Last night at Joe's Pub, I saw Dana Leong open up for Jake Shimabukuro. Both guys were amazing. Dana Leong alternated between electric cello with a computer console for effects and a trombone. He had a drummer and keyboard/programmer for accompaniment. At times contemplative, others like the Jimi Hendrix of the cello. Damn, he was impressive.
And then Jake came out and played solo Ukelele and he freaking rocked out. Viruoso finger picking, he played a number of originals and some notable covers including Ave Maria by some dude named Schubert and finishing up with the Star Spangled Banner. Jake told many stories interacting with the crowd as he entertained us with his Hawaiian warmth and humor.
Jake's web site: http://www.jakeshimabukuro.com/
Video of Jake playing While My Guitar Gently Weeps: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=829401773913198414
Dana Leong's website: http://www.danaleong.com/home.htm