Steve Lukather & Michael Landau have been friends since they were 12 years old. That longtime friendship always shows when they take the stage together. These two great guitar players bring out the best in each other. It's a friendly game of oneupsmanship with no clear cut winner besides the lucky fans.
It was a laid back night at the Baked Potato in West North Hollywood, Ca. There were no set lists just Luke & Landau playing whatever struck them as to their mood at the time.The combination of two amazing artists in such an intimate setting is always a nice treat. Steve & Michael were backed by Toss Panos (Steve Vai, Michael Landau, Andy Summers) on drums Jimmy Johnson (James Taylor) on bass & Jeff Babko (Doves of Fire, The Jimmy Kimmel Show) on keyboards. Songs included Jimi Hendrix' Freedom, several Landau songs such as I'm buzzed & another Hendrix classic Red house with Toto's David Paich joining in on keyboards. Jimmy Z joined the party jumping up on stage & playing harmonica.
Even after attending last weeks "Crossroads Festival" in Dallas with 50 guitar greats this show still gave me a special feeling. At the Crossroads show I talked to another guitar great Larry Carlton about Luke. Larry told me "Luke is a great guy & a great hang"! Luke is the perfect host because he's a great player, quick witted & as Larry said a "great hang".
This was a benefit for autistic children with all dollars donated by ARTS-KAN (Artists Rally To Support Kids with Autisim Now). Information at thehelpgroup.org.
Stevelukather.com, June 14th 2004
