This album is for lovers of all types of instrumental music, combining blues, rock, latin, classical, country, and jazz guitar.

In 1999 'The San Miguel Project' was Arizona University Recordings' Grammy nominee entry in the Best New Artist and Best Pop Album categories.

Garageband.com awards for 'San Miguel Blues' include
Track of the Day, Best Guitars, Best Drums, Best Melody, Best Mood, Most Original, and Grooviest Rhythm in Blues Rock week of 21Mar2005

The recordings were produced in collaboration with Lawrence Dixon (formerly of Wilson Pickett) on keys, and Larry Washington (from Tina Turner's biopic "What's Love Got To Do With It) on drums.

The following music review was provided by talentmatch.com on 04.16.04.

Songs: From the beautiful blaring guitar riffs of "San Miguel Blues" to the thoughtful and stress relieving fingerings of "Mountain Melt Classic" and "Mountain Melt Steel String," Balmaceda never once falls off from perfection.

Production: Immaculate! I love the use of congas and shaker on "Gypsy Eyes," the progressive entrancing drum and bass tracks on "Medicine Man," and the all around clarity of "San Miguel Blues." This song, which is so busy, it would seem virtually impossible to have each track come through as clearly as it does. The lead riffs blare with an almost (Joe) Satriani feel, and are coupled with a rhythm guitar line Carlos Santana himself would be proud to claim as his own. There's Immense clarity and richness.

Marketability: For the avenue and style with which Balmaceda explores and his vast knowledge in music, it's almost inconceivable that anyone could not palate this rich warm compilation of songs. As well, Balmaceda has an honest accessible physical presence which exudes confidence and poised direction. I am certain this music is radio accessible on any jazz or classical music station.

Musicianship: He has paid his dues in the last 20 years as an artist writer and composer. I myself, would honestly pay any price to view Balmaceda alongside his idol, Carlos Santana. These songs are so richly written and layered with hooks that it's impossible not to be appreciative of his talent. Combining blues, jazz, world and mid tempo rock, with a biting distorted guitar on "San Miguel Blues" and heartfelt warm melodies with Spanish overtones on "Spanish Blues," it's a wonder this man has not blown up.