Album Notes

Van Manakas is an artist, critically acclaimed and recognized by the musical press as one of the most versatile and respected guitarists in the country. His Rounder Records release, Love Songs exemplified his artistry and was excitedly received. He subsequently has been the featured artist and producer for Windham Hill and the audiophile label Reference Recordings. During this time, Manakas produced and lent his playing to "Switchback", a recording that rose to an impressive #2 on the jazz charts.

Known for his expertise in all the indigenous guitar styles, he has toured in all fifty states and twenty-five countries with such renowned artists as the Gil Evans Orchestra, Paul Bley, Scott Cossu and Percy Jones. Van hasplayed guitar on over 20 nationally released albums and CD's. In addition to his solo albums, Van's compositions have graced four movie soundtracks a charted country single.

Van Manakas now brings his Telecaster home with "AMERICAN GUITAR", a joyous exploration of the American guitar landscape.

Van has received the ASCAP Special Merit Award and is a graduate of the Berkelee College of Music.