Emanations

Emanations features the musical alchemy of Canadian Lyall Steel, who takes a foundation in classical, flamenco and folk music disciplines and composes a musical hybrid for classical guitar. Steel's second album, the CD opens with a twenty-year-old piece, "Spanish Breeze", then follows with newer compositions which display technical mastery, sensitivity and a passion for the emotional side of guitar playing. Emanations features nine originals in all, and anyone alive who loves acoustic guitar music needs to hear Steel's work - it's quite engaging and can be listened to in a variety of settings. There's enough depth to challenge a serious listener, and enough melody to brighten up the atmosphere when you're doing something else. Tough to pull off, but Steel succeeds.