Anthem

Towner's modus operandi consists of a towering acoustic technique played with a disciplined neo-classical precision, but the overall effect still sound like a man sufficiently comfortable that the style appears almost laid-back. Some tracks betray immense technical complexity, which Towner translates to a lyrical purity matched by precious few guitarists. Elements of jazz and blues licks creep in on several compositions, and sound entirely natural in their setting. A joy to behold, and certainly worthy of 5 stars.

One of the most beautiful and haunting records ever. Although known more for his 12-string playing, "Anthem" features Ralph Towner on mostly nylon string guitar. It must be one of the most difficult things, playing solo nylon string guitar! The material is gorgeous, especially the title track and 'Simone.' Also, I love the opening track, 'Solitary Woman,' which almost sounds like Weather Report to me, it is such a complete solo performance. I will never get tired of this record.

Wonderful solo guitar album by Mr. Towner. I have yet to hear anything from him that was not of the highest quality. Great Towner compositions and improvs, performed beautifully.

I was looking for more of the remarkable 12-string guitar playing found on "I sing the body electric" (Weather Report), and there is a bit (although I suspect helped along with some post-editing with Melodyne or equivalent), so good; but other things are a little too new-agey for me. So, worthwhile but not uniform to my taste.

Great stuff here Ralph!

AS with my review for Diary, this is Ralph Towner doing what Ralph Towner does, very well too. Beautifully recorded, performed and packaged.