MARK LETTIERI OF SNARKY PUPPY & METROPOLE ORKEST

Guitarist Mark Lettieri and the sublime Metropole Orkest: it's a combination that already looks great on paper, not to mention how it must sound live in full glory at the Muziekgebouw in Eindhoven during the BRIDGE Guitar Festival.

Mark Lettieri is one of the grooviest, funkiest, adventurous, and at the same time, pleasing-to-the-ear guitarists of the moment. His star has been rising for years. In that upward curve, there is now a beautiful provisional peak during his show at the BRIDGE Guitar Festival with the Metropole Orkest. Lettieri himself has a concise description for his music: it is the result of putting Zapp & Roger, George Clinton, Eddie Van Halen, and a baritone guitar in a room together. In that same room, you'll also find Prince, Sly & the Family Stone, Joe Satriani, and Steve Vai. Or, as the magazine Gitarist calls it: it’s cool, unique, and special.

In addition to being a solo artist, the California-born Texan musician is a sought-after session player. He has been a steady force with the vibrant Snarky Puppy for years, and he has previously graced the stage of the Muziekgebouw with them. Another irresistible collaboration where the amiable American flourishes is The Fearless Flyers, with Cory Wong and Joe Dart of Vulfpeck. Also very delightful, danceable yet interesting music.

For the Metropole Orkest, the BRIDGE Guitar Festival is not unfamiliar territory. Last year, at the first edition of the festival, master guitarist Steve Vai performed with the groundbreaking orchestra. A show that Vai himself considers one of the highlights of his career. Lettieri describes it as a dream come true to play with the Metropole Orkest: “Honestly, as a musician, I couldn't be happier than performing with this amazing orchestra.” That joy we share entirely with him!