Victor Samalot/ Instrumental Guitarist, Olmsted Falls, OH
“LATIN JAZZ WITH A ROCK EDGE, THE ULTIMATE IN COOL!”
(Rotcod Zzaj - Improvijazzation Nation)
Victor Samalot is a 30+ year veteran guitarist from Cleveland Ohio who draws on his Latin roots fusing timeless Latin groove with Jazz stylings topped with a rock edge that appeals to listeners of world fusion music. Imagine a jam session with the likes of Carlos Santana, Wes Montgomery and Jeff Beck. Fresh and contemporary, Victor's musical adventure keeps him quite busy performing and in the studio. His influences include Ottmar Liebert, Craig Chaquico, Jesse Cook, Phil Keaggy Jose Feliciano, and David Gilmour.
Primarily an electric guitar playe, in 2010, Victor wanted to again put his own stamp on original instrumental music by switching to a Godin acoustic /electric guitar and utilizing the Boss RC 300 loop station. Exploring this instrumentation led to releasing 2 albums, Victor Samalot (self titled-2011) and Esperanza (2017). Both illustrate the vision of fusing genres with an organic vibe.
“Listened to "Esperanza" on the way to work again. Man I just love it... are you planning to do another album like this one?” (Keith Hannaleck - MuzikMan Review / Boston, MA)
Prior to 2010, Victor was heavily involved with his Jazz Rock Fusion instrumental group Rare Blend. His contribution to the RB sound was powerful and always entertaining. From 1995 – 2010 (now on permanent hiatus), Rare Blend recorded 5 albums received rave reviews regionally and worldwide from major publications.
Joining Victor on stage is the multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, Bobbi Holt! Together the Victor Samalot Duo's sets blend original music, covers, and improvisations, including instrumentals and classic vocal favorites with a Latin-Jazz twist. Bobbi is thrilled to be returning to the stage with her long-time collaborator, adding bass guitar and vocal abilities to Victor's already organic rhythmic vibe. Bobbi's prior projects include producing ambient world music under the name Mind Lab Music, providing bass tracks to Victor's solo recordings and was co-founder of the Jazz Rock Fusion group Rare Blend as songwriter and keyboardist.
I would highly recommend victor for any event! He is awesome, and brings any event to a classy level. His presence and overall vibe is wonderful!!! You won't be disappointed !!!! (Esperanza / Port Clinton, OH - May 2018)
Victor & Bobbi were the perfect addition to our family event. They sounded amazing and were able to perform inside of our home due to weather. Highly recommend the duo act!! ( House Concert / Westlake, OH)
Can't say enough good things about Victor. Music was wonderful! Everyone loved his music from our youngest to our oldest guest! Would highly recommended him to anyone and would hire him again in a minute! (Beth - Gevarsi Vineyards Event / Canton, OH)
So many have parties in their homes and never consider what a tremendous experience a live performer would be for your guests. Victor is a treasure. He is professional, kind and extraordinarily gifted and accommodating. He was The Hit of my retirement party. (Eva / Brecksville, OH)
Always happy to bring in the very best performers! Thank you Victor Samalot! You were fantastic! (Lakewood Community Festival)
