As I’m putzing around doing what needs to be done today, I’m listening to El McMeen’s The Soul of Christmas Guitar, which a friend gave me last year. I can’t recommend it highly enough, but be warned: It reaches very deep!
Happy holidays to all, with much warmth and laughter.
Carol
PS And for a very different kind of experience, listen to Cartman singing O Holy Night. It’s really funny.
McMeen is one of the most expressive guitarists around. I must get some more of his stuff.
Well, thanks a lot–much appreciated.
Just finished work on my 11th CD, to be called Amazing Grace – will come out, God willing, late this month or early Feb.
Happy New Year to everyone.
El
I’d love to hear it but I’m still waiting for my copy for 2nd place in the writing contest a year ago. Unless Scottielvr took that and I took the whistle book. I can’t remember.
Thanks Carol–I’m always watching for good stuff.
I would also highly recommend Tiny Tim’s version of O Holy Night. I nearly cry every time.
You’re most welcome.
After half a lifetime playing electric guitar, I’m finally taking my accoustic playing seriously. I find your playing really inspiring and it’s good to have the opportunity to express my gratitude directly.
My wife and I received this truly inspired album of El’s for Chirstmas just last weekend from my brother-in-law, when we visited them in the Poconos. We listened to it as we exchanged presents, and outside there was a fresh snowfall to top it all off. Really a wonderful listen anytime, though.
Thank you El, and thank you Nestor!
My wife and I received this truly inspired album of El’s for Chirstmas just last weekend from my brother-in-law, when we visited them in the Poconos. We listened to it as we exchanged presents, and outside there was a fresh snowfall to top it all off. Really a wonderful listen anytime, though.
Thank you El, and thank you Nestor![/quote]
Small world! Barry’s brother-in-law is doing a GREAT job as pastor in a large nursing home facility in our area, at which my wife and I volunteer.
El
Hi El,
Yes, how about that! Nestor also speaks highly of you and your wife, and the great help you are at the home too. Your music is a blessing for us all-thank you again for that, El!
I was in Sydney yesterday and stumbled on a copy of El’s Of Soul and Spirit. True to my word, I bought it.
The program consists of hymns occasionally interspersed with Irish tunes. Some of the hymns, ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’ will be very familiar, as will all of the Irish tunes.
The playing is utterly luminous. It’s not flashy, but you need formidable technique to play effectively this simply. Listening for the first time, I found myself looking forward to the next hackneyed tune, just because I was dying to find out how he’d breathe new life into it. I was never disappointed.
I said elsewhere that El’s playing is an inspiration. As soon as the CD was finished I reached for the nearest accoustic guitar and worked out a version of ‘Amazing Grace’ all my own; that is the effect his playing has on me.
The only comparable album I can think of for effect—mesmerising depth and simplicity—is the classic Hank Jones and Charlie Haden album of spirituals Steal Away. Boy, am I glad I found this CD.