. Prairie Sun, located in California, and Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley, have both contributed significantly to the musical landscape, attracting renowned artists from various genres.

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Prairie Sun Recording Studios, nestled in the heart of California, has been a hub for heavy metal music during the 1980s. Its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional engineering have drawn numerous bands seeking to capture their raw energy and power. Bands like Chastain, Exodus, Laaz Rockit, and Vicious Rumours have graced the studios with their presence, utilizing the studio's capabilities to create some of the genre's most iconic albums.

One of the defining features of Prairie Sun is its commitment to providing artists with a comfortable and conducive environment for the creative process. The studio's unique design, incorporating natural surroundings and ample natural light, allows artists to feel at ease while recording. This relaxed atmosphere often translates into the music, as artists are able to fully immerse themselves in their work, resulting in authentic and powerful performances.

Furthermore, Prairie Sun's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality sets it apart from other recording studios. The studio houses cutting-edge equipment and employs experienced engineers who possess a deep understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music. These professionals work closely with the artists, ensuring that every element of the music is captured with precision and clarity. As a result, Prairie Sun has become renowned for its exceptional sound production and mixing capabilities.

Moving on to Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley's Zaentz Media Center, the studio has earned a reputation for its role in recording award-winning albums. Initially built as a private recording studio for artists on the Fantasy Records label in 1971, it opened its doors to the public in 1980. Since then, it has become a go-to destination for musicians across various genres, including rock, pop, and punk.

Fantasy Studios holds an illustrious history of producing chart-topping albums that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Notable among these are Journey's "Escape" and Green Day's "Dookie", both of which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. The studio's commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities and talented team of engineers and producers, who work tirelessly to ensure the highest quality recordings.

Beyond its technical prowess, Fantasy Studios boasts a unique atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration. Its spacious recording rooms and comfortable lounges provide artists with a comfortable environment to explore their musical ideas. The studio's acoustics are meticulously designed to capture the nuances of different instruments and vocal performances, allowing artists to realize their artistic vision with precision and authenticity.

Moreover, Fantasy Studios' location in Berkeley adds to its allure. The vibrant and diverse music scene in the surrounding area serves as a constant source of inspiration for artists who choose to record at the studio. The city's rich cultural history and artistic community create a stimulating backdrop, enhancing the creative process and often influencing the music itself.

 

Record Label

Shrapnel / RoadrunneR RR 9342 1

Media Format:

 

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

  1991 Made in Holland / Netherlands
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Joey Tafolla – guitar

    Joey Tafolla is an accomplished American guitarist known for his exceptional skill and contributions to the world of instrumental rock and heavy metal. While specific personal details may vary, his musical journey is well-documented.

    Joey Tafolla gained prominence as the lead guitarist for the American heavy metal band Jag Panzer during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He played a crucial role in shaping the band's sound, contributing to albums that garnered attention for their technical proficiency and melodic sensibilities.

    In addition to his work with Jag Panzer, Tafolla has showcased his versatility by collaborating with other notable musicians and bands. He has been part of Joe Satriani's live band, sharing the stage with the legendary guitarist during certain performances. Tafolla's ability to navigate different musical genres, including jazz fusion, highlights his diverse musical interests and skills.

    Throughout his career, Tafolla has released solo albums that showcase his prowess as a solo artist and composer. His second studio album, "Infra Blue," released in 1991, stands out as a testament to his guitar virtuosity and creative vision.

  • Kee Marcello – additional guitar solos
  • John Onder – bass
  • Jesse Bradman – keyboard
  • Mike Mani – keyboard
  • Mark Robertson – keyboard
  • Deen Castronovo – drums
Complete Track-listing of the album "JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue"

The detailed tracklist of this record "JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue" is:

    Track-listing Side One:
  1. "Infra-Blue" 3:18
  2. "Six-String-Souffle" 4:50
  3. "Wrecking Ball" 0:48
  4. "Mississippi Mud" 4:26
  5. "Kraken-Z-Vip" 5:01
  6. "B.M.W." (John Onder) 1:37
  7. "V Jam #5" (Mike Varney, Tafolla) 3:45
  8. "Violation" 3:38
  9. "A Place in the Sun" 4:20
  10. "Crankenstien" 5:37
  11. "Romans 10:9 and 10" (Deen Castronovo) 1:33
 
High Resolution Photo #10 JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue https://vinyl-records.nl
Album Back Cover  Photo of "JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue"
 
High Resolution Photo #11 JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue https://vinyl-records.nl  
Photo of "JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue" 12" LP Record
 
High Resolution Photo #12 JOEY TAFOLLA - Infra Blue https://vinyl-records.nl  

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).