The brainchild of Patty Larkin (who will be playing in Rockford on February 4th), this compilation showcases women who excel at playing guitar. While there is no one particular style most of the music here is instrumental. As is generally the case with any various artists' compilation, some of the music is better than the other. The truth is, though, anyone who has an interest in hearing what is capable with guitar, in all sorts of varying types of music should really check this one out.  According to Larkin, "the goal of La Guitara is to better define the contribution of women to the history of modern guitar." That's an admirable goal and the disc does much to accomplish it. More importantly, though, it's a very enlightening and often entertaining listening experience.

Whatever style of music is your personal favorite, you'll most likely find it here. The album opens with a world music, Asian themed ambient piece that should appeal to those who listen to "new age" music. There are both classical and Latin acoustic guitar based songs on show here. For those who like their guitar music to be more heavily based in the blues - have no fear you have been considered on this disc. Mellow jazz and hints of progressive rock also show up. Add in to the mix one crunchy guitar hero type jam and an Indian tinged, traditional Arabic sounding piece and you'll be pretty much up to the contents of the disc.

For my money there are some standout tracks. I'd have to say that Larkin's own "Bound Brook" which seems to put in progressive rock textures, blues and new age along with some classical elements is definitely one of those. Memphis Minnie's "Let's Go To Town" with it's down home authentic blues textures also works extremely well. "Lady Byrd" by Mimi Fox may well have you convinced your sitting down front at a smoke filled jazz club in Paris. Sounding like a guitar solo from a progressive rock album, Kaki King's "Kewpie Station" is another of the winners here. Alex Houghton's "The Bear" is another point that might make you think of a progressive rock disc, but it also shows of signs of jazz. Fans of Led Zeppelin's type of acoustic blues should really enjoy Rory Block's "Guitar Ditty 1."

While those are the tracks that I would consider the best here, there really are no bad songs in the collection, just some that don't rise quite so high in my personal tastes. Anyone who likes guitar based music, particularly guitar based music with varying flavors should pick this album up. If you are a fan of any of the artists here, you should also get it. You know you'll like one song for certain, and there's a really good chance you'll appreciate more, and perhaps find a new artist (or several) whose music you can explore.