Andreas Kapsalis

Forget Kaki King, and move over Michael Hedges... my sincerest apologies for not enlightening you all sooner with the name Andreas Kapsalis. I was introduced to Andreas through his cousin Jeremy -- a very talented graphic artist and friend. He kept insisting I come with him to check out his cousin, so we went to see Andreas playing with his trio at a club in Chicago called The Hot House -- and I was totally blown away. This guy plays guitar like a maniac -- much of the time with all 8 fingers on the fretboard. He's got great technique, a great touch on the instrument, and he's got BRAINS -- his compositions are not just showcases for his technique -- they are actually really GOOD. You can hear examples on his website, or for a limited time, you can download Andreas' version of Pink Floyd's "Money". Remember, this is ONE GUITAR -- no overdubs. Totally mind-blowing.

We hung out one afternoon last summer, drinking beers and shooting the breeze while Andreas chain-smoked filterless cigarettes. A very cool, very funny guy.