Album Notes

The Solace & Grace CD is comprised of a number of relatively familiar hymns. I have been playing hymns on fingerstyle guitar for the past 20 years or so. Currently, this is something I do predominately in the privacy of my home. All arrangements are original with the majority of tunes having special tunings and capo configurations. I play all of the instruments on this CD with the lead guitar on most tracks being Eldon Whitford’s 1937 Gibson Roy Smeck. During the mastering process minimal effects were implemented due to the extraordinary natural tonal qualities of this fine instrument. Simply stated, I could not have asked for a better sounding guitar for this project.

What I hope you hear is easy listening music consisting of traditional hymns with decent guitar playing on great vintage instruments. It is my hope that Solace & Grace can put your mind and heart in a good place. What you will hear are the true voices of each guitar, much like what you would hear if you listened to my playing in my living room. The only difference is that there is more than one of me on each track. The arrangements of these hymns are all original and this recording process allowed me to do what I do best, backup another player. In this instance, I accompany myself. Some of the hymns have very sparse backing tracks of guitar and mandolin, while other hymns are more akin to guitar duets.

Eldon Whitford, author of Gibson's Fabulous Flat-Top Guitar, writes that Solace & Grace is a masterfully created CD that captures the essences of the songs and who John is. His playing is extremely accomplished with exceptional tone and feel. To guitar aficionados, it will stir their passion. These hymns have the full musical spectrum of a master pianist, but with the wonderfully rich, sweet tone of a flat-top guitar.

Thanks for listening, John.