No. 221, May 2011

On the Cover: Jerry Reed. How to get the country thumbpicker's distinctive sound, a blend of Travis-style fingerpicking and R&B and bluegrass banjo influences. Plus, the guitars and gear of Jerry Reed.

Songs:

John Denver – "Leaving on a Jet Plane"
Arrangement by Steve James – "Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor"

Features: Hayes Carll. The Texas songwriter turned to his Gibson J-45 in the early morning hours to write the boozy tales on his new album; How to archive your old band tapes and demos digitally; Choosing the right kind of pickup can be a daunting task. We look at how you can find the right one for your playing style; Mandolin Brothers. Located on New York's Staten Island, Mandolin Brothers offers stringed instruments at every price; how t use your guitar to emulate several popular piano backup patterns.

Lessons:

• Tips for a Better Practice Regimen
• Fingerstyle Accompaniment Lesson. Rich Moore on backing up blues and contemporary folk singers.
• Ten Must-Know Blues Riffs. Enhance your blues rhythm playing by using riffs instead of chords. 

Gear Reviews:

• Ovation Adamas Kaki King signature model
• Blueridge BR-72 
• Bartlett Guitar Mic