Chris Yakopcic – Live At The Hidden Gem
Yako Records
12 songs time – 47:19 In the world of acoustic blues and fingerstyle guitar, Chris Yakopcic stands out as a beacon of innovation and sheer talent.
This Dayton, Ohio native's latest live recording is a riveting showcase of his dual prowess as a masterful guitarist and a compelling singer-songwriter. Capturing the essence of a live performance, Yakopcic delivers a spellbinding mix of original compositions and creative renditions of blues and singer-songwriter classics, all while demonstrating his exceptional fingerstyle guitar technique.
Yakopcic kicks off the set with "Gotta Get Goodbye Somehow," an original that sets a high bar with its energetic tempo and lyrically rich content. His ability to synchronize his rapid-fire lyrics with intricate thumb-bass picking is nothing short of mesmerizing. The journey continues with "When It All Goes Wrong At Once," another testament to his skill in blending storytelling with dynamic guitar work.
"The Hangover" offers a humorous, relatable narrative paired with Yakopcic's expressive guitar playing, creating a vivid musical picture of a night gone awry. Then, "Sounds Of The Highway" introduces the resonator guitar, adding a layer of authenticity and depth to the bluesy vibe, while "My Last Three Strings" showcases a more introspective, soulful side of his artistry.
Yakopcic's exploration of the blues genre deepens with "Sweet Time Blues," where his guitar work pays homage to the traditional while seamlessly integrating an instrumental nod to "St. Louis Blues." His interpretation of Leonard Cohen's "Tower Of Song" reimagines the classic in a bluesy, energetic light, demonstrating his versatility and creative vision.
Tom Waits's "2:19" receives a Yakopcic touch, sped up yet faithful to its essence, further showcasing his ability to adapt and personalize the works of other great artists. The tribute to blues legends continues with his renditions of Robert Johnson's songs, including a dynamic version of "Traveling Riverside Blues" and an impassioned "Kind Hearted Woman."
His slide guitar work on "Preachin’ Blues" is a high-octane display of skill and passion, while "Chump Man Blues" pays homage to Blind Blake with mournful, intricate picking.
Chris Yakopcic's live album is a celebration of the guitar's potential as a storytelling tool and a testament to his profound connection with the blues tradition. His blend of technical mastery, lyrical depth, and musical innovation creates a listening experience that's both authentic and refreshing. This record is a must-have for enthusiasts of blues, guitar virtuosity, and heartfelt songwriting. In a world cluttered with electric guitar heroes, Yakopcic's acoustic brilliance offers a welcome and mesmerizing respite, proving that sometimes, the most powerful music comes from the simplest of setups.