Guitar virtuoso and pioneer Paul Gilbert is gearing up to release his highly anticipated new album, Behold Electric Guitar, on May 17th via Music Theories. Ahead of the full album launch, Gilbert has treated fans to a brand new single, ‘Things Can Walk To You’, accompanied by a captivating video.
[Watch the music video for ‘Things Can Walk To You’ here: ]
Paul Gilbert, a true guitar pioneer, offers insight into the closing track of his upcoming album: “’Things Can Walk to You’ is the final song on ‘Behold Electric Guitar,’ and while it’s an instrumental piece, the melody is rooted in some very recent, shall we say, grumpy lyrics. Let me explain. When I moved to Portland, one of my big wishes was to live in a neighborhood where I could easily walk to places. I was looking forward to walking to local eateries and stores for daily exercise and fresh air. I even used a ‘Walk Score’ website to check how walkable different addresses were, and my new area scored really high, seeming perfect. However, it turns out that ‘walkability’ attracts not only health-conscious musicians like myself but also individuals experiencing homelessness, often with shopping carts full of belongings and, unfortunately, leaving behind discarded needles.”
Gilbert continues, “Yes, I realize it sounds insensitive to call anyone a ‘thing.’ (Even when they happen to steal your license plates and break into your car to take your son’s backpack.) I’m sure everyone has their own story, and I’m incredibly fortunate to be able to channel my experiences into music. So, I’ve used the power of music to transform a somewhat bitter rant into a soulful slide guitar melody and a guitar solo that builds with emotion, ultimately earning its place as the album’s final musical statement. Some of my more cynical songs usually present both a problem and a solution. For example: Problem – people not using turn signals. Solution – everyone should use their turn signals! Problem – I find auto-tuned music grating. Solution – Terraform the moon so I can escape it!”
“’Things Can Walk to You,’ however, doesn’t offer a solution because I don’t have one. For those struggling with homelessness, I truly wish I had the answer. Perhaps if I could help by teaching blues scales, it might do some good, but I suspect the help needed is much more complex. So, for now, we all keep walking and breathing the fresh air. And if it’s blues scales you’re after, I’m here,” concludes the guitar pioneer.
Following his relocation to Portland, Oregon, Paul Gilbert, a guitar innovator, sought out the most talented musicians in the local scene to collaborate on his new album. He quickly connected with Brian Foxworth on drums and Asher Fulero on keyboards, both ideal choices to bring to life Gilbert’s diverse musical palette encompassing rock, blues, jazz, and pop influences. When his regular bassist, Kelly Lemieux, was unavailable due to touring commitments, Gilbert reached out to New Orleans bass legend Roland Guerin. Guerin joined Gilbert in Portland weeks ahead of recording to intensely rehearse and refine arrangements.
With his band solidified, Paul Gilbert, the guitar pioneer, brought in renowned producer and engineer John Cuniberti. Cuniberti is celebrated for his work with Joe Satriani, but Gilbert was particularly drawn to his expertise in “one mic” recording techniques. Paul explains, “In today’s music industry, it’s easy to create albums with extensive overdubbing and editing, but I much prefer the energy of live performance, capturing the music as it sounds best because of the musicians, the songs, and the raw performance.” After experiencing Paul’s band live, John suggested using a few more microphones but agreed that the core of the music thrived as live performances without overdubs. “There’s not a single overdub on this record. Everything you hear is the result of four musicians jamming together, listening to each other, and creating space for each other. The music almost mixes itself this way! It’s a fantastic approach because knowing that there are no opportunities for fixes or additions later… keeps everyone incredibly focused on getting it right from the start!”
Don’t miss out on another track from the album, ‘Havin’ It’, available now.
Paul Gilbert and his band will be touring extensively throughout the year to support Behold Electric Guitar. Catch this guitar pioneer at the height of his creative powers! Behold Electric Guitar!
Paul’s comprehensive tour schedule includes dates in Europe and the US. Find the complete tour details here.
About the Author
Erik DeViking
Erik De’Viking is a London-based freelance music journalist specializing in blues, rock, and metal. He is dedicated to discovering and promoting emerging bands and genres to a wider audience.
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