They are quite an institution: Paul Richards, Bert Lams and Hideyo Moriya, better known as the California Guitar Trio, are one of the most innovative and most extraordinary bands worldwide, and that since 13 years. They are an instrumental trio, that is conjuring up the transcendental power of those guitar strings, celebrating international success, they were nominated for the Grammy for several times, and it’s a band that is not confusing virtuosity with technical exaggeration. They are interested in songs which are shining with intensity, richness of ideas and an almost contemplative charme. Again this is what you will find on their new album “Whitewater“.

The California Guitar Trio consists of three revered musicians who aren't actually natives of the "Golden State" California. Actually, two of the members aren't even from the United States! Bert Lams is from Brussels, Belgium; Hideyo Moriya is a native of Tokyo, Japan; and Paul Richards hails from Salt Lake City, Utah. The technical wizardry of the California Guitar Trio is breathtaking, and so is the wide range of instrumental music the group performs -- everything from unique originals to dazzling, cleverly arranged reinterpretations of classical, jazz and surf rock pieces. Elements of blues and country are blended into the California Guitar Trio's style too. Their diversity is unparalleled. There's simply nothing the California Guitar Trio can't do musically.

In 2002, the three guitar virtuosos released an album with traditional as well as modern Christmas tunes.

California Guitar Trio with Tony Levin (Peter Gabriel, King Crimson) and Pat Mastelotto (King Crimson). Original issue in slipcase.