Jimi Hendrix, Slash, Eric Gales – three incredible guitarists who have made their name as legends in their field. But what would happen if you put the collective talent of these three iconic musicians together? Just a few weeks ago we found out – sort of – when Guns’n’Roses guitarist Slash and bluesman Eric Gales played Jimi Hendrix’s ‘Purple Haze’ as a rip-roaring duet. “You all might know this tune, I think,” said Gales, and the audience’s frenzied reaction proved that was indeed the case.
The performance came as part of Slash’s S.E.R.P.E.N.T blues traveling festival, which itself was organized in support of his recent blues cover album ‘Orgy of the Damned’. Gales had been chosen to open the festival, and subsequently brought Slash onstage with him to play ‘Purple Haze’ as the first song of his set. In fact, the pair actually performed the song before the festival was even scheduled to start, meaning that a lot of unlucky latecomers missed out on this blinding cover version.
And more fool them, Music Man readers! Slash and Gales briefly greeted each other before getting right into the good stuff – nearly seven minutes of it, in fact – which saw the pair alternating between rhythm guitar and lead. And although Slash gave a tight, fiery performance of inventive licks and bluesy rhythms, it was the prodigious Gales who truly stole the show; “Slash, one of the most iconic guitar stars, recognizes the incredible prowess of Eric Gales” commented one discerning viewer.
If you’re now after more live footage of the vastly underrated Gales, meanwhile, you should check out this intimate performance he gave of Hendrix’s ‘Little Wing’ in Dublin in 2017. The love Gales has for his instrument is plastered across his face for the entirety of the 11-minute rendition, with the guitarist delivering killer licks, silky smooth runs, and unbelievable solos as if it were easy. It’s not surprising that some fans are referring to him as the Leonardo Da Vinci of electric guitar!
Whilst both Gales and Slash are of course immensely talented guitarists in their own right, when they combined their talents to perform ‘Purple Haze’ a few weeks ago, it resulted in a truly iconic moment in the world of rock music. Their cover was intended to honor the spirit of Jimi Hendrix, and no doubt if the iconic guitarist had seen their performance himself, he would have been absolutely blown away.
If you would like to hear more from this talented guitarist you can visit Eric Gales’ Facebook Page for more incredible music. For additional information and updates, you can also visit his official Website.