(robertmichaels/) To see where Robert came from is to look at a fourteen year-old boy growing up in Toronto wanting, more than anything in the world, to learn how to play guitar. Initially his parents doubted his dedication and refused to buy him one. Undaunted, he picked up a piece of wood, drew on some frets and nailed six pieces of plain string on to it. He then sat in his room for hours on end practicing silent chords. Eventually his parents relented and bought him his first guitar and from that day he soared. Robert Michaels released his debut CD Paradiso in 1996, and from that time has released 4 more albums. Following on from the success of 2003’s JUNO award-winning Allegro, the new self-titled album from ROBERT MICHAELS is now available. This 2-CD set includes both a vocal disc of beautiful new songs and an instrumental disc highlighting Robert’s unique acoustic guitar style. Robert’s new album (self titled, "Robert Michaels") displays amazing growth and introduces a number of musical elements. In addition to his own vocals tracks it also includes renowned vocalist Jennifer Warnes (Famous Blue Raincoat) who makes a rare guest appearance on “So Sad”, and “Emporte-Nous” features acclaimed musical stage actress Louise Pitre (Mamma Mia!). Respected Canadian singers Luba and Coral Egan are also special guest vocalists. This collection of 18 unique songs ranges in style from pop to flamenco. Much of Robert’s earlier recordings were described as “flamenco-jazz” but these new songs have a much broader musical palette. Robert explains, “From the beginning I didn’t play flamenco or Latin jazz in any traditional way. I had experience playing so many other styles that I merely incorporated all of the influences. My style was never planned. I arrived at it spontaneously while playing in front of the audiences.” Robert's most current release is titled Cubamenco. Robert tells us, "Cubamenco is a word I created to describe two cultures of music fused together: 'Cuban' and 'Flamenco'. On this recording you will find flavours of the 2 styles represented in a non-traditional way where old world meets new." Prior to 2009's Cubamenco, Robert released "The Spanish Guitar Collection". This album is a beautiful collection of Robert's instrumental compositions from his hit albums over the past 10 years. The Cd Arizona, earned Robert a 1997 JUNO nomination for Instrumental Artist of the Year. His next release, Allegro, won the JUNO for Best Instrumental Album in 2003. Robert admits, “It’s all been word of mouth, really. Every time we did a show, people came up to us and asked where we were playing next and if they could buy an album. Then they’d show up and bring their friends and it just grew from there.”