Johnny Cuomo
Paradiddle Records has recently released a new disc of original Cuomo music in the anticipated, American Idle, a clever and introspective collection of music that both entertains and begs the listener to look a little deeper into what we might call "the stuff around us." You could not expect anything less with a disc title that plays parody on the wildly popular musical talent show, American Idol.
As you begin to explore the Cuomo collection, you will hear influences not commonly heard in most performers. His melodic and intricate songs stand on their own. His Dylanesque voice follows the tradition of Roger McGuinn and Tom Petty in capturing the essential emotion of the American musical spirit, from its core beginnings, to its present considerations. And when you find yourself not listening to, but becoming part of Cuomo's music, you will understand why he continues to entertain, and perhaps enthrall, his many fans.
Johnny has a rich past in the music business. He initially began his musical career as the front man and guitarist for Voice of the Turtle, a successful rock band that played such well known venues as CBGB. The band's CD, As Is..Live, did quite well as an independently released disc. His next venture, into traditional Irish music, proved very successful both here and abroad. Cuomo was a celebrated act in major venues in Ireland, including Whelans, Vicar Street and The Cobblestone and is well respected in the Irish community. He has run a traditional Irish session, every Sunday night, at O'Neill's Pub in NYC for the last 4 years.
Locally, Johnny has performed at the IMAC Theater, in Huntington, NY, as a featured act in the Bob Dylan Uncovered CD Concert, as well as at the Patchogue Theater's "Live in the Lobby" series, on the same bill as Paradiddle artist Drew Olsen. Cuomo was so well received, that this performance set a new attendance record for this venue! Yet another Cuomo accomplishment!
You can find Cuomo's interpretation of Dylan's "Boots of Spanish Leather" on Paradiddle's May 2006 release of Bob Dylan Uncovered, and his Irish flavored version of "Silent Night" on the pennywhistle, on the November 2006 release of Happy Holidays from Paradiddle Records.
Currently, Cuomo has taken a more focused, personal perspective to his music, performing solo, or with select accompaniment, as with Dan Lowery on American Idle. He is also a talented storyteller and is presently in our studio recording a storytelling album for children.
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