There is always lots of discussion and opinions re the best finger picks, the tone differences in finger pick, whats new, whats old, etc. Only true banjo geeks understand this!
Over the years I've used everything from old Nationals, new Nationals, old Dunlops, Roys Own, AMB, Shelor, etc. I have boxes and tin containers full. I have been using AMB picks from Tom Mirisola and love the shape and tone.....
BUT....I was given a set of sterling silver picks made by a gentleman here in my home town London, Ontario Canada by the name of John Ellington. He is a retired goldsmith and began manufacturing these picks after consultation with a number of players, most significantly Dave Talbot who is originally from Ontario. The full history of these picks and their reputation is in the included link to John Lawless's review with Bluegrass Today. Of note, these were the picks made specially as gifts to the pall bearers and family members of Earl Scruggs at his funeral.
I was initially a bit skeptical trying the picks as they are definitely a different shape and feel from the AMB and National picks I'm used to. The fit is much more comfortable, and the blades are more of the cupped design vs a flat blade with the AMBs. However, after a few tunes, I was amazed at the difference in playing and tone. They are perhaps the fastest picks I've ever played with. Contact and movement on the strings felt effortless. They made contact and released the strings with next to no pressure. The tone...also amazed. The clarity is like crystal with again no effort. Other finger picks have shown minor differences in playability and tone, but these from John Ellington are shockingly different.
The shape, playability, and tone may not be for everyone..like all things banjo, but these picks are certainly worth a good look and a try-out. They have become my go-to's!!!
bluegrasstoday.com/bluegrass-c...m-canada/
If those picks are the secret to playing as well as you , we all need a couple of sets . How are things in the North Country Dave ?
Thanks Will..the picks just make my struggles a bit easier!! They really are different than Nationals and clones..just if they work for you I guess.
Things up here in the North are great..beautiful summer, fall and hunting season is approaching fast. Off to Greece for a couple weeks in early Sept.
We had a great summer festival season with the Blackwell band..our website is blackwellbluegrass.ca/, just updated.
I used that Davis banjo exclusively all summer and it absolutely trashes any competition ..got so many people praising it and wanting to know what, where, etc to get one...so thanks again for letting me have it!!!
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