Bryan Rahija Mega Set
If you follow me on Instagram you might already know this, but one of my favorite contemporary guitarists is the wonderful Bryan Rahija from Portland, OR. I was introduced to his music when he demoed some of Mark Gaiero's guitars last year, and from the first hook I was entranced.
Some months ago he started releasing his transcriptions on Flat.io, and I knew immediately I'd want to dig into his unusual (to me) tunes. He does a ton of composing in CGCGCE and other alternate tunings, and has a strong rhythmic, alternating bass approach I wanted to get more of in my own playing. His tunes have been such a fun challenge, and in addition to expanding my C tuning knowledge they've pushed me into some new techniques.
Since I am really just copying Bryan as best I can, I thought I'd try a longer form combo video as a sort of tribute set. This is reflective of about 6-8 months of casual effort. Recording these has been my biggest video challenge so far - loads of nervousness and weird brain flubs came out of the woodwork, and as you will hear my speed problem is in full effect! But persisting through that struggle is part of the fun.
Needless to say, if you enjoy my playing of Bryan's tunes please support his music through Bandcamp orders or tab tips, and try learning them for yourself, too!
Guitar: Cordoba C9 Mahogany/Cedar
Mic: Ear Trumpet Louise
