Mic Gillette is the real deal. Best known as the original lead trumpet for the legendary Tower of Power, Mic has established himself as one of the true standard-bearers for brass players, musicians, and fans everywhere that love classic soul, R&B, funk, rock and jazz.
“It was totally awesome to be playing with Mic and the rest of the ‘original’ Tower of Power horns again and the CD came out just great. Mic Gillette is still the greatest brass player on the planet. Bar none.”
Leader, Tower of Power
In addition to his incredible years with Tower of Power, Mic has recorded or performed with literally hundreds of the top names in music over the last 35 years, such as The Doobie Brothers; Little Feat; Heart; Cold Blood; Billy Preston; and hundreds more. Mic has recorded with Carlos Santana on six Santana albums, including the multiple Grammy-winning "Supernatural".
As Mic says about himself in his tongue-in-cheek style, "When I play, I try to find someone about 30 feet away and part their hair." What that understates so dramatically is that when Mic picks up a horn, he plays with an intensity, power, and tone that few other horn players can match.
As much a teacher as a performer, Mic gives hundreds of clinics and master classes all over the country for students ranging from beginners to conservatory graduate students.
Strokeland is proud to showcase Mic Gillette's debut solo album, "Ear Candy". This project was a labor of love for Mic and many of his musical friends, including a reunion of the original Tower of Power Horns, with Mic, Greg Adams, Emilio Castillo, Skip Mesquite, and the Funky Doctor himself, Stephen "Doc" Kupka.
Ear Candy CD Release Concert - 10/6/2005 Roanoke, VA
Photo © 2005 BKA Records, LLC
The CD also features David Garibaldi and Rocco Prestia, along with multiple Grammy winner Bill Champlin (Chicago, Sons of Champlin). Marc Russo (Doobie Brothers, Yellowjackets, Tower of Power) also makes a guest appearance, as does Lenny Williams.
"Ear Candy" was co-produced by Mic Gillette and Steve Finch, Director of Operations for Strokeland Records.
A CD Release concert was held on October 6, 2005 in Roanoke, Virginia and featured Mic Gillette, Bill Champlin, Larry Braggs, Roanoke's own Jane L. Powell and Strokeland's own Stephen "Doc" Kupka. Those in attendance will long remember that night of great music.
Mic Gillette remains one of the most unique and powerful horn players of our time. You will be glad you checked out this CD from a legendary artist.