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<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2>Whilst I'll agree with you that Eric's musical
output is some of his best at the moment, just a couple of points to pick up on.
Eric has rarely used his "pinky", like most other self-taught guitarists. As its
something I'm conciously trying to make myself do in order to try and improve my
playing technique, I paid particularly close attention to this during the
hootenanny broadcast, and I didn't notice him using it at all, (though I
haven't re-watched the recording and several bottles of wine may have dented my
concentration!).</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2>As for slide guitar, it's something Eric has done
regularly in his career since, I believe, Duane Allman helped him nail his
technique in the Dominoes days. It's something he only seems to use in a blues
context, such as Motherless Children on 461, and several recordings since,
notably on Unplugged, "Running on Faith", and from the Cradle. Most slowhanders
will remember the metallic blue Strat copy from the first guitar auction used
for slide on the 'Behind the Sun' tour and video. As I said, he seems to use
slide mainly for blues, hence its re-appearance now.</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2>I think much of Eric's 'fire' at the moment is
coming from the inspiration of recording music that he has loved most of his
life. </FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2>
</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2> I just hope that its not a final blast, since
many of the things he is doing at the moment, such as recording the Robert
Johnson album, playing with Cream and John Mayall, selling off old guitars,
could all be seen as 'ying up loose ends', possibly looking towards retirement.
I sincerely hope this is not the case, since on recent form, the best could be
yet to come!</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial
size=2> As for the claim
that EC is "showing off", isn't that like saying Michael Schumacher is showing
off by driving so fast? Its what they both do for a living and what we love them
for!! </FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2>
I dont mean this to sound like a rant, or
a flame, but you did head up the entry "debate", so I assume your inviting
feedback!</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2>
Simon.</FONT></DIV>
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