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KIRK FLETCHER MY TURN

Coming to international prominence with The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Kirk’s tight, funky playing is well worth checking out on this 2010 solo album. Check out El Medio Stomp, for some SRV inspired rhythm playing; Way Back Home, which offers a mellower take on his rhythmic accompaniment; and Congo Square, which sees Kirk playing a more overdriven single note style, a la Robben Ford, who was an early influence.

DIRE STRAITS DIRE STRAITS

Most of us are very familiar with this album’s most celebrated track, Sultans Of Swing, but I would urge you to give it another listen with the examples in mind. Another would be Setting Me Up, which also stands as a great example of Mark Knopfler’s undoubted prowess at chordal/rhythmic accompaniment and soloing. Though there is lots of great material on all the Dire Straits albums, this first one gives a great insight into the development of Mark’s playing.

NILE RODGERS VARIOUS

Because Nile Rodgers has contributed so much in terms of rhythmic bluesy-tinged guitar, it’s impossible to nail this down to one single album. If you want some inspiration to freshen up your funky blues rhythm playing though, check out Thinking Of You by Sister Sledge, I’m Coming Out by Diana Ross and of course Le Freak, by Chic. Even if disco isn’t your thing (and I’m no dancer myself), it’s hard to deny the appeal of Nile’s driving rhythm playing.