Throughout the Autumn Light is the fourth release from acoustic guitarist/composer Robert Linton. Mixed, mastered, and co-produced (with Linton) by Grammy winning producer Corin Nelsen, some of the ten tracks are solo guitar while some are backed by an impressive group of musicians (as duets), most of whom play on many of Will Ackerman’s productions (Ackerman produced Linton’s previous release Whisperings At Nightfall). The overall sound of the album is warm yet pristine and clear. Most of the pieces are paced at about the same tempo, which makes the album ideal for meditation, massage, or quiet background music. While the music is slow and relatively uncomplicated, the soulful melancholy is stirring and poignant.

Throughout the Autumn Light begins with the title track, a sweet and gentle guitar solo that evolves into a guitar/cello duet with Stephen Katz. Tinged with melancholy reflection, it gracefully anticipates the coming changes of season. “Drifting Reflections” is a gorgeous duet for guitar and English horn (Jill Haley). Flowing and effortless with occasional pauses (like true reflection!), this is a favorite. The nostalgic and dreamy “Seasons of Years Past” brings in Tracy Silverman on violin, adding soft color washes to the gentle guitar. “Glistening After The Mist” is a collaboration with Jeff Pearce on EBow guitar (The EBow is a hand-held electronic bow that replaces the pick, allowing the guitarist to mimic strings, horns, and woodwinds.). As always, Pearce is evocative and masterful. The guitar solo “Shifting to the Fall” has an almost tragic air that is achingly beautiful - another favorite! I also love “Winds Swaying the Trees” with Stephen Katz. The cello/guitar combo isn’t very common, but this album makes me think it should be. The velvet tones of the cello are the perfect complement to the plucked guitar strings. “Sweet Dreams” is a tender solo guitar lullaby. The closing track is “Evening Sunset” with Jeff Oster on flugelhorn - another instrumental combo you don’t hear very often but that works well. Soothing and relaxing, it’s a lovely finish to an exceptional album.

Throughout the Autumn Light is a beauty from start to finish! It is available from robertlinton.com, Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Recommended!