Alexis Mazzoleni

Hello Rockin’ Friends When Thierry Los, the producer of this record, asked me to write these liner notes, I accepted because it was an honor for me to have taken part in this adventure with my musician friends Philippe Almosnino, Fabrice Lombardo and Alain Chenneviere. This record contains covers of songs by Elvis Presley as well as Country guitar works reminiscent of Chet Atkins, everything recorded by Thierry Los on analog gear at Studio Le Val in Paris western suburbs on May 9th and 10th 2000. Just another rock guitar record ? Perhaps, but here’s the deal : this record has a story. It was a project devised by an illustrious client who shook up the history of popular music : Mr Scotty Moore ! Believe or not, the “King” Elvis Presley’s lead guitar player asked French musicians to record this demo tape with a solo album in mind. Even though this album was never released, at least we take pride in the fact that we were selected to see it though by “the guitar that changed the world” himself. While listening to these sessions, I am reminded of the mood that took over us then, both overwhelmed by the weight of the project and the fun we had doing it, as we were well aware we were doing some really special work and about to make a record with Scotty Moore, Elvis’s guitar player ! The Scotty Moore Project linked Elvis, Country guitar works and Jazz through covers of songs played in an American 1950’s state of mind and sound. “I’ll never stand in your way” harkens to the Sun Studio sound, innovated by Scotty Moore and Bill Black, coming through both my playing and Fabrice’s double bass. Our version of “Young and Beautiful” is highlighted by our Jazz approach. “City By Night” and “Wonderful World”, both titles from 1960’s Elvis films soundtracks, border on Easy Listening. Also included are covers of “Memphis Blues” and “ One Man Boogie”, both songs recorded initially by Chet Atkins and that I had originally performed live with my band the night I met DJ Fontana and Scotty Moore. Furthermore, three original songs that I wrote are featured, recorded in those lovely days of May as well. Now it is time for you to discover this colorful set list. By releasing these sessions, we would like to pay tribute to the genius of Scotty Moore, as well as to Elvis Presley and Chet Atkins. I would also thank Elvis My Happiness and Jean-Marie Pouzenc. Have fun listening to this. Sincerely Yours, Alex Mazzoleni Paris, on the May 9th 2017