Raj Phansé

In anticipation of his upcoming instrumental rock album, Raj is gigging regularly in California with his band, featuring Rob Young on bass, Pedro Magallanes on Guitar and Chris Quirarte on Drums.
Raj's influences range from the hard-edged guitar work of Blues Saraceno, Andy Timmons, Steve Morse and Joe Satriani to the more roots-influenced styles of Stevie Ray Vaughn, Brian Setzer and Johnny Hiland. His music combines elements of Southern Rock, Blues and Swing. These styles, in turn lace the solid foundations of organic and electronic rock culminating in a unique musical experience.
As the lead guitarist for bands such as Eye Savant, Syren and Atomika and having performed in venues such as The Galaxy Theatre and The Coach House; Raj has both headlined shows and opened for various artists such as Molly Hatchet and Berlin. Raj's appearances with these acts have earned him recognition as one of Orange County's top guitar players.
Raj Phansé is a three-time finalist for the US Western Region of the Guitarmageddon competition, where he performed in front of legends such as Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert, Steve Stevens and Steve Lukather at venues including the House of Blues in Las Vegas and the Key Club in Hollywood. Raj now judges the competition alongside others who have included luminaries such as Phil Collen (Def Leppard) and Bobby Hasbrook (Iron Butterfly).
Educated at the University of London, England and Musician's Institute, Hollywood, Raj is continually gaining acclaim through his monthly appearances at OC Guitar Club events, instructional clinics and performance showcases.
More recently, Raj's virtuosity and composition skills have earned him an award nomination for the "Best Instrumental Music" category in the 2007 Orange County Music Awards.