Debut record from Casa Del Sol

Formed in California’s Bay Area, a band of veteran musicians has come together under the Casa Del Sol banner, a group whose music is forged on the timeless and innovative sounds of the 60s and 70s. Founded by singer-songwriter and guitarist John “Mad Johnny” Modell, Casa Del Sol is a project that seeks to shine a light during challenging times through socially conscious, cinematic psych rock.

John’s journey to Casa Del Sol is a story of defiance, reinvention and determination; born into a family of NFL team owners, he made the decision to follow his passion for music rather than continue the family legacy. After raising his two children as a single father and building a career in the music industry, he reignited his dream of playing music with close friends who share a deep bond and impressive credentials.

Casa Del Sol’s members bring decades of experience and a diverse array of musical influences. Joining John is drummer Wally Ingram, bassist Mike DiPirro and keyboardist Mighty Dave, all with vast experience playing with other leading artists. Together, they create a genre-fluid sound that melts elements of psychedelia, soul, rock, blues, jazz and world music into something entirely their own.

The band debuted with a triumphant concert in Oaxaca, Mexico, performing The Family Album, a cycle of spiritual songs rooted in ancestry and human connection. Their music embraces poetic lyricism, emotional impact and moments of soaring improvisation, reflecting San Francisco’s own musical heritage.

Capturing their sound in the studio, they shared the first taste of their sound with the debut single “You Make Me So High” in September. Now they’re back with the perfect run through of their musical vision, their brand new debut full-length record titled Strange Angels, a term John has affectionately dubbed the wider community of creatives the band thrives amongst.

The nine-track record distils the golden era of album-oriented rock, encouraging listeners to experience the record as a cohesive sonic voyage. Opened by the soft guitar strums and softly shaking rhythm of “Sing My Song,” gentle vocals enter to spin breezy melodic leads above, resulting in a charming slice of dreamy retro rock cut with the wide appeal of pop and hazy aesthetic of misty psych vibes.

“Love In A Time of War” presents a delicate sound of gently twanging guitar notes, stretched organ textures and the mellow shuffle of drums capped by emotive vocals. Casting a delightful listening experience stitched with themes of hope and optimism, John’s thoughts of “We’re here to bring love, connection, and light to the world through music. The best art comes in times of turmoil, and this is our way of making sense of it all,” shines throughout the song. On “Realize,” the laid back groove of pattering rhythms is met with intricate acoustic guitar and silky vocalisations, framing the band’s sound in a soothing, mesmeric arrangement.

Other highlights on the album include songs like “Adorable Corruptor” with its steady rhythm, lightly gritty guitars and expressive vocal performance, crafting an anthemic rock outing that builds to a rousing crescendo of soaring guitars and bright brass tones across its epic seven minute journey. Closing the record with title track “Strange Angels,” the whisper of acoustic guitar notes is met by soulful vocals threading moving melodies and lyrics on this slow burning, stripped back outing that perfectly concludes the LP with an elegant folk finale.

Listen to Strange Angels below