Inspiration for Charles Guy’s album of nuevo flamenco began about five years ago when the Ashland guitarist started taking winter breaks on beaches and hilltops in Mexico.

“The way of life there — the pace, the spirit — is inspiring,” Guy says. “There’s certain feel to it. It’s a culmination of ocean air, bougainvillea and sitting underneath a palapa playing guitar.”

Guy, along with cellist Daniel Sperry, bassist Jeff Addicott and percussionist J. Billy Rock Smith, will debut the new album, “Sakes Alive,” as the Charles Guy Quartet at 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, at Avalon Bar and Grill, 105 W. Valley View Road, Talent.

Guy steers clear of the big resort cities along Mexico’s Pacific coast, where live music is more about catering to American tourists and less about Mexican culture. He finds his muse in the less populated areas.

“If you go to the smaller towns where the real people are, you get to hear the real music,” Guy says. “It is its simplicity that is the most appealing.”

Sayulita, just north of Puerto Vallarta, is one of his favorite destinations.