New guitar

A few months ago, I commissioned my favourite guitar maker, Roger Bucknall of Fylde Guitars to build me a new model, which would fit tonally and size-wise in between my Fylde Falstaff and Goodfellow. Well, last week I took delivery of what is one truly remarkable instrument! The model is basically an Alexander, which is roughly an OM-style body size and shape, but with a custom spec. It's got beautifully figured ziricote back and sides and a cedar top, with coconut bindings around the body.

I've wanted to try a different pickup for a while, so I took the opportunity to experiment with a new internal mic system as you can see from the sound hole close-up. It's made by www.miniflexmic.com, and features not one but two internal mics, which, in theory at least, are mechanically out of phase, making them less prone to feeding back, which is a pretty common drawback with close-miking guitars on stage. Well, I haven't gigged it yet, so I can't comment too much, but early experiments are promising! It sounds very natural through my Radial preamp into a PA system...

Anyway, here are a few pictures:

First shows with Jackie Oates

I've just returned home from my first three concerts with the Jackie Oates band. We played Dartington Hall, in South Devon, Caerleon, South Wales and finally, Nettlebed Folk Club near Henley-on-Thames.

From the first few chords of the opening number, it felt like a great place to be. Great music, great band - a joy to be involved.

The Dartington show was particular significant on a personal level, because Dartington Hall was where I went to college, but as a music student, I never got to play in the Great Hall. Ten years later, and I finally had the chance, and what a beautiful room to play in, it was!

Next stop for the band is the Howard Assembly Rooms in Leeds on Friday 10th March...

New website!

Hi everyone,

Welcome to my brand new website which has just been launched. We will be adding further information and material in the near future, but for now, please have a look around, as you will find tour dates and music to listen to.

Comments welcome :)

Tristan x

New Blog Feed from Tristan

Welcome to the launch of this new feature. In future, you will be able to see my news and updates direct from my weblog.