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Some of you may remember the review of Art Turner's first album 'Story Water' in AMP. I loved that album, and this one is even more refined and impressive. On his latest offering , Art Turner has assembled one of the finest ensembles of players in North America. Well known bassist, Michael Manring who plays frettless and ten string bass on the album had these comments..."Art's music makes me think of highways, open spaces and long, star-filled nights. I hear in it a sense of place. Music like this is a joy to play -- open and evocative. In this world I have the feeling that anything can happen." I couldn't agree more. Turner uses a variety of open tunings (sometimes called "altered" or "alternate" tunings). For guitarists reading this review, here is the rundown. Invitation to Circumstance: Open-C
(CGCGCE) The alternate tunings offer greater flexibility in polyphony and melody structure, as you will hear. Art has chosen each tuning to fit the tonal and melodic characteristics of each song perfectly. Turner's main guitar is a 6-string cedar-top cutaway, custom-made by Canadian luthier, Linda Manzer, and his second guitar, a recent addition, is a Englemann spruce-topped cutaway concert model Morgan. Hugh Marsh who played a major role in Art's first album, is also featured prominently throughout this new disc. And then there's the virtuosic bass of Michael Manring, Eugene Friesen on cello, with the addition of acoustic guitar wizard and Red House Records recording artist Dean Magraw (John Gorka, Peter Ostroushko, Steve Tibbetts), and Celtic music star Steáfán Hannigan (Björk, Depeche Mode, Loreena McKennitt) on Uilleann pipes. Art plays a much greater role in 'driving' this lineup. In his own words "This one is much more acoustic guitar-driven, emotionally deeper, more melodically interesting and technically complex," says Art. "After my first record, I worked hard on my chops, trying to create tunes that could stand on their own as solo guitar pieces. At first I was concerned there might not be enough room for the other musicians, but those guys are just phenomenal. What makes them so great is not just spectacular playing, but also knowing when not to play. The end result is just beautiful." I couldn't say it any better myself! Art Turner touches more than the six strings of the guitar. He makes our hearts thrill.He is a poet of the guitar. His fluid orchestral sound and amazing technique combines well with vivid ensemble pieces. Spirited is the word that perhaps best sums up Turner's performance. His message is articulate and delivered with an unmistakable passion. Review by Ben Kettlewell information: |
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Art Turner
