David Valdes "Lost In The Dark Curse" (2008)

Not every guitarist builds a following on concert stages or major-label releases. David Valdes built his one video at a time. For six years, the guitarist shared his music online, posting performances that steadily won over a growing audience of fans and fellow players around the world. "Lost In The Dark Curse" is his way of thanking them. This all-instrumental, live-in-the-studio program presents 15 of Valdes's songs, performed with him playing over his own backing tracks, giving fans of those original videos a polished, definitive version of the music they've come to love. Fans of progressive instrumental guitar will find plenty to enjoy, from intricate, technically demanding passages to moody, atmospheric melodies. One especially thoughtful touch is the use of split-screen views whenever a song features harmony parts or interweaving contrapuntal lines, so you can see exactly how each part fits together - a real treat for guitarists hoping to learn from his playing. Perhaps most telling of all is the spirit behind the project. Valdes made it not for profit, but out of a genuine love for the instrument and a desire to share that passion with guitarists everywhere. In a world full of players chasing fame, there's something refreshing about an artist motivated simply by the joy of playing, and that sincerity shines through in every song.