, C.G.P.
My Tribute to Chet Atkins

The letters “c.g.p.” are an abbreviation for “certified guitar player,” which the late Chet Atkins reportedly bestowed on only four players that he felt were deserving of the title: Tommy Emmanuel, John Knowles, Jerry Reed, and Steve Wariner. Wariner’s tribute to Atkins— who was his boss, musical mentor, producer, and friend—is a beautifully recorded collection of original compositions that covers the styles Atkins made famous during his long career, as well as a few tunes that Atkins himself recorded or performed. So whether it’s a classic like “John Henry” or a tribute tune such as “Chet’s Guitar,” what comes across here is Wariner’s dazzling skill at fingerpicking in the Atkins style, which he does with soul and a deep commitment to preserving the legacy of the man he calls “the greatest and most influential guitarist on the planet.” SelecTone.

—Art Thompson