The Metal and Fusion Communities Giving Back to One of Their Own: Tony MacAlpine

Feb. 2, 2016 - PRLog -- It seems musicians have a real heart, especially when one of their own is in trouble.  Such was the case with power shredder guitar player Tony MacAlpine. Love, money, and well wishes are pouring out to send healing and a means of financial support to aid Tony MacAlpine, who is being treated for an illness outside of the United States. For a musician who makes his living touring, that illness stopped him in his musical tracks! He is currently undergoing treatment.

Tony MacAlpine is significant in the progressive rock, metal, and fusion world. In addition to his long, successful solo career, Tony has also been part of several rock super groups including Planet X with Derek Sherinian and Virgil Donati; PSMS (Portnoy/Sheehan/MacAlpine/Sherinian); as well as the Grammy-nominated CAB with bassist Bunny Brunel. MacAlpine also spent seven years playing guitar and keys in Steve Vai‘s touring band.

Metal:
The rock/metal community put on a benefit concert at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles on December 12, 2015. They raised money by holding an auction and raffle during the show that evening. The ticket sales were a promoter’s dream-come-true, resulting in a packed venue of motivated fans and rockers. Steve Vai headlined and other notable musicians such as Billy Sheehan, Mike Portnoy, Derek Sherinian, John 5, and more took the stage and gave their support to the cause. At the end of the show there was a jam with some of the key participants which brought the audience to thier feet, waving their camera phones and swaying to the music. Others behind the scenes included Rich Mouser (Front of House), and SIR Studios (backline and rehearsal). Michael Mesker spearheaded the benefit concert and Eddie Trunk hosted. One of the biggest highlights that evening was MacAlpine “skyping” in to show his appreciation; and Tony's friends and colleagues gave moving, videotaped testimonials, sending prayers and well wishes his way.

Fusion:
Tony MacAlpine is not just a metal guitar player, but he is also a fusion musician. He is CAB’s co-founding member. The Grammy-nominated super fusion band has worldwide fans, several albums, and has been revered by the jazz community for many years. Bunny Brunel of CAB headed a tribute to MacAlpine on January 23, 2016, at The Baked Potato in Studio City with Virgil Donati on drums, Alex Machacek on guitar, and Dennis Hamm on keys. It was a moving tribute with two sold-out shows. CAB fans gave their support to the a widely loved and extremely versatile musician. Tony MacAlpine is an inspiration to both the metal and fusion communities and he has touched the hearts of all those with whom he has performed.