Article by Sam Sanborn
by Sam Sanborn on January 27, 2010I stumbled across Trace Bundy on YouTube one day when looking for something fresh and otherwise uncontaminated by the pedestrian influence of the mainstream.
I certainly found what I was looking for.
Ironically enough, this discovery came from watching his cover of the Backstreet Boys' song "I Want It That Way." The song at first seemed out-of-place with the wry, laid-back demeanor of the artist, but with a flourish and flash of fingers, I could instantly see that his skill level was up there with the greats. This musical ability was matched with humor as well, when near the end of the song, he pretended to cry and claimed that his contacts were bothering him. I began to see what has made Bundy such an incredible performer.
The Acoustic Ninja, as Bundy has come to be known, is truly a fitting moniker for this renowned acoustic guitar player from Colorado. No, he doesn't wear a head band, have epic duels with Chuck Norris, or do back flips. But just try, really try, to watch his hands as he is playing. It's like trying to keep track of a BB in a blender. It can't be done. (Do NOT try that at home.)
Listen to "Dueling Ninjas" as you read:
Along with speed and skill, Bundy has collected a massive arsenal of tricks, techniques and tools to further establish himself as a true virtuoso on the acoustic guitar. From looping pedals, rhythmic percussion, and the impressive use of harmonics to using upwards of five capos on a single song, Bundy makes so much sound that, if you close your eyes, it is hard to believe that only one guitar, one instrument, is being used.
I had the chance to talk with Bundy regarding his music and his upcoming show. Here's what he had to say:
What got you into music?
I started playing when I was really young, when I was about nine or ten years old. My earliest influence was my brother wanting to buy an acoustic guitar. We both chipped in five bucks each and bought a guitar. I kinda grew up just doing whatever my brother was doing, and then once I started getting better and learning about music, I started writing my own songs.
Where did it go from there?
I guess I always wanted to think outside the box as far as what I can do on the guitar and part of that, to be honest, has to do with the fact that I'm a pretty horrible singer. My voice, singing wise, has never been good and I always thought of that as kind of a curse. It's kind of cliché, but they say a curse, it's kind of a blessing in disguise. I think that because I didn't focus on singing at all, I put all of my energy into doing guitar and just started figuring out all these new techniques and new ideas and really found a niche, you know? In a way my bad voice, I owe a lot of gratitude towards it.
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About the Author
Sam Sanborn is a contributor to Oregon Music News