The updated psychedelic bent and big "wall of sound"on 'Maria' pay homage to the 60s and 70s while advancing Alex's rock artistry into new futuristic tones. The clever arrangements, haunting vocal tones and superb musicianship in Alex's music are incredibly creative and part of what makes his sound so unique and special says 7th World~studios producer, Paul W. Draper. On the 'Maria' EP, Alex performs all instrumentation and vocals himself. All songs were written by Alex Benitez, except Alex's reinterpretation of the Ritchie Valens hit, "We Belong Together". Alex Benitez is a Bay Area native, having grown up in Redwood City, California, and currently residing in Boston, Massachusetts. Alex performs regularly in Boston Massachusetts and still tours within the Bay Area as well. Alex began his musical career in 2007 with The Mechanical Snails, a 60's style psychedelic blues rock band. While the influence and soulful sounds of blues can still be heard in Alex's latest music, his solo career includes a more eclectic range of sounds and influences. One can hear melodies reminiscent of The Beatles and Donovan, as well as psychedelic sounds of the 60's, and sweet love ballads with clever lyrics, catchy tunes and heart-felt sentiment that rivals some of the most popular romantic vocalists and artists of our day.