Long Beach, California’s Kevin Miso is a musician in the truest sense: he leaves his mark on whatever song he plays, regardless of style or genre, and always makes it into his own. Growing up in a musical family, Kevin always had a deep appreciation for music, and learned to play guitar in his early adolescence. He forayed into songwriting in college, following a semester abroad in Spain, and after taking some time to travel in 2008, took the plunge as full-time musician. Since then, Kevin has been winning over fans with his laid back, beachy tracks.
And has this man been busy! In the past two years, he has written, recorded, and released two EPs, independently booked and performed west coast and interstate tours averaging over 200 shows per year, while simultaneously working on his full length album and first national tour.
His first two Eps were produced by Warren Huart. Warren produced hit records for The Fray, Howie Day, and James Blunt among many others; while also mixing records for a range of artists, most recently, Aerosmith. His debut Kevin Miso EP features some of LA’s finest studio musicians: Victor Indrizzo on drums (Colbie Caillat, Sara Bareilles, Sheryl Crow) and Tim Pierce on electric guitars (Dave Matthews Band, Bruce Springsteen, Santana). This EP landed his first television appearance, a live gig on Good Day LA; and a National TV placement with “Because” featured on USA Network’s drama series Necessary Roughness.
For his sophomore Smile EP, Kevin focused on his local roots. He put out a Summer collection of songs, drawing on his surf influences, Hawaiian background and collaborating with local Long Beach artist Todd Forman, one of the original members of Sublime and Sublime with Rome. This proved successful for him as his latest record earned sponsorships from surf apparel, sunglass, and jean companies, management and agency contracts, while providing sold-out shows at The Coach House with Donavon Frankenreiter, as well as festival slots with the likes of Matt Nathanson, reggae great Pato Banton, and ALO.
Miso is currently working on a full-length record. His first single, Sweet Love, was produced by Marc Ford (lead guitarist of The Black Crowes, Ben Harper, and Booker T. Jones). It is a fun, full band party track, channelling the spirits of old Motown and Stax Records while honing in on his authentic feel-good sound. The Temptations meets Jack Johnson you could say.
As for the full-length album, no title or release date has been announced, but we can’t wait. From the turnout of his most recent shows, to the current buzz around town, I’m betting that it’s gonna hit home with a bunch of us.
For updates and more information on Kevin Miso, including tour dates and new songs, please visit: www.kevinmiso.com