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Lisa Sharken
Scott Gorham
Still Dangerous!
Scott Gorham in the ’70s. Photo: Denis O’Regan. Thin Lizzy was formed in 1969 by bassist/frontman Phil Lynott and drummer Brian Downey. Guitarists Brian Robertson and Scott Gorham joined in 1974, establishing the classic lineup and signature twin-lead style first heard on the 1975 release, Fighting. Gorham recently searched Lizzy’s vault and emerged with a…
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Lisa Sharken
Slash
Vintage "Contraband" and Velvet Revolver
There once was a time when pointy headstocks, locking vibratos, and refrigerator-sized effects racks were the norm. Fast players with flashy gadgets ruled the world – until, that is, an unassuming young rocker appeared on the scene to shake things upside down and bring back the basics. That player was Slash – lead guitarist with…
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Lisa Sharken
John Frusciante
Red Hot On The Empyrean
Best known for his work with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Frusciante thoroughly enjoys every aspect of making music, and continuously experiments with new and unusual ways to create it. As a teenager, Frusciante became interested in writing and recording his own music. He started making solo albums years ago, and with the luxury…
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Lisa Sharken
Ace Frehley
Back From Space
Ace Frehley’s first solo album was released in 1978, when each member of Kiss simultaneously released solo albums. As it turned out, Frehley’s was the runaway favorite among fans and critics alike, and scored a hit single with a cover of Hello’s “New York Groove.” Shortly after he left Kiss in the early ’80s, Frehley…
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Lisa Sharken
Heaven and Hell
Neon Knights Reunite
In 1979, Black Sabbath was at a crossroads after the departure of original frontman Ozzy Osbourne. Returning with former Rainbow vocalist Ronnie James Dio as its frontman, Sabbath took on a groundbreaking new sound and direction. This lineup recorded five albums.…
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Lisa Sharken
Paul Gilbert
All About Vintage – Import Style
Paul Gilbert was a teenager when he appeared on the music industry’s radar after Mike Varney of Shrapnel Records introduced him in Guitar Player magazine’s “Spotlight” column. After attending Hollywood’s Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT), Gilbert unveiled Racer X to the mid-’80s shred generation and made his mark as a top player in the genre.…
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Lisa Sharken
Gary Moore
Still Got the Blues – Again!
Moore with his mid-’60s Gibson ES-335 in early 2006. Photo: Harry Herd/Redferns. Whether playing rock or blues, Gary Moore has always possessed a distinct and identifiable style. While he is well-known for his contributions as a member of Thin Lizzy, Moore maintained a successful solo career which began before he was enlisted to play with…
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Lisa Sharken
Steve Vai
Crafting Musical Illusions
Steve Vai photo: Lisa Sharken. Considered one of the most talented musicians on the planet, Steve Vai constantly strives to better himself as a player and musician. He enjoys experimenting with different sounds, instruments, and musical styles, always searching for ways to raise the bar and introduce something unique. VG spoke with Vai about creating…
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Lisa Sharken
Billy Sheehan
Cosmic Troubadour
When it comes to rock bass, few players command the instrument with as much finesse and showmanship as Billy Sheehan. Best known for his work with Talas, David Lee Roth, Mr. Big, Niacin, and Steve Vai, Sheehan debuted his solo offerings in 2001 with Compression. VG spoke with Sheehan about the creation of his second…
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Lisa Sharken
Eric Johnson
Solving The Tonal "Rubik's Cube"
Eric Johnson has a reputation for being not only an amazing guitarist, but someone who cares deeply about every aspect of his music. Johnson constantly strives to strengthen his skills to grow as both a player and songwriter, and is dedicated to his tone. He recently spoke with VG about crafting his latest disc, Bloom…
