Guitarrista is a gorgeous solo acoustic guitar album of original compositions written and performed by Peruvian native Ciro Hurtado. This collection is a reflection on the many styles of music that have influenced Hurtado over the years, including Latin American folk, jazz, flamenco, classical, blues, pop, and rock. Hurtado has been actively performing since the early 1970s and came to the US in 1975 to study guitar privately and at the Guitar Institute of Technology. He was with Strunz and Farah for a few years and went on to become one of the founding members of Huayucaltia. He has recorded and co-produced seven albums with that group as well as touring extensively. Guitarrista is his fifth album as a solo artist. Completely at home with his nylon-string guitar, Hurtado casts a spell of warm reflection as he tells the stories of his life with his unique, quiet, and very personal musical style.

“Cuentos de Chacarera” begins the set with a piece that is both upbeat and somewhat mysterious. A variety of musical influences and styles can be heard from the very first notes, as can Hurtado’s mastery of the instrument. “Para Amanda” is as gentle and sweet as a spring breeze. “Para Mi Amigo” feels like an intimate and tender conversation with a very close friend, speaking without reservations and from the heart. “Agua Dulce” flows gently and freely with occasional sparkles dancing on the water. “Spanish Heart” has a flamenco influence, but the passions here smolder rather than bursting into flame. “Ayahuasca” has some fascinating rhythmic patterns and almost sounds like two or three guitarists playing together - very beautiful and deeply emotional. “Rayito de Sol” is as warm and soothing as the sunshine it depicts. “Un Adios” is a brief but very meaningful “goodbye.”

Guitarrista is an exceptional solo guitar album that creates a tranquil, reflective mood. It is available from cirohurtado.com, Amazon, CD Baby, and iTunes. Highly recommended!