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Transmission Magazine - Albuquerque, New Mexico - April 2005

Eric McFadden (and Wally Ingram)

Hometown Guitar Hero, Brings Wally Ingram to 'Burque

by Jenny Gamble

No matter how many times I see Eric McFadden rip hot licks on his many guitars, every show is unique. March 26 at Brickyard Pizza was no exception, as McFadden brought along his distinguished musical collaborator, the famed Wally Ingram. Ingram and McFadden were on a brief leave from their project Stockholm Syndrome. Wally Ingram, percussionist extraordinaire, is known primarily for his work with legendary songwriter/picker David Lindley (of El Ray-O X and a series of Twango Bango albums). He's also shared stages and recorded with Toad the Wet Sprocket, Tracy Chapman and Neil Young, to name just a few, and he served as Workshop Stage Coordinator on the Horde Tour. Wally Ingram also is one of the nicest, most down to earth guys. Bravo, Eric, you sure can pick 'em!

Chris Dracup, Albuquerque blues songwriting "professor", opened with a perfect set that amped the crowd for the adventure to follow. When McFadden and Ingram took the stage they awed the packed house with a smorgasbord of raw guitar and sharp edged percussion that did not stop until the house lights came up. My favorite part was a cameo appearance by a rubber chicken which McFadden pulled from his bag of tricks. When Dracup sat in with the bird perched on his axe, McFadden quipped, "Now, that's some chicken pickin'!"

Eric McFadden lives life fully. The man is never afraid to take a risk, as was shown by his career foray beyond New Mexico eight years ago. Immediately sought after for his enormous talent by many well-known Bay Area musicians, he has not paused in his professional climb. Yet, Eric McFadden has never lost his charm and he always comes home to Albuquerque to share a smile and a tune. And it's great when he brings along new friends like Wally Ingram to play!