As a musician begins to develop, he or she is essentially a product of in-  uences. Musical syntax is developed by study, repetition, and memorization. Often a musician becomes a life-long recycler of arti ce, never truly  nding their unique musical identity or language. Choosing their authentic selves and inhabiting their own sound world through their collaboration has been the essential goal for guitarist Brandon Ross and acoustic bass guitarist Stomu Takeishi. Their duo, For Living Lovers, returns with Natural Name, a moving display of their interlocking values and incredible interplay.

The music that For Living Lovers creates is unique in sound, structure, and texture. Performing on acoustic string instruments designed by world renowned luthier Steve Klein, the duo’s sound is natural, resonant, and full of personality. The forms of Ross’ original compositions are built to provide a context for him and Takeishi to create and develop music in the moment, eluding staid responses and re exive patterns. As the primary composer, Ross takes these elements and a wide variety of visual and philosophical in-  uences to inform the pieces for the duo.