Carm Grasso – Interview – Thanks for Asking

Carm Grasso – Interview – Thanks for Asking – by Liam Sweeny.

RRX: Who are you? Not, like, philosophically, but you know, who are the members of the band, who plays what? Describe yourself in one sentence (it can be a long sentence.)

CG:  I am a guitarist, composer and recording artist based in Saratoga Springs, NY. I have played guitar for many years and specialize in guitar fueled, original compositions ranging from hard-hitting rockers, to catchy, melodic pieces and heartfelt ballads.  My releases include both instrumental and vocal based albums. I am always creating and exploring different avenues to express my musicality, whether it be solo endeavors, in a band or recording sessions for clients.

RRX: Do you have anything out right now that people can enjoy, and if so, what’s the best way for them to get it?

CG:  Yes, my latest release is a 10-song, vocal based, melodic rock project entitled: Grasso Sardella. I have also released 4 instrumental guitar albums:  Soul Stealer, Mixed Signals, As If by Magic and Siren.  You can stream, download, and purchase my music on all the major streaming platforms and buy physical copies by visiting my Bandcamp profile at https://carmgrasso.bandcamp.com/

RRX: Music genres are difficult for some artists. Some strictly adhere; others not so much. What is your perspective on the genre you play, or the genres you hover around?

CG:  I would classify the music I write and play as rock—ranging from melodic rock to hard rock and metal. My guitar instrumental releases include everything from shred based, metal bangers to acoustic pieces and flamenco inspired compositions. I try to keep things interesting for myself and the listener by varying the listening experience. In the end, however, I am a rocker at heart.

RRX: You sing, you rap, you play guitar, play drums, you have no doubt struggled to learn music. Something probably tripped you up. What was it for each of you? What did you have to overcome?

CG:  I always knew I wanted to be a rock guitarist and the instrument was the path to create my own music. I remember struggling early on and an experience I had with my guitar instructor stoked the fires in me to be disciplined, intentional and confident in my efforts to become a well-rounded musician. Even with the best of intentions, it took years of challenging work to develop my craft as a player, songwriter and recording artist. For me, it was a question of getting out of my own way, to just do it. I still work at it every day and am grateful to have music in my life.

RRX: Tell me about your most recent song, album, or video (you pick.) Tell us a story about what went into making it. Not a process, but a cool story that took place within the process.

CG:  The most recent music video we shot was for the Grasso Sardella tune, “Undertow” at JGI Media in Albany, NY. This was a wonderful day, where I was able to spend time with vocalist Todd Sardella and my producer Danny “Danymal” Lee. We had fun and laughs that day, reminiscing about past gigs and the multi-year process required to put out the Grasso Sardella album. We learned so much that day and were fortunate to be in the capable hands of Rick Sheill and John Raspante, who masterminded the concept for the video, shot the performance aspect, cast actors Jordan Bonetsky and Cheyenne Inge for the storyline footage and put together an exceptional music video. Check out the video on YouTube Grasso Sardella Undertow Video

RRX: We let it out differently when we play music. The happy, sad, good and back; it can all be put out musically. Overall, do you feel better when you sing about the better times, or the worser times? Is there a difference you can describe?

CG:  Writing, recording, and performing music is a cathartic release for me and it’s gratifying to have this creative vehicle for expression.  Music brings me immense joy as it is my lifelong passion; it takes me to places, brings back memories and elevates my mood. My inspiration, especially lyrical content, comes from exploring difficult experiences we can all relate to. This holds true for the instrumental stuff as well as I try to evoke a certain mood, whether it be happy, sad, or somewhere in between.

RRX: How can people keep up with you? What’s coming up, soon or eventually?

CG: I am currently working on a new, 13-song instrumental album slated for release later in 2024. I am active on social media, please visit carmgrassomusic on Instagram and YouTube to see my posts, reels, performance clips and music videos. In addition, please also check out www.carmgrassomusic.com

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