In the tradition of Michael Hedges & William Ackerman
Volkert Volkersz | Snohomish, WA United States | 02/13/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I received this as a gift a couple of years ago from friends who know my taste in acoustic music, specifically guitar innovators. I was pleasantly surprised by what I heard and I play this CD often at work in the background.This recording definitely falls in the tradition of steel string masters like Michael Hedges, William Ackerman, Phil Keaggy (on his acoustic solo recordings) and Leo Kottke (in his less experimental modes).McLaughlin displays some impressive finger technique, while producing pleasant compositions with enjoyable melodies. There's not a clinker on this album. This is a good one for acoustic guitar fans. Recommended."
Outstanding player.
Old Fisherman | Orange, California USA | 02/02/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Billy McLaughlin is one awesome guitar player. At times it's hard to believe there is only one guitar on the CD. If you like acoustic guitar this album is a must. I'd rank it right up there with Leo Kottke and Doyle Dokes."
Superb Musicianship
Old Fisherman | 09/03/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As a long time fan and practitioner of fingerstyle guitar, this album amazed me. The incredible "Helm's Place" just knocks my socks off every time I hear it. McLaughlin's emphasis on solo guitar with sparse instrumental accompaniment allows his wizardry to shine. For fans of Leo Kottke, I would strongly recommend this album."
An Exceptional Acoustic Guitarist!
Rick Cyge | Scottsdale, AZ | 08/16/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Billy McLaughlin has that rare combination of technical ability and musicality. Unlike many instrumental guitar recordings, McLaughlin's pieces hold up well to repeated listening. The pieces go beyond the usual rhythmic intricacies and state memorable melodic lines - something all too rare in this genre of recordings."
Only a nice person could make this music.
Somewhat bookish girl | CT Shoreline | 04/22/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I first heard Billy McLaughlin's music on National Public Radio, and then on the NPR Living Room Concerts compact discs. The recordings on this disc are all at once lively and refreshing, yet also melodic and restoratively soothing. The feeling for me is akin to that first beautiful April day when you can go outside without a jacket and just revel unfettered. You just want to bury your face in the music and laugh and smile and sigh.
I am buying this cd today for the second time because my son, now seven chose this cd when he was two years old as his favorite cd in the house. For the better part of five years he has liked to listen to this each night before bedtime. Our first copy travelled to Grandma's, on vacations, and everywhere with us. ~ It was so loved, and it has gone missing...
Several markedly less satisfying months have passed without it being in our home. My son recently mentioned that he would 'really like' another copy for his birthday. I was proud of my child for making such a superb birthday request. The music is good enough to pay for twice."