Tag Archives: and Earth Wind and Fire

Dave Panico Seeks Something Different In His Music

Dave PanicoUnlike some artists who limit themselves to a singular style and set of influences, Dave Panico cites a fascinating array of jazz legends and contemporary greats as having an impact on his own exciting mix of compelling melodies, strong rhythms and transcendent improvisations.  “I am always looking to do something different with my music. Smooth Jazz can become redundant in its sound, so I like to put a different spin on the music.”

Much of the influence in Dave’s music stems from a time when he would listen to his parents 1940s-era big band recordings.  He absorbed the likes of Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Pete Fountain, and later in life Spyro Gyra, Tower of Power,  and Earth Wind and Fire.

Dave’s sound is further influenced by the Christian values that resonate throughout his music.  From inspiration to performance, Dave never hesitates giving credit where credit is due.

Today, all those influences are masterfully blended to form the unique Smooth Jazz sound that can only be called Dave’s.  He has produced three albums, the most recent of which is titled Tasty Treat, released earlier this year.  He received the Instrumental Artist of the Year Award both at the 2015  King Cat Music Awards and the 2007 Kansas City Christian Music Awards, along with receiving a nomination for the acclaimed Instrumental Artist of the Year Award in 2008 from IndieHeaven-Momentum Awards, Nashville, Tennessee.

Recently KC Cafe Radio Music Director Kathy Forste spoke with Dave via Skype.  They talked about those old big band recordings, growing up with music in his life,,  as well as his early stints in music performance, playing in rock, heavy metal and even reggae bands.  Dave also touches on the Christian message that is woven into his music, as well as the “smooth jazz sound.”

Listen to and buy Tasty Treat here:

Dave Panico: Tasty Treat

Listen to the interview here: