Jim “Kimo” West goes west to do the Ghost Town Waltz on his new single and video — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
The latest track from the Grammy-winning Hawaiian slack key guitarist, producer, and composer’s latest album Of Wood And Spirit: American Guitar Stores, the hauntingly beautiful track invites listeners into an evocative soundscape where lingering melodies dance through the remnants of a deserted town. It arrives accompanied bt a new video with crowdsourced photos and video clips, woven together in a compelling montage by acclaimed video artist Doug Henry.
Of Wood And Spirit takes listeners on a musical journey. Kimo’s innovative compositions and intricate fingerpicking are showcased while staying true to the essence of slack key guitar. The album seamlessly weaves in influences from genres such as West African guitar, New Age, classical and Americana music. It serves as a testament to Kimo’s deep reverence for the American landscape and the spiritual energy unique to each location. The universal language of music connects them all.
West’s journey into the enchanting world of “ki ho’alu” (or slack key) guitar began in Maui in 1985, when he was introduced to the captivating sounds of Gabby Pahinui, Sons Of Hawaii, Sonny Chillingworth and Atta Isaacs. These influences left an indelible mark on his musical soul, leading him to explore the alternate tunings and the soul-stirring melodies of slack key guitar.
Kimo’s reputation as one of the world’s preeminent slack key guitarists is evident in his music, which has garnered over 75 million spins on leading streaming platforms. He won a Grammy in 2021 for his album More Guitar Stories and was nominated in 2019 for Moku Maluhia-Peaceful Island. Additionally, Kimo is a four-time Na Hoku Hanohano (Hawaiian Grammy) nominee and a two-time recipient of the L.A. Treasures Award for his unwavering commitment to preserving the acoustic guitar tradition.
Watch the video for Ghost Town Waltz above, check out more music and tour dates from Jim “Kimo” West below, and visit him on his website, Instagram and Twitter.
Jim “Kimo” West Concerts
Sept. 17 | Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, Ojai
Oct. 18 – Nov. 20 | Nacht Der Gitarren (International Guitar Night Europe)
Dec. 2 | Lord of The Strings Holiday Show, Civic Center, Mission Viejo
