This site is normally reserved exclusively to showcase modern guitars, but an exception is being made due to the sad news that Allan Holdsworth has passed away. Allan Holdsworth passed away on April 16, 2017 at the age of 70 at his home. He was a giant in modern electric guitar. He pioneered not only unique solo and chord forms, composition, and virtuoso guitar playing but pushed the boundaries of modern electric guitar by using unconventional instruments like the Steinberger as well as his own signature models at Carvin.
I remember seeing him in Cambridge, MA years ago and his technique, composition, tone, and incredible legato playing were stunning to behold. I had never seen or heard anything like it — then and since. It is no wonder he has been an inspiration to so many great guitar players today. He will be missed, but his music will live on and hopefully inspire a new generation of guitarists — and their modern instruments.
A great summary of his life can be found here. And podcasts of remembering him is here.
Here is one of my very favourite tunes of Allan: