This is an important pair of solos from McCready for a few different reasons.
“Rockin’ in the Free World” (Neil Young Cover) Landgraaf, Netherlands (Pinkpop Festival) 6/6/92 But, McCready does the song justice here, leading into a raucous rendition of another Van Halen classic, “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love.” If nothing else, “Eruption” displays McCready’s technical abilities on guitar, such as the notable finger tapping that closes the song. It goes without saying that Eddie Van Halen’s legendary solo, which has been covered by guitarists for decades now, is incredibly difficult to play. While his Wrigley Field run of the song was solid, McCready seems to have a better feel in this version from October 2013 at Hartford’s XL Center just a few months later.
That was after a nearly three-hour rain delay had driven fans to scramble for cover, only to return to see the band power through a full set with loads of energy that saved the night from disappointment. McCready played “Eruption” live for just the second time ever during Pearl Jam’s Wrigley Field show in July 2013. “Eruption” (Van Halen cover) XL Center, Hartford, CT 10/25/13 But, rest assured, the list is comprised of all things McCready: aggressive blues, stunning emotion, and face-melting energy. After all, this is just 10 solos from nearly 1,000 live shows and 10 studio albums. It certainly was not easy, and, unfortunately, there will be some great moments left off the list. And with that, we offer you the top 10 Mike McCready solos during his time with Pearl Jam. Anyone who has seen McCready live knows how truly immersed he is in the music he plays, an admirable trait all Pearl Jam members share equally. Yet, he also manages to have a tone all his own. King, all accompanied by a stage presence taken directly from Ace Frehley (another idol). His sound is a mix between the wah-drenched tones of Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughn (his idol) with the bluesy feel of B.B. While he has been receiving more recognition for his talents in recent years, he is still one of the most underrated guitarists of all time. Of course, this is old news to diehard fans who have been listening to McCready shred since 1990 with Temple of the Dog (and for the true McCready addicts, his original band Shadow in the 1980’s). However, as talented and irreplaceable as Vedder is, lead guitarist Mike McCready is equally valuable to the group’s sound. He is the band’s leader and charismatic frontman. It is no secret that Eddie Vedder is the face of Pearl Jam.