Michael Hedges "Breakfast In The Field"

"Breakfast In The Field" was an early (1981) example of the kind of instrumental album guitar-wizard Michael Hedges would soon become known for. Strong from top to bottom, the CD reveals Hedges melodicism and elegance prior to his unbelievable display of percussive effects that would come to the forefront on subsequent albums such as "Aerial Boundaries". His fingerstyle technique rules the sonic landscape here, on cuts such as "Layover", "Peg Leg Speed King" and the title track. "The Funky Avocado", for its part, reveals a bit of what Hedges had in store for the future. Hedges is accompanied in places by pianist George Winston and bassist Michael Manring, while some cuts are pure Michael. "Breakfast In The Field", along with "Aerial Boundaries" are essential listening for fans of Hedges remarkable beginnings.