Article Contributed by Mark Pucci Media
Published on 2026-02-24
Northern California’s blues scene is buzzing as the Carmen Ratti Band featuring Jill Dineen prepares to release their highly anticipated second studio album, Come to Me, on May 8th. The announcement follows the band’s recent signing with MoMojo Records, marking a major milestone in their fast-rising career and signaling their arrival on a broader national and international stage.
Formed in 2018, the Carmen Ratti Band quickly built a reputation for high-energy performances and a distinctive sound blending blues and roots influences. Their 2021 debut, The Road Back, introduced audiences to their powerful chemistry and earned praise for its authenticity and musicianship. Now, with Come to Me, the group deepens that artistic vision. Recorded once again at Greaseland Studios in San Jose, California with acclaimed producer Kid Andersen, the album captures a band at full creative stride.
“Variety is central to our library,” says Carmen Ratti. “This record mirrors the roots of blues while incorporating soul, gospel, rock blues and funk. These textures honor our influences and show up in many different ways throughout the album.” He points to the gospel-inspired track, “Blessing in the Blues,” co-written with Jill Dineen, as a standout: “It perfectly showcases Jill’s vocal strength, and the final version came across beautifully in Kid’s hands.”
Jill Dineen describes the recording process as deeply collaborative and emotionally resonant. “Carmen and I continue to challenge each other in our songwriting and complement each other in our performance. In the studio, the songs seemed to just flow, with each musician adding new depth and layers to their meaning. This album carries a lot of heart, and I hope it helps create a bit of connection in the world.” Joining Carmen and Jill are Tony “Macaroni” Lufrano (keyboards/backing vocals), Randy Hayes (drums), and Steve Hazlewood (bass).
Since winning recognition from the Golden Gate Blues Society and performing extensively at clubs, festivals, and venues, the band has cultivated a loyal fan base drawn to their authenticity, virtuosity, and emotional intensity. The May release of Come to Me coincides with a summer tour to promote it.
With Come to Me, the Carmen Ratti Band featuring Jill Dineen stands poised to break beyond regional acclaim and establish themselves as one of today’s most exciting modern blues acts.
About the Carmen Ratti Band Featuring Jill Dineen
The Carmen Ratti Band featuring Jill Dineen is a rising force in contemporary blues, earning recognition for electrifying performances, dynamic musicianship, and commanding, emotive vocals. Under guitarist Carmen Ratti’s vision, the group has steadily built a devoted following across Northern California with a sound that fuses traditional blues roots and a fresh modern edge. Their momentum accelerated after winning honors from the Golden Gate Blues Society, confirming their place among the region’s most compelling live acts.
Their debut album, The Road Back, was recorded at the renowned Greaseland Studios with producer Kid Andersen capturing the group’s signature blend of searing guitar work, soulful grooves, and powerhouse vocals. They returned to the same studio in 2025 to record their new album, Come to Me, an original collection showcasing both their musical growth and deep artistic chemistry.
Having performed throughout the Bay Area alongside many of its finest blues artists, Carmen Ratti brings a rich depth of experience to his craft, shaping his signature sound: smoldering guitar work and a diverse repertoire of original songs that keep audiences captivated.
Jill Dineen is a powerhouse vocalist celebrated for her rich tone, soulful vocal delivery, and gripping stage presence, blending contemporary and traditional blues and roots with striking depth and fire. Raised on her DJ dad’s vast record collection and her mother’s inspirational grit, she was immersed early in sounds spanning big band, soul, jazz, Motown, rock, R&B, and blues—drawing from legends like Otis Redding, Bessie Smith, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Nina Simone, and Janis Joplin to shape a voice that is both well developed and raw. With decades of stage and songwriting experience, Jill delivers an emotive, dynamic sound marked by authenticity, passion, and unmistakable power in every performance. Before joining the band in 2019, she fronted acclaimed projects across the U.S. and shared stages with leading blues artists nationwide.
The band is rounded out by some of the Bay Area’s finest musicians, Tony “Macaroni” Lufrano, Randy Hayes, and Steve Hazlewood. Together, the ensemble delivers performances that are passionate, authentic, and deeply engaging music that moves the body and stirs the soul.
Come to Me Track Listing and Credits – Catalog Number: MMJ-405
Jill Dineen – Vocals
Carmen Ratti – Guitar / Vocals
Steve Hazlewood – Bass
Randy Hayes – Drums
Tony “Macaroni” Lufrano – Organ / Piano / Backing Vocal
Lisa Leuschner Andersen: Background Vocals – Come to Me
Recorded/Mixed/Mastered & Produced by: Christoffer Lund Andersen, Greaseland Studios, San Jose, CA
