Labyrinth

by Doug Smith

Overview

This talented guitarist regards his instrument as "an orchestra in a box," as he applies symphonic leanings to his intricate compositions. On Labyrinth, his second release, he manages to extend the tonal nuances of the steel string guitar, displaying an acoustic artistry that is catchy and refreshing. The use of skilled sidemen such as violinist Darol Anger, flutist Steve Kujala and percussionist Mike Spiro adds to a few tracks. The production by Checkfield's John Archer brings a multi-dimensionality to the project. Some of the cuts are portraits of pensive moods, like "Lost in the Here and Now." Others celebrate the joyous discovery of newfound expression and possibilities, such as the appropriately named "When the Walls Fell." "Blueskies Mt. Hood" is vast and spacious, while the title track has a chamber-like feel. Described as a combination of Chet Atkins, Leo Kottke and Michael Hedges, Doug Smith has laid down an amazing hybrid he calls Labyrinth, worthy of further exploration and hours of pleasurable listening for guitar aficionados from any musical direction. ~ Backroads Music/Heartbeats

Product Details

Release Date:	07/11/2000
Label:	Solid Air Records
UPC:	0614145200524
Rank:	142188

Tracks

1. Sunday Sonata
2. Lost in the Here and Now
3. Traveling Tune
4. A Fine Line
5. When the Walls Fell
6. Shadowcasting
7. Prellude to Blue Skies
8. Blueskies MT. Hood
9. Labyrinth
10. Hammerhead
11. Evening Prayer
12. Deep Heart
13. Two Handed Paradox

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Doug Smith   Primary Artist,Drums,Guitar,Sequencing,Bass
Mike Spiro   Percussion
John Archer   Sequencing
Ron Satterfield   Piano
Michael Spiro   Percussion
Mike Shapiro   Percussion
Duncan Moore   Drums
Darol Anger   Violin
The Higher Praise Gospel Singers   Vocals,Choir/Chorus
Steve Kujala   Flute

Technical Credits

Doug Smith   Arranger,Composer,Composer
John Archer   Arranger,Engineer,Producer,Mastering
John Hendrickson   Engineer
Tom Carr   Engineer
Dennis del Covey   Photography
Tom Ware   Engineer
Mike Huibregtse   Photography
Dwain Scott   Engineer