MIKE GORDON AND LEO KOTTKE ANNOUNCE TOUR

Characterized by an inviting, intimate tone, CLONE is propelled by a deft mix of spirited guitar-and-bass instrumental tracks and warm, flavorful vocal performances by Kottke and Gordon – markedly presented within a full menu of lead and harmony combinations. Produced by the duo with Paul duGré (X, Pontiac Brothers, Down By Law), the 14-track album finds Kottke adding “kitchen” percussion parts along with guitar while, in addition to bass, Gordon plays piano, electric guitar, and percussion. Recorded at duGré’s Burbank, California studio, CLONE is further highlighted by a stirring version of “I Am A Lonesome Fugitive,” notably recorded by blues-rock pioneer Roy Buchanan over 30 years ago.

The CLONE story traces back some three years, when Gordon – a longtime admirer of Kottke – introduced himself during one of the guitarist’s recent concert tours. He also took the opportunity to present Kottke, who reportedly has yet to witness a Phish performance, with a cassette of Gordon’s bass overdubs on a number of favorite Kottke originals. Soon thereafter, the two musicians became fast friends and an active correspondence soon developed. During breaks in their busy individual schedules, the pair arranged a series of meetings in order to share and experiment with a variety of musical ideas. As the exchanges became more frequent and involved, plans for a formal recording session took shape. Earlier this year, Kottke and Gordon enlisted duGré into the project, eventually giving rise to the completed album – the first from Kottke since the 1999 Private Music release of One Guitar, No Vocals.

Upcoming Tour dates for Leo Kottke and Mike Gordon: