Guitarist Scott Metzger spent the past decade earning a reputation as one of the most adventurous improvisers in live music. When he wasn’t sharing the stage w/ the likes of Phil Lesh, John Scofield or Nels Cline, he was playing to massive crowds w/ JRAD. His musical interests, however, run broader than those bona fides suggest. He pursues projects like WOLF!, a hard-charging, electrified guitar trio that balances tight compositions w/ group improvisation and his own solo acoustic presentation w/ guitarist Simon Kafka and violinist Katie Jacoby. When the global pandemic darkened stages everywhere, Metzger hunkered down in Brooklyn and did what came naturally—he picked up the guitar every day and wrote instrumental music. Shortly thereafter, he booked time at Brooklyn studio, Restoration Sound, to document the guitar pieces he’d created. The result is Too Close to Reason—Metzger’s first solo album in what’s already a distinguished 20-+ year career. The 12-track collection showcases a more contemplative side of his musical personality. The through line is found in Metzger's ability to manage conflicting tensions. He’s introspective without being self-indulgent, welcoming without being a crowd-pleaser. His debut reveals an artist in full bloom who has honed his craft and knows himself, contradictions and all. With Too Close to Reason, Scott Metzger has created the musical equivalent of a mirror and he invites us to pear into that reflection by listening deeply.