Review: The
Guitar of Preston Reed
By James Morman (Ashland, KY)
Dirty Linen Magazine
Homespun Video VD-PRE-GT01 (1995)
For the
guitarist wanting to learn percussive techniques using the
guitar body or just create some new sounds, this video
slowly, carefully examines three songs written by Preston
Reed in detail. Reed first plays each song, then divides it
into sections and lucidly teaches you how to play the piece.
If you've never heard him before, his style is unique. He
uses both hands, usually the left hand over top of the neck,
to strum or fret alternately, favoring hammer-ons and
pull-offs, with extensive use of guitar body percussion,
whether it be the neck, top, body, sides, or even the
fretboard. Particularly effective is his use of slaps, a
lightning strike to the strings at a particular fret that is
more difficult than it sounds when combined with alternate
strumming and body percussion. Most of these techniques are
used in "Tribes" and "Slap Funk," two instrumental tunes
that stylistically resemble Michael Hedges.
Reed's presentation style is clear,
but this is not a tape for the novice or intermediate
guitarist, though they will pick up several hints and
suggestions. I found his unique tunings (CGDGGD) quite
intriguing, providing a richer strum effect amidst all the
high energy fingering, and his guidance with double
hammer-ons is invaluable. By just focusing on three
compositions, he can take time to use the time-honored art
of repetition, at varying speeds, to make his points. Happy
Traum directs this work and the camera work is never
distracting, always keeping your eyes focused on what Reed
is teaching. Also covered are "bongo hits," two-hand
tapping, right-hand fretting and "rim shots." This is an
excellent intro to Reed's style and a wonderful teaching
tool. [Homespun Tapes/ P.O. Box 694/ Woodstock, NY
12498]