"Flamenco's version of Led Zeppelin axe-god Jimmy Page" -- Ottawa Sun
"Every inch a dazzling guitarist" -- Ottawa Sun
"Just playing his six-string with dazzling flourishes of macho colour and,
  on occasion, with alarming speed" -- Ottawa Sun
 

Following on from the success of 2003’s JUNO award-winning Allegro, the new self-titled album from ROBERT MICHAELS is now released on Warner Music Canada. This 2-CD set includes both a vocal disc of beautiful new songs and an instrumental disc highlighting Robert’s unique acoustic guitar style.

Robert’s new album displays amazing growth and features two strong lead singles. Renowned vocalist Jennifer Warnes (Famous Blue Raincoat) makes a rare guest appearance on “So Sad”, and “Emporte-Nous” features acclaimed musical stage actress Louise Pitre (Mamma Mia!). Both singles are currently available as digital downloads from the online retailer links on this site.

This latest album was recorded throughout 2004 and introduces a number of musical elements and guest vocalists that will enchant Robert’s growing legion of fans. In addition to his own vocal tracks on the album, Robert’s new release also features two duets with respected Canadian singers Luba and Coral Egan.

This collection of 18 unique songs ranges in style from pop to flamenco. Much of Robert’s earlier recordings were described as “flamenco-jazz” but these new songs have a much broader musical palette. Robert explains, “From the beginning I didn’t play flamenco or Latin jazz in any traditional way. I had experience playing so many other styles that I merely incorporated all of the influences. My style was never planned. I arrived at it spontaneously while playing in front of the audiences.”

Through his tireless schedule of concerts and television appearances, Robert’s independently released debut album Paradiso went on to achieve Platinum status in Canada, selling over 100,000 copies – an incredible feat for any artist, but even more so for an instrumental musician. That success led to a second album, Arizona, which earned Robert a 1997 JUNO nomination for Instrumental Artist of the Year. His next release, Allegro, won the JUNO for Best Instrumental Album in 2003. Robert admits, “It’s all been word of mouth, really. Every time we did a show, people came up to us and asked where we were playing next and if they could buy an album. Then they’d show up and bring their friends and it just grew from there.”

ROBERT MICHAELS is currently on a headlining tour, performing in select Canadian cities. Additional tour dates will be announced shortly.