John Fahey's selection of Basho's eccentric adventures in guitar and other matters, rounds off the Takoma recordings of an extraordinary and truly unique talent.
Of all the young guitarists who recorded for Takoma in the 60s and 70s, Robbie Basho was the least influenced by label founder John Fahey. In an age when nonconformity was exalted, Basho qualified as a true eccentric, and the way he played the guitar and sang was unique. His fascination with things Oriental led him to take his name from a Japanese poet, and the influence of Indian classical music is often palpable in his guitar work. But Basho's use of this influence is original-.-like any artist, he takes what suits his needs to create the right atmosphere for his own creations to blossom. This overview of Basho's Takoma recordings was conceived by John Fahey, whose evocative reminiscences greatly enhance our appreciation of a unique character and musician.
