Customer Reviews

The Very Best of Acoustic Alchemy

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Like a lot of people who went on to become big fans of Acoustic Alchemy, I first heard songs from "Natural Elements" on the radio in the late 80's. In those days, they were a guitar act first and foremost, a beautiful combination of nylon string and steel string acoustic guitars, with all of the other instruments very much in supporting roles. As the years went by and the albums kept coming, they developed a much lusher, very produced, sound and the guitars were not so much their raison d'etre. This album has a good sampling of both the early and the late eras.

I would say that one of the defining characteristics of Acoustic Alchemy's music is how well it holds up over time. I have listened to Red Dust and Spanish Lace and Natural Elements literally hundreds of times and they are as fresh and exciting today as the first time I ever heard them. To my mind, the later albums are spottier, two or three great tracks and the rest just good. I think this is particularly true since the death of founding member Nick Webb.

So, if you don't know Acoustic Alchemy, this album would be a very good introduction. If you like what you hear, I suggest you pick up one or more of their first three albums, Red Dust and Spanish Lace, Natural Elements or Blue Chip. If you love what you hear, try some of the later albums - I would say Reference Point, although others might disagree - just be aware that it's a very different band and sound on those albums.

I have a few albums by Acoustic Alchemy already, among them, "Back On The Case," "Reference Point," and "The Beautiful Game," but this is far and away the best. I thought I'd play it as background music while on the computer but it grabbed my attention.

Even though you might think you'll be on guitar overload with 16 songs, it's just a very enjoyable album that I don't get tired of listening to. I actually bought this to give to a friend who loves the song "Jamaica Heartbeat," included on this album, but now I think I'll have to order another copy.

If you enjoy Acoustic Alchemy, I guarantee you'll love this album.

As a long-time AA fan, I am very pleased to have a "Best" CD to slide in the player when I need a quick string fix. This is a great selection of fan faves and a good enticement to pull out the full CDs and hear all the superb AA tracks.

I have been a fan of Acoustic Alchemy for several years and these guys are the best. Ther music is soft, relaxing and extremely rich! In this album they certainly group some of their best performances. Recommended.

Acoustic alchemy has somehow, revitalized the concept of the guitar in the multiple possibilities the jazz as artistic movement offers, and they have vindicated in sum grade, with smart and arresting arrangements in which the creativity always shines.

His sound is original, fresh and innovative, so that's why it's very difficult to fail at the moment to acquire any one of their works.

I heard a song or two on the radio in my car one day and I just had to find out who these guys were. I called the radio station to find out. Jamaica Heartbeat and Shoot the Loop were the songs. I was hooked! This CD in particular is one that I NEVER get tired of listening to. Every song is enjoyable and relaxing. The entire CD takes me to a variety of far away places. I would absolutely love to see them in concert. A very talented group of guys!

This CD is TOPS - both classical Spanish style guitar and smooth jazz. If you're weary of all the David Sanborn saxophone wannabees, this is an excellent band to get acquainted with. - Paul VL

Ordered this recently with a gold box deal, and it became an immediate favorite in my household. My 20 & 14 yr. old sons LOVE it! So does their mom! A great collection of music from Acoustic Alchemy. What can I say? We all love acoustic guitar and this is some of the best of the best. Highly recommend for personal enjoyment or as an affordable treat for someone else.

This is a fantastic album. Every song is different and great. I can't stop listening to it.

This is my first album by Accoustic Alchemy, most of the tracks are first class hence I want to buy more of their staff,five stars ratting from me