Robben Ford
Photo by Rob Blackham
Few names carry as much weight in the modern guitar world as Jeff Beck and Howard Alexander Dumble. On Two Shades Of Blue, Robben Ford pays tribute to both—but this is far more than a dedication album. It is a deeply personal statement from a guitarist whose lifelong pursuit of tone, touch, and musical truth continues to evolve. Throughout the record, Ford revisits his own artistic voice through the expressive freedom inspired by Jeff Beck and the harmonic richness and dynamic response of Dumble amplifiers.
When he says, “Alexander gave me 50% of what I consider my voice,” it becomes clear that this album is not simply about honoring influences—it is about recognizing the people and tools that helped shape his identity as a player. Musically, Two Shades Of Blue moves effortlessly between vocal songs and instrumentals, weaving together blues, funk, and rock with the kind of natural authority that only comes from decades of mastery. There is no unnecessary flash here—only the unmistakable sound of a player devoted to nuance, feel, and the emotional power of every note.
In this interview, Ford reflects on the inspirations behind Two Shades Of Blue, his tribute to Beck and Dumble, the gear that defined the sessions, and the tonal philosophy that remains at the heart of his music.
