Valentino Maltos gives a nod to the warm sounds of the past
In making his long-awaited debut as a smooth jazz artist with the track Butterscotch – from the album Analog Future – Grammy-winning producer and saxophonist Valentino Maltos fulfils his mission to create a positive vibe by capturing a soulful sound using warm synths, vintage electric pianos, and vinyl samples.
The multi-talented performer – who has worked with the likes of Erykah Badu, Snoop Dogg and Dave Chapelle – stirs up a swirl of edgy funk jams in an album that features sensual mid-tempo romantic breathy expressions, horn-drenched R&B, a bustling spin on a Stevie Wonder classic, a mystical tribute to Roy Hargrove, and there’s a touch of spirituality. It ticks all the boxes.
“Music is my passion, and the saxophone is my voice, and with that voice I hope to create music that creates positive vibes, and emotions,” says Maltos.
“As a solo artist, It’s important to be honest with myself and make music that really resonates with me. No fear, or doubt, as we creative’s often do, but to just be my true authentic self.”
Maltos began playing saxophone at age 11, and by age 12 had joined his family’s band playing clubs and parties.
“I continued playing throughout high school and attended the University of Northern Colorado to study jazz performance,” he says.
After college, he moved to Oakland California and joined the local music scene before moving to Texas where he currently resides.
“Once in Texas my recording career really took off,” he says. “I was fortunate enough to work with, and eventually become the “first call” saxophonist for, 14-times Grammy award winning producer Gilbert Valasquez. I’m influenced by 70s & 80s Jazz, HipHop, and R&B.”
…host of the Just Jazz radio show, writer, and occasional voice over artist.
