Re: [Harp-L] Chromatic Solo (Rob Paparozzi)

[David Naiditch <davidnaiditch@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Rob certainly followed Tommy’s rule and did a superb job making the artist sound good.  Wonderfully restrained and tasteful playing indeed.  

I should point out, however, that “underplaying” isn’t always what is desired, especially for instrumental recordings.  I’m currently recording a bluegrass/swing instrumental CD with some of the top bluegrass virtuosos and instructed them to go all out, never hold back, and be as flashy and fast as they desire.  If my harmonica solo is overshadowed, then I try rising to the challenge by recording a better solo.  In the end, I want a CD where everyone is a star, we all get about the same number of solos, and goal is a high quality CD.  (I’m not underestimating, however, the importance of providing a great backup and support for each soloist.)

On Apr 18, 2014, at 8:58 PM, Rob Paparozzi wrote:

> Madcat,
> 
> Well I'll let Jon answer that as he studied with Tommy but basically the rule is KNOW who's record it is, Never overplay and make the ARTIST sound good and you've earned your pay and will get asked back!,-)
> 
> Now here's a session I did with my own band years back….since my piano player was the singer on this tune I made sure to "underplay" and make him sound good w/ some very laid back and non flashy fills on Diatonic……sometimes leaving space requiring a lot of listening,,,,keep it simple and 'always' respect the melody….
> 
> Everybody's Crying Mercy - The Hudson River Rats….
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgzIlYuWhIg&feature=youtu.be
> 
> all the best,
> Rob Paprozzi
> 
> 
> On Apr 18, 2014, at 4:44 PM, Peter Madcat Ruth <madcat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> 
>> OK Rob and/or Jon.
>> 
>> Please Please tell us. What are Tommy Morgan's "Rules of Playing Solos on Other People's albums”.
>> 
>> 
>> 
> 
>