Kerry Kearney is someone who I always felt I’d like to get to know, for many reasons. First, he is an extraordinary guitarist, and his obvious talents precede him. Second, he has a reputation as a genuinely kind and fun person to know.

After this show, I can genuinely confirm that both expectations have proven to be true. In fact, I believe he may be underrated. Kerry is surely one of the most learned and technically adept guitarists I’ve ever known, but he’s more than that. His abilities as a player are infallible, but his knowledge regarding the history of American guitar styles and his not-so-plain ability to discuss the details of his work in a manner that can be understood and appreciated by an average fan of American music puts him in a special place. He is as great of a communicator as he is an astonishing guitar player.

I had a great time swapping stories, and I reveled in his talent but mostly, I simply enjoyed his company. I did a fair number of interviews in my lifetime, but if you don’t yet know Kerry, I am very proud to present him to you. I hope you agree.