The acoustic guitar is transformed into a medium for artistic exploration by British guitarist, composer, and arranger Chris Newman. A member of the Boys of the Lough from 1994 to 1997, Newman continues to weave intricate melodies and spirited instrumentation as a soloist and in collaboration with Irish harper Maire Ni Chathasaigh, with whom he's toured and recorded since 1988. Playing guitar from the age of four, Newman initially focused on British folk music. His interests shifted as a teen, to jazz. In addition to playing with such influential jazz musicians as Stephane Grappelli, Diz Disley, and Denny Wright, Newman sharpened his skills while playing with a long series of acoustic bands. Newman's interests in music veered towards traditional Irish and Scottish music in 1985. ~ Craig Harris