[spocksbrain]

While Terry Clements seems to be the master of the understated guitar lead, Red Shea seems to have been the master of intriguing nuance. Listening to Sunday Concert, it is easy to hear why Red's playing fit so well with the three piece arrangements. The atmosphere at those shows was just right. Red's licks added a touch of sensitivity to the songs. He was an unusual player for sure.

If you listen to the Filmore show, even though the mix hides Red's playing somewhat, those songs from that era fit Red's playing style just right. When Lightfoot's style changed in the early 70s, it was time for Red to take a back seat, since his style lent itself more to the folk type of playing. Some wonderful exceptions are his electric lead on Sundown and the beautiful backing on IYCRMM. His second leads on Gord's Gold were also fantastic. While Terry was taking his place as the more subdued lead player, Red was still leaving his mark on the Lightfoot sound.

Not that I would ever compare myself to either, but both Terry and Red have had significant influence on my playing. I am quite saddened by Red's passing. Fortunately, his musical life lives on in the grooves of Lightfoot records, finely crafted, well played.