Ricardo -> RE: Anyone using a looper with their solo act ? (Dec. 6 2023 13:09:51)
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Some colleagues have used it. I understand the need for it, but honestly, to an audience, it is sort of the same as using a backing track of pre-recorded accompaniment. Basically, it is like Karaoke. I get that if you loop a simple progression you have the ability to “stretch out” and extend an improvised solo or whatever, repeat a melody as many times as needed, but in all honesty it is about having the “invisible guitarist” that kills the “live feel”. This is just my opinion. What I do instead, when I play solo, is a simple drum machine pattern where you can put the tempo you want (it is not a pre-set programmed length or tempo, but essentially a “loop” of percussion you can stop/start with a pedal), and when I improvise a solo, I construct it rhythmically and melodically on the fly such that I might hit bass notes or a single chord or triad at the right moments that gives the audience the impression of where I am in the tune. Even Entre dos Aguas, which you would think would be totally “empty” minus a rhythm guitar or bass, I can do this with, with very successful results interms of how the audience perceives it. They feel it is really just “me” playing guitar and the drum is just there to fill a couple holes so to speak. People even dance to it. A couple of pieces I have a bass line going with the drum pattern (power trio [:D]), and I think that works fine too. It is just the idea of a fake rhythm guitarist doesn’t work for some reason. Might has well have a programmed keyboard part and string section as well. Anyway, just my opinion based on years of performing and having similar thoughts. I have also done practically the same show with NO drum machine, just my guitar, and still pulled it off, but I am doing 50% singing rumbas these days. One thing you will notice only playing with a drum machine, is your timing and melodic constructions as improvisations improve immensely.
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