Kyle
Dawkins
"Conasauga" CD
Solponticello
Genres: instrumental folk
Solponticello
195 Three Oaks Dr.
Athens GA 30607
Jul 21 - 27 2003 |
Conasauga is the brainchild of musician Kyle Dawkins,
who plays guitar and banjo through these eight tracks, only
occasionally enlisting the help of his friends for back-up
instrumentation. The album is an exploration of the Appalachian
musical style, and it is a beautiful record for both experts and
casual listeners alike. Despite its focused subject matter, this is by
no means a niche thing; anybody who can appreciate instrumental guitar
and banjo, as foreground or background music, will find a place in
their hearts [or homes] for Conasauga.
Dawkins' playing calibre is enough to warrant a purchase in
the case of Conasauga. His fingers really work magic on these
eight complex, beautiful tunes. There's nary a missed beat or a
mistaken pluck on this entire record. The subtly melodic style of Dawkins'
music makes this infinitely listenable, he never allows things to get
old or repetitive. His playing is like that of Chet Atkins,
except more in touch with the wilderness.
This is a terrific album; seldom does instrumental music capture
the listener's attention like Kyle Dawkins' does. If you're
looking for the type of deep, beautiful music that suits bedside
listening just as much as it does party background ambiance, you'd be
a fool not to give Conasauga a try.
86%
Matt Shimmer [Vitals:
8 tracks, distributed by the
label, released 2003] |