It’s the 2016 A to Z Blog Challenge, so I thought I’d focus on one of my favourite subjects: Guitars. Care to join me?
Beegle, Dave
If you were with me for the A to Z Blog Challenge last year, I introduced you to Dave Beegle somewhere around “K“. I’m happy for this opportunity to wax on about one of my all-time favorite guitarists.
Dave is local to the Front Range of Colorado, specifically the Fort Collins area, though he certainly has the talent to cast his nets far wiser. His on-stage presence is playful, almost child-like in in his wonder and excitement, belying his incredible virtuosity, skill and creativity. And yet he is one of the most genuinely humble artists I’ve ever met.
I don’t quite know where to start talking about Dave. He fronted a band called Fourth Estate, a progressive-rock band that showcased his electric guitar chops to great effect, which eventually earned him an audition with Kiss. He has soloed with Blinddog Smokin’ and Artifact Symphony and as performed on stage with Phil Keaggy, who also thinks he’s amazing. He currently plays with a retro rock band, called The Juassicasters (“Rock so classic, it’s Jurassic!”). It’s add a solo artist, fronting his acoustic band in a distillation of Flamenco, jazz and rock influenced where his artistry shimmers.
There is something deeply personal about Dave’s music, and yet the joy, exuberance and passion he brings to his craft and his art is so inviting, the listener feels less like an eavesdrop and more like a welcomed guest. The rapport he has with other members of his ensemble is sheer musical alchemy. Each gifted member is allowed to demonstrate her or his ability fully and yet it never detracts from the cohesion of the ensemble. All I can tell you is that hearing Dave Beegle perform live is absolutely sublime.
Here are some tunes for you to check out:
Flight of the Nimble Beegle. This earned him an audition with Kiss
Kara Kum
Malaguena
Insallah
A Simple Prayer
Cause We’ve Ended As Lovers
Echoes from the Cave 
I’ve never heard of Dave before, but now I feel like I know someone I can mention to impress my music loving’ friends. Must give him a try. I’m excited that you are focused on this topic for the A to Z as I could come off looking right smart about music if I just read your posts. Looking forward to C.
LikeLike
I would recommend his album “A Year Closer” as a good entry point for his work, since he plays in a number of different styles. Really, though, you can’t go wrong with anything you try. Enjoy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. I must give that a try. It helps to have a solid starting place.
LikeLike
And now an introduction to a musician I’m not familiar with. Yay! Kiss was my first concert. I still have the glow sticks. Why?
LikeLike
Because Kiss!
LikeLike
Oh my! He’s amazing. Has he ever auditioned for TSO? He’s a perfect fit for them! Must admit I’ve never heard Paganini played that way! LOL I was surprised to see Phil Keaggy’s name pop up there. I haven’t thought of him for years. Too bad the original Petra isn’t still around. They would have snapped him up in a heart beat. Interesting post. Sure grabbed MY attention.
LikeLike
Isn’t he a wonderful musician? I never get tired of hearing him play. Thank you so much for stopping by!
LikeLike