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Dateline Nashville: Summer NAMM '08

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- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 12:57 p.m. Proteus:

Dave Gonzales and Friends Redux

I came out of the Gretsch area to the hallway and heard a pedal steel. I didn't SEE a pedal steel. What I saw was a guy who turned out to be one Michael Lee Perkins playing a Strat.

Dave and fellow Hacienda Brothers – in town for the whole weekend – found their way to Fenderland and heard a pedal Strat as well. One thing led to another, they picked up any guitars which happened to be handy on the wall outside Fenderland, and impromptu jamming ensued.

The Pedal Strat Boogie,
noting that many of Michael Lee's most thoroughly pedaled phrases had been used up by the time I got the recorder going. His whammy bar technique is beautifully controlled and fluid, and the bar never leaves its snug niche between ring and little fingers.

By then Dave Biller had picked up a guitar (apparently his first love, pedal steel being a recent addition), as had "bassist" Hank Maninger. Dave, Dave, and Hank ran through some happyjams which seamlessly merged jazz, western swing, blues, and country twang.

They remind me of the first generation of great country sidemen, the greats of the late 40s through the early 60s who had come up on western swing and jazz, and who were adapting those styles to this new country thang.

The "bass" in this clip is Hank on an acoustic guitar. Go figger.

Tres Amigos.

Dave & Hank.

MISTER Biller.

Drummer Damien Llanes.

Mike Barfield.
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 1:12 p.m. Proteus:

Nashville Skyline

Got to be late lunchtime, so the Mrs. and I sought out digestible comestibles, which we found at a little steam-table restaurant on the top floor (10.00 for a great barbecue sandwich with garlic mashed, green beans, and a lovin' spoonful of slaw).

Up another short flight of stairs to a kind of rooftop walkway. Greatly appreciated tables (oh our achin' dogs), and a view of the near skyline. That's the Ryman up close.

Sleepy.

But there was to be no rest for the weary, because...
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 1:12 p.m. Proteus:

What a day for some groovin'...

There we were, munchin' lunch, when the iPhone rang and Joe was shooting off sparks.

"You gotta get down to the booth! JOHN SEBASTIAN'S HERE!"

We stopped our daydreamin' and dashed on down, and sure enough, there was the guy whose deft and effortless hits had helped get me through late elementary school!

The flawless lilt and honey of "Daydream" is responsible for my entire ATtitude toward life. "Even if time is passin' me by a lot / Couldn't care less about those dues you say I got." (Years later, I wrote a song that put it "They say I can't go through life dreaming / But they never tell me why.")

"Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind" taught me about the necessity of making hard choices between sweet alternatives, and even though I lived in a small town, "Summer in the City" captured the vibe of summer better for me than any surfsong. (I didn't live near the ocean, but I could identify with everything in "Summer.") It was also the first song my son and I played together when I was teaching him drums.

So, yeah. John Sebastian! You don't say!

But wait, there's more. John was with his lovely wife Catherine, a photographer with a resumé in the music business. And Henry Gross, of Sha Na Na and the hit "Shannon," circa 1976.

And. And FELIX CAVALIERI. The rascal! Daydream, Good Lovin', and Groovin' all in the same little room...

The assembled immortals had an extended and animated visit with each other, and with Fred, Joe, and others in the Gretsch area at the time. Hands were shaken, pics were taken.

If I have any regrets about meeting them, it's that I didn't ask John to play a verse or so of "Daydream" on the Gent he was marvelling over – and that I didn't get Felix to groove on down to the Hammond booth and wind a B3 out in full Leslie warble.

What I DID get, though, is part of the conversation. You hear Fred Gretsch giving John a Gretsch history poster and talking about Bo. Catherine, Joe, and John all join in while he noodles on the Gent, and eventually plays us a little. See if you can catch what his favorite bedroom guitar is.

Overheard at NAMM.

John loved the Gent, and it absolutely looks right on him.

Henry Gross, Fred Gretsch, John Sebastian, Felix Cavalieri, Catherine Sebastian

But wait...I thought The Turtles did "Happy Together..."
- Rated: 50 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 1:31 p.m. Richard Hudson:

Great reporting Mr. P. Sounds like a fantastic show and a good time was had by all. Good shots of the Bat Tower, aka the AT&T bldg. I've already had friends calling me today that made the show and I'm just sick, sick I tell you. Wish I could have been there.

See ya in a couple of weeks.

Richard
- Rated: 27 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 2:00 p.m. Jimbodiddley:

Aww. What a sweet-looking couple they make. Great photo.
- Rated: 13 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 2:41 p.m. Rex:

Top Shelf coverage once again Pro, Thanks! We'd be lost without it!
- Rated: 15 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 3:40 p.m. augie1:

Just awesome. When do we get the BZ interview and demo clips?

By the way, in the picture of the BZ Jet, it looks like the shape is a bit different than the Terada Jets. Is that just an illusion due to the sparkle-ness of the thing, or was a "correction" made to the shape? We know Billy had them really pull out all the stops to make this as close to his original Jets, and remember him mentioning that the binding on one of his Jets (and internal routing on ALL of them) was different than what Gretsch currently does.

I figure if they were made largely by hand back in Brooklyn, there is the possibility that the body shape of his original instruments differs from the CNC built ones that come over from Japan. So, could you find that out? There is a distinct possibility that in the future (though not the near future, summer camp for two kids has seen to that) I will become the owner of one, so I was curious. Thanks
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 3:45 p.m. Proteus:

Zoom Zoom.

But the main event at Gretsch for the weekend was definitely the Billy Zoom Tribute Silverjet – and BZ's appearances Saturday.

The guitar attracted attention for sure. The relication job is so good that some lookers wanted to know if it was Billy's personal guitar. A few wondered how a new guitar could look and feel old, but most got it.

It's pretty right from headstock to strap pin. The banjo tuner knobs, the w-b-w binding, the B11 trem - all features that just happened to be on BZ's first used Jet when he bought it in the 70s.

I should have asked, but didn't think to, if the wear evident on the back of the guitar was there when he got his original, or if he inflicted it. I tend to think it was already there. In any case, in fine Custom Shop style, Gretsch has got it just right - and the back is more worn than I had expected.

You can't see it in the pics, but fine crazing and lacquer cracks showed in the clearcoat of the back and neck. The bridge and controls look suitably worn, and, more importantly, the neck feels like that on a 50-year-old Jet.

The pickups were set surprisingly low; I asked Billy if they were the same as his own, and he answered that his are in fact higher.

And we know that what we CAN'T see makes the real difference: this is the first Jet of the modern era with the same chambering early DeArmond Jets had (at least from the evidence of Billy's original). He shared that he had poked around inside his frequently enough to know that it had less bracing extending to the top than current production, but that it took the X-ray to prove it.

The big question: does it make a difference? Many variables come into play when answering, but I think it does.

Variables. BZ uses Fender F150 10s (though I believe the BZ model had low-tension Gretsch 11s; I can't tell the difference). I'm used to higher-tensions 11s. The only other Jet at the show for comparison purposes was the piney-top Roundup, and that would be of no use in a direct matchup with the BZ. AND, Billy was playing through the 3-10 Gretsch Variety, not what either of us is used to.

Still, given all that, his Silver Jet seemed fatter and a bit warmer to me. Still had the bite up top, but there seemed more low-mid support. Full-bodied, I'd say. For my tastes and my playing, the hollower construction seems to make this Jet an even more universally versatile guitar than standard models, taking it into mellofonic jazzabillish territory where the standard might lack a little body – all without losing that immediate response, bark, twang, chirp, and bite we love Jets for.

It was NOT noticeably lighter in weight, however.

So how about some pics?

More on Billy and the Jet here, with sound clip and interview.
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 3:47 p.m. Proteus:

augie, yes, the shape is slightly different. I'm sure that will be consistent through the run of ZoomJets, but whether it will migrate to the rest of the line, I don't know.

The interview/demo should be up tonight - right here.
- Rated: 44 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 4:02 p.m. Joel:

fieldhdj: said: I didn't know B3 and Leslies were being made again.

Not to derail a thread but they're sort of being made again. The new one's look just like the old one's with all the wood and stuff (...as well as the portable model shown in the pics). The important little detail is that these one's are digital. They do not have a tone wheel generator in them. If you've heard an original (...I own a vintage late 40's A model) they sound nothing like the originals. I was very excited to check one out at the Winter NAMM a couple of years ago and was kind of let down when I heard it. Features like MIDI control and stuff seemed pretty cool. Granted, the new one's are way reliable and mine sometimes takes 30 minutes to get it running - but it's so worth it...
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 23, 2008 4:13 p.m. Proteus:

Well shoot.

I didn't take time to look into the details. Compared to even the best emulators, though, these sounded pretty genuine. The Leslie rigs make a huge sonic (and psychological) difference, apparently.
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 10:38 a.m. Proteus:
For the Billy Zoom Jet demo and exclusive GDP interview, go here.

Oh yeah.

I tuned it...
I played it...

.
I liked it!
- Rated: 83 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:16 a.m. Mark Synchro:

So even with all of the hollowness of the BZ Jet it still brought you to your knees?
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:23 a.m. Proteus:

Around the show, Part 1:
TV Jones Bent on World Domination

A pair of Reverends...

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five Kings,

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And a Fender –

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Not to mention all the Gretschs, Collings, and TV's own offerings.

Good to see people recognize a good thing when they hear it!
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:32 a.m. Proteus:

Around the Show, Part II:
Pretty cool guitars.

As it turned out, most of the brands in which fellers here seem to have some interest were clustered in a group near TV's World Conquest Headquarters. Reverend was next door, Godin across an aisle, King Doublebass (who knew they made guitars?) across the aisle and down a bit, and Danelectro just behind.

.
These acoustics were further away, but they caught my eye. And the Breedlove lap slider sounded gorgeous.
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:39 a.m. Proteus:

Around the Show Part C:
The Morbidly Irresistible

From the furniture industry...

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The Spaltese Falcon?

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The ever-hopeful collapsible guitar, an idea whose time STILL hasn't come.

.

And the sublimely ridiculous Original Johnsons (no, I won't make the joke). They were a hit in Anaheim, and they're back – because the world NEEDS grotesquely ungainly "guitars" based on ancient Egyptian mythology.

Here's one place we won't want to see TV Jones pickups...
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:42 a.m. Proteus:

Around the Show, Part Fore:
Bass Instincts

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- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:43 a.m. Proteus:

Isn't it over yet?

NO. I still have a great Gretsch girl to post, and closing ceremonies, and THEN you can go home.

OK?
- Rated: 17 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 12:28 p.m. Sunshine:

Proteus said: These acoustics were further away, but they caught my eye.
Do you (or anyone) know the brand? Looks cool! And quite expensive.
- Rated: 53 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 12:31 p.m. Ratrod:

I REALLY want that King Flying V.

I hope they'll update their site soon.
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 12:35 p.m. Proteus:

Mark Synchro the Clown said: So even with all of the hollowness of the BZ Jet it still brought you to your knees?

Huh huh. You're such a card.

It was the TONE, my friend, not the weight.

Sunshine, I don't recall the brand...but it wasn't something exclusive or expensive.
- Rated: 83 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 2:23 p.m. Mark Synchro:

Proteus said: It was the TONE, my friend, not the weight.
Heavy dude.
- Rated: 40 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 2:54 p.m. gretschman36:

Tim- Any additional picts of the King Guitars or TV Jones booth?

GREAT JOB!!
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 24, 2008 11:56 p.m. Proteus:

A great Gretsch girl!

Though that term really only scratches the surface, as Alyssa Bonagura is about much more than the guitar she plays.

Which, for the record, is a Gretsch Rancher Jr. Sweet 16 in what looks like anniversary green to me. Alyssa's had the guitar for several years, it shows honest wear from her travels, and she calls it her favorite guitar.

It's also signed by Ringo Starr, which is why Alyssa brought it to Gretschland to show Fred (old family friend). That made a great photo op.

.

Then we started talking with Alyssa, and it turns out that, though she's a Nashville girl, she's just finished her second year at the Liverpool (UK) Institute for the Performing Arts, concentrating on audio technology. Vivacious, bright, charming, and articulate, she's obviously a young woman with a future, who I've no doubt will succeed at whatever she tries.

But she also has a strong past pushing her along: her parents Michael Bonagura and Kathie Baillie are two thirds of country chart artists Baillie and the Boys. With a professional guitarist/singer/writer for a father, and a mother who was up for two Grammies in 2007 (for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Album for Love's Funny That Way), it's not altogether surprising that the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree.

Which is how she got the Ringo autograph. She plays with Liverpool rock & roll icon Pete Wylie, who opened for Ringo at a gig earlier this year. As Alyssa tells it, Ringo gave her a squeeze and a thick Liverpool-accented compliment after the show. And yes, he was happy to autograph her guitar.

And since that guitar is so clearly well-used, I figured she must know what to do with it – so we asked Alyssa to do a tune for us. She capo'ed up and perched on a stool, I balanced the recorder on her knee, and she gave us one of her originals, with her dad chiming in on chorus harmonies as he watched. The recording is far from ideal – her voice sounds pretty far away – but you'll get the idea. I wouldn't mind hearing a lot more from this talented lady.

Enjoy!
.

Thank you, Alyssa, and may the road always rise to meet you.
- Rated: 212 ↑
Jun 25, 2008 12:39 a.m. Proteus:

If you'll excuse a moment of self-indulgence, a couple pics of music biz friends old and new.

I've known Gary Wolfe of the String Shoppe in Columbus, Ohio for 30 years or so. I bought my Melody Maker as a parts guitar from his store, and we've crossed each others' paths many times since then. Lots of changes in both our lives, but it's always a pleasure to see him again, talk about old friends and acquaintances, and see that while we're both aging, we keep on truckin'.

It shouldn't be a surprise to run into him at a NAMM, but that didn't make it any less enjoyable. Ya gotta appreciate old friends.

.

Gotta appreciate new ones too, so here's a shot of Mike Lewis, the guy who charted Gretsch's course at FMIC through the first years of the partnership, recognized the value of the GDP, and has supported that connection faithfully since. We're lucky to have Joe and his diligence and enthusiasm – and we're lucky Joe answers to Mike.

He may be wearing the wrong shirt in THIS pic (his duties extend to all FMIC brands now), but he's a true friend of all things Gretsch.

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