10,000 Maniacs was a great pop band. I enjoy the melodic guitar playing of Rob Buck and the tones he created by occasionally using some eclectic equipment. The key to some of Buck’s signature sounds was his choice of gear as he would sometimes use inexpensive Danelectro guitars and effects pedals.
Throughout the late 1940s and into the very early ‘70s, Danelectro produced amplifiers and guitars for Sears Roebuck and Company, and Montgomery Ward. These guitars and amplifiers were branded not with the Danelectro name, but with the names of the various store brands, such as Sears Silvertone. (Damn. I’m old enough to vaguely remember them in the Sears store!)
Because of production cost concessions to keep retail prices low and, as a result of this, equipment limitations, these guitars, amps, and the few effects pedals that existed back then had a very unique low-fi tone that’s still coveted today by many players who could obviously afford top-of-the-mark gear.
Buck's guitar style seemed effortless but complex. He played with a mixture of harmonic texture and melody. His guitar parts just seem to float over the songs. He blended in perfectly with the band’s music. His chiming guitar sound was a key element.
I'm sorry, I'm so nerdy when it comes to music!
In 1993 Natalie Merchant announced she was leaving the band to go on to a solo career. This move didn’t bode well for either Merchant or 10,000 Maniacs.
In a very real sense Merchant and the Maniacs needed each other.
Here's one of my favorite videos: A great production of sight, sound and ideas. Natalie Merchant has great presence -- elegance and cuteness. Watch her spit the food out at mark 2:38!
I also love the end of the video where on the last downbeat Merchant swings the bat.
P.S. to Frankie. Rob Buck's got a pretty good golf swing displayed near the beginning of the footage!
Originally Posted by The Drummer
I love it TD! She just captures my attention....gorgeous!!
I think you would like black dub if I could get the video to work ...it is a huge favourite of mine!!
