Guitar Masters Series: Vinny Valentino & Paul Bollenback Ft. Steve Smith at Zinc Bar

“Valentino does it all. He’s modern and eclectic, but also distinctive and well-rooted.” —The Roanoke Times

“[Paul Bollenback] is soulful, sophisticated and spiritual…” —JazzTimes

Acclaimed jazz guitarists Vinny Valentino & Paul Bollenback bring their formidable group to Zinc on Monday, October 10. They’re supported by bassist John Benitez and drummer Steve Smith.

Versatile is an understatement when describing guitarist and composer Vinny Valentino. Playing guitar since age six, this native Virginian began touring in a progressive rock band while still in high school. At age 16, influenced by the music of George Benson, Vinny began pursuing Jazz as a career. He recalls, “The turning point for me was hearing George Benson in concert; I had never heard anybody play like that. It was an eye-opening experience.”...

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“Valentino does it all. He’s modern and eclectic, but also distinctive and well-rooted.” —The Roanoke Times

“[Paul Bollenback] is soulful, sophisticated and spiritual…” —JazzTimes

Acclaimed jazz guitarists Vinny Valentino & Paul Bollenback bring their formidable group to Zinc on Monday, October 10. They’re supported by bassist John Benitez and drummer Steve Smith.

Versatile is an understatement when describing guitarist and composer Vinny Valentino. Playing guitar since age six, this native Virginian began touring in a progressive rock band while still in high school. At age 16, influenced by the music of George Benson, Vinny began pursuing Jazz as a career. He recalls, “The turning point for me was hearing George Benson in concert; I had never heard anybody play like that. It was an eye-opening experience.”

Vinny has shared the stage with such jazz greats as Steve Smith, Tom Coster, Russell Ferrante, Tom Scott, Gary Bartz, Victor Bailey, John Benitez, Peter Erskine, Dave Weckl, John Patitucci, Randy Brecker, George Benson, Steve Gadd, Chick Corea, Dennis Chambers, Bill Evans, and Jimmy McGriff.

Paul Bollenback, a thinking person’s jazz guitarist with a clean ‘n’ fat tone and a barrel full of chops, has been impressing listeners as a sideman and, increasingly, as a leader in recent years. But inquisitive minds want to know: Is he mainstream? Left-of-mainstream? Or a work-in-progress? Probably all of the above. Bollenback has been heard alongside saxophonists Gary Thomas, Gary Bartz, and especially as a commanding, critical 1/3 of Joey DeFrancesco’s organ trio.

Showtimes are at 7:00 pm & 8:30 pm. Tickets: $25 in advance / $30 day of show. For more info, visit https://www.zincjazz.com.

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