Discovering Lesser-Known Bands with Phenomenal Guitarists
While it's true that bands like UFO, Mahogany Rush, and King Crimson are not as widely recognized as Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, and Metallica, they certainly should be. Much like Wishbone Ash and The Lonesome Brothers, these lesser-known artists have stories and sounds that deserve more appreciation. Let's dive into some of these amazing guitarists and the bands they belonged to.
UFO's Michael Schenker - The Unsung Rock Hero
Michael Schenker of UFO has a memorable live performance with the band Strangers in the Night. Many consider this album to be their masterpiece and perhaps the best live album in the entire rock genre. Schenker's guitar work is characterized by his technical proficiency and compelling riffs, which have influenced countless rock guitarists.
Truly Underrated Guitarists
There are several guitarists who deserve more recognition. For instance, Frank Marino of Mahogany Rush is often called the most underrated guitarist ever. Similarly, Robert Fripp of King Crimson is a transformative guitarist capable of delivering diverse styles. Despite their talent, these guitarists are often overshadowed by more mainstream contenders.
Wishbone Ash - Underrated Powerhouses
Wishbone Ash has been around since 1969 and continues to produce stunning guitarist performances. Their dual guitar harmony techniques make them stand out in the classic rock genre. Unfortunately, many “classic rock” stations overlook their music, leading to a niche following. However, for those who have discovered their music, they realize why Wishbone Ash is often held in such high regard.
The Lonesome Brothers and Their Talented Guitarist
Jim Armenti of the Lonesome Brothers is a multi-talented musician, primarily known for his honky-tonk style. He performs and records in the Northampton area of Western Massachusetts, and collaboration with him has been a memorable experience for me. His guitar work is reflective of his versatile skills.
Bees Deluxe - Boston's Acid Blues
In the Boston area, the band Bees Deluxe, led by guitarist Conrad Warre, deserves wider recognition. Warre's rich, soulful sound is a perfect blend of blues and psychedelic rock. Conrad Warre has a unique style that adds to the band's acid blues sound, setting them apart from numerous other acts in the region.
The Early Peter Green - King Crimson's Greatness
The early period of Peter Green's career with Fleetwood Mac is often overshadowed by their later work. However, Green's guitar skills were exceptional, as even B B King recognized. Green's sweet tone was so impressive that it gave B B King "cold sweats," a testament to his outstanding abilities.
The Electric Flag and Larry Coryell
The Electric Flag was a short-lived band that featured Mike Bloomfield. Despite their brief existence, they made significant contributions to the rock scene. Larry Coryell from The Eleventh House also deserves a mention. Coryell's fusion of jazz and rock is both innovative and memorable.
Bands like these and the guitarists they feature have made significant contributions to music that deserve more attention. Their music stands the test of time, and we can only wonder about the stories and environments that shaped them. It's my hope that through this article, more people will explore and appreciate these lesser-known yet incredibly talented musicians and bands.