Lindsey's best guitar solo?

[Matt Lucas]

Hello all---

My 12-year-old daughter and I were in the car this morning, and she asked to hear some music. With literally thousands of songs on my iPod Classic from which to choose, I decided to surprise her with a favorite of hers that she hadn't requested in months: "Landslide."

I've mentioned here before that I probably fall mostly in Lindsey's corner, though I probably keep a few toes in Christine's corner, too. But having said that, I think "Landslide" might just be my favorite FM song. Perhaps it's even their best song, though I really think whatever song earns that title should feature the whole band.

Anyway, I hadn't heard the song in quite some time. I heard "Landslide" with new ears today, and I was stuck by the simple beauty of Lindsey's guitar solo. I felt every tiny detail, each graceful note. It's a marvel, really. So eloquent and perfect. I hear more than a little Chet Atkins in Lindsey's phrasing, which is no surprise.

That solo may be the best example of one of Lindsey's greatest strengths as a musician---his ability to play a solo that fits the song, that carries the melody into some uncharted, yet familiar territory.

Don't get me wrong, I like Lindsey's loud, rock solos as much as anyone. But he's done so many of them---so many great ones---that sometimes it's hard to pick one that stands head and shoulders above the rest. And so, his solos that are different, like the ones in "Landslide" and "Steal Your Heart Away" and "You Make Loving Fun," are the ones that stand out most to me.

So...what is your favorite Lindsey guitar solo, and why?

Matt