Resonance

Portland, Oregon-based guitarist Stowell has a super-cool approach to his instrument but with a minimum of fuss can tear up the strings with some complex improvising that seems to occur at almost the speed of light. He plays here acoustic-electric guitars made by Portland custom guitar-maker Mike Doolin, and using nylon strings. Doolin invited Stowell over to try out his latest creations and in the process taped him playing a tune on each instrument. Eventually there were enough tracks for an album, and this is it. There's a rich and resonant timbre that fits the album's title perfectly, as well as Stowell's technique. It sounds more subtle and played with more finesse than your typical solo electric guitar session. ****