Guitarist Al Caiola is mainly remembered today for two hit recordings of western themes -- The Magnificent Seven (1960) and Bonanza (1961). Both were released by United Artists, for whom Caiola recorded prolifically throughout the '60s.
By the time he signed with United Artists Caiola had already established himself as one of the top session guitarists in New York, playing on an incredible number of hit recordings. Among them were Don't Let the Stars Get in Your Eyes by Perry Como, Moments to Remember by the Four Lads and Diana by Paul Anka.
As well Caiola recorded under his own name on RCA Victor, Savoy, Roulette, Atco and several other labels before going with United Artists.
Flamenco Love (b/w From the Heart) came out on the Regent label in 1956. It was released on London in the U.K. and Canada. Strangely the Canadian release is the only one to identify the whistler, Dick Kuhn. If you can find it check out Kuhn's excellent 1956 single on Mercury, Whistling the Blues/My Whistling Heart. Anyways, here's Flamenco Love, direct from the 45.
Flamenco Love
Both Flamenco Love and From the Heart are now available on CD as part of The Caiola Bonanza, a just-released two-CD set from the British-based Jasmine label. This is one of the best quality compilations of Caiola's United Artists material, but also includes rare recordings made for the RCA Victor, Regent and Preferred labels. You can buy it direct from the company or from most of the major online sellers. The set is also available as a download.
A different side of Al Caiola is highlighted in this YouTube selection, Sweet Georgia Brown. From left to right, Michele Ramo, violin; Bucky Pizzarelli, guitar; Al Caiola, guitar; and Jerry Bruno, bass. The setting for this concert is not identified but the video was posted in 2007.
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