what people are saying...

In the 1960’s John Fahey and a few others started a whole movement of guitar music based on traditional themes. Danny Combs is a young guitarist from Asheville, North Carolina whose music belongs to that tradition. On this album, his first on the Solid Air label, he does 14 original tunes. They are all very nicely done. Most have a slightly bluesy feel, much in the vein of the afore-mentioned Fahey. This is an album that will delight those who enjoy instrumental guitar music.

-- Victory Review Magazine

Debut albums can sometimes receive kind notices, with reviewers not wanting to crush the spirit of an aspiring and developing musician. For Danny Combs' debut "Guitar Out Front" on Solid Air Records (a notable achievement to start), kindness isn't necessary; it's just a fine record and stands on its own. With clear and precise playing and finely crafted melodies, Combs captures the essence of modern fingerstyle songcraft. With a background in classical guitar, Combs releases his steel string in open tunings, allowing the extra ringing quality to hang in the air, with musical depth dropping from the notes. One song that reflects this is the final cut, "Going to Kansas", that takes the listener on a journey slow enough to enjoy but not too slow to want to get off. The jaunty "Here We Go" uses descending chord progressions to effectively emphasize movement and hope. Many of the songs have a slow, contemplative air, like "Contemplation", "Cedar Creek", and "Baby Steps". Bent strings and hammer-ons punctuate the solid melody on "Contemplation". "Stained Glass" is a bit darker in color than most of the songs on the CD, but its melody is riveting and entangles the listener. Celtic flavors in DADGAD tuning touch the upbeat "Bartholomew's Jig". Combs shows some well-groomed chops on this debut CD, the recording is top notch, and anyone who likes modern fingerstyle guitar would do well to give it a listen.

-- Minor 7th

Christ, church, family, friends, and a dog named Palmer are all inspirations to Danny Combs…to me, it is these inspirations that allow Danny to write and play music that is beautiful, powerful, and touching all at the same time.

-- John Roten - WPEX/WMXF