nic patonWhat has become “Acoustic Horizons” is an album I more or less completed in 2023, then “lost” as I engaged a protracted film production. It surfaced again in December as I cleared the in-tray of compositions, and was immediately taken up by Mama Dance, everyone’s favorite African production music boutique.
Of “Acoustic Horizons: Warm Afro Folk” (MDML414), they boast:
A stunning collection of warm Afro flavoured acoustic tracks with a timeless feel. From upbeat and quirky to dreamy and reflective, these groove-driven, spacious and melodic tracks” (and add “a must for advertising, lifestyle, environmental, travel, doccies, wildlife productions and much more”).
Thus completing what I lack in self-marketing ability.
For me this guitar collection brings together a “classical” approach with central-southern African sensibility, with perhaps a nod to the eclecticism of Steve Newman and Tananas, and the African folk stylings of Vusi Mahlasela. No doubt producing Andrew Eagles latest 3 albums (especially “Settle Down“) has resonated with my own playing.
And as I celebrate this release, I at the same time mourn the fact that my hero of acoustic guitar, Ralph Towner, passed away in January.
Enjoy!