"R.D. King released an album of masterfully crafted instrumentals in vs. Self, his debut effort. Comprised of nine tracks of transformative journeys of sound, King fully utilizes and expands the capabilities of the instrument, creating an ensemble sound with his fingers." - The Deli Magazine

In vs. Self, King blends guitar acrobatics with an emotional and intellectual sensitivity to craft a reflective journey that defies genres and expectations. Although you won’t find any vocals on this album (King is an instrumentalist only), that doesn’t detract from its cinematic imagery and vivid storytelling. Each of the nine original tracks feature nothing but solo guitar—something many listeners have difficulty believing, given the fullness of sound. 

King’s use of fingerpicks (metal picks that wrap around the end of each finger) lend the guitar a distinct and unusual timbre. There’s a care for songwriting and melody that emulates pop; rhythms and ideas that more closely resemble rock; and a compositional intricacy reminiscent of classical music. Despite the complexity of the music, it retains a surprising accessibility.

vs. Self

Vertigo

Acoustic guitarist extraordinaire. 2017 Winner of the Canadian Guitar Festival's International Fingerstyle Guitar Competition. Second album release via Candyrat Records January 2019! www.rdkingmusic.com