“Spanish Nights” reviews:
“Mark is a masterful instrumentalist-as evident in his cd “Spanish Nights”. His single line melodies have such passion within his compositions and interpretations-clear, concise, and heartfelt. This is Spanish/latin/flamenco/and jazz world class instrumental music. Perfect!”
EarBuzz.com
“Savor the intimate acoustic stylings of Mark Gutierrez in the quiet time of the evening when you are not rushed and your relaxed mood fits the feel of his flamenco and Latin style playing. The dozen tracks on this album are infused with sweet melodies and a soft acoustic tone. All are instrumental except for one track, and on that track, Gutierrez cuts loose with the romantic ballad, “Our Love”, sung in English (which adds just the right touch to the whole mix he has presented the listener). Tracks like “Spanish Nights” and “Flamenco Mood” also express that style in a robust manor, and then there are other veins of music that run through “Mi Alegria” and “Como Asi”, which have a Latin phrasing and rhythm, while “I Still Remember” and “Amanda” could be better described as contemporary music with a Latin flair. The entire collection of tracks all flow together as a very appealing romantic suite (or maybe “sweet” would be better in this context). So if you are craving a taste of some easy listening with a vibrant pulse and a romantic heartbeat, “Spanish Nights” might be just what you were in the mood for.”
New Age Voice Magazine
“With an album of his compositions, acoustic guitarist Mark Gutierrez blends the essential elements, plus a few that we’ve come to know through more recent generations. The balladry of Marty Robbins, the gentle bossa of Jobim, and relaxing Sunday afternoon moods of New Adult Contemporary radio waves commingle with centuries-old rhythms and harmony.
With bassist Jose Marino, the guitarist takes his his turn at “traveling the world” on a musical vessel. The session runs smooth with a perpetual motion. Gutierrez’ classical guitar tremelos and fingerstyle technique merge with Marino’s light, electronic ostinato. The album takes a turn in a different direction when the guitarist sings an emotional “Our Love”, introducing the pop singing practice of riding each syllable for all its worth. Gutierrez and Marino work well together. Their session runs smooth and should appeal to anyone looking for accompaniment to a lazy Sunday afternoon.”
Jim Santella, LA Jazz Scene
“This self-produced debut recording by multi-instrumentalist Mark Gutierrez gives prominence to his talents as a guitarist, vocalist, composer, and arranger. His ability to double equally on guitar and piano makes him one of the most in demand working musicians in town. Gutierrez is also well versed in many styles, including jazz, classical, Latin, rock, and flamenco.
“Spanish Nights” profiles the talents of Gutierrez simply with the aid of his acoustic guitars, his occasional vocals, and the accompaniment of bassist Jose Marino. A truly unplugged performance recorded to captivate the live sound of his string instrument in duet with a bass minus the customary addition of percussion or other instruments, the cd includes 11 original compositions with a bonus reprise of the title selection “Spanish Nights”. From the Nuevo-flamenco-inspired pieces to jazz oriented passages to more festive Caribbean and Latin American rhythms, there’s a whole world of music in this production rendered exclusively on string instruments and by only two musicians.”
Gil Rivera, Latin Beat Magazine
“Mark Gutierrez has a likeable Spanish style on guitar, playing music that falls between middle of the road Latin tunes, flamenco and Afro-Cuban jazz. On his melodic “Spanish Nights” cd, Gutierrez plays duos and trios with bassist Jose Marino. All 10 songs are by the guitarist and the emphasis is on soothing sounds, low volume, inner heat and light catchy Spanish rhythms.
The concise performances flow easily from one song to another. “Our Love” and “Spanish Nights” are heard in two versions with the former also including a vocal by Gutierrez during the second go round while “Spanish Nights” is reprised in abbreviated form at the set’s conclusion. But in general the music does not really need analysis for the strong musicianship and the easy going melodies are accessible and enjoyable.”
Scott Yanow, L.A. Jazz Scene
“I’ll Just Groove” review:
“The leader’s soft spoken melodies, his bassist’s foot tapping pulse, and the drummer’s lively backbeat combine to put you in the groove. Theirs is a pleasant sound with ample guitar improvisations. Gutierrez plays guitar,keyboards and sings two songs. As with his last album the compositions are his own. Each carries a bouncy aura, putting the guitarist in the role of a party host. As he sings “You Broke My Heart”, Gutierrez shows a different side. For this one song, he’s shifted from jazz to contemporary electric blues in the same way that a leading actor can appear as a gentle giant one month and a feared ruffian the next. The singer is in fine form: footloose and fancy free. His interpretation of the blues lyric spouts attitude. The smooth jazz road works well enough for most folks: that’s today freeway. Let’s hope this alternate blues route gets more attention from this talented artist. Gutierrez has what it takes to move his groove up a few notches overnight.”
Jim Santella, LA Jazz Scene | 
