Discography
BORDERLINE NORMAL 2007
"A treat for the ears - very reflective- a continuous flow of inspiration of the deeper layers of the soul" -Bridge Guitar Reviews
“Guitar miniatures that tell stories within themselves. A delightful diversion with an attention to craft you don't often see/hear.”
- Midwest Record
“The essence of the music is all that matters here- almost impressionistic - shifting and drifting through a beautiful haze of sound." - MISH MASH
CRANES IN THE MOONLIGHT 2023
"I travel vicariously on the string vibrations James Filkins and his brilliant brand new album Cranes in the Moonlight . . . for the listener, what Filkins does so well is to take them to each moment, each location, and each natural landscape, leave them for a while and move then once more onward. This album is truly a must have for anyone that adores truly good instrumental music with a view; this is indeed top stuff. - One World Music
"James Filkins, an acoustic guitarist and composer, describes himself as a "sonic wanderer" an especially apt description of his music on Cranes in the Moonlight, his latest CD of acoustic ruminations. His impressionistic music is characterized by lush tones, chiming harmonics, layers of sound, and soulful depth of feeling. . . On this impressive album the compositions - whether drawn from his personal life or from his close attention to nature - work together seamlessly as if part of one larger piece. Although introspective, Filkins arresting music is inclusionary, drawing the listener in to share in the wonders of the journey. " -The Minor 7th
SUMMER SANDS & SLEEPING BEARS 2012
"A Reflective and never hurried... a musical departure that expresses the peace and joy of having been here, and the hope to return again sometime.” - The Minor 7th
The original songs presented on this CD are uplifting tunes that mirror Northern Michigan summer days. They are soft and serene yet captivating and powerful, similar to the sights and sounds of our beloved Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.” - MyNorth.com