Various Artists

Woodsongs (Newland Music, 2006)

Woodsongs is a collection of evocative instrumental acoustic guitar pieces by reputable American guitarists as well as newcomers. The compilation follows the footsteps of the highly successful acoustic guitar compilations released by Windham Hill in the 1990s. This is not surprising as Windham Hill's founder Will Ackerman is involved in the project as producer of some of the tracks. Also participating are former Windham Hill artists such as virtuoso bassist Michael Manring and guitarist Alex de Grassi.

The participating guitarists play new acoustic instrumental music that is highly melodic, and sometimes melancholic, crossing the boundaries between classical music, American folk and even jazz. Pieces that stand out are "After the Sunrise" by Turtle Writing, where layers of acoustic guitars by Nick Cosimano are combined with Michael Manring's soloing bass and Eugene Friesen's cello; Quintana Roo by Preston Reed, using slap guitar techniques; the delightful and dreamy e-bow piece "Thank You" by Adam Werner; David Cullen's Brazilian inspired "Country Carnivale"; and masterful Alex de Grassi on "Hand Signals".

The album is American-centric and excludes many excellent international performers. Still, it is a great opportunity to sample the new acoustic guitar scene in the United States.

For those who miss the Windham Hill sound, this is a great opportunity to capture the magic of the acoustic guitar.

For more information go to: www.newlandmusic.com