Brooklyn-born, New Paltz-based multi-instrumentalist and composer Myles Lino released his new album, Shepard Nights. This follows the release of his single “Camelia.”
Blending elements of jazz, fusion, and hip-hop, Lino’s work explores a wide spectrum of sound rooted in improvisation and storytelling. With the release of Shepard Nights, Lino marks the beginning of his journey as a recording artist and expands his voice as a writer and performer.
A student of jazz performance and audio engineering at SUNY New Paltz, Lino brings a unique sound shaped by both formal training and lived experience. Whether leading his own projects or playing as a sideman, he’s performed across New York and continues to grow his presence in the Hudson Valley and beyond.
His debut album, Shepherd Nights, showcases a bold collection of original compositions that reflect his wide-ranging influences and collaborative spirit. Known for his versatility, Lino moves seamlessly between genres while maintaining a strong, expressive voice on the horn. Collaborators on the album are Vincent Mandracchia as the producer and guitarist, Evan Harden on piano, Sawyer Gold on bass, and Dan Palladino and Will Romeo on drums.
The record begins with the opening track “Miss You Wayne,” a bold yet tender introduction that immediately captivates the listener. Through soulful saxophone and guitar solos, the track instantly draws the listeners in, while the unpredictable tones and passionate melodies set an exciting standard for what’s to come.
Next comes “Atacama,” a track that makes the listener want to stand up and dance, regardless of where they are or what they’re doing. The track implements intentional stop-time pauses, which profoundly emphasize the rhythm and beat. Overall, the track is very relaxed and seems to take inspiration from Bossa Nova, as it incorporates smooth and calming transitions.
Following this is “Stanton Street,” a track that feels like you’re walking back to your apartment late at night after a successful first date. The saxophone is hypnotic, and the piano paired with the bass intertwine into one cumulative sound, creating a feeling of serenity.
The album continues with “For Lenoir,” a tribute to one of Lino’s prior roommates and closest friends, Nathan Lenoir, a fellow undergraduate student at SUNY New Paltz. The track feels at many times both light and passionate at certain points, creating a sense of rollercoaster emotions, possibly a representation of how Lino perceives his relationship with Lenoir.
Then comes “Camelia”, a slow and calming track that should be played while on a sunny walk in the park.
Towards the end of the album comes “Landslide,” a track that feels more uptempo when compared to the rest of the album. The instrumentalists on this track work cohesively with each other to build and emphasize each other’s riffs and solos. This track is one that you can wake up, roast your coffee, and start your day with. Towards the end of this track comes a drum solo which is captivating and mesmeric, a good way to encapsulate the album.
Concluding the album is “Time Remembered,” an extremely melodic and soothing track. The track is a ballad written by the famous pianist and composer Bill Evans. It’s a wonderful conclusion to an album with such diversity and emotional depth.
From beginning to end, Shepard Nights is an album of musical nuance. From “Stanton Street” to “Time Remembered,” each of the tracks paints a vivid emotional landscape.
To listen to Shepard Nights and learn more about Myles Lino, click here.
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