The Underrated, Guitar

New series: The Underrated

This will be dedicated to musicians who always seem to be left out of the "Greatest Whatever" discussions. As always, lists are not meant to be complete and will be added to on a regular basis...

Underrated Guitarists

David Gilmour, Pink Floyd

Floyd’s music as a whole seems to always overwhelm the “parts” but Gilmour’s brilliance cannot be denied. Solos like Comfortably Numb and Wish You Were Here are mixtures all that makes guitar guitar.

Alex Lifeson, Rush

(You had to see this one coming.) Overshadowed by a god on a stool behind him, Lifeson appears to get lost the in all the and beats, moog petals and intricate lyrics. But, I challenge you to deny the power and addiction of riffs like Limelight, Spirit of Radio or Fly By Night. Nevermind the mindnumbing precision of La Villa Strangiato, 2112 Overture or Xanadu. Technically perfect.

Mike Campbell, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

Rarely will you find a guitarist whose style so matches the essence of the vocals as with Campbell. Blessed with an uncanny sense of purpose, every note adds to the song as a whole. Listen to the chorus work on Breakdown or the solo in You Got Lucky, and you will understand.