Rainers music has been accompanied by many brilliant and cultural shaping musicians that range from avant-guard, rock-n-roll, folk, trance re-mix, and blues. Here on this Rainer profile we will post prime examples of all these aspects of his music. STAY TUNED !!
Influences
Authenticity:
Sounds Like
I once asked rainer if he didnt ever want to climb to the top of the nearest mountain and scream at the world in frustration. I wanted to understand how a man who was so innovative and forceful on guitar, and who could write such powerful songs, could stand to be anything less than a star. He smiled and looked down for a second, a bit embarrassed by the extravagance of the question. He quietly asked who would hear him on the mountaintop, and what would they think of yet another fool shrieking about his own greatness?
" Why dont you get out of this town and go where people will recognize your talents?" I asked. Another smile,another pause and more softly spoken words: His life with his wife and children. His music was only possible because of the love of patti and their kids. He wouldnt be the musician he was if he was on the road away from them, he told me.
His typical responce to any of my exclamations about his talents, or questions about his life and career, was a smile and a pause. And in those pauses, patient smiles and thoughtful words, I learned from him. The talent was inexplicable. The choices were the essence of Rainer; they werent easily traslated into glib phrases or off hand comments to be printed on paper for people to read and toss away.
What I never learneed from him and still dont understand, is how a man could be so talented and so accepting of world's so-often casual dismissal of what he had to offer. Im at a loss to explain- to even understand- what it was inside him, around him or flowing through him that allowed him to make such tender judgments. It makes me miss him and wish for more lessons.
-Michael Metzger, freelancewriter,
former Tucson Weekly music editor-
Rainer was an absolute musical gem. It was great to discover his music is alive on myspace. The music scene in Tucson during the 80s was so vibrant and seeped it's way into my own being. Thank you Tucson and thank you Rainer.
this music and expression is incredible, I have always listened and admired and been inspired ,from way back , and always will, kind regards from Lloyd in England
Thank you for adding me. I had the great honor of seeing Rainer and Das Combo in Phoenix way back. I think it must has been 1985 or 1986? I think it was at The Impulse across the street from the Mason Jar on Indian School and 24 th street. AM I remembering correctly? Is there a list of Rainer and Das Combo's gigs?
Rainer's guitar playing has stayed with me all these years. Amazing..
we all should find time to thank God for the life of Mr. Ptacek. what a wonderful musician and songwriter. in the late 80's my life was changed by this man's music. may he rest in peace.
thank you for this page, and i pray you have found closure for his early departure. i feel he was just too good, and God wanted him sooner...
