Re: [Harp-L] Chris Hammersmith WHY?

["Michael Polesky" <m.polesky@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Chris & Chris

I am going to snip out the part of Chris M.'s post that sums it up:

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Chris Michalek" <Chris@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: RE: [Harp-L] Chris Hammersmith WHY?

> The way harpshredder employs the chromatic is almost insulting to the
> diatonic.  Not that there is anything wrong with what he's done with
> this tune or even the choice of harmonica. But if you're going to
> playing in such a emotive and passionate way, why not use the harp.

To answer Chris M.'s question here:  If you've got it . . . Flaunt it! 
Chris Smith recorded it that way on chromatic because he could.  This is a 
really wonderful recording and a wonderful piece for chromatic.  I happen to 
be a big fan of diatonic players using OB's.  I enjoy the fluidity of the 
diatonic and I have a certain "diatonic envy" for the sound.  However, the 
poor, ignored, forlorn and forgotten chromatic deserves a seat at the table 
as well.  I honestly don't think that recording this on diatonic would 
necessarily make it any better - just different.  Chris Smith certainly 
overcomes any inherent difference between the two instruments with his 
passion for the chromatic, his taste, his tone and his chops.  I know Chris 
M. would do a wonderful job with it as well, but I think this is a beautiful 
chromatic recording.

I have to give Chris M. a hard time here because he implies that the poor, 
ignored, forlorn and forgotten chromatic (hereafter known as the PIFFC) is 
not emotive.  I think that when Chris Smith plays it, it is very emotive. 
I've brought people to tears when I play.  Then again, it happens far too 
often to me to be a good thing ;-).  Seriously though, as Chris Smith 
proves, chromatic players are not ready to throw in the towel yet.  There is 
a lot to be said on the instrument.

Incidentally, I believe Chris Smith is located out in my neck of the woods 
(LA).  I get to see him play every couple of years and he always puts on a 
good show.  The first time I saw him play must be more than  . . . oops, I 
don't want to date anybody.  It was a while back ;-).  Also, I believe Chris 
Smith plays a very interesting chromatic that you might enjoy hearing about. 
I think it might even weigh more than any Renny.  To Chris Smith:  Thanks 
for the great recording.  To Chris M.:  "Grrr" us chromatic players aren't 
licked yet!

Michael