"The impact of music on socio-cultural implications I believe has never changed. Music is a release. Music is fun. Music helps take the edge off the struggles of getting by. MUSIC IS LIFE."

Frank Cosentino: Blues Master is Back!

Guitarist Frank Cosentino has been on the Canadian music scene since the early 1980’s. He has fronted his on blues/rock band since 1989, and since then he has released many full-length albums. After more than four decades of touring, writing, and producing new music Frank Cosentino realized he needed to change his lifestyle. “I overcame the challenges of addiction and got sober seven years ago,” he stated. “With renewed inspiration, I returned to songwriting with increased focus and energy.” After working with producer Derek Downham at Studio Cardinal Toronto, Cosentino is ready to release his next album to the world. The upcoming album, aptly titled ‘COMEBACK’, includes his soon-to-be-hit ‘You Can’t Call Back,’ is out now. “The story of ‘You Can’t Call Back’ symbolizes my journey,” he explained. “Fate guided me towards collaboration with Juno-winning producer Derek Downham. Together we brought my newfound creativity to life. Throughout the process, my progress was evident, and I emerged as a stronger writer, player, and human.” Frank has also had the opportunity to share the stage with some of the world’s greatest musicians in blues and beyond. Legends like James Cotton, Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter, Jeff Healy, Robben Ford, Duke Robillard, guitarist Phil X (Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper)…..and some of the new blood like guitarists Phillip Sayce, Anthony Gomes and Sue Foley too name a few.

(Frank Cosentino / Photo by Tracy McCormick)

Cosentino’s guitar driven blues rock, combined with his poetic lyric style, will wow fans and newcomers to his music alike. Inducted into The Blues Hall of Fame in 2017 as a Master Blues Artist, Cosentino is considered a real gentleman of the blues, making it his mission to keep the art of blues guitar growing and moving forward. His new music does just that – drawing on his past experiences, which include sharing the stage with greats like Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter, and Jeff Healy, and new blues talents Sue Foley, Phillip Sayce, and Anthony Gomes, Cosentino creates new classic blues in his personal style. “It’s been my personal goal as a producer, songwriter, and artist to work with other artists who have a grand understanding of their respected genres and Frank Cosentino has been a lifelong stalwart of blues and a ferocious lead player,” stated Downham, who plays keyboard, drums, and guitar on the track.

Interview by Michael Limnios                              Special Thanks: Eric Alper

How has the Blues and Rock Counterculture influenced your views of the world? What does the blues mean to you?

The impact of Blues & Rock counterculture on my perspective has been considerable, shaping my views on the world through the lens of personal experience.

How do you describe your sound, music philosophy and songbook? Is there a message you are trying to convey with your music/songs?

In attempting to encapsulate my sound and songwriting philosophy, I turn to the architects of our field, the men and women who influenced my perspective on music and the craft of songwriting. The common thread among them is a commitment to authenticity and truthfulness in their work. This is the benchmark I have inspired throughout my career.

What moment changed your music life the most? What has been the highlight in your life and career so far?

Discovering Jimi Hendrix marked the beginning of my journey on the fast-paced, unpredictable train of music, and “forever change” the mundane aspects of life.  Even water tastes different.

"Balancing technical skill and emotional depth was a long term process. Once achieved, my writing shifted its emphasis to the emotional connection with my listeners. My primary focus now lies in crafting pieces that move and captivate them." (Photo: Frank Cosentino)

What has been the hardest obstacle for you to overcome as a person and as an artist and has this helped you become a better blues musician?

Obstacles are an integral part of the journey. I understand that going in. The biggest challenge for me was making peace with the fact that no matter the distance travelled, the hours spent writing or the financial burden, there were no guarantees of success. But you keep pursuing running on will and elbow grease.

What do you miss most nowadays from the music of the past? What are your hopes and fears for the future of?

The proliferation of smoke and mirrors in today’s music scene has left me yearning for a return to the raw, unfiltered talent of real musicians. I long to feel the energy and emotion of the performers, their sweat-drenched performances is a testament to their passion. My hope is that the blues will continue to be carried forward by writers who speak the truth through their lyrics.

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned from your experience in the music paths?

The most crucial lesion is that in order to succeed, you must persevere when things seem impossible.

What's the balance in music between technique (skills) and soul (emotions)? How do you want your music to affect people? 

Balancing technical skill and emotional depth was a long term process. Once achieved, my writing shifted its emphasis to the emotional connection with my listeners. My primary focus now lies in crafting pieces that move and captivate them.

What is the impact of music on the socio-cultural implications? What is the role of music in today’s society?

The impact of music on socio-cultural implications I believe has never changed. Music is a release. Music is fun. Music helps take the edge off the struggles of getting by. MUSIC IS LIFE.

Frank Cosentino - Home

(Frank Cosentino / Photo by Ken Wallis)