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Famed rock vocalist Ray West’s career has been much like his music, a series of expressive progressions, like chords in a song, which have left his fans wanting more. Hard rock and heavy metal enthusiasts are well familiar with his raspy and raw - yet strong and distinctive vocal style. Like most rock musicians Ray’s life reads like a movie. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, West’s father turned him on to all genres of music from Soul to Rock and Roll. Growing up, Ray became influenced by such celebrated bands as Black Sabbath, Van Halen, Pink Floyd, ACDC, Humble Pie, Judas Priest and Santana and the singing styles of notable greats including James Brown, Elvis and Stevie Wonder.
While living in Ft. Lauderdale, West was discovered by then up-and-coming producer Charles Gambetta who recruited him back to NY. Soon after Ray joined Spread Eagle (MCA/Universal), formed with Paul DiBartolo (guitar) Rob De Luca (bass) and Tommi Gallo (drums), they burst upon the music scene playing an explosive brand of rock that came straight from living in NYC’s infamous Lower East Side. Their self-titled debut album was produced by Charlie Gambetta and featured wailing vocals and razor sharp guitar, demonstrated through songs such as "Switchblade Serenade," "Scratch Like A Cat,” and "Broken City" and quickly gained the band worldwide critical acclaim propelling them to the forefront of the genre. They then released and toured with their second album "Open To The Public" (also produced by Gambetta) but like so many great rising bands, the stresses of the music business and internal struggles took their toll and the band members went their separate ways to work on their own personal and well-received projects.
While life on the road had its moments, Ray needed to reassess his life. After leaving the limelight for a few years, Ray’s love of performing brought him right back to his passion. “Singing and getting out in front of people again is most important to me. I just need to do it!” An accomplished performer in other arenas West has also done theatre and stand-up comedy.
Ray has finished recording his new album with his band APW aka All Points West with producer Miguel “Nino” Gonzalez. The track 'Novacain' was heard on USA’s new TV series “Burn Notice.”
Ray’s personal growth as an artist, combined with a talent that has created new and exciting material, has developed his gift even further. “It's a privilege to be able to sing in a rock band, and should never be taken for granted.” When asked about his sound, Ray says it’s “melodic, soulful, & psychotic!” We expect nothing less.
His future points to…All Points West!
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