Yet another mix of this 2014 recording. Minimalist approach with no compression and just a tad of studio reverb on the lead track. My Martin DC Aura acoustic recorded on a TASCAM DP-006 Pocketstudio. This version includes the intro that I had removed on the previous version.
A 2000 Gibson Gary Moore signature Les Paul on rhythm and lead through a Fender Mustang III using an 80s Marshall amp model. You can also hear a Boss V-Wah pedal set to the “MO-WAH” (Morley) setting in the 2nd half of the song. Bass is a 2012 Rickenbacker 4003 through a Zoom B3 pedal. Drums by BeatBuddy using the “John Bonham-Inspired” Drum Set.
The title of this song comes from the fact that I used a tone on my Les Paul that was reminiscent of something between “American Woman” and “Outside Woman Blues.” Impromptu was added because, well, it isn’t a blues song and the leads were pretty much ad-lib.
A sumptuous Stratocaster over a rip-roaring Rickenbacker bass line.
This song was the result of some new chords I discovered while experimenting with an alternate tuning. Lots of nice ringing open strings.
A “feel good” instrumental with a driving bass line and several layers of Stratocaster, including a simulated vibraphone track. What’s not to like?
A 2000 Gibson Gary Moore signature Les Paul on rhythm and lead through a Fender Mustang III using an 80s Marshall amp model. Bass is a 2012 Rickenbacker 4003 through a Zoom B3 pedal. Drums by BeatBuddy using the “John Bonham-Inspired” Drum Set.
released January 20, 2020
Guitars: Joseph R. Ellis
Bass: Joseph R. Ellis
Drums: BeatBuddy
©2020 Solid Body Publishing / ascap
We human beings are funny. Or maybe it is just me. When I’m busy working, I often wish I had more time to play guitar and write music. But when work slows down, I seem to completely lose the desire to play.
Maybe it has to do with priorities. Maybe it has something to do with mental stimulation. All I know is this: I’m looking for a job or at least a new consulting client – and my fretting fingers are rapidly losing their callouses.
I forced myself to pick up my Martin acoustic and strum it a bit yesterday after re-soaking the humidifier device in it. At least performing humidifier maintenance forces me to open the case and look at the guitar. That was the first time I touched any of my guitars since recording a song a month ago.
Creativity is not something that can be forced, but practice (exercise) is. It is requires discipline. That discipline seems to go right out the window when I am looking for work. I’m going to have to try harder to play a guitar at least once a week. Especially while I have plenty of time. So I will try to take a deep breath….relax…and play something! It might even help lower my blood pressure.
