Session musician Tom Bukovac has shared his surprising experiences while collaborating with Joe Walsh, particularly regarding the guitarist’s unique approach to finding the perfect amplifier. As they prepared for an upcoming tour supporting Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Walsh went through an extensive selection of guitar amps.
Joe Walsh’s Amp Selection Process
During rehearsals, numerous amplifiers were brought in for Walsh to test. Bukovac described the process as a “conveyor belt” of gear. “There were pallets of amps coming in, two at a time,” he recounted. “I couldn’t believe the number—hundreds of amps.”
Despite Bukovac’s impression that many of the amps sounded similar, it became clear that Walsh was searching for something specific. “He’d set up two Fenders, play for a second, and then swap them out,” Bukovac noted. It was evident that Walsh was attuned to nuances in sound that others might overlook.
Unexpected Findings
One pivotal moment stood out for Bukovac. Walsh tried out an amp that Bukovac believed would be rejected immediately. However, Walsh’s reaction to it was startling. “He played a couple of chords,” Bukovac explained. “It literally sounded like a fucking ice pick—so thin and bright.” To Bukovac’s astonishment, Walsh found the tone “pretty awesome.”
This stark contrast in their perceptions highlighted the unique qualities of Walsh’s sound. While Bukovac preferred his old Fenders for their warmth and richness, he soon recognized Walsh’s ability to craft a compelling sound even from an amp he initially dismissed.
Soundcheck Discoveries
As rehearsals continued, Bukovac began to understand the reasons behind Walsh’s sonic choices. He would attend soundchecks and listen from the back of large arenas. “Joe Walsh’s rig sounds incredible, even though it seemed very bright on stage,” he said. This revelation about sound dynamics in larger venues opened Bukovac’s eyes to new possibilities in guitar sound design.
Changes in the Eagles
In related guitar news, Chris Holt has recently joined the Eagles, stepping in for longtime member Steuart Smith. Smith had to leave the group in January due to health issues. Fans can look forward to a refreshed lineup as the Eagles move forward.
Ultimately, Walsh’s unconventional choices not only surprised Bukovac but also expanded his understanding of sound. The collaboration between these talented musicians offers fans a glimpse into the intricacies of live performances and the gear that shapes iconic music.
