Andy McKee is one of the world’s leading acoustic guitarists, celebrated for his virtuosic fingerstyle technique and deeply melodic approach. Known for combining technical innovation with strong songcraft, McKee has built a global following through his captivating performances and distinctive sound. After nearly a decade without new studio recordings, he returns with Symbol, a six-track EP released via Mythmaker Records and Cruzen Street Records. The project features McKee’s interpretations of influential works by artists including Michael Hedges, Preston Reed, and Prince, blending intricate technique with expressive storytelling. A dynamic live performer, McKee delivers performances that balance precision and emotion, transforming the acoustic guitar into a full, orchestral experience that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Charlie Ballantine is a rising force in contemporary jazz, named one of the top 200 living guitarists by All About Jazz and a Rising Star in the DownBeat Critics Poll. Praised by JazzTimes for playing “teeming with intricate grooves and maniacal precision,” Ballantine blends jazz, rock, and folk into a distinctive, genre-fluid voice. With acclaimed releases including Vonnegut, Cold Coffee, and Life Is Brief: The Music of Bob Dylan, named a Top 10 Jazz Album of the Year by All About Jazz, he balances original compositions with a deep respect for the jazz tradition. Often compared to guitarists like John Scofield, Bill Frisell, and Julian Lage, his music merges harmonic sophistication with groove-driven improvisation. A dynamic live performer, Ballantine has appeared at major festivals across North America, delivering high-energy sets that resonate with both jazz purists and new audiences alike.
