Dear Marcus, I saw you (Solo Act) a few months back at the Crystal Ballroom in Portland, Oregon when you opened for Robert Randolf and the Family Band. I was with a friend of mine who is well versed musically and I consider myself a connoisseur of any and all great music. When we walked in the Crystal we were quickly drawn to your talents by the intriguing sound waves wafting in from afar. My friend and I could not believe what we were hearing and later seeing. I often (at my own peril) miss opening bands and that would have been tragic in this case. I personally have been to over 250 shows in my 43 years... virtually all genres. I kept looking at my friend and asking him "Are you seeing this guy?" With his mouth agape; I had my answer. You are simply one of the finest guitar players I have ever seen and I've seen some of the greatest players alive. I'm listing the following artists not to be braggadocios, but so that you can further appreciate and or accept my compliments as not being naive. Joe Satriani, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Mark Knopfler, Don Felder, Peter Frampton, Buddy Guy, Neal Schon, Robin Trower, Prince, Matthias Jabs, Tom Scholz, Jimmy Paige, Keith Richards, Eddie Van Halen, Kirk Hammett, The Edge, Ritchie Blackmore, Keith Urban, Angus Young, Robert Randolf... and I could go on and on. I've seen a plethora of talent and you flat out impressed the hell out of me! Your technique and looping ability is impressive by itself, but to hear the unbelievable clarity in everything you put your fingers to, makes your presentation uniquely brilliant. Simply stunning Marcus!
My entire family is going to see you when you come back to Portland at Jimmy Maks on April 1st. However, my 12 year old son (a guitarist) will only get to stay until 9:30 as it's a nightclub. I wanted you to know this as I've been dying for him to see you, but all your shows have been 21 and over and he has been scouring YouTube to see what he can of you. I hope that he'll be able to see you play most of your set in April and one day see you at an under 21 event where he can really take you in. Believe me when I say he is ready and there are plenty of others who are under 21 missing out on your gift!
Warmest regards,
Vince Crabtree Washougal, Washington
