Monte Montgomery has taken the acoustic guitar beyond anyone’s expectations. With his amazing fretwork, unique combination finger and pick style playing through trailblazing “chordal” thoroughfares often baffling even the most accomplished players.
Could not have said it any better myself. If you haven’t been exposed to his music yet you are missing out. Not only is he an amazing guitarist, but he is also an amazing songwriter with great lyrics, catchy hooks, and can play some solid rhythm. To get the full blown effect of his greatness, you really need to see him live. Here is a clip from one of his Austin City Limits performances. The song is called “When Will I”
Monte Montgomery: When Will I on Austin City Limits
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In my opinion, here are a few things that make Monte so Badass:
- Subtleties-It is the subtle things that make a person or thing so special in my opinion. Sure a lot of guys can play pretty fast, but to really catch my ear, I like the subtle flash. (ie-His use of Harmonics that just seem to naturally pop out at the perfect moments,
- Rhythm Playing- Especially in the song above. I just love those solid reggae grooves that make you want to get up and start dancing. Monte is a master at utilizing various rhythmic patterns that really lively up the song.
- Melodic Phrasing- When Monte plays a solo, it’s as if he is telling a story. He isn’t just wanking and showing off that he can play. It’s almost as if it is an extension of his vocals and always enhances the song.
- Singing and Playing Great at the Same Time- This is one thing I definitely struggle with. I always am impressed at people that can do this well, but Monte takes it to a new level. His intricate rhythm playing simultaneously with his soulful singing blows my mind.
- Awesome Fingerstyle Technique- Check out the video below of him performing “Romeo & Juliet” at NAMM 07 to see for yourself. The last half is where it starts to get a little bit nuts.
Part 2
Be Sure to Visit his MySpace and show him some love!
www.myspace.com/officialmontemontgomery
MonteMontgomery.com
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6 responses so far ↓
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2 Bob The Subgenius // Jan 22, 2009 at 1:01 am
Nice article.
I’ve been a MM fan since the first time I heard him play. Various players can do various things better, I suppose, but I love his overall sound and instantly recognizable style. Vastly underrated, in my opinion.
3 Jeff // Jan 22, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Bob you really are a Subgenius!
Monte really is a unique player and has carved out a nice little niche.
His songwriting and nice singing really help set him apart from just being a great guitar player. He really is a great all around musician and performer.
4 Please Help Out Monte Montgomery in this Tragic Time | GuitarPlayerZen.com // Apr 2, 2009 at 6:25 pm
[...] you don’t know Monte Montgomery, then click here to get familiar with his brilliant guitar playing and outstanding songwriting skills. He is in my top 5 favorite guitar players of all time list, and I have seen him more times than [...]
5 Bill Blackwell // Apr 4, 2009 at 6:03 am
I’d never heard Monte Montgomery before reading this article, and upon first listen, I can only think he has a brilliant sound and style. My heart goes out to Mr. Montgomery and his family. It saddens me that in order to discover this artist, I had to read about a death in his family.
6 Kristen Stevens // Apr 19, 2009 at 7:49 am
Absolutely brilliant. One of the best I’ve ever seen.
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