Who needs a band? and Hugel Pinot Blanc

Decades ago, I heard an unbelievable one-man concert by Phil Keaggy during which he used a Jam Man looping pedal to create multiple guitar parts and sounds turning his solo act into a veritable symphony. More recently, I’ve seen more and more artists using looping techniques in concert augmenting their solo work to the point that they no longer need a band. Hey, it’s a good idea because unless you have a multiple personality disorder, there are no conflicts between band members over what to play, how to play it, and where to gig. You don’t need a bus to haul your equipment, in fact, you can fit it in a VW and save on gas and hotel expenses.

It’s gotten to the point where there are contests specifically for loopers (not the movie). So tonight I’m featuring a group of very fine examples of the art including three whom I feel are at the top, namely Peter Luha, Ed Sheeran, and the master of them all, Phil Keaggy. Don’t miss Naoryu and DJ Berlin, two very creative young ladies. Actually, all of them are very creative and prove the maxim, “Who needs a band?”

Peter Luha: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCEEloEEyoc

Toney Smiley: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFg5AnXl76c

Jarle Bernhoft: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWwUsPvIJao

Ryan Windham: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRURb2GnNA8

Sebastian Gerer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXVdk6-wt0g

Micah Beverly: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Wr6AEm_87M

Naoryu: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHS-W6xZFNk

Christian Zezza: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_f6q7S7wNY

Jonathan Mendez: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nIqW059cLo

Jason O: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXnvgt56OlA

DJ Berlin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBe6x3DsJGQ

Ed Sheeran: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DV0TJZ7Kp40

Phil Keaggy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8m2hoNVugKA

Another summer favorite of mine is Pinot Blanc. They’re a bit confusing because these wines, although usually made from Pinot Blanc grapes, could also be made with Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Auxerrois, or a blend of any of these four. The one I recommend tonight is a  2009 Hugel Pinot Blanc Cuvee les Amours Alsace ($15.00). The nose has aromas of pears, apples, and a bit of pepper. The taste explodes like a fruit bomb with fresh apples and apricots, vibrant acidity, and a long, long finish. It has a rich mouthfeel and is another great choice for summer sipping and listening to some very creative guitarists. Enjoy!

Cheers!