If you like guitar music, get this!! While it is not "reference quality" for an audiophile, for a music lover, this 4 LP set represents some of the best guitar players recorded. Even if you are not a lover of guitar music, get this - and be introduced to some of the best performances ever.
Eric Clapton founded the Crossroads Centre, a drug and alcohol treatment centre located on the island of Antigua after his own rehabilitation from drug and alcohol abuse. Started in 1998, it was almost completely bankrolled by Clapton - his lifetime commitment to help others the way he was helped himself to get over his addiction. He famously sold off his art collection, and even his guitar collection to keep it going. The centre was a commitment towards his own sobriety.
The Crossroads Guitar Festival was started by Clapton to help fund the rehabilitation center. The festival showcases some of the very best guitarists hand-picked by Clapton himself. The first was held in 2004 and every three years. The latest was held in NY Madison Square Garden in 2013. It was the first held indoors, and the first to be released on vinyl.
Even with mastering by Bob Ludwig of Gateway Mastering, and the vinyl cut by Chris Bellman of Bernie Grundman Mastering, I don't think the sound, recorded live, is particularly special. However, as with recordings of the previous three festivals, the music and performance is exemplary of heartfelt, soulful guitar playing.
Where else could you get one album with Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, Earl Klugh, John Mayer, The Allman Brothers Band, Taj Mahal, Keb' Mo', Los Lobos, Jeff Beck AND MORE all together? Where else will you find Keith Urban playing together with John Mayer? Or Taj Mahal jammin' with Keb' Mo'? Or The Allman Brothers joining forces with The Derek Trucks band?
Definitely a must-buy for any music lover. If you're not yet a fan of guitar music, this may make you one. While you are at it, get all the DVDs and make it a weekend's viewing!!
Mono & Stereo friend Gary Koh of Genesis Advanced Technologies, Inc.
Mono & Stereo friend Gary Koh of Genesis Advanced Technologies, Inc.