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Coming Home Hot Flash: Shawn Lane's Electrifying Return to the Blues

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Coming Home (Hot Flash)

by Shawn Lane

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1772 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	10 pages

In the annals of blues music, few guitarists have left an imprint as indelible as Shawn Lane. Known for his unparalleled technical prowess, electrifying live performances, and distinctive fusion of blues, jazz, and rock, Lane's music transcended genres and captivated audiences worldwide.

After a brief hiatus in the mid-1990s, Lane made a triumphant return to the blues with his 1998 album, 'Coming Home Hot Flash.' Released on the Blues Bureau International label, the album showcased Lane's virtuosic guitar playing and his deep reverence for the blues tradition.

A Musical Journey

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1963, Shawn Lane's musical journey began at an early age. By the age of 11, he was already performing professionally, and at 14, he won the National Fingerpicking Guitar Championship. His unique blend of blues, jazz, and rock influences earned him a reputation as a child prodigy.

In the 1980s, Lane joined the Allan Holdsworth Group, touring and recording with the renowned guitarist. However, it was his 1988 debut solo album, 'Powers of Ten,' that cemented his status as a guitar virtuoso. The album showcased his lightning-fast picking, intricate harmonies, and innovative use of the electric guitar.

The Blues Reunion

After years of exploring fusion and progressive music, Lane felt a strong pull back to his blues roots. In the mid-1990s, he returned to Memphis and immersed himself in the city's vibrant blues scene.

'Coming Home Hot Flash' was the culmination of Lane's rediscovered passion for the blues. The album featured a mix of original compositions and blues classics, performed with Lane's characteristic intensity and technical brilliance.

Album Highlights

The album opens with the title track, a blistering instrumental that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Lane's guitar playing is explosive, with blazing solos and intricate fingerpicking. The track showcases his mastery of the pentatonic scale and his ability to create tension and release through his playing.

Another standout track is 'Blues on the Run,' a high-energy blues shuffle that features Lane's signature "slide-tap" technique. This innovative technique, where he uses the slide to hit the frets while tapping with his other fingers, gives his playing a unique and unmistakable sound.

On the more traditional side, Lane delivers a captivating rendition of the blues classic 'Dust My Broom.' His guitar playing is soulful and expressive, capturing the emotional depth of the song.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

'Coming Home Hot Flash' was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Guitar World magazine praised the album's "blistering solos and intricate fingerpicking," while Blues Revue called it "a tour-de-force of blues guitar." The album solidified Lane's reputation as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.

Tragically, Shawn Lane passed away in 2003 at the age of only 40. Despite his untimely death, his music continues to inspire and amaze guitarists worldwide. 'Coming Home Hot Flash' remains a testament to his unparalleled talent and his unwavering passion for the blues.

Shawn Lane's 'Coming Home Hot Flash' is a seminal album in the annals of blues music. It marked Lane's triumphant return to his roots and showcased his electrifying guitar playing and deep understanding of the blues tradition. The album continues to captivate audiences today, offering a glimpse into the mind of a true guitar virtuoso.

Through his innovative playing techniques, genre-bending compositions, and passionate live performances, Shawn Lane left an indelible mark on the world of music. 'Coming Home Hot Flash' is a fitting tribute to his legacy, showcasing his brilliance as a guitarist and his unwavering dedication to the blues.