The ShadowMusic Web Community

http://youtu.be/Qbv2vOX71hM
Ben Lapps who else hates him - joke

Is this what modern guitar playing amounts to nowadays? Showboating? It's a cacophony of fret-tapping, quickly strummed chords and using the guitar as a percussion instrument. A party-piece. Woo.

Amazing to watch, and his speed and technique would be the envy of countless guitarists (and yes, there's a certain element of that in my words now), but would you listen to a CD of that? I wouldn't.

J

One giant leap for technique, one step backwards for music!

Disagree. Anything that promotes music and is a development in technique and style is good for the future of guitar playing. There are not many youngsters starting up four piece instrumental bands based on the music most of the subscribers to this forum listen to and play. I would not want to listen to an album of this style of music. But would not want to put it down.
Supposedly he is 14 when playing this. I am sure given his abilities he will develop a more listenable repertoire and could probably do a good cover of most of the things that Hank can do. Not sure Hank would or could play his style.

erm... I was being a bit tongue in cheek!

He seems to be very good at what he does,Im sure teenage boys think he rocks and teenage girls think hes hot, I say "Let him enjoy it while it lasts" Gary

Tommy Emmanuel is the master of the rhythmic slapping but he plays great melodies that are listenable and likeable - unlike this guy. Not for me.