[Lucas on stage, June 11th, 2009 NYC. Photo courtesy GL.]
Our friend the esteemed guitar virtuoso Gary Lucas, is best known for his stint in Captain Beefheart's Magic Band; for co-writing both "Mojo Pin" and the title track from Jeff Buckley's debut album, Grace; and his collaborations with Joan Osbourne, among many others.
But since 1989 he has led his own band, the New York-based Gods and Monsters, to much acclaim. (Former members of G+M include the aforementioned Buckley and Matthew Sweet.) This past week, Gods and Monsters celebrated their 20th anniversary with a show at their hometown's Gramercy Theatre with special guests Alan Vega (Suicide), Lenny Kaye (Patti Smith Band), Jon Spencer, Peter Stampfel (Holy Modal Rounders), Dean Bowman, and Mike Edison (Sharkey's Machine), in addition to the latest incarnation of the band itself: Ernie Brooks (ex-Modern Lovers) on bass, Billy Ficca (ex-Television) on drums, Jason Candler (Hungry March Band) on sax, and Joe Hendel (Latest Show on Earth) on keyboards and trombone.
Unfortunately, we weren't there to witness this joyous occasion, but we'd like to congratulate Gary and the members of G+M over the years for reaching this monumental milestone, which as both fans and friends fills us with much pride and joy. Many more years of great music is our wish to you and your partners in this noble endeavor, for in our eyes Gary, you are truly a god and monster of our beloved six-string. Cheers!
