Omar Torrez

OMAR TORREZ BAND "Dare we dub him the Latin Hendrix?! The fastest fingers in the West, a massive talent poised to break out and kiss the sky." ~ The Seattle Times "Torrez, [a] guitar wizard... ranges from Flamenco mastery to hot rock" ~ The Seattle Times Omar Torrez Band (OTB) is indeed blessed with all that is right within the world of music – a passion for their art, an audience to share it with, and enormous talent to back it all up. One could write a novel about front man Omar Torrez’s heritage, ranging from Spanish and Basque (via Mexico) to Norwegian, Native American and Russian roots. Born and raised in Seattle (where OTB was voted 'Best Band' for three consecutive years by Seattle Weekly), the young artist received national attention when he won the National Jimi Hendrix Guitar Competition at the prestigious Bumbershoot Festival. After this victory, Omar embarked on a musical, spiritual, and physical journey, traveling the world, studying Cuban and Andalusian gypsy music. Learning from the Cuban and Spanish musical masters such as Carlos del Puerto, Jr. and Juan Serrano, Omar immersed himself in classical and Flamenco guitar. Living a life of the gypsy, he eventually found himself coming full circle back to his American rock ‘n roll roots. His music now reflects these various elements, revealing a multi-dimensional artist that is rare in today’s music scene. Torrez and his writing partner, multi-instrumentalist John Wakefield, have attracted world-class players to join them in OTB. Among the various artists that play with them regularly: Carlos del Puerto Jr., Tige DeCoster, and Roberto Vally on bass, Jimmy Branly, David Leach, Byron Vannoy and Dale Fanning on drums. OTB has toured extensively both in the US and abroad in support of their 2 releases on Russia’s major label Soyuz Music. They have shared the stage with musical giants, including the Buena Vista Social Club, Jethro Tull, Pancho Sanchez, Susana Baca, and Francisco Aguabella, as well as such underground favorites as Indigenous, B-side Players and Sidestepper. Endorsements include: Fender, Breedlove Guitars, and L.R. Baggs. Tom Waits took note of Omar’s talents and had Omar join him for his "Glitter and Doom Tour" in 2008. Coming off that experience and the raving reviews that it generated, Omar and the band find themselves at an exciting moment. With the launch of their new subscription website, they have decided to eschew the traditional routes and the "old guard" in favor of a truly independent stand. With tours already planned for Mexico, Europe and Russia, OTB is getting geared up for a break-out year. For more information and booking contacts, please visit www.omartorrez.com, write to masha@omartorrez.com or call +1 (310) 403-29-09 (US).