Carm Grasso – Thanks for Asking!

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

RRX: What was the very first reaction to your music, from the first person to ever hear so much as a practice jam or the demo of your first song?

CG: I remember this moment fondly and believe it helped shape the direction of my musical journey. Back in 2003, I built a studio in my home and nervously started recording songs without any real idea of where I was headed.  Given I had never done this kind of thing before, I was a bit unsure of myself as it pertained to recording, getting a proper and satisfactory take, if the project was going to vocal or instrumental, what other musicians would perform on the songs and more. Around that time, we threw a birthday party for my oldest daughter and had a lot of people at the house, including my daughter’s friends and their parents. One of the guests, Tearle Ashby, noticed a George Lynch instructional video in my stereo cabinet and said: “Hey, do you play guitar?”  I quickly confirmed and then proceeded to learn he was very talented and accomplished musician from the regional powerhouse progressive rock band, Fear of Flying, a band I ended up joining about a month later and played with for 15 years. On this day, I took him into my studio and let him hear what I’d been working on, albeit in secret. After I listening to the first tune, he looked at me and said: “Dude, this is really good material. What are your plans with this? Are you going to release it?”  I went on to tell him I wanted to do an all instrumental album but wasn’t sure if the songs were good enough or if I could do it; I needed help. He then said: “Yes, you can do this, Carm.  This is very good and you’re gifted.  I’ll help—I want to produce the album for you, let’s do this!”  His reaction to my music and words of encouragement sparked a fire in me, set me on my current path and helped me believe in myself. After many re-records and steps along the way, I released “Soul Stealer” as my first instrumental guitar rock album. Since then, I’ve released five albums with more music on the way.  You can check out my music on both bandcamp.com and your favorite streaming service.

RRX: Stereotypes are a bitch. I mean, aside from the really bad ones, you have cultural stereotypes about everything, including music.  Would do you think is the stereotype for the music you play, and how far are you away from it?

CG: The majority of music in my catalog falls into the realm of instrumental guitar rock.  In the way of a stereotypes, many people associate or categorize this kind of musical expression as “shred,” which generally entails fast, aggressive, highly technical and energetic playing. While it’s true I appreciate and incorporate those elements into my music, this is only part of the story. In my mind, my music transcends that label because I focus on art of songwriting with the guitar serving as my voice. I make a concerted effort to write memorable, well-structured songs in a huge variety of musical settings, with themes, a strong sense melody and dynamics. To this end, my songwriting tells a story and has many facets beyond an assortment of impressive guitar licks and techniques. My albums contain everything from hard-hitting rockers, to catchy, melodic compositions, acoustic pieces and heartfelt ballads.

RRX: Our style comes from the extension of our influences. It’s like an evolution. We’re influenced, and it inspires us to influence. What can you say about your influences, and what you feel you’ve done with their influence as a musician or band? Have you extended their work?

CG: In the way of influences, I grew up listening to melodic hard rock from the 1980’s.  This genre of music showcased the guitar along with dazzling guitar solos. I was enthralled by guitar heroes like Randy Rhoads, George Lynch and Yngwie Malmsteen. I then delved into the music of instrumental guitar masters like Al Di Meola, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Tony MacAlpine and others. When I reflect on my music, I recognize the combination of melodic rock and virtuosity on the guitar helped fuel and shape the creation of my own style. This melding applies to how I construct songs, to how I hear melodies and use the guitar to color a tune. I believe I have extended the work of my influences by creating something that is unique, it’s my own take and vision.  To this day, I am in awe of all the amazing talent around me and continue to draw inspiration, whether it be a local band, national act, a guitar virtuoso, a pop, rock, flamenco or country artist.

RRX: In the musical world, there are many supporting players. Recording engineers, sound techs, cover art designers. Who are three people that support the craft that you would like to shine a spotlight on?

CG: I am forever thankful for the huge cast of supporting players in my musical journey and evolution. I have been blessed to be surrounded by family and friends who support my musical endeavors, especially because not everyone understands the artist’s voyage and vision—but when they do, it’s a special energy and relationship that inspires me to be the best I can be. In the way of recognizing three people in particular, I would like to shine a light on Danny “Danymal” Lee.  In addition to being a ridiculously talented mixer, audio engineer and producer, he sees my vision, acts as my musical confidant and encourages me to reach for the stars.  We’ve worked on 5 albums to date and I believe the best is yet to come.  I’d also like to shine a light on mastering engineer Andy Vandette. In the world of mastering, Andy is a titan who has worked with a star-studded list of artists.  He has mastered all my releases and works tirelessly to ensure the best possible results for my albums.  I believe I’m the lucky one as it pertains to working with him and remain thankful he continues to master my music.  Finally, I’d like to honor the memory of my best friend, Todd Sardella.  Todd was a musical mastermind and my musical partner for close to 30 years. His friendship and our musical bond continue to have a profound impact on my musical world.

RRX: Playing out is tricky because you never know what’s going to happen when you get there. Sometimes everything goes wrong. What was your worst show like?

CG: Many artists talk about the magic that happens in the studio; the thrill of creating something new. With that said, you’re generally in a controlled environment and it’s very different than playing live given there are curveballs and wildcards involved. I recall a tricky outdoor gig a couple summers ago where everything seemed good to go:  the band had been firing on all cylinders, I was well-rehearsed, soundcheck went well, the stage was huge and the crowd was in place. Unfortunately, fate had different plans.  Within minutes of starting the first song, I recognized the mix was going to be a challenge. Then, my rig starting cutting out: I was scrambling to troubleshoot on the spot, trying to figure out if it was a guitar cord, a patch cable, battery, the amp itself or any combination of those things while the singer and crowd had a bewildered look on their faces: “What is going on right now, Carm? You’ve pretty much missed entire first tune.” Needless to say, this was less than ideal as I had to forgo using my preferred set up and the experience shaped the remainder of the gig. At the end of the show, I wasn’t feeling great but that’s showbusiness, folks! You just have to keep your confidence and head up, even in adversity—that’s the grit that forms growth and character.

RRX: Let’s talk about your next project, your next few. Just not the ones you’re working on now. The ones you have your eyes on for the future. What’s coming to us?

CG: Since the release of my latest instrumental guitar rock album, “Seed of Doubt” in May 2025, I have been working on 3 exciting projects. First, I have completed the songwriting and recorded all the guitars for a new instrumental guitar rock album, with an anticipated release in late 2026. Second, I am writing and recording music for a vocal album in the vein of my 2023 melodic rock release, Grasso Sardella, and plan to include a number of “heavier” songs to the mix. Finally, and after performing a well-received flamenco set to over 700 people in Miami, FL this past summer, I have my sights on releasing an all acoustic instrumental album and am well on my way to making this vision a reality in the future.

Link to find Carm Grasso music:  https://carmgrasso.bandcamp.com/

*Also on streaming services Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube.

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