Meaning: This quote by Lee Ritenour, a renowned musician and guitarist, sheds light on the creative process behind his album and the unique musical direction he took. Ritenour is known for his exceptional guitar skills and has collaborated with numerous keyboard players throughout his career. In this quote, he emphasizes the departure from his usual style by creating music that is predominantly guitar-oriented, with minimal or no keyboard presence on certain tracks.

Lee Ritenour's statement reflects a deliberate choice to explore a different musical landscape and challenge himself as an artist. By acknowledging the absence of keyboards on some songs, he highlights a departure from his typical approach to music production. This decision may have been driven by a desire to push the boundaries of his creativity, experiment with new sounds, or simply to offer a fresh perspective to his audience.

Furthermore, Ritenour's mention of the "great keyboard players on the album" suggests that while the overall direction may have shifted towards a guitar-centric sound, he still values the contributions of the keyboardists involved in the project. This acknowledgment underscores the collaborative nature of music-making and the significance of each musician's unique input in shaping the album's sonic landscape.

It's worth noting that Ritenour's willingness to embrace change and venture into uncharted musical territory speaks to his versatility and open-mindedness as an artist. By breaking away from his established patterns and embracing a new approach, he demonstrates a commitment to evolution and growth within his craft.

From a listener's perspective, Ritenour's decision to feature guitar-driven compositions without heavy keyboard backing may offer a different listening experience compared to his previous works. The absence of keyboards could potentially highlight the intricate melodies, rhythms, and tonal textures of the guitar, allowing for a more pronounced focus on the instrument's capabilities and versatility.

In a broader context, Ritenour's quote also prompts reflection on the role of instrumentation in shaping the overall mood and character of a musical piece. The deliberate emphasis on guitar-oriented backing suggests a conscious effort to evoke specific emotions and convey a distinct musical identity through the album.

In conclusion, Lee Ritenour's quote encapsulates his willingness to embrace change, explore new musical territories, and challenge his own artistic conventions. By deviating from his usual reliance on keyboards and emphasizing a guitar-centric approach, Ritenour demonstrates a commitment to evolution and creativity in his musical endeavors. This deliberate shift in musical direction not only showcases his versatility as a musician but also offers a unique listening experience for his audience, inviting them to engage with the expressive power of the guitar in a fresh and compelling way.