“Away in a Memory” by Robert Linton
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything from award-winning guitarist Robert Linton. But we do have some great memories. . . In 2016, his album, “Beyond the Clearing,” was nominated for “Best Instrumental Acoustic Album of 2016” in the Zone Music Reporter (ZMR) awards. As well, then, in 2019, Robert’s album, “Adrift in Wonder,” won the Zone Music Reporter’s (ZMR) “Best Acoustic Album.”
Fast forward into the present moment and Robert’s new full album, “Away into a Memory” is set to be released October 17th, 2025. Co-produced by Corin Nelsen, the album includes guest artists Graham Cullen (cello), Sara Milonovich (violin), Premik Tubbs (EWI), Trevor Gordon Hall (guitar), Jennifer Defrayne (clarinet), Jeff Haynes (percussion), and Jill Haley (English Horn).
“Away into a Memory” is an album that reflects the true loveliness of the natural world and embodies the beauty we discover in the simplicities of life. It softly illuminates the importance of loved ones around us and communicates the heartfelt emotion experienced through life’s events both big and small. Each song on the 9-track album is an elegant soundtrack to the doorway of soul-stirring memories from the past as well as to joyful present experiences. And there we find ourselves, “away into a memory.”
The album opens with the title track, which is an elegant, uncontrived invitation to the rest of what is here. We are simply reminded to remember, reflect, and embrace all that is life. Guitar (Robert Linton), cello (Graham Cullen), and EWI (Premik Russell Tubbs), weave a wonderful dance of love and light.
Following is the equally tranquil, “Times of Gathering.” Special memories of times spent together easily come up here with the gentle dual guitars of both Trevor Gordon Hall and Linton.
A favorite on the album is “Reaching the Field’s Edge.” (Be sure to watch the music video). Sara Milonovich’s sweet violin blends beautifully with Robert’s soft guitar. Here we have time to reflect upon life’s special moments while strolling through and enjoying the solitude of the countryside.
Jennifer DeFrayne’s clarinet along with Robert’s melodic guitar makes “Covering the Pathway” deeply resonant. Here we have memories of autumn leaves blowing softly in the breeze. Just beautiful.
The entire album is a serene walk on a pathway of tranquility, eliciting feelings of peace, calmness, and well-being. Some other highlights: “In the Quiet of the Trees,” features Jill Haley on English horn, which adds rich depth and texture to an already graceful composition.
“Searching for Clovers” is reminiscent of Robert and his mother searching for four leaf clovers. Somewhat plucky guitar along with graceful violin make this one a special memory to hold forever.
The album closes out with “Flickering of Summer Light.” Even when summer inevitably ends, we are left with our precious memories of life’s glorious seasons. Jeff Haynes’ percussion blends wonderfully with Robert’s guitar and Premik Russell Tubbs’ soulful EWI, making this track – and the whole album, in fact – one to keep in our hearts forever.
Mellow, memorable, and most relaxing, it’s a must have.
Pre-order the physical CD in Robert’s online store. (Limited and signed, 300 copies). Also available on all digital platforms October 17, 2025.
Official artist website: https://robertlinton.com
