Leo Kottke

Genre: Acoustic Guitar Wizardry

I saw my first Leo Kottke performance last evening, and found even my absurdly high expectations exceeded. Kottke's command over the acoustic guitar is virtuosic, as he finds a way to control every miniscule sound emanating from his instrument. The music was full-bodied, robust, and intricate. Additionally, his stage presence was that of a true performer; his smart, rambling, yet heartfelt musings between (and sometimes during) pieces were reminiscent of a Vonnegut essay. And to top off the night, frequent collaborator and Phish bassist Mike Gordon played with Kottke for a few tunes. A quick note- those seeing Phish's reunion shows in Hampton in a few days have a lot to look forward to; Gordon was at the top of his game. But even his presence couldn't take anything from the real star of the show last night.

First, take a look at this recent performance of Kottke's take on The Byrds'"Eight Miles High." Following is a 1980s gig for which he performs a medley of tunes for German TV.