Ted Burke
133 posts
Aug 27, 2014
2:26 PM
|
enjoy ---------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
The Iceman
1959 posts
Aug 27, 2014
2:30 PM
|
guess it's artistic license, but you are playing that recognizable signature descending Messin' With the Kid line incorrectly.
----------
The Iceman
|
Ted Burke
134 posts
Aug 27, 2014
2:59 PM
|
Well, no. Considering that there was no harmonica introduction on the original Buddy Guy /Junior Wells version of this brilliant tune, my adaptation, like those of a whole lot of harmonica players before me, is straight on. What I do here fits the jam track arrangement,such as it is. The notes are in sync with what this anonymous is playing. The tune is not a museum piece. What I bring to it or inflict upon it will not destroy the tune. Another version of the tune, by the #@$@ amazing Sugar Blue, with an arrangement more removed from the original song:
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
The Iceman
1961 posts
Aug 27, 2014
4:26 PM
|
as I said...artistic license
----------
The Iceman
|
Ted Burke
136 posts
Aug 27, 2014
4:46 PM
|
License, yes, "incorrect", no. "Different" is the accurate term.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
Last Edited by Ted Burke on Aug 27, 2014 9:57 PM
|
eharp
2210 posts
Aug 27, 2014
6:08 PM
|
Are you taking over for Frank?
How about leaving some space for (dare I say it?) a guitar solo.
|
The Iceman
1962 posts
Aug 27, 2014
6:17 PM
|
(sorry - can't resist)
Sugar Blue is playing the correct and familiar descending line - note-wise - with a very funky spin on the groove.
Your descending line is, well, artistic license I guess.
----------
The Iceman
Last Edited by The Iceman on Aug 27, 2014 6:19 PM
|
Frank
5160 posts
Aug 27, 2014
6:39 PM
|
You need to listen beyond the lines and hear this updated classic piece of art the way Mozart or Igor Stravinsky would lay there Masterful ears upon it and notice it for its bold metallic brilliance with sounds and shapes ranging from the heights of yet un-built sky scrapers whose architectural genius is surely not only seen in the structure of Teds song but heard by the giants of composers from yesteryear, who laid the ground work for the razzel dazzel harp sensations heard in this song, a song that probably won't be given the praise it is due and worthy of till centuries from now :)
|
RyanMortos
1470 posts
Aug 28, 2014
7:48 AM
|
Rockin' interpretation Ted
----------
~Ryan
See My Profile for contact info, etc.
|
JInx
866 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:17 PM
|
----------
|
Ted Burke
137 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:27 PM
|
Having a bad day, Jinx? It takes so little to make you unhappy.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
Last Edited by Ted Burke on Aug 28, 2014 12:27 PM
|
JustFuya
406 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:29 PM
|
When I finally grow up I hope I am not annoying. I would rather make a record than be a broken one.
|
JInx
867 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:32 PM
|
aren't you looking for feedback?
----------
|
Ted Burke
138 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:38 PM
|
That's not feedback, Jinx, that's a snap shot of you after you ate that huge bean burrito.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
Kingley
3675 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:41 PM
|
Sorry Ted, not my cup of tea at all I'm afraid. For my taste there needs to be much more space, better phrasing and I'm not a fan of that tone at all. I'm sure many will like it, but for me it just doesn't do it. If I walked in a bar and heard that I'd most likely be walking straight back out again. Simply because as with a lot of your playing that I've heard on here, the tone is to my ear annoying, the playing is just relentless, it's non stop and doesn't give the listener any time to assimilate and appreciate any nuances that may be there. It becomes akin to white noise. Sorry if these words sounds harsh, but that's just my honest opinion of it. So please don't take it to heart or let my words discourage you from pursuing whatever musical goal you are seeking to achieve. As I say I'm sure there are many that will like it. It's just not for me is all.
|
Ted Burke
139 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:49 PM
|
Well, that's feedback for real and I respect your opinion and skill at articulating your opinion. I like all manner of improvising styles , fast, slow, crowded choruses and spare refrains, and I have taken something from all my influences--Butter, Musselwhite, Coltrane, John McLaughlin, Sonny Boy. At this stage of the game, speed is my signature and my goal is to be more musical with that peculiar knack. I think I am making more progress than not. I do, however, seek informed views and responses from listeners, as that is a way to see what I might need to work on. Speed is a permanent part of how I play; the goal is to remain teachable and broaden the musical language where it gets applied. Thanks for listening and the remarks. Most appreciated.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
Ted Burke
140 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:51 PM
|
Here's a familiar chord progression with the foot off the metaphorical accelerator, in large part.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
Last Edited by Ted Burke on Aug 28, 2014 12:56 PM
|
rogonzab
589 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:51 PM
|
I like it!!
No, that kind of playing is not for everyone, especially for those who just lisent blues music. TB is playing music here, not just "blues", so of course is different, and of course that his tone is not the "chicago-standar" but you can hear that he has good acustic tone (I dont like that kind of harsh tone myself, but if he like it, that is ok for me)
Ted, your are a very good musician.
|
JInx
868 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:52 PM
|
sorry theo but do you ever listen back to your video's? your tone, phrasing, intonation, harmonic/dynamic context within the mix, dramatic theme all make me cringe. you've got tons of fans here, should i not express my opinion?
----------
Last Edited by JInx on Aug 28, 2014 12:55 PM
|
Diggsblues
1514 posts
Aug 28, 2014
12:54 PM
|
The one thing I would love to fix is the sound of the
recordings. I don't know if it's the mics or the processors. It has a cold digital feel IMHO that detracts from the good stuff that you do. For my taste warming it up a little would add to your playing.
Emile
----------
|
Ted Burke
142 posts
Aug 28, 2014
1:04 PM
|
Jinx, this is a discussion board dedicated to modern blues harmonia playing , but what you're doing isn't discussing aspects of the art or even giving reasoned, articulate dissensions against what you consider conventional wisdom. What you're doing is harassing those you disagree with or who's online personality you've taken a disliking to. Posting pictures of Someone giving the thumbs down isn't giving an opinion, which requires a real argument, it's just showing contempt. I would love to hear your opinion at length, but so far you have not made the effort , ever; it's just wisecracks, digs, insults. Like it or not, Jinx, I am fairly happy with my style and execution. I can accept that you don't like it, and I can even accept an honest difference of opinion in the form of an exchange of ideas. But you want none of that; it's easier for you to hate and be a troll. It is, I am afraid, a poor substitute for real thought. I suspect that you have graver issues to wrestle other than your bizarre dislike of my harmonica playing. Perhaps you should seek help, no?
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
Diggsblues
1515 posts
Aug 28, 2014
1:12 PM
|
Since in my role as a union representative I have to deal with cases and the law. We have something called "opening the door" in law. I think jinx has opened the door with his response and should now post his playing so
Ted can critique it.
----------
|
JInx
869 posts
Aug 28, 2014
1:13 PM
|
I don't know what to tell you, take it for what it's worth? Ya can't please everybody? Be happy to get some any attention at all?
----------
|
JInx
870 posts
Aug 28, 2014
1:17 PM
|
Digg's you don't want to hear it, trust me. lol
----------
|
1847
2096 posts
Aug 28, 2014
1:49 PM
|
when you record, do you do multiple takes,
then choose the best one?
i find, the first take is often the best.
i also spend an inordinate amount of time listening
to what i have recorded to see what works
and what doesn't, sometimes i leave a bad note in, if i feel most of what i have, is working for the most part.
how much scrutiny do you exercise, on play back?
----------
i get a lot of request when i play my harmonica
"but i play it anyway"
|
The Iceman
1970 posts
Aug 28, 2014
1:56 PM
|
It's understood that Ted is pursuing this type of musical sound and approach. That's OK.
I can't listen to this type of playing (on any instrument), as my brain shuts down quickly and won't accept any more of the ear's input. It's similar to a swarm of angry bees. I prefer a meadow full of butterflies.
Others have commented about lack of breathing space, develop of linear ideas, telling a story, etc., and I am of that camp.
Am interested in hearing from those that like this style of playing, what it is that works for them, and why they would listen repeatedly or would spend an evening listening to this style of harmonica playing.
I might learn something from this...
----------
The Iceman
|
JustFuya
409 posts
Aug 28, 2014
2:40 PM
|
I've been accused of busy. The first time I went into a studio w/ a guitarist I'd never met I was all over his solo. Not because I was a bogart but because I wanted to feel the whole song. It was very antagonistic from that point but I gave him the one sustained note he wanted sparingly and he allowed me a flutter that I couldn't resist.
That's my method. Busy to find my place but submissive at the final destination. I think Ted has all the tools and I applaud that. In a studio or on a stage I think he would hold his own under direction. On a BT anything goes and it's a fine resume.
|
sean
2 posts
Aug 28, 2014
3:14 PM
|
Ted have you heard the saying..LESS IS MORE..for god sake slow down man..leave some space..
|
jackleg
20 posts
Aug 28, 2014
3:19 PM
|
i loved it!!!
|
Ted Burke
143 posts
Aug 28, 2014
3:27 PM
|
More is more, in my book. Less is less, and that has value as well.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
walterharp
1501 posts
Aug 28, 2014
3:52 PM
|
Ted,
I like your playing and admire your coming back hard after receiving harsh criticism on this board for your approach. To change the subject a bit, your recording technology makes it difficult to hear what you are playing with open ears. The levels peak out and make harsh distortion where it should not be. I suspect this would not silence your critics, but for me, I will listen once and then the extra noise (not extra notes), but the low quality audio, makes it difficult for me to enjoy. I understand that good equipment costs money that many are not able or willing to spend, but if you want appreciation from the forum, it would not hurt to watch your recording levels and see when they peak out.
Last Edited by walterharp on Aug 28, 2014 7:28 PM
|
Goldbrick
652 posts
Aug 28, 2014
3:53 PM
|
If speed is your thing thats great
I believe part of the issue is tone and dynamics.
Maybe try dialing the harp back , volume wise in the mix , so the rhythm comes thru.
Playing fast doesnt need to overeride the whole song and can involve extending notes too.
Here is the master - lots of notes, speed but not crushing the rhythm section and the bottom.
Just my worthless 2cents
|
JustFuya
412 posts
Aug 28, 2014
4:20 PM
|
Nice one Goldbrick. Tiny nuances.
|
Frank
5165 posts
Aug 28, 2014
6:10 PM
|
Not sure you can mess with Teds style which is in part his recording process, along too with kicking the nuances in the nads the way he does... sure it is brutal at times the way he rains hell fire into a phrase like a pissed off serpent, yet he always is maintaining the soft angular loving touch of a new Mother caressing her baby's angelic face - Ted has Mastered the battle between beauty and desolation, having found solitude among these ironies- he can be classified as one of the Greats... and in my opinion a peer to Coltrane, Miles and Dizzy :)
Last Edited by Frank on Aug 28, 2014 6:13 PM
|
Dragonbreath
18 posts
Aug 28, 2014
7:13 PM
|
Ted isn't the only musician rockin' the "more is more" philosophy.
|
Ted Burke
144 posts
Aug 28, 2014
7:48 PM
|
have to get my funk on. last one for this thead. thanks everyone who gave expanded views on my playing; it helps sets the rudders in the right direction.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
1847
2103 posts
Aug 28, 2014
8:11 PM
|
so ted how come you never answer any of my questions?
----------
i get a lot of request when i play my harmonica
"but i play it anyway"
|
Ted Burke
145 posts
Aug 28, 2014
8:31 PM
|
@1847: Sorry, brother, I didn't mean to ignore the questions You asked them while I was at work and my lunch break wouldn't allow time to give the kind of answers you wanted.
"when you record, do you do multiple takes, then choose the best one?"
I find myself starting and stopping on the recording. If I miss a cue, botch a signature riff, have the wrong harp, or if the playing bites rancid weenie, I will turn off the camera and erase what was recorded. I like to think that I know when I blow, in a manner of speaking. Usually, I practice a track for a couple of tries and then switch on the cam.
"i find, the first take is often the best."
I agree, usually the first take is the freshest, the one with the best ideas. I try to get familiar with the changes and melodic nuances of the track and then try to create something.
“i also spend an inordinate amount of time listening to what i have recorded to see what works and what doesn't, sometimes i leave a bad note in, if i feel most of what i have, is working for the most part. how much scrutiny do you exercise, on play back?”
I listen to what I’ve recorded a lot and judge my playing very critically. Or at least I like to think I do. There is a way I want to sound when I play and there are things I do that I don’t like that watching and listening to these videos helps me notice and then work on ridding my technique of those things that are unsatisfying to my ear. I have over 400 videos on YouTube since 2007, and I have deleted a great many because there was nothing in the performance I wanted to keep in front of a potential audience. I post videos that , at the moment I post them, had enough interesting musical content to warrant going live on the internet. But sometimes my play just bites and when I think that’s the case, poof, off the video goes into the trash can.
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
1847
2104 posts
Aug 28, 2014
8:51 PM
|
thank you ted, i appreciate the thoughtful response.
----------
i get a lot of request when i play my harmonica
"but i play it anyway"
|
Ted Burke
146 posts
Aug 28, 2014
9:25 PM
|
sawright
----------
ted-burke.com
tburke4@san.rr.com
|
JInx
871 posts
Aug 28, 2014
11:32 PM
|
the first 30 second i thought had some funk. then it got unfuncky real quick so i turn it off. but i will say this, on a positive note....your mix was much better. still though, for me, it's not listenable from an entertainment perspective.
----------
|
didjcripey
804 posts
Aug 29, 2014
2:02 AM
|
Hey Ted, I don't have much to add about your playing (I think its all been said already), but I would like to comment on something that I really did like in one of your videos, from a recent thread ('screw it I'm back already') where you played to Hilberts swing blues in G. At about the 14 second mark after adjusting the camera, for a brief second you make eye contact and smile. It really helped me feel a connection, it was as if it was the first time I had really seen you.
In so many of your videos your expression is one of weary, disinterested resignation; 'here's me running up and down the harp with great technical skill, but I'm actually not particularly interested or enjoying it'. Its as if you're just going through the motions.
I know that may not be what you are feeling, that may just be how you look when you are concentrating, but that's how it comes across to me.
You must be passionate about your music, to have achieved the skill you have, to have posted so many videos, and keep coming back here for criticism. To me one of the great joys of being a musician is connecting with others, both musicians and audiences. I think that your music will be better received when you not only connect with your passion but convey it as well.
If you really feel what you're doing, try and show it, and we might feel a bit more the same too.
P.S. the last one you posted was much more to my taste.
----------
Lucky Lester
Last Edited by didjcripey on Aug 29, 2014 4:47 AM
|
The Iceman
1972 posts
Aug 29, 2014
4:53 AM
|
Not that I'm complaining, but I'm just curious.
No one has responded to my query as to what exactly those that comment "I love it", etc, find compelling and enjoyable about this type of playing.
Am still wondering what joys are derived from listening to this style and why one would repeat the experience.
Maybe I will learn something here...
----------
The Iceman
|
The Iceman
1974 posts
Aug 29, 2014
6:56 AM
|
Just listened to "something funky".
Funk is based on shorter lines and placement of notes easily heard when listening to James Brown or Funkadelic.
While the backing track is kinda funky, the way Ted plays over this track isn't something that I would call funk. Therefore, not quite understanding the "something funky" moniker.
However, artistic license is OK w/me, too.
----------
The Iceman
|
1847
2106 posts
Aug 29, 2014
8:48 AM
|
larry i listened to it 5 or 6 times
----------
|
The Iceman
1976 posts
Aug 29, 2014
9:06 AM
|
1847...
How about answering the question I posted above?
I'm curious.
----------
The Iceman
|
1847
2108 posts
Aug 29, 2014
9:40 AM
|
i cant answer, because that is a tough question.
sometimes the simplest things are hardest to explain.
i sent you an email, check your spam folder
----------
i get a lot of request when i play my harmonica
"but i play it anyway"
|
Honkin On Bobo
1241 posts
Aug 29, 2014
10:35 AM
|
What Kingley and Iceman said (regarding the first video).
If you were busking this on the street, I'd probably pay attention for maybe 20-30 seconds and move on. I kinda put this in the same box as the guitar shredders, whereby you appreciate the feat, but quickly lose interest in it as a piece of music. But you're in good company, I feel the same way about Popper and Blues Traveller.
Last Edited by Honkin On Bobo on Aug 29, 2014 10:47 AM
|
Frank
5173 posts
Aug 29, 2014
11:07 AM
|
I'm in the "I love it" camp :)
There are way to many reasons why I love this version Ted did to mention them here... I re-listen to the whole tune every time it is brought back to the top...honestly, I can't hear it enough - it's really amazing! Try to listen with BIGGER EARS and you will get it to...Or slow it down to your level on the "amazing slow downer and you will be blown away and made into a true believer and follower of Teds incredible sense of musical creation and unparalleled innate improvisational imagination. One thing for sure, like him or not, he is peers with Ricci, Blue and Popper :)
Last Edited by Frank on Aug 29, 2014 11:18 AM
|
nacoran
7969 posts
Aug 29, 2014
11:23 AM
|
Why do I like it? That's a tough question. I understand that tone is very subjective. Aside from a little background hiss I like the tone. There are times I like slow stuff, and times I like faster stuff. I don't think in a band situation it would get played like this- the other instruments would want a turn, but since the backing track isn't going to bust out in a guitar solo you work with what you have.
If I could play this I think I might resolve the phrases a little more often. That might give the sense of some space that some people are looking for, but I guess mainly, I like to hear people pushing things from time to time. All music is niche- it's just the size of the niche. Lot's of people can't listen to rap, or speed metal, or jazz, but lots of people enjoy them too. If we all try to play just what everybody likes it's going to be a boring world.
----------
Nate
Facebook
Thread Organizer (A list of all sorts of useful threads)
First Post- May 8, 2009
|
