Island Zone Update November,1998

One of my favorite recent shows featured Tony Barca His debut CD, MAKANA, has also been reviewed in this publication. Another seasoned veteran, Barca's on-air performance featured a lengthy interview segment as well as a starkly beautiful rendition of "Already Over You," the track I humbly pick as his first hit. As much as I personally enjoyed hearing the song live, it was perhaps more rewarding to experience the energy of an artist talking about his music with the certain knowledge that he's presenting his best foot forward, backed by more than three decades of preparation. Like so many of the Island's best original artists Barca shatters the industry assumption (and a very stupid one, I might add) that musical creativity and commercial viability ebbs after age 30. He's got the songs, the musical ability, and a team of crack players to round his music out. Add to this professional outlook and approach, and I'd put my money on the upward direction that Barca's career is headed for.

—Roy Abrams—