The editors of offer up some unsolicited opinions about guitars and six-string life.
The Happiness Project – It’s not a guitar recording per se, but Charles Spearin’s
The Happiness Project ( happiness-project.ca) delighted us anyway. Spearin finds the music
in the voices of his Toronto neighbors talking about happiness, and simply brings it out—
reminding us that music doesn’t just surround us, it permeates us.
Guitarists Get Personal with You Tube – John Mayer and Greg Howe both
posted personal guitar “lessons” on You Tube in February. No professional studios
or lighting crew here. John’s appears to be in his living room, or something.
Dave Mustaine Psych-Out – Dave Mustaine posted a blog saying he cut his
hair, causing a major internet uproar. Days later, photos surface with full mane intact.
We don’t know why he’s messing with us, but it’s kind of hilarious.
Yngwie Unplugs – Yngwie Malmsteen is releasing an all-instrumental acoustic
album of his ballads. To hell with the haters, this is probably going to be pretty cool.
Beck on Both Teams – Jeff Beck has current signature models for both
Fender and Gibson, which may trump his pending Rock Hall induction as the
truest testament to his legendary status.
I Can’t Get No… Booze – Apparently, Ron Wood is on the verge of being
ousted from the next tour if he doesn’t dial down the drinking. Taking a cue from
SNL’s Seth Meyers, we can only say, “Really?”
Bonnaroo Jumps the Shark – Formerly a crunchy hippie-fest, Bonnaroo
has branched out in recent years, including mega acts like rapper Kanye West.
This year, Bruce Springsteen joins the fray. We love the Boss, but it seems like
the final nail in Bonnaroo’s indy-cred coffin. RIP.
Gibson’s Bipolar R&D? – Just about the time we’re feeling good about
the new Jeff Beck ’ 54 Oxblood LP, Gibson tosses the Holy Explorer out there.
Ticketmaster & Live Nation Team Up – Legal implications aside, we’re
hoping desperately this ends up being a positive note in the saga of high ticket
prices and exorbitant fees.
