In this episode, we sit down with guitarist and composer Ben Garnett to explore his new sophomore album Kite’s Keep. We dig into the creative process behind the record — from world-building and sonic narrative to the delicate balance of ensemble interplay. We talk about how Ben frames the guitar not just as a lead instrument but as a collaborator in the story, weaving through textures, dynamic shifts, and conversational exchanges. We also break down his production and mixing choices, how he works with his collaborators (Darol Anger, Brittany Haas, Chris Eldridge, Ethan Jodziewicz, Paul Kowert, Matt Glassmeyer), and the emotional arc he designed across the tracklist. Whether you produce acoustic music, write for small ensembles, or just love hearing how a record is constructed from the inside out, this episode offers insights you can apply to your own musical projects.

Topics Discussed in the Episode:

• Ben Garnett’s artistic vision behind Kite’s Keep
• Approaches to “world-building” in acoustic music
• Role of instrumentation & ensemble interplay
• Guitar as collaborator: composing from inside the texture
• Recording, mixing & sonic decisions (space, balance, dynamics)
• Working with notable collaborators and improvisation vs structure
• Creative lessons & takeaways from the making of Kite’s Keep
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Connect with Us:

• Chris Jacobie: Instagram • Website • Free Creative Connection Chat
• JP Ruggieri: Instagram • Website • Patreon
• Ben Garnett: Website • Instagram

Ways to Support This Podcast:

• Visit our websites for show updates & extra resources
• Share this episode with fellow producers, instrumentalists, and music fans
• Leave us a review on your preferred podcast platform
• Check out Kite’s Keep and related music from Ben Garnett