Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/728082
As I've so often expressed, the South Shore is a hot bed for musical talent. With Boston standing politely to our north, we often have an influx of musicians who have graced some of the region's biggest stages, received world class musical educations and have cut their teeth in the dive bars and underbelly of this legendary region of the country. It constantly amazes me how much talent is situated up and down the Massachusetts coast alone. In this edition of The Beat, I'd like to focus on some amazing guitar players - who happen to all be singer/songwriters - but can also definitely stand alone as amazing instrumentalists. First up on the list is Boyan Hristov, who is originally from Bulgaria, but came to Boston to study at Berklee College of Music. He has since made a life here, and although he resides in Boston, he's considered part of the musical family down here on the South Shore. Hristov is a sharply educated and extremely well- rehearsed guitar player and a true musician. He is well versed in theory and the mechanics of the instrument, which shows in his ability to switch between just about any style. I've heard Hristov play romantic acoustic ballads, shred the blues and tackle the "thick vibe" of world music, all with fine intuition and a genuine sound. His latest release, "Vitamin for the Soul," with his three piece outfit "B11," is truly a testament to the wonderful guitar player he has become. "Vitamin for the Soul" presents a variety of musical flavors that ranges from Jazz, to Blues, to Surf and even a dash of Lounge. It oozes personality with a collection of licks that are quirkily Hristov; expressive, precise, inventive and beautiful. He is a purest in the sense that what you hear on the record is usually quite true to what you would hear when seeing him live. In an age where so many musicians rely on technology to achieve certain technical abilities, Hristov relies only on himself, the instrument and a few effects pedals here and there. Word on the streets is that he will be releasing a solo acoustic record soon; something I'm sure all the "musician's musicians" and music lovers alike will enjoy. Keep an ear on Hristov at www.B11Band.com. Next up on the list is Shun Ng. I had the opportunity to work with him about a year ago, which will always remain as a very fond musical memory. Originally from Singapore, Ng also came to Boston to study at Berklee College of Music. Hangin' with him is always a great time. I cannot express how extremely passionate he is about what he does. His energy and gentle spirit make a room feel energized, connected and excited to see what happens next. Although a fabulous singer/songwriter and vocalist in his own right, Ng's guitar playing skills have dazzled audiences across the globe, as he continues to build a reputation as not only one of the region's finest, but one of the world's finest as well. Describing his playing is a bit of a challenge. He's funky. Very funky. But he's also jazzy and a bit bluesy as well. He also harnesses the spirit of the classic "sensitive singer/songwriter." Whereas with many guitar players, one could say, "Oh yeah, they utilize a lot of Chet Atkins' technique" or "There's a lot of Mark Knopfler in there," but with Ng, his style is so unique that it's really hard to pinpoint his stylistic roots. With so many components to what he does, it's not only enjoyable, but intriguing as well. Ng's expertise lies with an acoustic guitar, as he uses it percussively, as well as tonally. His skill as a songwriter and instrumentalist has garnered him a loyal following and international praise. Ng's original material stands tall alongside his brilliant cover material. Whether collaborating with the soulful "Shunettes" or the legendary harmonica player Magic Dick (J. Geils Band), Ng is guaranteed to put on a show that is energetic, emotionally in tune, exciting and simply fantastic. Tune into him at www.ShunNG.com. Another one of the region's finest is Danielle Miraglia, who is a staple of the Boston music scene and has earned a well-respected career based on her authentic sound, articulate writing and soulful voice. Miraglia's art not only sounds authentic…but it is authentic. She lives the life she sings about, and sings about the life she lives. All too often, you see musicians chasing a quick route to celebrity. Miraglia, however, has never been one to chase a "means to an 54 by Jay Psaros Greetings, music lovers! Welcome to the ninth edition of "The Beat," where we discuss all things music here on Boston's best shore, the South Shore! We've covered a lot of ground here at The Beat, discussing everything from Singer/ Songwriters, producers, session players and venues.