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In His Own Mind
Lyle Lovett returns to basics with My Baby Don't Tolerate, his first album of new songs in seven years. By Melanie Haiken
Read the story online.

Words and music to "In My Own Mind"

Plug and Play
Eleven midpriced acoustic-electric guitars reviewed. By Teja Gerken

Jazz Poet
John McLaughlin's classical/jazz masterpiece Thieves and Poets is the latest stop on a lifelong musical journey. By Derk Richardson

Music to "The Dolphin"

DEPARTMENTS

JUMP STREET Best CDs of 2003, Hamell on Trial, Elliott Smith remembered, Happenings, and more.

REVIEWS Dave Matthews goes solo, flamenco instruction from the source, and Hit List CDs.

HERE'S HOW Up the Neck: The basics of using a capo. By David Hamburger

STAGE AND STUDIO Vintage Records: Tried-and-true tips for making the most of your acoustic guitar in the studio. By David Simons

GEARBOX A slew of slides reviewed, a visit to Shubb Capos, and new gear.

Q&A Answers to your questions about Miguel Company guitars, bolt-on vs. dovetail necks, and more.

PRIVATE LESSONS

Basics: Blues Chords. By Dylan Schorer

Fingerstyle Techniques: New Orleans Piano Licks. By David Hamburger

Music to "Barrelhouse Guitar"

OFF THE RECORD David Tanenbaum on Lou Harrison's guitar music.

Music to "Serenado por Gitaro"

GREAT ACOUSTICS William "Grit" Laskin's Ten Hands. By Teja Gerken

Cover: Lyle Lovett. Photo by Paul Natkin.