Top 5 with David Pershan

This guy may look very familiar to you if you are a fan of the Jersey cover band scene. David played guitar and keyboards for Brian Kirk and the Jirks for many, many years. And was also a vocalist with a wide range. David started playing guitar at age 9 and has been in many NJ bands throughout the years in addition to Kirk and the Jirks. He's not just a rock 'n' roll guy either - he studied jazz piano at William Paterson. If you are lucky enough to be friends with him on Facebook, you can see him play live music, particularly live piano covering jazz and classical numbers almost on the daily.

We asked David for his Top 5 guitarists. In no particular order:

1. Jimmy Page - As far as layering guitar parts and production goes, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin is one of the first guitar players I think of. His live playing is a little more controversial; his studio stuff is arguably his strength.

2. Joe Walsh - Incredibly creative player for the Eagles, James Gang and others. Very melodic; not overly technical but definitely knew his way around the neck. For me, Joe Walsh has the perfect amount of facility paired with an unusually unique and memorable style of phrasing.

3. Jeff Black - Enigmatic guitarist who played in Faces before going solo. Completely unique guitarist who enjoyed bends in a new way, making them integral parts of his melodic statements. Plays primarily without a pick; his style is rooted in the blues, but often extends far beyond into his own sound world.

4. Steve Lukather - A technical beast. An exception to the list in that regard. Played legendary solos on pop hits like "Rosanana" and "Hold the Line." Also played for other artists on hits like "Dirty Laundry" by Don Henley. Known as a very creative player in addition to being a master of his instrument.

5. Eddie Van Halen - Another technical beast who has an irresistibly original style. His solos were both revolutionary in terms of technique as well as being very catchy and "accessible," far lack of a better word. Also an amazing rhythm player.

   
   

   

   
   

You can catch David playing locally in Monmouth county with Shut Up Gus band as well as playing solo and duos.