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Arizona Groove: Gabe tell me about your musical roots and how long your
family has been making music?
Gabe
Carmona: Wow where to begin…When I first saw the photo my
grandmother had of a Carmona Band in 1901, I knew I was part of
something beautiful. Generation after generation, Carmona musicians have
shared the stages with some of Latin music’s biggest stars. Growing up,
my father often told stories of such performances at many of the premier
venues with artists such as Tito Puente and La Orquesta Falcon with
Ideal Records. So as one can imagine, record deals, and performances
were the way of life for the early Carmonas. I have a collection of
Carmona recordings from the late 50s…man that was good stuff!
Arizona Groove:
Are there any stories that you heard growing up that compelled you to
walk into your ancestors musical footsteps?
Gabe
Carmona: Yes. The stories of my grandfather Mr. Nemecio Carmona.
When my father & I get together to talk or write music, he often tells
stories of my grandfather telling my him “Son, put down those toys and
pick up your trumpet and practice. You NEED to learn how to read music.
Practice, Practice, Practice!”. Naturally I thought, uh ok Dad, let me
guess, you performed at a young age, and you had to walk 10 miles in
snow too right? ☺ Well, he let me have a few laughs at his expense,
until the day he presented me with a picture of the grandfather’s
orchestra with my father holding the maracas in 1950. He was only 8! I
used to see old 45rpm records with the Carmona name on them. So combine
the funny stories, the ‘cool’ 45rpms, along with the history of Carmona
music, and the opportunity to carry on the musical legacy, it was a no
brainer, even if I was only 14 . Although my father never pressured me
to learn music, his strict and detailed lessons in my early years,
definitely play a major part of who I am as a musician today.
Arizona Groove: Growing up when did you first discover your love of
music?
Gabe
Carmona: The day my father came home with a little Casio keyboard
for me. I swear the little thing must have only had 10 keys on it. I
loved it so much and would recreate the sample songs it had on it.
Whenever I used to get into trouble though, my father would take it away
as a punishment. Haha, those were the days :)
Arizona Groove: Was
the piano the only instrument that interested you?
Gabe
Carmona: No. I have always been interested in the acoustic guitar.
There’s something about an acoustic guitar with just a tab of reverb
that eases my soul.
Arizona Groove:
How did you eventually become a musical director?
Gabe
Carmona: Whenever it came to rehearsals or studio sessions, I would
always go into producer mode. Obviously, I knew to not step on any toes,
but every time I seemed to present an idea for a string line or song
intro/outro, it always made the final take. Next thing I knew, I had
offers for the musical director slot. I have had many opportunities and
memories as a musical director; and for that, I am truly grateful.
Arizona Groove: What is the transition between being a musical director
and a producer?
Gabe
Carmona: With 88th Ave, I am definitely more of a musical director.
Prior to rehearsals, the entire band provides input, which I then turn
into charts for each member. To bring these ideas together, I transition
into producer mode to write arrangements, and musically prepare for
performances.
Arizona Groove: How
does your ability to adapt to so many genres allow you to produce
exceptional music that relates to many cultures?
Gabe
Carmona: I have always been fascinated with "world" music. I would
have to say that my travels definitely played a major role. To me, the
one common denominator in all cultures IS music. This has inspired me to
add many world percussion and other world instruments to my own
productions. I do have to admit, when I receive compliments via email or
at a performance from individuals from that culture, it’s a great
feeling.
Arizona Groove:
Why has jazz been your personal preference to play?
Gabe
Carmona: With Jazz, I can musically express my soul. The ambiance
you can create for any setting is amazing. Whether it’s a soft piano
riff for a quiet evening or an upbeat groove with a touch of slap bass,
with Jazz.....anything is possible.
Arizona Groove:
What jazz musician influenced you growing up?
Gabe
Carmona: Hands down, Chick Corea. Then again Herbie Hancock has
always been a favorite.
Arizona Groove: Now
you’ve traveled a lot and toured various places here and on the islands.
What would you say is a common element among the crowds and the
musicians you’ve played with?
Gabe
Carmona: The love and respect for music.
Arizona Groove:
What was it like to tour in Oahu, Hawaii? How did that opportunity
happen?
Gabe
Carmona: It was amazing. The Hawaiian people are some of the most
caring and beautiful people I have ever met. They have so much love for
their culture and music. How can I not love that? Whether it was a major
concert at the Waikiki Shell or smaller event at Don Ho's, the fans just
wanted to share what we all feel on stage as musicians. How did it
happen? Believe it or not, my very first night on Oahu I headed out to
Zanzabar (the Hot Spot at the time), and my brother George introduced me
to local Hawaiian artist by the name of Jamin. Jamin was looking for a
keyboardist for his band which was just about to start another tour and
the rest was history.
Arizona Groove: Did you do any unplugged sessions while you were there?
Gabe
Carmona: We had many sessions that were unplugged, most featured
Thomson “Kikoman” of Typical Hawaiians, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Jack Johnson who I later met during an ALLBUS
tournament. Jack is just like his music...easy going. Some other
sessions were with international artists such as Mikey Dread (former
producer of The Clash), and O-Shen. Most of the sessions took place at night on the beach with
friends and a bonfire. We even had a session where MTV came and shot
footage of us jammin out. I still keep in touch with many of the artists
from Hawaii. I definitely miss the islands, but they are never to far
away. |
transform any arrangement into melodic melodies is paramount. On
drums, Mr. Jon Robert Leech. Jon's passion for music and life
always put a smile on my face. I can always count on Jon to hold
that solid rhythm. Last but definitely not least, on Bass, Mr.
Ron Pearson. Ron is the newest addition to 88th Ave, but has
already become one of my closest friends in life and music. At
this time, I would like to thank each member for their continued
support. I am truly thankful for you all.
