Michael Mucklow - 'The View From Here'

Michael Mucklow is an instrumental guitarist who journeys outside the box. His use of alternate tunings crafts music that speaks volumes for his daring. A diverse background gives Michael the courage to pursue individuality and unusual settings for his solo Fingerstyle guitarwork. While his music springs surprises, it also maintains a state of constant grace as it changes pace and direction. His albums are fresh, laid back, unpretentious, and reassuring in their optimism. Simplicity and positive undertones make a wonderful combination; the result is memorable music. Michael's calm demeanor makes it hard to imagine his background. Writing acoustic guitar-based songs since he was 16, his migration as a musician soon led to the electric guitar. Spending several years in original hard rock and punk bands released a desire to play with passion and intensity - a quality that transfers to the soothing and melodic music he writes today. Life converged, and for a season Michael was part of a Christian band. Connecting with his Source of musical inspiration added depth and dimension to his songwriting. When Michael would perform as a solo guitarist, listeners defined his playing as calming, peaceful...even healing. Michael clearly understood that music had the power to produce a positive impact in the human spirit. His music continued to evolve through influences like Acoustic Alchemy, Will Ackerman and Tommy Emmanuel. Michael's love for the blended sounds of acoustic guitars was solidifying. His exploration of alternate tunings was sparked, re-igniting his desire to write guitar instrumentals. Still, Michael joined two other guitarists to form one last acoustic band before commencing as a solo artist. As lead guitarist, he contributed his skill in writing interesting melodies to combine with the novel lyrics. The band released three albums which offered a fresh and eclectic array of original music. As this band dissolved, Michael knew it was now time to perform and record as a solo guitarist. His solo projects are his response to the blending of influences that have spoken most to his heart over the years. This heartfelt music is meditative and unique, easily appreciated and savored. Listeners will find Michael's instrumental guitar stylings relaxing, calming, peaceful...and yes, perhaps even healing.