John McLaughlin & a Riesling Kabinett

Tonight I’m featuring one of my long time favorite guitarists: John McLaughlin. When I was in college, one of my favorite groups was the Mahvishnu Orchestra wigh John, Jerry Goodman on electric violin, Billy Cobham on drums, Jan Hammer on keyboards, and Rick Laird on bass. I heard them in concert several times and McLaughlin actually oiled his fingers before he played. He has speed like no other guitarist. But what I really liked was his acoustic work with his jazz trio and Shakti. Don’t miss the selection with Trilok Gurtu and Dominique de Piazza. It’s one of my favorites. And check out the vintage video of him on the old Johnny Carson show.

Cherokee: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om6HDUKBbzE

Remember Shakti: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jB95clOd6v0&feature=related

Joy with Shakti: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHDO1HN06Fc&feature=related

Pasha’s Love: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHDO1HN06Fc&feature=related

With Trilok Gurtu & Dominique de Piazza: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QstxltuJ-xY&feature=related

Blue in Green: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ya-SAuuWqEg&feature=related

And along with that, I recommend a 2005 Schloss Schonborn Hattenheimer Pfaffenberg Riesling Kabinett. Complex yet balanced. It’s a drier riesling (after all, it’s a Kabinett). Crisp yet with lots of nice fruit flavors of pear, peach, and tangerine/citrus which gives it a degree of tartness. Excellent alone or with fish or fowl. Enjoy!
Cheers!