Both have played the tunes that defined an era, both have endured the wrath of others linked to Jefferson 'anything' and through their acquired skills and those bestowed by God, have managed to perpetuate music that matters. Jorma has transcended those halcyon 'daze' of Flower Power & The Counter Culture, essentially progressing from Acid Rock to ant-acid and Slick has lingered in virtual obscurity with some configuration of Jefferson Starship and his personal band when home in New Jersey. While perusing an aging copy of Rolling Stone Magazine and mesmerized with their selection for 100 Greatest Guitar Players, Jorma was inserted at number 53 and Slick was non-existent. In reference to Jorma, some with comparable skills like Cippolina, Beck, Clapton, Duane Allman, Stills and Warren Haynes are easily mentioned during a conversation about legendary players but politics and personal opinions are the decisive factors while pondering any compilation of this type. I would suggest that for the precious few, there are those who might play as well but none that play better, i.e., Ricky Skaggs, John McEwen, Leo Kottke, David Bromberg & of course, Jorma Kaukonen and Slick Aguilar. If it has strings, obviously they can play it. Quotes from famed bands of the short-lived 'punk band' era like The Sex Pistols and The Ramones readily admit that their existence was predicated on visual allure and stage antics rather than consummate skills as a virtuoso on guitar. Johnny Ramone or Ron Asheton from The Stooges are hardly noted craftsman of fret boards nor should they be assigned numbers that would exceed the talent of Jorma or Slick.

Jorma's transition from Hall of Fame contingent Jefferson Airplane to the Exodus of Hot Tuna was somewhat easier than that of Slick as Hot Tuna was augmented by the innovative bass playing by Jack Casady and Slick has essentially languished in virtual obscurity other than the 1986 release of the KBC band. Both have created a microcosm of The Golden Age of rock n' roll, illustrating the vignettes of yesteryear and the scorching sounds of tomorrow. For years the talent of both Jorma & Slick were the arcane riffs known only to a burgeoning cult following that was inspired by both the songs and live performances of those that we most often emulated and admired within the music genre.

Both of these stalwarts of American rock n' roll have exuded the panache that is so obviously missing from the majority of today's banality of the airwaves and although one has secured his rightful position in the pantheons of musical immortality with Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna & solo efforts, the other may now be well on his way to carving a legacy that mirrors his passion and ability to entertain the masses. Age has no bearing in the world of talent and these two icons of guitar could well be the catalyst that lead us back to the music that matters. The cacophony of grunge and metal mania have given way to the more malleable spirit of the fans and these are the minstrels of mayhem that ultimately send the media into a hyperbole frenzy. Sam Andrew once commented on the inclusion of Janis Joplin into The Hall of Fame but not Big Brother & The Holding Company; 'Better to be looked over than overlooked'. The cathartic lyrics of mainstream have been cast aside when either of these two artists are on tour and the grandeur of their ability can only be appreciated by attending a live performance.

There is something to be said for being in the presence of greatness and inadvertently when the music subconsciously urges you to move your feet. Shades of yesteryear and a glimmer of tomorrow, this is the music that shapes your heart and soul. With that said, when the chance arrives, off your ass and on your feet, and 'Don't forget to dance'.



Cheers Don