[catullus]

Hey everybody! First off, I wrote this once, and somehow hit a shortcut that closed the window around the last letter or so.... bummer. Secondly, Ive enjoyed Kirk's lessons for a while now, and have enjoyed this site even more since the inclusion of the forum, which is really a great social community for players. Its great to have this site tucked away from the endless expanse of internet highway.

Finally, its been a while since I have found a piece of music that I got really excited about. I suppose it could be one of those dry spells, but Im sure Ill pull out eventually. All in all, Im sure you guys can help me find something. Difficulty isnt really something that may get be excited, but a good rythm or percussive feel can. In the past Ive enjoyed, John Mayers covers of "Man on the Side" link, and DMB's "Lover Lay Down" link, not to mention some jazzy White Christmas arrangement link.

I hope that helps form a basis for ideas.... ever since the big crack-down on tabulature websites, its become harder to learn and appreciate other artists styles. There really must be a better way. Encourage awareness.

Thanks again!

[Kirk Lorange]

Do your ears a favor and seek out some Little Feat material, especially the earlier tunes written by Lowell George. Type Little Feat download into Google. Little Feat is one of the few bands that actually encourages people to download their music for free, that let people record their live shows and distribute the recordings free. They're still together, but Lowell died years ago.

I just noticed at one of the sites that came with those search terms that their live album 'Waiting for Columbus' was voted one of the top ten all time best live albums, so I'm not alone in liking them.

It may not be what you're asking about, but have a listen to them anyway. They are all truly masterful players.

[si16]

Catullus, might I suggest you check out some of Martin Taylor's solo recordings. A few of his tabs are at www.acousticpower.com including a reasonably accurate tab of his version of Georgia http://guitarvideos.com/assets/vidramvesta/13067x.ram (this clip takes about 30 secs to load up). I've recorded a couple of his arrangements in the recording booth here I gave you fair warning (including tab) and here Jazz interpretation of traditional song (without tab).

I'd recommend him to anyone particularly anyone who plays fingerstyle. His albums Solo and In Concert are nothing short of superb, the latter includng his jaw-dropping arrangement of 'I Got Rhythm' with it's double time walking bass line on top of chords and melody. However despite having technique to burn he always puts the song first. A musician first and a guitarist second. However don't just take my word for it:-

"Martin Taylor is one of the most awesome solo guitar players in the history of the instrument. He's unbelievable"
Pat Metheny

"Martin Taylor is one of the greatest and most impressive guitar players in the world. I just love his playing."
Chet Atkins

PS Thanks Kirk for the Little Feat info, I'll definitely check them out.