What does 6- and 12-String Guitar sound like?

Intricate fingerpicking and soulful melodies create a tapestry of folk and blues that captivates with its raw authenticity. Rooted in blues and traditional folk music. Start with "The Driving of the Year Nail".

Is 6- and 12-String Guitar a good place to start with Leo Kottke?

Yes, 6- and 12-String Guitar is recommended as a starting point for new Leo Kottke listeners. Intricate fingerpicking and soulful melodies create a tapestry of folk and blues that captivates with its raw authenticity. Upon the release of '6- and 12-String Guitar' in 1969, Leo Kottke was establishing himself within the acoustic guitar scene following his debut album '2010' in 1968. This sophomore effort showcased his unique style and virtuosity, building on the critical acclaim he received just a year prior, positioning him as a prominent figure in American folk music.

Who is 6- and 12-String Guitar for?

6- and 12-String Guitar works well if you're into steady flow with intricate details, playful storytelling through guitar and for afternoon relaxation.

How many songs are on 6- and 12-String Guitar?

6- and 12-String Guitar has 14 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

6- and 12-String Guitar

Leo Kottke · 1969

37 min · 14 tracks · blues

Intricate fingerpicking and soulful melodies create a tapestry of folk and blues that captivates with its raw authenticity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Driving of the Year Nail Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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The Last of the Arkansas Greyhounds — This track exemplifies Kottke's storytelling ability through music, blending intricate guitar work with vivid imagery that captures the spirit of Americana.
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Vaseline Machine Gun — With its playful title and complex arrangement, this piece showcases Kottke's innovative approach to rhythm and melody, marking a standout moment on the album.
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Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring — Kottke’s interpretation transforms this classical piece into a folk masterpiece, highlighting his technical prowess and ability to bridge genres effortlessly.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

Kottke's blend of intricate fingerstyle and emotive melodies sets a high standard for acoustic guitar music.

What we noticed

The last three tracks shift to a more contemplative mood, with slower tempos and extended melodies that allow for deeper emotional expression.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady flow with intricate details
playful storytelling through guitar
for afternoon relaxation
brief tracks encourage repeated listens

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy dance tracks
prefer lengthy, immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album established Kottke's reputation in the acoustic guitar scene.
Themes: American folk storytelling· intricate guitar landscapes· blues-infused Americana
Career context: Upon the release of '6- and 12-String Guitar' in 1969, Leo Kottke was establishing himself within the acoustic guitar scene following his debut album '2010' in 1968. This sophomore effort showcased his unique style and virtuosity, building on the critical acclaim he received just a year prior, positioning him as a prominent figure in American folk music.
Stylistic neighbors: John Fahey· Bert Jansch· Michael Hedges