Guitar movie: Notes on "It Might Get Loud"

notebook entry:

Jimmy Page is the royalty here, what with his early history as a first call London session guitarist (Kinks, Joe Cocker, played on "Goldfinger") and his later association with those bands whose names I can't remember right now. When he plays the intro riff to "Whole Lotta Love" for Mr. White and Mr. Edge,  they are reduced to adolescents in awe of black magic, as most of us would be. Their faces must have hurt from grinning for so long.

Jack White and Jimmy Page seem to have the most in common in terms of a musical aesthetic derived from the blues and are thus able to play music in various situations with a minimum amount of electronic gak. Edge requires U2, and so much gear that it makes him look ridiculous one on one with the others. Although clips of Edge w/U2 reveal the singular location of his mojo...in collective expression.

Jack White building a guitar in minutes is the opening of the film. "Who says you need to buy a guitar?" is his question. Then some wicked low slide riffs. Gibson and Fender take note and fuck you for your extortionate prices.

The jams between them are mildly interesting, but good inspiration for aspirants. Lots of mistakes = lots of encouragement.

Jimmy Page on the music that influenced him and showing you via gestures the techniques/touch used is awesome. He really studied these things. And he still loves it. Jack White too.

Although the movie bills itself as a history of the electric guitar through they eyes of three guitar icons. It's really about the personal history of music and guitaring in their lives. No Les Paul, no history of the electric guitar--let's face it.

It's hard to remember that Edge came of age in the punk era, and he is committed to the punk ethos and narrative of playing and performing without knowing much about music, at least in terms of his musical formation. Page and White come from a deep reverence for tradition and American roots music while simultaneously trying to forge their own individual voices.

It seems that Mr. White is not too enamored of Mr. Edge.

Concert footage you've seen and loved before--a million times. Stories you already know and love. I like Jack White bleeding on his Gretsch--very dramatic. Led Zeppelin--absolutely. Edge--where is U2 when you need them?