THE CROSSROADS Michael Landau

John Wheatcroft explores the playing of a session ace _ and blazing blues-rock maestro who graces the top-flight m band of singer-songwriting legend, James Taylor.

- John Wheatcroft

The chances are that you have definitely heard Michael Landau. For a little over 40 years Michael has been a first-call session guitarist, appearing on literally hundreds, maybe even thousands, of records. If your preconception of a session player is of some sterile six-string android that churns out note-perfect but soulless and clinical performances at the drop of a hat, then it’s time to think again. Landau’s playing is dripping with feel, emotion, dynamics, and musicality. He has graced the stage with some of the most important contemporary artists in the history of popular music (Cher to Richard Marx, Chaka Khan to Rod Stewart and Whitney Houston to Seal) including regular and extended stints with Joni Mitchell, Boz Scaggs, James Taylor, and countless others. All for good reason too.