Little Spencer - Little Spencer (2014)

Little Spencer is an acoustic guitar duo from Australia currently residing in the cultural mecca of Berlin. Their eponymous debut is an eclectic synthesis of many diverse styles, creating an eclectic myriad of musical landscapes. Geordie Little plays a nylon stringed flamenco in a very unorthodox way. He seamlessly alternates between brilliantly executed finger style passages and his own percussive lap slack technique. Bob Spencer, on the other hand, played in several prominent Australian Rock bands and offers impressive single note soloing and chordal accompaniment on his steel string. He selflessly compliments rather than competes with Little's impressive and innovative style. The playful "Afro Judit" features Little's intricate percussive passages graced by Spencer's bluesy riffing. The flamenco flavored "Red Plains" showcases dazzling syncopated rhythmic playing by Little and articulate minor key improvising by Spencer. The pastoral "Plant the Seed," contains lush chords, impassioned single note motifs, and elegantly performed counterpoint passages. There is a delicate and intuitive interplay between the two players that is reminiscent of John Abercrombie and Ralph Towner's seminal collaborations. The album closes with the cinematic ballad "Spiders Webb." Little Spencer has released a recording that is both innovative and alluring and is highly recommended for all listeners of new age or contemporary instrumental music. © James Scott