The roots of ‘Might Could’ can be traced back to 2001 when University of Maryland grad students Andy Tillostson and Tim McCaskey, aided by an early ‘Might Could’ alumni Scott Phillips, recorded a series of acoustic guitar demos on a self-produced ‘bare bones’ CD. The now out of print CD was released in November of 2003 without much fanfare and went virtually unnoticed – but set the wheels in motion for a grander plan. And from that series of recordings the duo resuscitated a pair of choice tunes which appeared on the groups later ‘polished’ projects.
Between 2003 and 2005 the acoustic duo of Tillostson and McCaskey eventually paired up with Aaron Geller (guitar) and Luis Nasser (bass), expanding into a bona fide ‘band’ and released the album “All Intertwined” to critical acclaim in prog and art rock circles.
In 2007 the group followed up with “Wood Knot”, an equally impressive collection of eight instrumental acoustic pieces reminiscent of the California Guitar Trio, King Crimson, Steve Hackett, and the medieval acoustic folk tunes of Ian Anderson.
I’ve never been a big fan of the whole ‘Unplugged’ phenomena – or instrumental acoustic albums in general performed solely on guitar or piano. I like a broader sound pallet and the combined texture of multiple instruments and percussion. But I appreciate a good tune. And “Wood Knot” is a perfect marriage of intricate guitar interplay and well conceived melodic compositions with a distinctive hook – plus an ambitious tapestry of jazz fusion, new world, progressive, and traditional folk.
There are moments reminiscent of the mechanical gymnastic interplay between Robert Fripp and Adrian Belew, as well as the romantic ethereal emotions of Steve Hackett (acoustic solo “Horizons” from “Foxtrot”) or the fluid guitar work of Andy Latimer of Camel. So this should appeal to guitar enthusiast – Tillostson, McCaskey, Geller and Nasser are accomplished adventurous musicians.
“Wood Knot” is the perfect companion to your morning cup of coffee, or a great way to decompress after a hectic workday.
Reviewed by Joseph Shingler on February 19th, 2008
