I agree with Duanegoosen's assesment of the fusion violin genre, with the glaring exception of Didier Lockwood. He is the exception in this list, and in no way, shape, or form reminds one of Kenny G-anything. It has been clear to many over the last ~25 years or so that Lockwood's level of playing is what Ponty had dreamed of being.
Don't take my word for it; compare Lockwood's album "Surya" to anything that Ponty has done and even the most musically-challenged ears will clearly determine the difference (I have run this experiment myself with listeners countless times over the years). Although this does not directly address the Ponty-Ivers comparison, I needed to respond ($0.02) to the Lockwood reference. Happy holidays to all.
PS - I still like Mark O'Connor's work with the Dixie Dregs. Wonderful presentation live.
Don't take my word for it; compare Lockwood's album "Surya" to anything that Ponty has done and even the most musically-challenged ears will clearly determine the difference (I have run this experiment myself with listeners countless times over the years). Although this does not directly address the Ponty-Ivers comparison, I needed to respond ($0.02) to the Lockwood reference. Happy holidays to all.
PS - I still like Mark O'Connor's work with the Dixie Dregs. Wonderful presentation live.