Albert Castiglia: The Heart and Soul of Modern Blues
Albert Castiglia, one of the most celebrated names in modern blues rock, has had an extraordinary few years. Known for his emotive guitar work, high-energy performances, and powerful storytelling, Castiglia’s rise to the top has been a result of dedication, life experiences, and an unrelenting passion for the blues. In a recent interview with Rick, Castiglia opened up about his career, the challenges of touring, and how personal life events have influenced his music.
Finding Comfort in a Busy Touring Schedule
Touring is an integral part of any musician’s life, but for Castiglia, the non-stop pace can feel like both a challenge and a blessing. When asked if there are truly “days off” when on tour, Castiglia noted, “A stay in a hotel room can feel like a vacation.” Reflecting on a recent break at Mike Zito’s house, Castiglia shared how even a gig in Texas—where he got to play a rare Stevie Ray Vaughan Hamiltone guitar—felt more like a cherished experience than work.
Despite the fast-paced nature of touring, Castiglia cherishes the moments of respite and the camaraderie of his fellow musicians, such as his close friend Mike Zito, with whom he has collaborated on the successful Blood Brothers project.
The Emotional Foundation of His Music
In the past few years, Castiglia has experienced significant personal revelations that have deeply affected his music. The discovery of his daughter and two grandchildren in 2018 gave rise to his album Masterpiece, a work that reflected his newfound emotions. Castiglia candidly shared how this discovery led to a wave of both positive and negative emotions that he channeled into his music: “All of a sudden, all these feelings… started rolling through my head and my heart. Fortunately, I was a musician, and I was able to channel my feelings through my music.”
The pandemic also brought challenges for Castiglia, as he struggled to stay afloat during the lockdowns. Like many musicians, he faced financial uncertainty and even battled long COVID. Yet, through it all, he continued to create, reflecting on the difficult times and using them as fuel for his music. He emphasized that much of his success comes from his ability to channel life’s struggles into his art, a process that has resonated with fans and critics alike.
Blood Brothers: A Friendship Turned Collaboration
Castiglia’s close friendship with Mike Zito has blossomed into a successful musical partnership. The Blood Brothers project, which initially began with small performances and tours, quickly gained momentum, resulting in both a studio album and a live album. Castiglia credits Zito for being the driving force behind the project, comparing their relationship to the Rat Pack: “Mike is Frank Sinatra, and I’m Dean Martin… Mike is the proactive guy always doing everything… and I’m just sitting, with my martini, saying just tell me where we’re going.”
Their collaboration, born out of mutual respect and a shared love for the blues, has been an incredible success. Castiglia praised Zito for his proactive approach, noting that their balance of energies has allowed the project to thrive without burning out. As the Blood Brothers tour continues, Albert Castiglia still finds time to pursue his solo career, striking a balance that keeps both projects fresh and exciting.
Looking Ahead: New Music on the Horizon
Castiglia’s solo career is still going strong, with new music expected to be released soon. He recently recorded a new album at Greaseland Studios in California, incorporating both original material and guest performances from friends in the industry. The most significant contribution, however, comes from his daughter, who will appear on one of the tracks. For Albert Castiglia, this personal connection is what makes the project truly special.
While details about the album’s guest stars remain under wraps, Castiglia’s excitement about the project is palpable. The album, slated for release in June, promises to showcase his continued growth as an artist and his ability to draw from his personal life experiences to create meaningful music.
The Evolution of His Stage Presence
Castiglia’s performances have earned him a reputation for being “ultra-animated, sometimes nearly manic,” as described by Rick in a review of his 2022 show. Despite his vibrant onstage persona, Castiglia revealed that this wasn’t always the case. Growing up, he was a shy kid who found solace in playing guitar rather than engaging with people. It wasn’t until he joined Junior Wells’ band in 1997 that he learned the importance of connecting with the audience.
Wells’ ability to open up and become vulnerable on stage was a revelation for Castiglia, who spent years developing that same skill. Now, Castiglia’s shows are known for their energy, emotion, and connection with the crowd. “I’m just gonna have a good time and enjoy myself,” he says, reflecting on his love for performing. “It’s the best job I have ever had… it’s not really a job if you love it.”
A Career Built on Passion and Resilience
Albert Castiglia’s journey in the blues world is one of passion, resilience, and personal growth. From his early days of touring to his recent successes with Blood Brothers and his solo work, Castiglia continues to push the boundaries of blues rock while staying true to his emotional roots. Whether he’s touring the country, collaborating with fellow musicians, or writing songs inspired by life’s ups and downs, Castiglia’s music is a testament to the power of storytelling through song. With new projects on the horizon and a growing fanbase, Albert Castiglia shows no signs of slowing down.
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