"The Soldier's Return: Guitar Music Inspired by Scotland" is a captivating album released in 2016 by the talented guitarist and lutenist James Akers. This stunning collection of romantic guitar works is a testament to the beauty and inspiration drawn from Scottish landscapes, music, and literature. Featuring compositions by Fernando Sor, Mauro Giuliani, Luigi Legnani, and Johann Kaspar Mertz, the album offers a rich and diverse musical experience.
The album spans a full hour and includes twelve tracks, each showcasing the intricate and expressive capabilities of the romantic guitar. Highlights include Sor's "Variations on a Favourite Scottish Air, Op. 40," Giuliani's "Variations on Rossini’s ‘La Marcia’ (from La donna del Lago)," and Mertz's "Bardenklange, Op. 13: III. Fingal’s Cave." Akers' masterful playing brings these works to life, providing a captivating and immersive listening experience.
Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of the guitar, "The Soldier's Return" is an album that will delight and inspire. James Akers' skillful interpretation and the rich diversity of the compositions make this a standout release in the world of classical guitar music.