Greenhouse (Leo Kottke album)

Greenhouse is the seventh studio album by American acoustic guitarist Leo Kottke, released in 1972 on Capitol Records. It is considered one of Kottke's most accessible and popular albums, showcasing his signature fingerpicking style and diverse musical influences.

The album is primarily instrumental, featuring Kottke's virtuosic playing on both 6-string and 12-string guitars. The tracks are known for their intricate melodies, complex rhythms, and dynamic range. Several tracks also feature Kottke's distinctive, unconventional vocals, often characterized by their raspy and somewhat unconventional delivery.

Greenhouse displays a blend of folk, blues, jazz, and ragtime elements. Some tracks demonstrate a more introspective and lyrical approach, while others are more energetic and improvisational. The album is often praised for its originality and its influence on other acoustic guitarists.

The album's title, Greenhouse, is believed to refer to the environment in which Kottke's music was nurtured and allowed to flourish, or perhaps to the warmth and organic feel of the music itself. While never achieving mainstream commercial success, Greenhouse remains a highly regarded and influential work in the acoustic guitar genre.