An outstanding jazz improviser who performed
on both acoustic and electric guitars, Lenny Breau's right hand
drew on classical, flamenco, and country (Travis/Atkins) finger-picking
techniques. He was among the first guitarists to digest the impressionistic,
post-bop chord voicings of pianist Bill Evans. Breau developed
the ability to simultaneously comp chords and improvise single-string
melodies, creating the illusion of two guitarists playing together.
His facility with artificial harmonics remains the envy of many
guitarists. Late in his career, Breau began using a seven-string
guitar that extended the instrument's range in the upper register.
Breau's early RCA recordings are eclectic and technically dazzling.
His later work is less flashy, but communicates on a deeper level.
Born to Canadian country music singers, Lenny Breau started
out playing country in a sophisticated manner. Chet Atkins himself
helped Breau get an RCA recording contract in 1968. However,
Breau's jazz-oriented style and remarkable technique quickly
caused him to be uncategorizable. Problems with drugs made his
career erratic and he is now considered an underground guitar
legend. A new label (Guitararchives) was formed in 1995 specifically
to release private tapes of his performances.
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