Craig Erickson – Loveland

Craig Erickson’s “Loveland” is an instrumental composition that integrates acoustic and electric components, leading to an atmosphere that feels both “lonely” and “open.” The song begins with a gentle acoustic guitar, providing a pleasant and peaceful tone, before the electric guitar slowly comes in, complimenting the acoustic in a smooth way. The production sounds like ambient and new age, which contributes to the track’s ethereal atmosphere. By 0:37, the electric guitar has developed a unique rock sound, influenced by Jeff Beck and Joe Satriani’s Flying in a Blue Dream time. Erickson’s guitar is smooth and expressive, with a blues rock basis and a crystal-clear production. The use of strings throughout the song provides a melodic, AOR vibe, indicating similarities to Toto’s softer, more melodic work, particularly the dream-like guitar parts. At 3:35, the tune takes an intentional pause as the acoustic guitar returns, accompanied by dreamy synth pads and strings, creating anew age vibe. This moment of peacefulness feels like a spiritual intermission, giving the listener time to breathe before the Blues Rock-inspired guitar returns, slower and more expressive. Erickson’s guitar playing is expressive and sophisticated, and the music concludes with a sense of philosophical reflection.