Six Organs of Admittance took a huge step forward with Dark Noontide — the second full-length from the essentially one-man acoustic project — without completely abandoning the sound of its predecessor. While still operating within a tradition that includes such blues/raga guitarists as John Fahey and Sandy Bull, Dark Noontide brings vocals to a more prominent position on songs like “Spirits Abandoned” and “This Hand.” Connecting these more song-oriented outings are perfectly paced drones and ambient field recordings that are enjoyable on their own merits. Working within a very limited framework — essentially solo guitar and four-track manipulations — Six Organs is able to explore a surprising variety of moods and textures on Dark Noontide. – Jason Nickey