Casey Monroe (Iran / Canada)
Casey Monroe is a pseudonym used by acoustic guitarist and composer Maneli Jamal to release reimaginations of classic songs on solo acoustic guitar. Jamal’s upbringing was marked by constant movement between Iran, Belarus, Germany, America, and Canada. His musical development was undoubtably influenced by this nomadic lifestyle, which gave him a variety of diverse experiences and a unique level of maturity. His style blends power, sensitivity, and a wide array of ideas, drawing inspiration from real-life stories. Jamal’s talent has been recognized through numerous international music competition wins, such as securing first place at Canada’s Soundclash Music Awards, and being named among “Acoustic Guitar Magazine’s” top 30 guitarists under 30.
Featured Song:
“Silver Bells” was written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the songwriting team behind “Mona Lisa” and “Que Sera, Sera.” It debuted in the Bob Hope comedy The Lemon Drop Kid (1951), where Hope and Marilyn Maxwell sing it on a busy city street. Unlike most Christmas songs of the era, it celebrates the season in the city, with crowded sidewalks, traffic lights, and the bells of street-corner Santas. Casey Monroe trades that bustle for something quieter, letting the familiar melody unfold slowly on solo acoustic guitar.
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