Old school guitar workout.

Sonny Landreth’s ninth album, From the Reach slides his trusty strat right up next to five of his favorite guitar players; Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Robben Ford, Eric Johnson and Vince Gill. To avoid the clichéd “duets” project label, the Southwest Louisiana based singer/guitarist/songwriter has written each song for the artists he’s playing with. The playing confirms that these guys like each other, a lot. 

As this is his first album since Hurricane Katrina, the rebuilding of the area is the focus of many of the songs beginning with a fiery riff-off with Mark Knopfler on “Blue Tarp Blues.” When he sings the album’s opening line “Air Force One had a heck of a view” you know you’re in for an emotional ride.  “Storm of Worry” with Eric Clapton is a slow churning blues rocker and they also collaborate on “When I Still Had You” recalling some of Slowhand’s work with Derek and the Dominos and Delaney and Bonnie. “Howlin’ Moon” provides a welcome change up from all the guitar soloing with Dr. John’s voice and piano work. Jimmy Buffett even joins the party for background vocals on this funky Cajun swamp tune. Landreth and Johnson blast into outer space with the instrumental “The Milky Way Home.” 

From the Reach is not only a great showcase for Sonny Landreth’s slide guitar but for his songwriting as well.  The imagery of water is felt throughout, from the lyrics to the fluid interacting with the players he has “reached” out to. Tailoring each song the strength of his collaborators provides the depth and variety that make this one of his best albums.

Listen for songs from the album From the Reach by Sonny Landreth all this week on Paul Shugrue’s new music show “Out of the Box” on Hampton Roads public radio 89.5 WHRV Mon. through Thurs. from 7 to 9 p.m., Sat. afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m. and on-demand at www.whrv.org/outofthebox.