I have decided to start a new “series” of sorts, here at Guitar Musings. Along with giving you my thoughts and recommendations on new CD’s that I have purchasedt, I will also grab some music from my collection and let you know what I think. Why should all recommendations come from new releases when there is so much music to explore that has been around for years?
My first selection is Bruce Cockburn’s “Speechless.” I chose Bruce because it was his playing that inspired me to study fingerstyle guitar with his signature alternating bass lines with that unwavering thumb and his melodies continue to make my draw drop. Speechless came out in 2005 and is a collection of his instrumentals throughout his almost 40 year career. I think every song on this release is wonderful but here are some of my favorites.
Rouler Sa Bosse: He has been performing this live quite a bit now. Took me over a year to get that sucker down.
Sunrise on the Mississippi: Great blues tune. A great example of how his thumb is independent from his entire body. Make you feel like you’re on the front porch down south with some of the old greats.
Deep Lake: Slow meditative song that reminds me of a trip I took to the English River in Canada.
Water Into Wine and Sunwheel Dance: Both of these songs are perfect examples of his mastery of fingerstyle guitar. There is so much happening in these songs, you sometimes wonder if there is someone playing with him.
Mistress of Storms: Another “thumb” song but he adds vibes to this for a more jazzy feel. If you can get a hold of him doing this live, get it! His improv is incredible.
I’m off the Buffalo Peaks again for a camping trip with the kids. If you don’t know, Buffalo Peaks is in South Park Colorado, south of the town of Fairplay. Yes, it’s the same South Park that inspired the television series but haven’t run into Kyle, Stan, Cartman or Kenny… Yet. The pictures featured here were taken at the peaks and they are also featured in the banner photo for my other website.
So what does this have to do with guitar? I’m contemplating whether or not I should bring that six string addiction. On one hand, I need the rest to let my hands recover but being at the peaks brings out some really good playing, especially when I’m with my father-in-law, who has a library of incredible music to listen to the whole weekend.
I guess there are worse things to be pondering over. More than likely, I’ll be talking it…AHHHHHHH, who am I kidding. Writing this post, convinced me to bring it. I’m already leaving my laptop behind, I can’t deny myself both of my vices.
Guitar Musings is now three months old and I would like to ask you how I am doing? Below is a brief survey, about 7 questions, and your answers will help me improve upon what I feel is a good start. If you fill out the survey, you will also be entered to win a copy of Tommy Emmanuel’s “Live Center Stage.” Please, only one entry per person. The survey will be open until Wednesday May 28th 8:00 PM MST.
Once again, thank you for visiting my site.
Larry McDowell
(5.28.08: survey is closed. Thanks to all for your responses)
Just got this message from Tommy Emmanuel camp. In case you haven’t listened Bob and Tom, they love practical jokes and are pretty funny. Their energy and Tommy’s should be quite interesting.
Tommy will be on the top rated National morning radio program BOB AND TOM at somewhere around 8:30 am EDT on May 20th - from Indianapolis, Indiana. It is LIVE in 150 cities. Some cities delay it (Pacific & Mountain time) so they can air as their morning drive show. Here is their affiliate list: http://www.bobandtom.com/gen3/affiliates.htm Also, here is a pass to their VIP website so you can listen to the show on your computer if Bob and Tom is not broadcast in your city. Just go to www. bobandtom.com .. and select VIP top right tab. USER NAME: airheads05 PASSWORD: airheads05 This is a great opportunity to expose Tommy and his music to America. Please pass this information on to others, and if you can…Listen in! Regards, Linda
So set your calendars and alarms so you can wake up in time for a listen.
I started Guitar Musings because I have a passion for music that I wanted to share to all that are willing to read. I know and appreciate that I can write pretty much anything I want with the knowledge that I will not be hauled away to jail for writing something not approved by the government. Therefore, I want to dedicate this post to fellow Bloggers in China who are risking far more than embarrassment or a reputation in posting their passion. Truly humbling and inspiring!
Links:
YouTube Video on Chinese Blogger Jailed for blogging criticisms against his government.
