Singer/guitarist Raul Midón is a contemporary soul singer whose impassioned acoustic guitar playing — a mix of rock, classical, and flamenco — has gotten him just as much attention as his smooth voice. Blind since birth, Midón was born in Embudo, NM, to an Argentine father and American mother.  His major-label debut, State of Mind, released in 2005, featured a guest appearance from Stevie Wonder. World Within a World followed in 2007.

Midon has a lovely voice, a beautifully controlled tenor that can express anything from tenderness to passion. When he needs an additional instrumental colour, he imitates a trumpet. It could seem like a gimmick, but he does it so well, with such confidence and fluidity, that his Dizzy-like “vocal trumpet” solos become a highlight of the set.

Incredible guitar talent. And the vocal trumpet thing? Awesome. I first heard of Midon via a stream from the North Sea Jazz Festival. There are a couple of tunes worth checking out below. “Ain’t Happen Yet” has a real Take 6 vibe to it, which comes across as more of a homage and less like an imitation.

Sunshine (I can Fly) from State of Mind CD 2005

Ain’t Happen Yet