Cover artwork: Blue Head by Wliiam Kentridge is an original limited edition etching published by David Krut Publishing, originated in 1993, and editioned at 107 Workshop, Wiltshire by master-printer Jack Shirreff.

Derek Gripper's powerful recording juxtaposes his multi-layered compositions for solo guitar and voice with compositions by iconic Brazilian composer and multi-instrumentalist Egberto Gismonti.

From Joni, the expansive 15 minute opening track, to the explosive bass of Dance of the Heads, the hushed, jazzy tones of Ano Zero, and the evocations of the Kalahari in Copenhagen, The Sound of Water takes the listener on a journey that transcends the accepted notions of what a guitar can do.

Butcher’s sound engineering has revealed a new power and depth with The Sound of Water, a departure from Gripper’s previous recordings which were characterised by a raw and elegant minimalism.

Read more about the CD here:

www.derekgripper.com/acoustic-guitar-albums/the-sound-of-water/

“One of the things that allows Gripper to stand out against the crowd of modern guitarists, are the vast array of sounds that he can draw from the instrument...Gripper is able to transcend the instrument with his performances...his ability on the instrument...is absolutely world-class...his voice is so personal, so unique, that it leaps from the speakers and goes beyond the instrument itself.

Gripper also brings a huge amount of intensity and emotional energy to his playing. There is never a note wasted or phrase played that isn’t carefully sculpted to bring out the artist’s full emotional intent for that moment in time...Gripper’s music is full of an energy and drive that is contagious, and that will remain with the listener long after the music has faded from the speakers.

The Sound of Water is a remarkable record...that showcases his extraordinary abilities as a composer, arranger and performer. With such a strong release, it is only a matter of time before Gripper becomes recognized across the globe for his contributions to modern guitar performance and composition.” [Matthew Warnock, Guitar International.

www.derekgripper.com

Tracks 3,4,6,8,9 by Egberto Gismonti
Tracks 1,2,7,10 by Derek Gripper
Track 5 by Heitor Villa Lobos

all arrangements by Derek Gripper