Preston Reed Albums (10)
'History of Now'
Release Date 10/25/2005
Tracks 14
Label Outer Bridge Music
See Album Tracklist and Review
'Handwritten Notes'
Release Date 1/1/2000
Tracks 14
Label Outer Bridge
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
This is an excellent release from guitarist-extraordinaire Preston Reed. Fans of Michael Hedges may cry foul when first hearing this, however, it should be noted that Reed was playing his percussive, hand-tapping approach in the early '80s, too. Despite being a technical marvel he never sounds mechanical. Rather, Reed creates memorable melodies with shifting percussive patterns that give the selections an organized, but relaxed feel. Whether playing new age ("Stonecutter"), ethnic ("Tribes"), or his own self-defining style ("Metal," "Train"), he proves that his name belongs on the same lists that would include the likes of Tuck Andress or Michael Hedges. Required listening for guitarists of any style, or fans of beautiful acoustic. ~ Robert Taylor, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Though he never became as well-known, Preston Reed gives Leo Kottke a run for his money in sheer dynamics and melodic invention, and his aggressive guitar playing often sounds like two guitarists. Preston Reed's "A Day at the Races" and "Suite Hoodeet" are every bit as wild as Kottke's "Driving of the Year Nail." The recording atmosphere is similarly dark and throaty. Reed is not as great a bottleneck player, but still this record reminds us that there was a whole school of flamboyant American primitive guitarists working the clubs in the 1980s before new age took the teeth out of the genre. ~ Richard Meyer, All Music Guide
