Pat Martino April 16, 2008

Having fully recovered from a life-threatening illness in the 1980s that caused him to forget how to play the guitar and to relearn it by listening to his own 1960s recordings, Martino has re-emerged as a veteran presence on the jazz scene. His playing is as fiery and technically brilliant as ever and he constantly challenges himself with new music and exciting younger bandmates. Downbeat Magazine 2003 Critics Poll named Tony Monaco #3 rising star organ player in the world. His talent is recognized by the world's great Hammond organ players Jimmy Smith and Joey Defrancesco. Francesco has produced Tony's albums and recorded an album with him as well. Tony's latest CD has been called "sizzling" and he, along with Defrancesco, are credited with keeping the jazz organ sound alive.