Gordon Giltrap really is an extraordinary guitarist. I have seen him live on about half a dozen occasions, and am always awestruck by his prowess. I am really pleased to be in a position where I can promote the stuff that he does, by - for example - reposting this story about his forthcoming tour with Oliver Wakeman...
Guitar legend Gordon Giltrap and keyboardist Oliver Wakeman have joined forces and are setting off on the UK leg of their 'Ravens & Lullabies' tour.
Fresh from four years of touring with the classic progressive rock band YES, Oliver was contacted by Gordon with a request for his keyboards services for an album idea he had.
Within 24 hours the initial idea had changed beyond recognition and a full blown collaborative project was in the works.
Oliver and Gordon have now embarked upon this new chapter in their careers and are currently touring with their debut album 'Ravens & Lullabies'.
Featuring a variety of guitars and keyboards, these shows will be the first public performances of a selection of pieces from the new album, as well as new arrangements of classic material from both of their retrospective careers.
One of the most innovative acoustic guitarists in the UK today, Gordon Giltrap has developed his own unique style, much copied, but never bettered.
It is impossible not to be awestruck as he coaxes incredible melodies from his instruments.
He is well known for his varied musical output and 'Heartsong' (a hit single from the album 'Perilous Journey' in 1977), the theme for the BBC TV's long running 'Holiday' programme.
Gordon said: "Working with Oliver is like a breath of fresh air.
"I knew of his reputation as a fine musician and it made perfect sense for me to tap into his creative energy, not only to bring out certain elements of my musical gifts but to create something new and exciting, at the same time giving a nod in the direction of our respective Progressive Rock roots."
Following ten solo albums in a variety of styles, Oliver Wakeman, joined the legendary band 'YES' in 2008, touring with them up until mid-2011.
Appearing in venues across North and South America, Europe and the UK as a solo artist, with YES and folk rock band 'The Strawbs', Oliver has become a well-respected live performing musician to add to his other talents as composer, songwriter, lyricist, arranger and producer.
Oliver said: "After working with YES, the chance of working with another legendary artist was an opportunity too good to miss.
"I am having a wonderfully productive time working with Gordon and feel we are creating something genuinely unique in our 'Raven's & Lullabies' project."
With their collective histories and talents to draw inspiration from, be prepared for an evening of beautiful compositions, wit and charm from these two virtuosos.
Gordon Giltrap and Oliver Wakeman will be at the Playhouse, Weston-super-Mare, on Thursday 27 September at 7.30pm. Tickets, priced at £15, £13.50 concessions are available on or online at http://tinyurl.com/677l7bh
Gordon Giltrap & Oliver Wakeman
Date: Thursday, September 27, 2012
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