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Music These Days..

posted by Rich at 2:15 pm.

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If you know me, then you’re aware of what music I like.  I’m all about strong melodies and dynamic, hard rock.  One of the most overlooked aspects of music today is, well, musicianship.  It’s quite rare (these days) if a ‘popular’ band can stretch beyond their own tunes and really play their instruments.  This came to my attention when a gold mine was sent to me via the Internet: John Mayer covering Van Halen’s Panama.  Yes, you heard it right.  I’m not even going to post a link of the performance because it is so hideous.  While his millions of fans have been taught that John Mayer is an influential, idolized guitarist, his take on a classic rock song is proof of the opposite.

Aside from stealing licks directly from Stevie Ray Vaughan, Mayer is not much more than a pop singer.

I realize that my previous statements may offend some of Mayer’s beloved fans, so I’ll suggest some good listening.  The following bands have not only great songs, but they also have great, live performances.  See: Chickenfoot, Alter Bridge, Mr. Big.

P.S. – I’d like to hear your comments!  Feel free to respond after checking out some live videos (or studio recordings) of the three aforementioned bands.

Rich Vallone: I play guitar in rock bands TurningDownToday and Collusion, and you can hear me on WPGU 6-9pm, Mon-Fri.