f you happened to be at the West Virginia Italian Festival this past summer, you were taking part in more than just great music, culture, and food. On Friday night of the festival, Benjamin DeFazio was dazzling the crowd and the tape was rolling for his debut CD.

 

Benjamin teamed up with Blues Alley Studios in Morgantown, WV and producer Joshua Swiger to bring his show to the fans that have been waiting for a long time for music. The duo talked for a few months about recording it in the studio, but getting the team together and picking the right songs never seemed to capture what they were looking for. Then the idea hit about recording the music live with the audience and band at one of Benjamin’s favorite events – The West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival.

 

“It just felt right and natural to record my WVIHF show, I always feel like I’m performing my best and the crowd is always very supportive” says DeFazio.

 

“Benjamin performs at many events around the area and we are honored that he chose our festival as his selection for his debut CD” says Kelley Davisson, Vice-Chair of the WVIHF Board of Directors.

 

Swiger spent 2 months mixing the tunes and maintaining the live essence of the show. He wanted to be sure to capture the feeling that you are at the festival and enjoying the music.

 

The CD contains Benjamin’s show from the festival. All of his favorite Italian and popular music songs. Over the past six years, DeFazio has narrowed down a long list of his favorite tunes to find the perfect fit for the festival crowd. With the incredible talents of the WVIHF Orchestra, he strives to bring a sense of nostalgia to listeners of all ages.

 

“When you listen to the album it’s like being at the festival..right back in the streets” says Elizabeth Keough, treasurer of the WVIHF Board of Directors.

 

CDs are available online on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BenjaminDeFazioVocalist

 

You can also email BenjaminDeFazio@gmail.com for more information.