Search - Leo Kottke :: Leo Kottke

Instrumental mastery

Mitchell Lopate | Silverdale, WA | 02/16/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'd call this Leo's "Romantic Period," because he really shows the creative potential of the 12-string: much like he's painting colors and tones with the notes he's plucking in order to create a landscape-of-sound theme for each song. It's an enigmatic collection--no two songs quite repeat, and thankfully, nothing spoiling this by rehashing previously released material.

The energy is very high in his agility; minor chord combinations that enhance effortlessly rather than challenge the ear, and a lush assistance by others on keyboards, woodwinds, and even strings. Cheers to the drummer for giving such melodic textures and interpretations from the kit; my first thought is Kenny Buttrey.



Song-wise, there's something for everyone, and maybe the highlight is the cinematic "Range," or even the appropriate, European-like "Maroon," with a harp and accordion alongside Leo's classical touch. It's followed just as easily by the elasticity of "Waltz," showcasing Leo's unique touch with a slide. I can't quite tag the vibraphone-like sounds on "Death By Reputation," but it works just fine. Ditto for the poetic-like interpretation (with flute) of "The White Ape" (following as usual the Kottke pattern of strange titles.) Naturally, there is plenty of the good ol' kick-up-your-heels action ("Buckaroo," "Hayseed Suede," "Airproofing," and the chugging engine of "Up Tempo"). It all comes back home for another quiet farewell with "Shadowland" and a sunset-in-the-desert orchestra supporting his undulating slide and quivering vibes.



Bravo, Leo. This should be framed and hung on a wall for its conceptual artistry and the tunes played on speakers as a backdrop.

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