Re: [Harp-L] Why use an effects pedal?

["Steve Shaw" <moorcot@xxxxxxx>]

> Smo-joe wrote:
> "Lee Oskar used to play very cleanly. The last couple time I heard
> him live, he used a lot of effects. I didn't like it. He also has been
> dragging out tunes for up to 13+ minutes. Don't like that either. I
> feel if a person wants to play harmonica, they should play
> harmonica. If they want a lot of effects, get a Millionizer."
>
> So, like, Little Walter shoulda played the Millionizer, I guess, instead
> of putting the harp through a tube amp?
>
> With due respect, this is the 21st century.  Every other musician in the
> world is using lots of effects, and I don't see why harmonica players
> ought to make a point of being ignorant about it.  Hell, we've already
> got a reputation for being ignorant about everything else where music is
> concerned.
>
> I've released two CDs containing nothing but solo harmonica
> performances, with no effects other than reverb, so I don't have
> anything to prove where purely acoustic harmonica is concerned.  But if
> I want to use an effects chain as long as the Panama Canal, I'm going to
> do it.
>
> Thanks, Richard Hunter
> hunterharp.com

I think you both have a valid point of view and that there's no conflict.  
To me the harmonica has the capability of being a beautifully expressive 
instrument in its own right, literally very close to the human voice in its 
expressive potential, and can therefore be played just clean and unadorned 
and sound superb.  If that's what you want to do you are 100 per cent right. 
 If on the other hand you want to experiment with the possibilities of 21st 
century sound effects that is equally valid.  The artist always has the 
freedom to go his or her own way, though their followers (who also have 
choices) may be disappointed on occasion.  Tough!  A bit reminiscent of Bob 
Dylan annoying everyone by going all electric in the 60s.... ;-)


http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/trad_irish_harmonica

Steve's CD of mostly traditional Irish,  "Blowing Through The Reeds,"  is 
now available!  Hear clips at http://www.gjk2.com/steveshaw/cd.htm

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