This week In Guitar Virtuosi 01/52

1 . Donna Grantis – Diamonds and Dynamite

Donna Grantis’ “Diamonds & Dynamite,” released in March 2019, is the title track of her debut solo album under the same name, which marked her first major project after being a member of Prince’s backing band, 3RDEYEGIRL.

The composition showcases her distinctive fusion of rock, jazz, and funk influences, inspired by her work with Prince, and the album was released through eOne Music.

The track features Grantis not only as the lead guitarist but also as the primary composer, highlighting her instrumental versatility.

“Diamonds & Dynamite” was recorded in collaboration with renowned musicians such as drummer Jason Thomas (known for his work with Snarky Puppy) and bassist Cody Wright.

The album and its title track were performed live during Grantis’ celebrated appearance at such festivals as the 2019 Montreal International Jazz Festival.

Clips from the song’s live performances have been featured on various music platforms.

The album has also been highlighted in interviews and profiles by outlets like Billboard and Rolling Stone, which documented the transition from her time with Prince to her solo career.

Lifted from : Donna Grantis shreds in NYC (2019)

2 . John McLaughlin – Miles Beyond (w/ Victor Wooten & Chick Corea)

John McLaughlin’s “Miles Beyond,” performed live with Victor Wooten and Chick Corea, is a track originally featured on the Mahavishnu Orchestra’s 1973 album “Birds of Fire.” This particular rendition is highlighted for its dynamic interplay among McLaughlin on guitar, Wooten on bass, and Corea on keyboard, brought together during a performance for the 2009 DVD release “Live at Montreux Jazz Festival.” The composition, written as a tribute to Miles Davis, showcases McLaughlin’s intricate guitar phrasing influenced by his tenure in Davis’s band during iconic sessions like “Bitches Brew” (1970).

Chick Corea, who shared history with McLaughlin in Davis’s fusion experiments such as “In a Silent Way” (1969), brings his signature electric keyboard improvisations, while Wooten, a five-time Grammy winner and founding member of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, delivers virtuoso bass techniques.

The performance was part of a celebrated collaboration with the Five Peace Band, whose lineup included jazz heavyweights like Kenny Garrett and Vinnie Colaiuta, and won the 2010 Grammy for Best Jazz Instrumental Album for their eponymous release.

Lifted from : Happy Birthday John Mc Laughlin. ‘Elegant Septuagenarian’

3 . George Benson – 6 To 4

“6 to 4” is an instrumental track by George Benson featured on his 1974 album “Bad Benson,” released under CTI Records.

The album marked a pivotal point in Benson’s career as he transitioned deeper into jazz fusion, incorporating elements of funk and soul into traditional jazz structures.

Produced by Creed Taylor and arranged by Don Sebesky, “Bad Benson” peaked at No.1 on Billboard’s Jazz Albums chart, highlighting its commercial success within the genre.

“6 to 4” showcases Benson’s virtuosic guitar playing with rhythmic complexity and improvisation, backed by a talented lineup, including Phil Upchurch on rhythm guitar, Kenny Barron on keyboards, Ron Carter on bass, and Steve Gadd on drums.

The album was recorded at the legendary Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, known for its acoustics and association with numerous iconic jazz recordings.

While “6 to 4” wasn’t released as a single, the critical acclaim of “Bad Benson” contributed to Benson achieving broader recognition in jazz circles.

The track is often referenced as part of Benson’s stylistic shift during the early 1970s, emphasizing his prowess as a jazz guitarist.

Lifted from : George Benson records ‘Breezin” an album produced By Tommy Lipuma for Warner Bros. (1976)

4 . Peter Frampton & Audley Freed – I´ll Give You Money

The live performance of “I’ll Give You Money” by Peter Frampton and guitarist Audley Freed is based on Frampton’s original song from the 1975 album “Frampton.” The album itself achieved commercial success, peaking at No.32 on the Billboard 200 chart, and the song became a staple in Frampton’s live repertoire.

During this collaboration, Audley Freed, known for his work as a guitarist with The Black Crowes and Cry of Love, joined Frampton on stage, bringing additional energy and his distinct style to the performance.

This live rendition was part of Frampton’s many appearances that showcased his guitar skills and influence during his career resurgence in the 2000s.

Although not released as a single, “I’ll Give You Money” gained attention for its extended guitar solos in live versions and was included in some recorded live performances featured on compilations and during tours.

The track remains emblematic of Frampton’s blend of hard rock and blues influences, with versions occasionally broadcast on music-focused TV specials and included in setlists for concerts with guest musicians like Freed.

Lifted from : A&M publish Peter Frampton’s double live album : ‘Frampton Comes Alive!’ (1975)

5 . Lucky Peterson – Dust My Broom

Lucky Peterson’s rendition of “Dust My Broom,” a blues standard originally recorded by Robert Johnson in 1936 and popularized by Elmore James in 1951, is featured on his album “Lucky Strikes” released in 1989.

Peterson, an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, infused the track with his signature keyboard and guitar skills, drawing from his roots in traditional blues while incorporating modern electric elements.

This song has played a significant role in preserving its legacy as a cornerstone of blues history.

Peterson’s version contributes to the lineage of “Dust My Broom,” which was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame in 1983 as a “Classic of Blues Recording.” Notably, Peterson performed this track during his live sets, including appearances at renowned festivals such as the Montreux Jazz Festival and the Chicago Blues Festival, showcasing it to international audiences.

His work on “Lucky Strikes” includes collaborations with producer and guitarist Doug Bare, adding further depth to the album.

Music clips and recordings of his live performances of “Dust My Broom” often highlight his dynamic stage presence and technical prowess, elements that maintain the song’s prominence in blues canon.

Lifted from : Lucky Peterson visits Paris (2011)

6 . Zakk Wylde – War Pigs

Zakk Wylde’s rendition of “War Pigs,” a classic Black Sabbath song originally released on the 1970 album “Paranoid,” showcases Wylde’s distinct guitar style and vocals as part of his tributes to the pioneers of heavy metal.

This cover has been performed live during concerts by Zakk Wylde and his band, Black Label Society, as well as during his solo appearances, emphasizing his connection to Ozzy Osbourne, with whom Wylde served as a guitarist since joining Osbourne’s band in 1987.

While the original “War Pigs” has appeared in diverse formats, this particular interpretation has gained attention through Wylde’s live performances and YouTube clips capturing his signature pinch harmonics and extended guitar solos.

Though this version did not appear on a formal album or achieve a specific chart position, it aligns with Wylde’s career-long trend of paying homage to heavy metal legends and has been highlighted in several tribute tours, including the “Generation Axe” collaboration featuring Wylde alongside other prominent guitarists like Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen.

Lifted from : Zakk Wylde gives a private concert (1993)

7 . Rory Gallagher – Big Guns

“Big Guns” is a track by Rory Gallagher, featured on the 2005 compilation album “Big Guns: The Very Best of Rory Gallagher,” which encompasses highlights from his career, particularly his solo efforts.

This song showcases Gallagher’s renowned guitar skills, blending blues and rock elements.

“Big Guns: The Very Best of Rory Gallagher” charted at No.24 on the UK Albums Chart upon its release, reflecting enduring interest in his work decades after his passing in 1995.

The compilation includes tracks from classic albums like “Tattoo” (1973) and “Against the Grain” (1975), highlighting Gallagher’s peak periods.

While “Big Guns” isn’t tied to any specific awards or collaborations, its presence on this definitive collection marks it as a key representation of his style.

Gallagher was famously known for his live performance footage, including appearances on prominent programs like Germany’s “Rockpalast” and the Montreux Jazz Festival, where other tracks from the compilation were often performed.

Clips of his live performances, including similar songs from his catalog, can be accessed through official channels and fan archives, maintaining his legacy as a celebrated guitarist and songwriter.

Lifted from : Rory Gallagher rocks Belfast (1984)

8 . Joe Bonamassa – All Right Now (w/ Andy Fraser)

Joe Bonamassa’s collaboration with Andy Fraser on the song “All Right Now” is a live performance that pays homage to Free’s iconic 1970 rock anthem, co-written by Fraser and Paul Rodgers.

Bonamassa, an acclaimed blues-rock guitarist, performed this version alongside Fraser during a special concert event, blending his signature guitar style with Fraser’s original compositional brilliance.

The song was featured as part of Bonamassa’s extensive live performance repertoire, which often includes unique collaborations with legendary musicians.

Andy Fraser, who was the bassist for Free, joined Bonamassa onstage for this rendition, marking a rare and significant moment given Fraser’s historical connection to the track as its co-creator.

The original “All Right Now” was a massive commercial success, reaching No.4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and No.2 on the UK Singles Chart, though Bonamassa’s performance is not tied to a specific charting release.

The collaboration is celebrated for bringing together two artists from different eras of rock music history, highlighting their mutual respect for the legacy of classic rock songs.

Bonamassa’s live records, such as “Live from the Royal Albert Hall,” showcase his inclination for similar high-profile collaborations, though this particular track with Fraser does not appear on any formal album release, remaining a notable live performance moment loved by fans.

Lifted from : Joe Bonamassa meets Andy Fraser (2013)

9 . Jimmy Page – Communication Breakdown (w/ Led Zeppelin)

“Communication Breakdown” is a track from Led Zeppelin’s self-titled debut album, released in the United Kingdom on March 31, 1969, and in the United States on January 12, 1969.

Featuring Jimmy Page’s sharp, fast-paced guitar riff played through a custom-built Fender Telecaster, the song is considered one of the band’s early entries into hard rock, with John Paul Jones on bass and John Bonham on drums delivering a relentless rhythm.

Robert Plant, credited for his performance but not as a co-writer due to contractual obligations, provided the iconic vocals.

The track was notably one of the first songs Led Zeppelin performed live as their setlist opener during their U.S.

debut tour in late 1968.

It became a key feature of their early concerts, including the 1969 performance at San Francisco’s Fillmore West.

Produced by Jimmy Page and engineered by Glyn Johns, the song was recorded at Olympic Studios in London, using an innovative direct injection (DI) recording technique for the guitar tone.

While it was not released as a single, it still earned lasting recognition and was named in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.” Clips of the song can be found in bootlegged performances from 1969, preserving its raw live energy.

Lifted from : As we wish John Paul Jones, Led Zeppelin bassist, a Happy Birthday, the day is perfect for a ‘Led Zeppelin at their bests’ post

10 . Joe Perry & Brad Whitford – One Way Street (w/ Aerosmith)

“One Way Street” is a track from Aerosmith’s self-titled debut album released on January 5, 1973, under Columbia Records.

Written by Steven Tyler, the song features slide guitar contributions from Joe Perry and rhythm guitar by Brad Whitford, showcasing their signature blues-rock style.

Although not released as a single, the track became a staple in Aerosmith’s live performances during the 1970s and has appeared in various setlists, including their famous concerts at Boston’s Music Hall and other early tours that helped the band gain national exposure.

The album itself peaked at No.21 in the U.S.

Billboard 200 chart following its initial slow commercial performance but later achieved Double Platinum certification by the RIAA as Aerosmith’s popularity grew.

“One Way Street” clocked in at over seven minutes, making it one of the longest tracks on the album, with notable harmonica solos performed by Tyler.

While the track did not appear on any of the band’s greatest hits compilations, it has been praised in retrospective analyses for embodying the raw sound of Aerosmith’s early years.

The song’s recording took place at Intermedia Studios in Boston, featuring all five original members: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton, and Joey Kramer.

Over the years, it has occasionally reappeared in live renditions, including performances during Aerosmith’s “Back in the Saddle” tours.

Lifted from : Columbia Records publish ‘Aerosmith’ their eponymous debut album featuring ‘Dream On’ (1973)

11 . Warren Haynes – Maggot Brain, Auld Lang Syne (w/ Gov’ Mule)

Warren Haynes performed a rendition of the iconic Funkadelic track “Maggot Brain” during a celebrated Gov’t Mule concert.

The original “Maggot Brain,” released in 1971, was an instrumental piece written by George Clinton and Eddie Hazel and hailed as a pioneering fusion of funk and rock.

Haynes, alongside Gov’t Mule, reinterpreted the track during their live performances, notably including it as part of their extensive tour setlists and live recordings.

This cover showcases Haynes’ distinctive guitar skills and ability to honor the original while bringing his personal style.

As part of Gov’t Mule’s tradition of incorporating classic covers into their shows, “Maggot Brain” was often paired with improvisational sections, highlighting their jam-band ethos.

Similarly, Haynes and Gov’t Mule are known for their New Year’s Eve performances, including “Auld Lang Syne,” the traditional Scottish poem set to melody.

Notable New Year’s Eve concerts like their 2013 Beacon Theatre show featured medleys that integrated “Auld Lang Syne,” a performance tradition incorporating countdowns and unique collaborations.

Gov’t Mule has built a reputation for these holiday extravaganzas, which often include themed sets and spans genres from classic rock to blues.

Both pieces—“Maggot Brain” and “Auld Lang Syne”—demonstrate Haynes’ and Gov’t Mule’s commitment to blending genre-spanning influences into memorable, dynamic live experiences across decades of touring and recording.

Lifted from : Gov’t Mule open the year in New-York (2017)

12 . Eric Gales – Encore

Eric Gales’ song “Encore” is a standout track from his album “Middle of the Road,” released on February 24, 2017, via Mascot Label Group.

The album debuted at No.4 on the Billboard Blues Albums chart and marked a pivotal point in Gales’s three-decade music career.

“Encore” features an intense, blues-rock composition, showcasing Gales’s virtuosic guitar skills and expressive vocals.

The album, “Middle of the Road,” includes notable collaborations, such as Fabrizio Grossi on bass and contributions from Eric’s wife, LaDonna Gales, on background vocals.

An acoustic version of the album was also recorded, highlighting the stripped-down musicianship of tracks like “Encore.” The music video for “Encore” was released on Eric Gales’s official YouTube channel, receiving thousands of views within its first week.

Gales promoted “Middle of the Road,” including “Encore,” on major stages such as the Blues Heaven Festival in Denmark and through appearances in Guitar World Magazine.

Lifted from : Eric Gales plays in Atlanta (2018)