David Van Auken recorded the themes (in a finger-style guitar manner) in four days. He spent another year adding and editing. All of that work for an almost bare-bones accompaniment of synth, cello, sitar, melodica and "squeezebox" (a fairly generic term for a variety of instruments in the accordion family, and one of the most fabulous euphemisms in rock and roll--but I digress).

David Van Auken American Harmony (self-released)

The editing is spectacular. While the accompaniments are clearly present, they do not overpower the original guitar pieces. They add a bit of a drone feel at times, and at others they add just the right amount of propulsion. The enhancement is subtly sublime.

The delicate nature of the themes makes this final sound even more impressive. The pieces are played unhurriedly, and they never step on the gas. It makes sense that one of Van Auken's upcoming shows is at a yoga studio. These songs are the very definition of ruminative.

This set is a wonderful example of how minimalist pieces can be enhanced with just the right amount accompaniment. Van Auken took his time crafting the final versions of these songs, and that care is evident throughout. Breathtaking.

Jon Worley