Nine Questions

Ricky Shimo

As bassist for Discos, and guitarist for both The Resonars and Lenguas Largas (the latter of whom he co-founded), Ricky Shimo is an extraordinary musician. The long time Tucson resident is among today's most imaginative and distinctive guitarists, and we're not just talking locally.

What was the first concert you attended?

My brother Beto Poo took me to see the Scorpions in 1994.

What are you listening to these days?

Charles Mingus, Brazilian music, Los Aliviadores and Hotwings.

What was the first album you owned?

Soda Stereo, Persiana Americana.

What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone seem to love, but you just don't get?

Any band with a violin or a cello; see what I'm saying?

What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?

Pink Floyd with Syd Barrrett.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure?

Rush.

What song would you like to have played at your funeral?

New Radicals' "You Get What You Give." You get what you give, yo!

What band or artist changed your life, and how?

The Doors. When I was a kid, I wanted to play like Ray Manzarek. Nowadays I want to play like 27-year-old Hendrix, and still can't.

Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?

Brian Eno's Here Come the Warm Jets.