Reviews of Guitar Songs by Dave Clarke

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Sing Out! magazine, February 2003

"As a member of various bands, currently Steel Rail, and as accompanist to singers like David Francey, Dave Clarke has earned a well-developed reputation as one of Canada's best acoustic guitarists. That reputation will surely be reinforced with this superbly recorded collection of solo guitar compositions, played in a variety of styles, and capturing a variety of moods."

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Ottawa Citizen, January 11, 2003

"Until now, Montreal's Dave Clarke has been best-known as the unassuming lead
guitarist with that city's country/folk trio Steel Rail and accompanist to
Juno-winning folk singer David Francey. With GuitarSongs, Clarke finally
claims the spotlight that is rightly his. Understated and warm, as befits
Clarke's personality, the twelve tracks are rooted in sweet, original
melodies and sparkle with lovely flourishes. Technical virtuosity, of which
Clarke is more than capable, plays handmaiden -- never mistress -- to
theme and composition. And my, does that 1938 Martin D-18 jump in response
to Clarke's fingers! Rounding out the package of folk, Celtic and jazzy
tunes are Clarke's succinct liner notes, offering just enough insight into
the writing of each song that the listener can complete the story himself."

_****  out of five.

Patrick Langston

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Montreal Gazette, December 2002

"An exquisitely executed collection of original solo instrumentals from a Montreal master of the acoustic guitar."

_****  out of five.

Mike Regenstreif

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