Tim Reynolds: That Way

Matt Inman on January 6, 2017

In an era where we can access nearly any instrument with the touch of a button, encountering a true acoustic-guitar album—especially one worth listening to all the way through—is a welcome rarity. That Way, the latest offering from guitarist Tim Reynolds, is certainly that album. In addition to his busy schedule with Dave Matthews in both full-band and duo formats, and his work in his own trio TR3, it’s a wonder that Reynolds gets a moment to himself, let alone has time to craft a solo record of 14 new, original tracks. He doesn’t hold back on this one, and after easing the listener into the mood with meditative opening track “A Tangled Web We Weave,” the guitarist launches into the bluesy “Give Up the Goat,” showing his ability to play melodies against basslines and add percussive flourishes at the same time. Elsewhere on the album, Reynolds picks his way around several different genres, whether it’s the classical-guitar movement of songs like “Wish My Heart Would Make Up My Mind” and “Axiom of Maria” or the folky demeanor of songs like “Healing Notion” and “Continue.” All of That Way’s tracks are solo guitar, with the notable exception of closing track, “Where Have the Years…,” which employs sighing strings to accompany Reynold’s steady waltz tempo and rapid, mandolin-like picking. And all of it comes together to build a beautiful, movie-score-ready finale to the album.

Artist: Tim Reynolds
Album: That Way
Label: Beam On Music