History Of Now

History Of Now is the first release in five years from the highly innovative and individual guitarist Preston Reed. An early disciple of John Fahey and Leo Kottke he's developed into a genuinely original instrumentalist with his concurrent melodic and rhythmic lines and percussive two-handed attack on fretboard and body. Yet Reed is far more than a man of mere technique. History is evocative and vivid, with an understated beauty and a Ry Cooder-like sense of atmospherics in places. 'Hit The Ground Running' is fuelled with a wonderful, orchestral rhythmic bluster and high-range melodic jangling while 'Signal Path' has an infectiously folky hand-patting, hammer-on/pull-off groove. 'Chord Melody' recalls the harmonic warmth of Jim Hall which contrasts with the dazzling funk-blues of 'Corazon'. Jazzwise (November) History of Now, is a collection of new compositions written since 2000 along with some old favourites that may not have been available before. And what a collection it is. For those not familiar with him, Preston Reed hails from New York State and has recorded 13 albums since 1979. Now based in Europe, Preston composes and plays all of his own work on a range of guitars, from steel string acoustic, solid body electric, semi-acoustic, 12-string and classical (amongst others). His work encompasses many genres and this is quite apparent on his latest work. From the bluesy stlyings of early Rhythm and Blues to Ballads to Jazz to Rock to a wider World feel, History of Now really shows Preston at his best. With flavours of Robert Johnson, Mike Oldfiled (circa Guitars release) and Ry Cooder, History of Now is an emotional rollercoaster. The opening track, Dead Cool starts the album off with a definite flavour of what to expect. Excellent playing, fantastic melodies and a range of sound that showcases Preston's abilities. From the frenetic Twang Thang and Corazon to the beautiful ballad stylings of False Spring and Woman In The Tower, History of Now is highly recommended for those that like well played instrumental music with passion. History of Now is available on the Outer Bridge Records label.