R.D. King is an instrumentalist storyteller. In his debut release vs. Self, King blends guitar acrobatics with emotional and intellectual sensitivity to craft a deep, reflective journey. Each of the nine original tracks holds nothing but solo guitar, despite the album’s rich textures. King’s use of fingerpicks (metal picks that wrap around the end of each finger) lend the guitar a distinct and unusual timbre. There’s a care for songwriting and melody that emulates pop; rhythms and ideas that more closely resemble rock; and a compositional intricacy reminiscent of classical music. Despite its complexity, the compilation retains a surprising and cinematic accessibility. Bio R.D. King plays a genre-defying, fingers-blazing type of instrumental acoustic guitar that fuses pop melodies, metal rhythms, folk fingerstyle, and hints of jazz harmony. His original songs captivate audiences by exploring emotional ideas and compelling narratives - all without singing a single word. R.D. King grew up in eastern Massachusetts and studied classical guitar at Ithaca College. After graduation, he returned to Boston to hone his craft. King draws inspiration from literature, philosophy, psychology, and meditation. Born into a family of writers, artists, and musicians, King has always turned to creative process as the framework for introspection and growth. He currently teaches and performs out of Somerville, MA.