I think when artists reach a certain level of expertise it can become silly to compare too much. Just enjoy. Very Frank Gambale at times, but you know its still Alan and Vice Versa.
For me he is not an idol .He is a fantastic guitarplayer but he looks always so cool
can't feel emotions.I saw him in 1978 with Softmachine 3 days later I saw Colloseum 2 with Gary Moore what a dfiferent.Gary play with heart and soul Alan plays like a Softmachine he don't laugh or say hello it seems to me "Okay crazy crowd I hope I can leave very fast " thats my opinion.
If Allan could play for himself with a band, I betcha he would do it rather than playing in front of a crowd. I'll be nervous too. So I don't blame his nervousness. He's probably like what if I mess up.
The thing that all people seem to overlook about Allan is that he set out to make the guitar expand its regular vocabulary. To make it more like a saxophone. He's developed a very particular way of approaching the legato methodology. His ability to alter and shape notes and sounds is only rivalled by Jeff Beck. For over 40 years he's single mindedly pursued this goal. It's important to note that his technique is purely secondary to his musical goals. This is what separates him from all others.
I'm here to talk about the existence of a brand new musical experience called Idaea. The influence ranges from Planet X, Meshuggah, Dream Theater, Chick Corea to Contemporany and Experimental music. It would be really cool if you visited our myspace and added coments, thoughts and opinions!:
We are in dangerous waters when we try to wrest technique from musicality with regards allan holdsworth. He is quite simply the greatest improvising soloist ever.
i'm sure there are more technical guitarist than Holdsworth but they are not as musical. Allan knows how to use his technique to make music. he takes advantage of it, he exploits it for the benefit of music.
Nah, Shawn Lane was more technical, but it's definitely arguable that he is just was well rounded musically as Holdsworth, and as far as diversity I don't think that you could argue that Holdsworth was more diverse than Lane. You can however pull the "Lane might not have been anywhere near as technical or out of the box as he was if it were not for Holdworth."
I'm 17 and i love holdsworth, when people ask me what i listen to the answer is always instinctively HOLDSWORTH!! hahah and always will be! Long live Allan Holdsworth!
I'm sorry people but we should never compare one guitarist with another unless said guitarist spends their life trying to emulate [or straight up copy] their heros.
Holdsworth is gifted but shit man! He puts the work in and to this day still tries to challenge what he knows. So many musicians are Great but it's clear that they've hit a brick wall and are happy with their technique. My man keeps pushing it. The "Coltrane" of guitar. By the way from 2:30 the next five seconds are Pure Bliss..
@pedtrot Between 1555 and 1931 the Jesuit Order was expelled from at least 83 countries, city states and cities, for engaging in political intrigue and subversion plots against the welfare of the state, according to the records of a Jesuit priest of repute(Thomas J. Campbell).-J.E.C. Shepard
@pedtrot "The public is practically unaware of the over wheming responsibility carried by the Vatican and its Jesuits in the starting of the two world wars-m a situation which may be explained in part by the gigantic finances at the disposition of vatican and its jesuits."---Edmond paris, The secret history of the Jesuits
@pedtrot 'It is my opinion that if the liberties of this country(USA) are destroyed, it will be by the subtlety of the Roman catholic Jesuit priests, for they are the most crafty, dangerous enemies to civil and religous liberty. They have instigated most of the wars of Europe.' Marquis de LaFayette
@pedtrot Absolutely we should compare guitarists, what on earth are you talking about? Comparing different musicians is completely healthy. I think you might be assuming that comparisons include a judgement on which player is better. That I don't like and I agree people shouldn't weigh guitarists and musicians. But comparison is totally fine! For example, I think Lane and Holdsworth have a similar passion towards melody and phrasing, at the same time the two go about these things differently.
Ref Govan AH comparison; AH is on another level musically because of
A] His originality.
B] Compositional ability
Govan is a super duper techno flash improviser who plays with great feel & technique over what amount to little more than backing tracks. Great but you need to be more than that to go down in rock history
This is a stunning piece. A beautiful evocation of the bustling metropolis and seaport that is the imperial capital of Japan. The guitar playing is just incredible and the drumming is interesting too. I was reminded a little of Ringo Starr's style of melodic drumming. It fits the song beautifully.
@BryceGub No he's not. Holdsworth has, and always will remain in another part of the ether in respect to the other players. And despite the virtuosity of the other players, Holdsworth has this ineffable quality that nobody else can match or exceed. Vai himself has acknowledged that he can close his eyes and listen to another guitarist and basically see in his minds eye where they are on the fretboard, finger patterns, whammy inflections, etc. Vai admitted that he can't do that with Holdsworth.
@69torus Nicely put. Holdsworth is definitely in a league of his own and gets the respect he deserves from serious guitar players/musicians. Shawn Lane was a huge fan of his and said seeing him live changed his life; another guy Shawn revered and who is equally hard to map out on a fretboard is John McLaughlin. The difference with Holdsworth is that he transcends the instrument, whereas the majority of us are committed to guitar-related techniques and clichés.
@69torus lane said that he could see where anyone was playing, except mclaughlin. so, you could have an argument for holdsworth and mclaughlin to be the best of the best, which is i think anyway
@BodhiSvaha No doubt! John is a complete mystery at times. Remember Shakti live in Toronto back in 2003 was absolutely brilliant, and FUN!! Close enough to watch John articulate those deliciously rhythmic runs in a Be-bop gone East modality...
@69torus This passage is from The incredible marquis by Herbert Gorman entitled the soldier of fortune(chapter six) It was natural that Dumas believed implicitly in the magic of somnambulism, in animal magnetism and in chiromancy. No Haitian dancing before his Voodoo altar was more superstitious than Dumas. Home, to Dumas, therefore, was an authentically inspired adept in communicating with unseen world.
@AMF1322 Ok forget about what u just said because thats just stupid !! I love Paul gilbert , malmsteen etc !! MUSIC IS UNIVERSAL . IF ITS GOOD ITS GOOD
holdsworth is better than all of those guys, but to discredit them like that is repulsive. each one of those guys has done just as much for guitar as allan has (except for di vatio. i can't find out who that guy is, youtube has nothing about him).
Anyone else find their fretting hand kinda deforms over time? probably from stretching the tendons so much I dunno. When I rest my hands still, the left one does the "live long and prosper" sign all by itself lol
@chype yeah, i can hold my pinky and index at almost 180 degrees. i didnt even notice that it was weird until my girlfriend saw me do it once and said it freaked her out.
Album personnel: Allan Holdsworth, Chad Wackerman (drums), Jeff Berlin, (bass). Paul Rogers sings "Road Games". Saw the touring band in Eureka, Ca. and Jimmie Johnson (Flim and the BBs) played bass on the tour. Chad Wackerman on drums, Paul Rogers on vocals. I saw that show 25 years ago, and still the best live show I've ever been to. Bar none.
Technically amazing (it IS Holdsworth), but I found the original solo much more melodic and transcendant. Still, always great to hear different facets of the Master.
This is my favority musician...is amazing the way he thinks music. Tokyo Dream is a wonderful exemple. There are so many greats musicians....great performers...I'm sure...but Allan is not of this world.
who the fuck is keith whalen??? No offense to him, but has he been makin' his bones for the last forty fucking years? We're talking about ALLAN HOLDSWORTH here! What type of new style has he developed after Allan's, anyway???
@jacketjr I'm Keith Whalen and I've uploaded this video for your pleasure. I have no idea what janderson2000 was talking about. Allan is one of the best guitar players of all-time and I never said a bad word about him.
@KeithWhalen11 whatever it was I must have been drunk. if nobody is disrespecting the greatest guitarist of all time (Allan...duh) then all is good... Cheers.
@Tuzioya ehhhhhhhhhhh do a more traditional jazz peice. they wont really care about this. haha trust me i got a scholarship to berklee. work on a traditional jazz chord melody piece. watch some scotty anderson
@ShredFever92 Just finished posting some Scotty videos on Facebook. For my money, he's one of the best guitar players alive and heavily underrated. Good advice man.
@rexasul If you asked GG if he thought he was anywhere near as good as AH, you'd get a gigantic chuckle from him. He know's he's not and that to his credit.
i don't know, marshall harrison could easily give guthrie a run for his money on the "technical" department. shawn lane is still the most technical guitarist to ever live, but he isn't around anymore... R.I.P. Shawn Lane.
@Rolinger56 I would have said the trick to his tone is the legato he's using rather than the tone shaping his legato. The old saying 'tone is in the fingers' is so evident for Allan
@KeithWhalen11: Personally I think the 'Igginbottom's Wrench record takes some beating. I'm not really a fan of Jazz, but that's a truly excellent and bizzarre album.
all the best guitarists in the world dont sit around arguing about who is the best guitarist in the world because they all know its allan holdsworth hahahahahaha
I have listened to lots of Holdsworth music but this version of "Tokyo dreams" smokes. It sounds like "somebody" is ripping on a saxophone but its played on the guitar. Allan is original and has allways been an inovator.Only the elite musician wishes not to imitate (from Jeff Berlin).
I think a big part to Allan's unique voice is he avoided any cliche licks derived from the pentatonic scale that so many players rely on especially when starting out...kind of why he doesn't play blues tunes. Thank God because we already have enough great blues to listen too and Allan's phrasing and note choice has establish its own unique genre with a character and life all its own. He certainly changed my life as a guitarist!
@stonepolismusic very true but Guthrie Govan once said that its also good to be aware of cliches because a cliche has never become a cliche without being good. so its also good to study them in order to find out what was so good about them as well as avoiding them.
@stonepolismusic God Damn, did you nail that! Allan is one of those players that, when you hear him, you think...how the hell did he learn that/?what mode is he playing?/can I ever hope to be that good?...He is truly "elite" and only us guitarists know what that really means.
i've met a few guitar players. randy rhoads,michaelanglo batio paul gilbert,but allan seemed to be the only one who does'nt fully appreciate his own work. it also seemed to me that he wasn't that into guitar playing in general.
@vgraham44 The unfortunate truth is that he isn't that into guitar playing. If you watch his instructional video, he makes that very clear. He wanted to be a horn player, but his father bought him a "geh-tah" instead.
As for him not appreciating his work. . . I guess that comes from the same part of him that isn't into guitar. He's just TOO humble. Like Eric Johnson.
Sorry everyone for any confusion. I don't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment of two fine guitarists like Allan and Shawn. I do realise that there are people that want to see early clips of Shawn. The "Watchtower" clip in question -yes it has mistakes but I suppose if just one person enjoys it then it was a worthwhile post. I'm also sorry that I rose to the personal criticism on here as well. I thought I was better than that. Shawn and I spent time together -he would know what I meant for sure
I have been a professional musician for more than ten years now, but I can never completely figure out what Allan plays, so much stuff going on. Holdsworth are lightyears ahead of the rest of us, he will probably be just as important in a 100 years from now..
and to think this was written/performed back in the 80's. People are still trying to catch up, including me.
this version wasn't on the original LP "Road Games". seems more dynamic in sound.
My production crew was working on an R&B Dance project and Allen came down and played, but he wanted to get the right feel so he took the track home. talkin bout star struck. I was playin professional everywhere, but when Allen asked what instrument I played, I mumbled something other than guitar
where, when? studio? His home page had this excerpt, understandably so, because it really goes way out there. i pull his home page just to listen to it, for the effect...like a cup of coffee, or a jog.
I first heard Allan when I was about 15, back in the 80's. It was THE defining moment in my musical life. I knew I had a long way to go if I ever wanted to be even 1/100 close to him. 30 odd years later, cant touch him! Who can LOL!!
you're right guthrie is amazing, but i just love the emotion and colours holdsworth paints with. I think many of the other people here who, like myself, consider holdsworth the greatest really feel a connection with the sensitivity of his playing.
@meltcrash yeah holdsworth is number 3 for me. have you watched the 'guthrie govan rotosound demo'? you should check that out. its awesome. i consider guthrie the best, then shawn lane, then holdsworth
Guthrie is a good all rounder but I don't see anything in the way of personal expression. He seems to be interested in emulating all styles but for what end purpose?
@Samsgarden are you serious? hope youre not, and before making that statement listen to his COMPLETE WORK and for that matter youll know why most guitar virtuosos in the world state that he is the best all around player TODAY...
Anyone who states anybody is the best 'anything' is an imbecile. I don't trust people who talk like that and I certainly wouldn't believe it because a musician said it.
Simeon’s virtuosity has little effect on art, it's their ideas, and as far as Guthrie goes; no-I haven't listened to his catalogue and I have no need to. There are literally thousands of good players, yet only a handful that have altered the art form. And besides, I'm a drummer. Drumming presents the same problem.
@Samsgarden holdsworth IS the best. others are faster, others still play in more cliched styles, but allan can do absolutely anything, at any time. anything. that is why he is the best. after listening to all the other players, and then listening to allan, it is immediately obvious to anyone with even a hint of sense. he is so far beyond any other player, it is ridiculous
@jpkayfabe83 thank you, my friend. he is, in fact the best guitarist ever. i will wait for someone to justify differently, but i dont think anyone will. he is the best, now, and for a thousands years.
Pete's entitled to his opinion about Shawn but I could care less to debate it in the Tokyo Dream comments. The whole notion of the true artist debate is truly hogwash as well. Shawn Lane and Allan Holdsworth both have a great deal of outstanding and unique compositions that would classify them as such and whatever speaks to your musical ear is fine by me. Both of them offer a distinct musical experience that we can all discover and enjoy at our own pace. Can we focus on THIS upload instead?
@petecockcroft "A "true" artist wouldn't be watching shitty mistake-filled clips on you-tube anyway?". Tell me what you mean by that. Also show me where the mistakes are :)
This song first came to my attention when I saw Holdsworth perform it live at a nightclub in Palo Alto, CA on his "Road Games" tour. I was, as usual, awestruck by the technical virtuosity but also profoundly moved by the melody. And if you think the beginning and end of the song "envelops" you at home, you have to see Holdsworth perform it in a small venue with superb acoustics. It's utterly and completely enrapturing!
Insane solo.
Samsgarden 3 weeks ago
I think when artists reach a certain level of expertise it can become silly to compare too much. Just enjoy. Very Frank Gambale at times, but you know its still Alan and Vice Versa.
MrJuno6 1 month ago
Love this--- love what allan does--- who's on bass and keys?? is it jimmy or skuli===steve hunt??
holdencaustic 1 month ago
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holdencaustic 1 month ago
yes! a normal guitar!
IverDaBest 3 months ago
@IverDaBest
lol he does use the headless alot doesnt he .
Lincoln424242 1 month ago
All of universe sound fantastic..
xplanetstudio 3 months ago
No puede haber tipo que me inspire más que Allan Hodlsworth
ThrashingBastardHell 3 months ago
For me he is not an idol .He is a fantastic guitarplayer but he looks always so cool
can't feel emotions.I saw him in 1978 with Softmachine 3 days later I saw Colloseum 2 with Gary Moore what a dfiferent.Gary play with heart and soul Alan plays like a Softmachine he don't laugh or say hello it seems to me "Okay crazy crowd I hope I can leave very fast " thats my opinion.
Maiodidi 5 months ago
@Maiodidi
If Allan could play for himself with a band, I betcha he would do it rather than playing in front of a crowd. I'll be nervous too. So I don't blame his nervousness. He's probably like what if I mess up.
shadowknight132 4 months ago
Virtuosity, melodic mastery, originality and tone, incomparable!
pplooc4p 5 months ago 2
The thing that all people seem to overlook about Allan is that he set out to make the guitar expand its regular vocabulary. To make it more like a saxophone. He's developed a very particular way of approaching the legato methodology. His ability to alter and shape notes and sounds is only rivalled by Jeff Beck. For over 40 years he's single mindedly pursued this goal. It's important to note that his technique is purely secondary to his musical goals. This is what separates him from all others.
Fontsman 5 months ago
Hello everyone.
I'm here to talk about the existence of a brand new musical experience called Idaea. The influence ranges from Planet X, Meshuggah, Dream Theater, Chick Corea to Contemporany and Experimental music. It would be really cool if you visited our myspace and added coments, thoughts and opinions!:
/idaeaband
Thanks for the time! Stay tuned for more!
Facundo Negri - Idaea´s drummer
DonatiStudent 6 months ago
We are in dangerous waters when we try to wrest technique from musicality with regards allan holdsworth. He is quite simply the greatest improvising soloist ever.
KevSmithGuitar 6 months ago 2
i'm sure there are more technical guitarist than Holdsworth but they are not as musical. Allan knows how to use his technique to make music. he takes advantage of it, he exploits it for the benefit of music.
juanbarros88 6 months ago
@juanbarros88
Nah, Shawn Lane was more technical, but it's definitely arguable that he is just was well rounded musically as Holdsworth, and as far as diversity I don't think that you could argue that Holdsworth was more diverse than Lane. You can however pull the "Lane might not have been anywhere near as technical or out of the box as he was if it were not for Holdworth."
Fluffypopcicle 5 months ago
this song actualy does sound tokyioish
bitterbetterbatter 6 months ago
I'm 17 and i love holdsworth, when people ask me what i listen to the answer is always instinctively HOLDSWORTH!! hahah and always will be! Long live Allan Holdsworth!
Rolinger56 6 months ago
thanks one of the masters
triofdoom 6 months ago
stunning, sounds like no-one else ! seamless arpeggios
stuforty2 7 months ago 2
Damn, I haven't been born yet... But I know I'll love this!
Jesuselpacifo 7 months ago
I'm sorry people but we should never compare one guitarist with another unless said guitarist spends their life trying to emulate [or straight up copy] their heros.
Holdsworth is gifted but shit man! He puts the work in and to this day still tries to challenge what he knows. So many musicians are Great but it's clear that they've hit a brick wall and are happy with their technique. My man keeps pushing it. The "Coltrane" of guitar. By the way from 2:30 the next five seconds are Pure Bliss..
pedtrot 7 months ago 17
@pedtrot This whole song, his whole discography, is bliss.
fenderbender92 7 months ago
@pedtrot In addition to this erudite post, Holdsworth has never been one to rest on his laurels. He's always striven for the new.
Bass5el 5 months ago
@pedtrot like Malmsteen to Blackmore?
DennisIqraDhuha 2 months ago
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@pedtrot Between 1555 and 1931 the Jesuit Order was expelled from at least 83 countries, city states and cities, for engaging in political intrigue and subversion plots against the welfare of the state, according to the records of a Jesuit priest of repute(Thomas J. Campbell).-J.E.C. Shepard
uriahheep108 1 month ago in playlist Allan Holdsworth
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@pedtrot "The public is practically unaware of the over wheming responsibility carried by the Vatican and its Jesuits in the starting of the two world wars-m a situation which may be explained in part by the gigantic finances at the disposition of vatican and its jesuits."---Edmond paris, The secret history of the Jesuits
uriahheep108 1 month ago in playlist Allan Holdsworth
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@pedtrot 'It is my opinion that if the liberties of this country(USA) are destroyed, it will be by the subtlety of the Roman catholic Jesuit priests, for they are the most crafty, dangerous enemies to civil and religous liberty. They have instigated most of the wars of Europe.' Marquis de LaFayette
uriahheep108 1 month ago in playlist Allan Holdsworth
@pedtrot Absolutely we should compare guitarists, what on earth are you talking about? Comparing different musicians is completely healthy. I think you might be assuming that comparisons include a judgement on which player is better. That I don't like and I agree people shouldn't weigh guitarists and musicians. But comparison is totally fine! For example, I think Lane and Holdsworth have a similar passion towards melody and phrasing, at the same time the two go about these things differently.
Nathankthanks 1 month ago
His playing sort of reminds me of Shaun Lane.
randomclam898889 7 months ago
WOW! this song is amazing! the japanese always have astounding mixes too!
Rolinger56 8 months ago
damn, im 12 years old and i love this!
MusicBombTV 8 months ago 4
reminds Thordendal's 'Z1-Reticuli' and 'Missing Time' to me
kozzzh 8 months ago
Simply mind-blowing.
jm31563 8 months ago in playlist poop
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Ref Govan AH comparison; AH is on another level musically because of
A] His originality.
B] Compositional ability
Govan is a super duper techno flash improviser who plays with great feel & technique over what amount to little more than backing tracks. Great but you need to be more than that to go down in rock history
pobinr 9 months ago
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pobinr 9 months ago
Muito Feeling essa musica
mestreobiwan 9 months ago
Greatest solo ever taken in my opinion...
23BET23 9 months ago
Frank Zappa said Holdsworth was his favorite guitarist.
See: watch?v=y8ArfMhzPao
I can't imagine higher praise.
devolve42 9 months ago
I don't think I've heard this in over 20 years. I have the album in a stack around here somewhere......
chuckbyf1 10 months ago
so ahead of his time. hard to believe its been 27 years since this came out. people are still trying to catch up.
bobbygoesbig 10 months ago
used to practice this song 20 years ago. beautiful!
vanvelvet 10 months ago
reminds me of eric johnson alot. a little more out there with his composition though.
pimpunclemo 11 months ago 2
This is a stunning piece. A beautiful evocation of the bustling metropolis and seaport that is the imperial capital of Japan. The guitar playing is just incredible and the drumming is interesting too. I was reminded a little of Ringo Starr's style of melodic drumming. It fits the song beautifully.
ironpirites 11 months ago
Forget Malmsteem, Vai, Petrucci, Di Vatio, Paul Gilbert and all those guys. THIS is playing electric guitar.
AMF1322 11 months ago
@AMF1322 YOUR FUCKING STUPID AS FUCK
BryceGub 11 months ago
@BryceGub No he's not. Holdsworth has, and always will remain in another part of the ether in respect to the other players. And despite the virtuosity of the other players, Holdsworth has this ineffable quality that nobody else can match or exceed. Vai himself has acknowledged that he can close his eyes and listen to another guitarist and basically see in his minds eye where they are on the fretboard, finger patterns, whammy inflections, etc. Vai admitted that he can't do that with Holdsworth.
69torus 10 months ago 35
@69torus Nicely put. Holdsworth is definitely in a league of his own and gets the respect he deserves from serious guitar players/musicians. Shawn Lane was a huge fan of his and said seeing him live changed his life; another guy Shawn revered and who is equally hard to map out on a fretboard is John McLaughlin. The difference with Holdsworth is that he transcends the instrument, whereas the majority of us are committed to guitar-related techniques and clichés.
KeithWhalen11 10 months ago 3
@KeithWhalen11 Thank you! and I echo your comment.
69torus 10 months ago
@69torus Exceedingly well put.
vgraham44 10 months ago
@69torus
Yeah that's how it is with me too.
Most guitarist's are quite easy to visualise once you know your theory, but with Allan, I can't even begin to...
ExtremeBogom 8 months ago 2
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KevSmithGuitar 7 months ago
@69torus lane said that he could see where anyone was playing, except mclaughlin. so, you could have an argument for holdsworth and mclaughlin to be the best of the best, which is i think anyway
BodhiSvaha 1 month ago
@BodhiSvaha No doubt! John is a complete mystery at times. Remember Shakti live in Toronto back in 2003 was absolutely brilliant, and FUN!! Close enough to watch John articulate those deliciously rhythmic runs in a Be-bop gone East modality...
69torus 1 month ago
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@69torus This passage is from The incredible marquis by Herbert Gorman entitled the soldier of fortune(chapter six) It was natural that Dumas believed implicitly in the magic of somnambulism, in animal magnetism and in chiromancy. No Haitian dancing before his Voodoo altar was more superstitious than Dumas. Home, to Dumas, therefore, was an authentically inspired adept in communicating with unseen world.
uriahheep108 1 month ago in playlist Allan Holdsworth
@BryceGub
I didn't realise that 'fucking stupid as fuck' was a noun? :-)
Samsgarden 4 months ago
@AMF1322 Ok forget about what u just said because thats just stupid !! I love Paul gilbert , malmsteen etc !! MUSIC IS UNIVERSAL . IF ITS GOOD ITS GOOD
xSnoweyexp 10 months ago
@AMF1322
holdsworth is better than all of those guys, but to discredit them like that is repulsive. each one of those guys has done just as much for guitar as allan has (except for di vatio. i can't find out who that guy is, youtube has nothing about him).
YngwieAteMe 9 months ago
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Hey Bobnoxious , it's Paul WILLIAMS on vocals not Rodgers.
I think PW has a uniquely fine vocal that truly fits AH''s music.
sturoc0 1 year ago
Hey Bobobnoxious , it's Paul WILLIAMS on vocals not Rodgers.
I think PW has a uniquely fine vocal that truly fits AH''s music.
sturoc0 1 year ago
Anyone else find their fretting hand kinda deforms over time? probably from stretching the tendons so much I dunno. When I rest my hands still, the left one does the "live long and prosper" sign all by itself lol
chype 1 year ago
@chype yeah, i can hold my pinky and index at almost 180 degrees. i didnt even notice that it was weird until my girlfriend saw me do it once and said it freaked her out.
pimpunclemo 11 months ago
christian muenzner in Obscura has copied a tiny part of this progressive fast shredding on his solos
elmingodotcom 1 year ago 3
hm , such heated posts.
I didn't like the entro but things shaped up as the track progressed.
I like shawn lane and allen but my true love is buckethead.
I think you fans know what must be done.
I now you will do it because your heart won't let you stop.
I can go to my grave happy about that.
azkeyz 1 year ago 2
This guy is so good its crazy.
MrJuno6 1 year ago
@MrJuno6
and it was 1983
Samsgarden 4 months ago
mad good
voodoochild12889 1 year ago
beautiful
Progerbrasil 1 year ago
That's a great pic. Such a talent: A. Holdsworthian.
YouToobness 1 year ago
That's a great pic. Such a talent: A Holdworthian.
YouToobness 1 year ago
Oops. @YouToobness
YouToobness 1 year ago
Album personnel: Allan Holdsworth, Chad Wackerman (drums), Jeff Berlin, (bass). Paul Rogers sings "Road Games". Saw the touring band in Eureka, Ca. and Jimmie Johnson (Flim and the BBs) played bass on the tour. Chad Wackerman on drums, Paul Rogers on vocals. I saw that show 25 years ago, and still the best live show I've ever been to. Bar none.
bobnoxiousbr549 1 year ago
One of my favorite his songs. Great guitarist ofc.
Isurez 1 year ago
Allan= Greatest electric guitar innovator of the last 30 years.
Manolian 1 year ago 2
Technically amazing (it IS Holdsworth), but I found the original solo much more melodic and transcendant. Still, always great to hear different facets of the Master.
mikeyjr0323 1 year ago
Who is playing drums?
Vazmusic 1 year ago
@Vazmusic CHAD WACKERMAN
urec13 1 year ago 2
This is my favority musician...is amazing the way he thinks music. Tokyo Dream is a wonderful exemple. There are so many greats musicians....great performers...I'm sure...but Allan is not of this world.
phenbuz 1 year ago
The finest fusion player EVER.
doughboy777 1 year ago 2
Awesome ! The melody is very very deep ...
SweeetPicker 1 year ago
@janderson2000
who the fuck is keith whalen??? No offense to him, but has he been makin' his bones for the last forty fucking years? We're talking about ALLAN HOLDSWORTH here! What type of new style has he developed after Allan's, anyway???
jacketjr 1 year ago
@jacketjr I'm Keith Whalen and I've uploaded this video for your pleasure. I have no idea what janderson2000 was talking about. Allan is one of the best guitar players of all-time and I never said a bad word about him.
KeithWhalen11 1 year ago
@KeithWhalen11 whatever it was I must have been drunk. if nobody is disrespecting the greatest guitarist of all time (Allan...duh) then all is good... Cheers.
janderson2000 1 year ago
sounds awesome! Love the solo in this version.
DiscoverGuitarOnline 1 year ago
Wow! A different solo. Right on.
edidpro 1 year ago
Where is the jerk who disliked that ? : )
SweeetPicker 1 year ago
I'm want to play this for my Berklee audition
Tuzioya 1 year ago
@Tuzioya ehhhhhhhhhhh do a more traditional jazz peice. they wont really care about this. haha trust me i got a scholarship to berklee. work on a traditional jazz chord melody piece. watch some scotty anderson
ShredFever92 1 year ago
@ShredFever92 Just finished posting some Scotty videos on Facebook. For my money, he's one of the best guitar players alive and heavily underrated. Good advice man.
KeithWhalen11 1 year ago
@ShredFever92 Thanks for advice, I'll definitely look at some more traditional stuff
Tuzioya 1 year ago
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rexasul 1 year ago 5
@rexasul im glad all of us real musicians ae on the same page though hahaha
ShredFever92 1 year ago
@rexasul If you asked GG if he thought he was anywhere near as good as AH, you'd get a gigantic chuckle from him. He know's he's not and that to his credit.
janderson2000 1 year ago
@rexasul
i don't know, marshall harrison could easily give guthrie a run for his money on the "technical" department. shawn lane is still the most technical guitarist to ever live, but he isn't around anymore... R.I.P. Shawn Lane.
YngwieAteMe 9 months ago
@YngwieAteMe
right on both accounts. in terms of technicality:
1. Shawn Lane
2. Marshall Harrison
3. Guthrie Govan.
Fluffypopcicle 9 months ago
@rexasul a trick to his legato is his tone that he's dialing
Rolinger56 7 months ago
@Rolinger56 I would have said the trick to his tone is the legato he's using rather than the tone shaping his legato. The old saying 'tone is in the fingers' is so evident for Allan
AdamDallas 5 months ago
damn, time to practice lol
austin33309 1 year ago
30,677 views? I didn't know I pressed replay that many times
Tuzioya 1 year ago 2
@KeithWhalen11 Ever heard "The Drums Were Yellow" ?
...off Sixteen Men of Tain. Ridiculous. I believe it was his crowning moment!!
andersenshred 1 year ago
this is lovely :D
Guitareben 1 year ago
allan is the most unique guitar player i know, the harmonies are mind blowing
EmotionalShredd 1 year ago
Allan's solo literally brought me to tears. I've never heard a guitarist describe the beauty of emotions in such a delicate way.
BurntToastVault 1 year ago
Just Amazing!
joeholl3333 1 year ago
if you guys enjoy this as much as I do, check out "zoot allures" by frank zappa.
austin33309 1 year ago
@KeithWhalen11: Personally I think the 'Igginbottom's Wrench record takes some beating. I'm not really a fan of Jazz, but that's a truly excellent and bizzarre album.
RHutton2710 1 year ago
best solo eva
encguitarist 1 year ago
Oh Yea ..... THAT'S why I liked Allan Holdsworth ....
Amazing ....
TrajanGregory 1 year ago
pure genius
PhuckHue2 1 year ago
.... that may be best AH solo I've heard.
dougtube2006 1 year ago
@dougtube2006 yep, upon listening again, I'd have to rate this as my favorite Holdsworth solo. Its spot on technically and musically.
dougtube2006 1 year ago
Frank Zappa was a fan of Holdsworth.
devolve42 1 year ago
@devolve42 so was george bush and britney spears
stargate669 1 year ago
That is f'ing incredible. I want to throw my guitar in the garbage.
troublesome07 1 year ago
@troublesome07 don't throw away your guitar yet. What's your address?
stargate669 1 year ago
hm, different version?
georgemargaris 1 year ago
all the best guitarists in the world dont sit around arguing about who is the best guitarist in the world because they all know its allan holdsworth hahahahahaha
jethropull 1 year ago
I have listened to lots of Holdsworth music but this version of "Tokyo dreams" smokes. It sounds like "somebody" is ripping on a saxophone but its played on the guitar. Allan is original and has allways been an inovator.Only the elite musician wishes not to imitate (from Jeff Berlin).
MrFiskegal 1 year ago
I think a big part to Allan's unique voice is he avoided any cliche licks derived from the pentatonic scale that so many players rely on especially when starting out...kind of why he doesn't play blues tunes. Thank God because we already have enough great blues to listen too and Allan's phrasing and note choice has establish its own unique genre with a character and life all its own. He certainly changed my life as a guitarist!
stonepolismusic 1 year ago
@stonepolismusic very true but Guthrie Govan once said that its also good to be aware of cliches because a cliche has never become a cliche without being good. so its also good to study them in order to find out what was so good about them as well as avoiding them.
encguitarist 1 year ago
@stonepolismusic God Damn, did you nail that! Allan is one of those players that, when you hear him, you think...how the hell did he learn that/?what mode is he playing?/can I ever hope to be that good?...He is truly "elite" and only us guitarists know what that really means.
06mets 1 year ago
i like the solo on this version better than the one on the original release of road games
jamesedwardtheobald 1 year ago
very prog!!
Crimsonphilosophy 1 year ago
Always had the courage to do his own thing-very admirable, methinks.
ThePeacefulGuitar 1 year ago
I'll second vgraham. Un-fucking-matched.
EvilDontSmile 1 year ago
Thank god he's not a horn player though haha. He's so fucking clean, it's nuts! And it's all so complicated musically, I love it!
EvilDontSmile 1 year ago
Thats just unfucking matched by anyone in the known universe.
vgraham44 1 year ago
So magical and majestic sounding.
LifegrindX 1 year ago
i've met a few guitar players. randy rhoads,michaelanglo batio paul gilbert,but allan seemed to be the only one who does'nt fully appreciate his own work. it also seemed to me that he wasn't that into guitar playing in general.
vgraham44 1 year ago
@vgraham44 The unfortunate truth is that he isn't that into guitar playing. If you watch his instructional video, he makes that very clear. He wanted to be a horn player, but his father bought him a "geh-tah" instead.
As for him not appreciating his work. . . I guess that comes from the same part of him that isn't into guitar. He's just TOO humble. Like Eric Johnson.
CherokeeMusic 1 year ago 2
I was watching Allan play this on google video and he uses tapping. It doesn't even sound like it at all.
shadowknight132 1 year ago
all the praises thats been said here are not enought to express how awesome his music really is
guyroeeandbuzi 1 year ago
Are you able to upload another song?
shadowknight132 1 year ago
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petecockcroft 1 year ago
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petecockcroft 1 year ago
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petecockcroft 1 year ago
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petecockcroft 1 year ago
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petecockcroft 1 year ago
Sorry everyone for any confusion. I don't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment of two fine guitarists like Allan and Shawn. I do realise that there are people that want to see early clips of Shawn. The "Watchtower" clip in question -yes it has mistakes but I suppose if just one person enjoys it then it was a worthwhile post. I'm also sorry that I rose to the personal criticism on here as well. I thought I was better than that. Shawn and I spent time together -he would know what I meant for sure
petecockcroft 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
his solo all the sound the same. hasnt done anything new in 30 years as far as i can tell. guess he's having fun, i dont see how anyone else could
flowerdrop1 1 year ago
@flowerdrop1 It's his sound. All great players have their own sound,guys like Metheny and Scofield too.
lehnrik 1 year ago
He gave me a hug at namm 2008. I didn't really realize who I'd hugged.
Radwalls 2 years ago
I have been a professional musician for more than ten years now, but I can never completely figure out what Allan plays, so much stuff going on. Holdsworth are lightyears ahead of the rest of us, he will probably be just as important in a 100 years from now..
ELVISHAGA 2 years ago 3
@ELVISHAGA
and to think this was written/performed back in the 80's. People are still trying to catch up, including me.
this version wasn't on the original LP "Road Games". seems more dynamic in sound.
My production crew was working on an R&B Dance project and Allen came down and played, but he wanted to get the right feel so he took the track home. talkin bout star struck. I was playin professional everywhere, but when Allen asked what instrument I played, I mumbled something other than guitar
dentistsugardusty 2 years ago
allan is my best guitarist :)
this music is so nice !
ShiningOjisan 2 years ago 3
where, when? studio? His home page had this excerpt, understandably so, because it really goes way out there. i pull his home page just to listen to it, for the effect...like a cup of coffee, or a jog.
mistrynp 2 years ago
I first heard Allan when I was about 15, back in the 80's. It was THE defining moment in my musical life. I knew I had a long way to go if I ever wanted to be even 1/100 close to him. 30 odd years later, cant touch him! Who can LOL!!
MrGuitardudeism 2 years ago 3
Simply THE best electric guitarist I have ever heard. Period. End of story. Nothing more needs to be said.
jpkayfabe83 2 years ago 33
@jpkayfabe83 i have 2 words for you my friend. Guthrie Govan!
Watch 'Guthrie govan rotosound demo' on youtube.
ShredFever92 1 year ago
@ShredFever92
you're right guthrie is amazing, but i just love the emotion and colours holdsworth paints with. I think many of the other people here who, like myself, consider holdsworth the greatest really feel a connection with the sensitivity of his playing.
meltcrash 1 year ago 2
@meltcrash yeah holdsworth is number 3 for me. have you watched the 'guthrie govan rotosound demo'? you should check that out. its awesome. i consider guthrie the best, then shawn lane, then holdsworth
ShredFever92 1 year ago
@ShredFever92
Guthrie is a good all rounder but I don't see anything in the way of personal expression. He seems to be interested in emulating all styles but for what end purpose?
Samsgarden 4 months ago
@Samsgarden are you serious? hope youre not, and before making that statement listen to his COMPLETE WORK and for that matter youll know why most guitar virtuosos in the world state that he is the best all around player TODAY...
Timmonsec 4 months ago
@Timmonsec
Anyone who states anybody is the best 'anything' is an imbecile. I don't trust people who talk like that and I certainly wouldn't believe it because a musician said it.
Simeon’s virtuosity has little effect on art, it's their ideas, and as far as Guthrie goes; no-I haven't listened to his catalogue and I have no need to. There are literally thousands of good players, yet only a handful that have altered the art form. And besides, I'm a drummer. Drumming presents the same problem.
Samsgarden 4 months ago
@Samsgarden holdsworth IS the best. others are faster, others still play in more cliched styles, but allan can do absolutely anything, at any time. anything. that is why he is the best. after listening to all the other players, and then listening to allan, it is immediately obvious to anyone with even a hint of sense. he is so far beyond any other player, it is ridiculous
BodhiSvaha 1 month ago
@Timmonsec Your an idiot. Their can be no best at an artform. Its subjective to what you like personally.
lcarswell111 1 month ago
@jpkayfabe83 thank you, my friend. he is, in fact the best guitarist ever. i will wait for someone to justify differently, but i dont think anyone will. he is the best, now, and for a thousands years.
jdeasel 11 months ago
OK, this rendition officially blew my mind, and I've been listening to Allan for 35 years.
Very beautiful.
shpilk 2 years ago 15
@shpilk yea it is so lovely rend!
Niteblub 2 years ago
@shpilk that's badass man!
2bored4school 1 year ago
OMG, that guitar solo is unbelievable.
hakkerxxx 2 years ago 3
One of the best guitar players in the World. He's got incredible impression. Hes tones are not from this world. Beutiful chords.
morhan1987 2 years ago 3
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petecockcroft 2 years ago
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petecockcroft 2 years ago
Pete's entitled to his opinion about Shawn but I could care less to debate it in the Tokyo Dream comments. The whole notion of the true artist debate is truly hogwash as well. Shawn Lane and Allan Holdsworth both have a great deal of outstanding and unique compositions that would classify them as such and whatever speaks to your musical ear is fine by me. Both of them offer a distinct musical experience that we can all discover and enjoy at our own pace. Can we focus on THIS upload instead?
KeithWhalen11 2 years ago 13
@KeithWhalen11 totally and the same for britney spears and justin timberlake who show what great music America can produce.
stargate669 1 year ago
@petecockcroft
What are the Shawn Lane videoS you refer to when you say, "shitty mistake-filled clipS"?
Glorose7 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@petecockcroft "A "true" artist wouldn't be watching shitty mistake-filled clips on you-tube anyway?". Tell me what you mean by that. Also show me where the mistakes are :)
Guitareben 1 year ago
This song first came to my attention when I saw Holdsworth perform it live at a nightclub in Palo Alto, CA on his "Road Games" tour. I was, as usual, awestruck by the technical virtuosity but also profoundly moved by the melody. And if you think the beginning and end of the song "envelops" you at home, you have to see Holdsworth perform it in a small venue with superb acoustics. It's utterly and completely enrapturing!
1953nagarjuna 2 years ago 3
Man--the beginning and end parts of that sound truly sonic--kind of like the sound envelops you--on a large, quality sound system cranked up.
DiGiTaLdAzEDM 2 years ago