Focusing primarily on instrumental composition and playing, Kottke also sings sporadically, in an unconventional yet expressive baritone described by himself as sounding like "geese farts on a muggy day".[1] In concert, Kottke intersperses humorous and often bizarre monologues with vocal and instrumental selections from throughout his career, played solo on 6- and 12-string guitars.
The Tennessee Toad
Leo Kottke Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
As the title suggests, this song is an instrumental piece that immediately draws the listener in with its intricate guitar work. Leo Kottke's skillful fingerpicking creates a sense of urgency and excitement, as if we are sitting beside the artist while he plays his heart out. The song is essentially a showcase of Kottke's guitar playing abilities, with fast-paced riffs and complex chord patterns that grab and hold the listener's attention.
Despite the lack of lyrics, the title of the song gives us a hint of what it might be about. A "vaseline machine gun" suggests something artificial and industrial, a weapon that is not made for human hands. The way Kottke plays the guitar in this piece is almost robotic, with clean and precise notes that seem to have been manufactured rather than played by a human musician. It's as if he's trying to show us the possibilities of the instrument, testing its limits and pushing it to new heights.
Contributed by Claire M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.