A Shout Towards Noon (1988)/ Regards From Chuck Pink

Twee albums, uit 1986 en 1988, in één 2CD-set. Allmusic over "A Shout Towards Noon": "Though the opening cuts are typical Kottke instrumentals -- bouncy guitar pieces with nods to jazz, folk, and blues -- the album is dominated by more moody, somber tunes. In some cases these are in bright folk territory -- "Four Four North" has the tense, repetitive activity of a Hitchcock soundtrack and features some unusual guitar techniques that magnify the sense suspense. Other cuts like "The Ice Field" have the meditative, melancholy character that is more typical of John Fahey's later work. This is one of Kottke's most intriguing albums." Over "Regards From Chuck Pink": "As a whole, the vibe is somewhat lighter in touch, leaning toward jazz and new age shadings with splashes of synth guitar, violin, and electronic woodwinds for accompaniment. Although "Chuck Pink" doesn't have the fire of his earlier work, Kottke hasn't lost his feel for a catchy rhythmic groove and his interpretive reach has grown over the years."