Conceived as a tribute to Taylor guitars, this recording manages to transcend any stereotypes of projects dedicated to the advancement of a business principle or product. That's due to the quality of the performers, the pieces they play, and the passion they bring to them. There's really not a misstep in the bunch. Guitar slingers from
Russ Freeman to
Leo Kottke,
Steve Stevens and
Billy Joe Walker are joined by singers such as
Vince Gill,
Kathy Mattea,
Amy Grant and
Joe Lynn Turner who eschew voice in favor of guitar. Of particular note is "Java Man" by
Michael Hedges. This was the last recording Hedges made before his untimely death in an automobile accident, and Windham Hill founder
William Ackerman speaks to his legacy in moving liner notes. Volume II is promised to follow. ~ Ross Boissoneau