Reviews Written By: AF74UAKV3Q3W0provided by Amazon.com |
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 | Quicken Willmaker Plus 2009 Edition: Estate Planning Essentials (Book with Software) | |
 | "Beware, Mac Owners!" | 2009-09-11 |
| Nolo's comprehensive catalog of legal guidebooks cover just about everything under the sun. Thorough, easy to follow, and written in everyday language, these books are outstanding reference sources. Quicken WillMaker Plus 2009 is no exception. As a healthy, single, small business owner with no children, it has been easy to put off making a will, but a cancer diagnosis earlier this year (I'm fine now!) was a real wake-up call. Anyway, I have a couple of other Nolo books in my reference library, so I was excited to find Quicken WillMaker Plus. In addition to the 600+ page book, there are two CD ROMs. One includes all of the forms you could possibly need to do your own will, documents for several types of trusts, health care directives, personal finance forms, durable power of attorney, etc. The second disk is a copy of The Executor's Guide in ebook form. Sounds perfect, and it probably is unless you are using any computer operating system besides Windows! As the owner of three Macs, I was extremely disappointed to make this discovery! The book is still very valuable, but not being able to use the software means having to set up your own forms following the guidelines and examples in the book (there are MANY!) rather than being guided through the step-by-step forms and and being able to use online help. Additionally, you will not be able to download any of the updates during the year, which is very unfortunate. This book is excellent, but I'm not sure it's worth the $70 cover price if you cannot use the software. My advice, if you are a Mac user, would be to buy one of Nolo's guides to making a will and/or estate planning that doesn't include Windows-only software. Apparently, Nolo has no plans to produce a Mac edition, so we're kind of stuck! | ||
 | Quicken Willmaker Plus 2008 Edition: Estate Planning Essentials (Book with CD-ROM) (4th Edition) | |
| "Beware, Mac Owners!" | 2009-09-11 |
| Nolo's comprehensive catalog of legal guidebooks cover just about everything under the sun. Thorough, easy to follow, and written in everyday language, these books are outstanding reference sources. Quicken WillMaker Plus 2009 is no exception. As a healthy, single, small business owner with no children, it has been easy to put off making a will, but a cancer diagnosis earlier this year (I'm fine now!) was a real wake-up call. Anyway, I have a couple of other Nolo books in my reference library, so I was excited to find Quicken WillMaker Plus. In addition to the 600+ page book, there are two CD ROMs. One includes all of the forms you could possibly need to do your own will, documents for several types of trusts, health care directives, personal finance forms, durable power of attorney, etc. The second disk is a copy of The Executor's Guide in ebook form. Sounds perfect, and it probably is unless you are using any computer operating system besides Windows! As the owner of three Macs, I was extremely disappointed to make this discovery! The book is still very valuable, but not being able to use the software means having to set up your own forms following the guidelines and examples in the book (there are MANY!) rather than being guided through the step-by-step forms and and being able to use online help. Additionally, you will not be able to download any of the updates during the year, which is very unfortunate. This book is excellent, but I'm not sure it's worth the $70 cover price if you cannot use the software. My advice, if you are a Mac user, would be to buy one of Nolo's guides to making a will and/or estate planning that doesn't include Windows-only software. Apparently, Nolo has no plans to produce a Mac edition, so we're kind of stuck! | ||
 | Advanced Piano Solo Encyclopedia | |
 | "My Favorite Christmas Collection" | 2008-11-03 |
| Tom Roed is my favorite arranger for more advanced pop, jazz, and Christmas music and his "Christmas Encyclopedia" is the ultimate collection of full, fun-to-play arrangements of forty-three solos and six duets. Usually in a collection this big, I'll find at least half of the arrangements are duds, but there are only a few songs in this book that I really don't like (and they are usually songs that I don't particularly like anyway, not the arrangements!). I have used various incarnations of this book (there have been many over the years! This is the "complete" collection, at least up to 1997!) with my advancing students, and these pieces were wonderful in recitals because they are different, sometimes very spirited, and always showier than most standard Christmas collections and teaching books. I got a few standing ovations myself with the bluesy "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town," the boogie-woogie "Rudolph," and the wild and rockin' "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree." Also on the fun, up-tempo side are "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer," "Up On the Housetop," and "The Chipmunk Song." Slower but still jazzy are "Christmas Time Is Here" (my favorite arrangement of this song!), "The Little Drummer Boy" (a student favorite), "Winter Wonderland," "Patapan," and "The Ukranian Bell Carol" - all exceptional. In the graceful and beautiful category are "Away In a Manger," "What Child Is This?," "We Three Kings of Orient Are," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and the stellar (and difficult!) "O Holy Night." More advanced players will find this book essential for holiday parties and there are plenty of sacred pieces for church musicians as well. I enjoy playing in a variety of styles, so this is my all-time favorite Christmas book. The arrangements vary in difficulty from intermediate to fairly advanced, and most of them involve a lot of chord reading and octaves. Love it! | ||
 | Canon PowerShot SD900 10MP Digital Elph Camera with 3x Optical Zoom | |
| "Takes Excellent Photos!" | 2008-10-22 |
| I have had my Canon PowerShot for a little more than a year and really enjoy using it. It takes spectacular photos that enlarge well. Like many others, I had trouble with it early on with the dreaded "lens error" message. I sent it back to Canon, and they found sand in the lens (I live on the Oregon Coast and was putting the camera in my pocket when I went to the beach). The first repair cost me about $130 since sand damage is not covered under the warranty. When I got the camera back, the second time I used it, I had another "lens error." I was about ready to chuck the thing in the garbage, but sent it back to the factory. This time the repair was free. In order to protect the camera, I bought a Delkin Snug-It "Tight Fit Camera Skin" and also put the camera in a zip-lock bag when I take it to the beach. I haven't had any more problems with it at all. One word of caution - don't try to put the camera into its case with the skin still on it. I ended up ripping the skin - it's an either-or proposition! Not all of the features of this camera are intuitive, so it really pays to spend some time with the manual to learn about all the things it can do. I'm very pleased with it. | ||
 | The Devil's Backbone | |
| "Stylish, gripping, and intelligent!" | 2007-10-05 |
| I didn't remember reading or hearing about "The Devil's Backbone" until I saw "Pan's Labyrinth." If I did see any reviews, I dismissed them since the film was classified as a horror film in the US - what a shame! It has its very scary moments, and it has its violent and gory moments, but this movie is so much more than that. It is a ghost story; it's an historical fiction set against the Spanish Revolution; it has tremendous character development; and, for all of its bleakness, it celebrates the human spirit. This movie had my full attention from the opening credits, and didn't let go until long after the film had ended. I've watched it at least four times, and plan to revisit it several more times. The actors are all superlative, and del Toro and crew outdid themselves with all aspects of the film. I actually like "Backbone" better than "Labyrinth," so check it out. It's one of my top favorite films! | ||
 | The Station Agent | |
| "Intensely Human..." | 2007-03-26 |
| I love movies like this where the characters are off-beat but totally believable. The three main characters are all somewhat displaced, with Fin, the "little person," inheriting a train station in the middle of nowhere; Olivia staying at a "get-away" home purchased by her husband before he "got away" and still grieving the sudden death of her young son; and Joe, the chatty hot-dog vendor who loves to talk and cook, who has returned to care for his ailing father and run his vending truck. These three characters apparently have little in common but a need to care and be cared for. Fin wants isolation, but the quirky characters in his midst won't allow that. He feels like a freak because of his size, but that goes away when he is spending time with his new friends. The tenuous bonds break, leaving the three characters with a terrible sense of loss that almost becomes tragic for two of them. Love truly triumphs in this film (not the romantic kind of love), and you know by the end that they will be okay. Beautifully written and acted, this film is a joy to behold. Highly recommended! | ||
 | Michael Harrison - Little Neighborhood Piano & Orchestrations | |
| "From MainlyPiano.com" | 2006-08-13 |
| "Little Neighborhood" is one of pianist/composer Michael Allen Harrison's older recordings, but what a gem! Recorded for the benefit of The Robison Jewish Home in Portland, Oregon, the CD is comprised of Harrison's arrangements of traditional Jewish songs and several originals. Most of the pieces have minimal orchestrations accompanying Harrison's impeccable piano. Jewish music tends to have a haunting, melancholy quality that Harrison captures to full effect. Deeply emotional and soulful, this recording touches the heart and lifts the spirit. Some of the traditional songs that are included are "Sh'chuna K'tana," a lovely piece about the little neighborhood; "Ose Shalom," a gentle plea for peace in Israel and for all mankind; "Hi'ne Ma Tov," a lively and rhythmic toast to brotherhood and unity; "Maoz Tzur," the Jewish "Rock of Ages"; a gorgeous Wedding Medley"; and "Hatikvah," a deeply emotional song of the two thousand-year hope to be a free nation in Zion. Harrison's compositions include "Sivonne," a "welcome to the world" to a little angel; "Ilse'," written for a dear friend; and "Ema' sh'li," composed for the artist's mother. The music on this recording is both specific in its ethnicity and universal in its message. I can't imagine anyone not thoroughly enjoying this music. Highly recommended! | ||
 | A Tribute to Gershwin & Friends | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2005-11-02 |
| Michael Allen Harrison's "A Tribute to Gershwin and Friends" is by no means a new album, but it's new to me, and what a killer! I had the opportunity to meet Harrison in Portland, OR last year and to see him play live. He's one of a handful of pianists so extraordinarily gifted that he seems to be the most at home with the piano at his fingertips, making the most difficult passages look like child's play. That doesn't mean that this album is showy or full of bravado. The clarity of Harrison's playing and the depth of emotion conveyed is head and shoulders above the majority of pianists out there (Michael Dulin and Philip Aaberg come to mind as players with this kind of pianism. Awesome, all three!!!) "Gershwin and Friends" is made up of thirteen compositions that harken back to a more innocent era when music was more relaxed and less competitive. Six of the songs were composed by George Gershwin, two are original Harrison pieces, and the others are standards that were composed at about the same time as the Gershwin pieces. Most are piano solos, but a few of the tracks include bass and/or guitar. For the most part, this is a quiet, soulful recording, but there are some upbeat and lively moments as well. All of the tracks on this album are wonderful, but I have some favorites. The CD opens with a sultry "Our Love Is Here to Stay." With just piano and acoustic bass, this is the perfect slow dance. "God Bless the Child" is dark and slinky in an easy, sensual style. Bass, electric guitar and very light percussion enhance the mood. Yum! "Autumn Leaves" has been one of my favorite songs since I was a kid, and Harrison's arrangement does not disappoint. Flowing and elegant, the heartbreaking melody touches deep within. And then there's "Summertime," my all-time favorite Gershwin piece. Dark and bluesy for a couple of verses, the last minute or so is more uptempo and improvised - an incredible arrangement! "Swanee" begins in a ballad style that is dark and slow and develops into the melody most of us are familiar with in a whimsical, nostalgic style; it ends with a phrase from Stephen Foster's "Old Folks At Home" - a cute touch! "My Funny Valentine," another favorite standard of mine, closes the album with an enchanting love song full of easy grace and tenderness. What a great album! Michael Allen Harrison has inspired me to pull out some of my Gershwin piano books and dust them off, but I can only dream of playing this music like him! Very highly recommended! | ||
 | Philip Aaberg - Live From Montana | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2005-07-10 |
| Philip Aaberg's "Live From Montana" is breathtaking! Phil has been one of my favorite artists for about twelve years, and this album captures the excitement of a live concert without the distracting background noises that usually creep into live albums. The sound quality of the piano is amazing since this was recorded in the Chester High School auditorium (a reunion for the people Phil grew up with in Montana). Technically perfect, the music is also incredible! This could be "Philip Aaberg 101". With selections from Phil's three original albums, "High Plains", "Out of the Frame", and "Upright", this is truly the best of a great artist - essential for longtime fans to see how the music has evolved over the years as well as to hear it played live, and a perfect introduction to those unfamiliar with one of the best pianists on the planet. Between several of the pieces, Phil shares some of the reasons people gave him for why they like to live in Chester. This is small-town Americana, and it's refreshing to know such a place still exists. It is also interesting to note that fellow Montana native, George Winston, found this event to be so important that he was also in attendance and wrote the most of the liner notes. All of the selections on the album are superlative, but my favorites include my all-time favorite Aaberg tune, "Every Deep Dream", which has a simple melody, but there is so much else going on in that piece - a true masterpiece! I also love "Frogman", which is a rocking bit of pianistic pyrotechnics that I have always wished I could play! "Westbound" is an older song with an incredible new introduction that emulates the sound of a train idling and then becoming "westbound". The piece itself has also been a longtime favorite, and it's mind-blowing that as the song winds down, a train whistle blows from about five blocks away! There is no way that could have been planned! Of course, "High Plains" (what Phil refers to as his "greatest hit") is included with a fresh treatment. "Welcome to the Church of St. Anytime" is gospel piano with a twist - Aaberg says he was combining the worlds of "The Old Rugged Cross" and "There is a Tavern in the Town". I've always also loved "Going to the Sun", which closes the set with a peaceful, wide-open feeling. I can't rave enough about "Live From Montana"! I There is no way you can be disappointed with this one! | ||
 | George Skaroulis - Numinous | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2005-03-10 |
| "Numinous" was pianist/composer George Skaroulis' second release, and is considered to be a classic in the new age/ambient genres. The title refers to the supernatural or divine, and of having a deeply spiritual or mystical effect, and that is certainly an apt description of the music. Introspective, a bit melancholy, and shimmeringly beautiful, Skaroulis creates a musical painting that will touch all but the most jaded of hearts. Skaroulis has been one of my favorite artists since I first heard his "Second Nature" album a few years ago, so it's fun to go back and retrace his musical steps. His Greek heritage is apparent in some of the instrumentation and spirit, but the mood is quiet and serene, making this a great album for reading, relaxing, massage, or just letting go of the cares of the day. Despite the calm and soothing sounds, I found this to be a great album to wake up to. Give your ears and soul a treat! Very highly recommended! | ||
| George Skaroulis - Numinous | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2005-03-09 |
| "Numinous" was pianist/composer George Skaroulis' second release, and is considered to be a classic in the new age/ambient genres. The title refers to the supernatural or divine, and of having a deeply spiritual or mystical effect, and that is certainly an apt description of the music. Introspective, a bit melancholy, and shimmeringly beautiful, Skaroulis creates a musical painting that will touch all but the most jaded of hearts. Skaroulis has been one of my favorite artists since I first heard his "Second Nature" album a few years ago, so it's fun to go back and retrace his musical steps. His Greek heritage is apparent in some of the instrumentation and spirit, but the mood is quiet and serene, making this a great album for reading, relaxing, massage, or just letting go of the cares of the day. Despite the calm and soothing sounds, I found this to be a great album to wake up to. Give your ears and soul a treat! Very highly recommended! | ||
 | George Winston - Montana: A Love Story | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2004-11-01 |
| "Montana - A Love Story" is George Winston's tribute to his home state, and contains an eclectic grouping of piano solos coming from a variety of sources. The only real surprise on the album is that only five of the seventeen pieces are Winston's original compositions, but I doubt that his fans will be disappointed. From the beginning, Winston has called himself a "folk pianist" rather than "new age," and quite a few of the tracks are folk or traditional songs that Winston arranged as piano solos. Winston has again included a piece by fellow native-Montanan Philip Aaberg, a pianist Winston greatly admires and respects (who doesn't???). Most of the pieces are melodic and graceful, with the possible exception of Frank Zappa's "The Little House I Used to Live In," which is more discordant and abstract - can't say that I like that one much. Winston mentions in his liner notes that he is playing a lot of solo piano dances, and he includes some of his favorite pieces from those as well. Several of the tracks have a strong Asian-influence - an interesting development.
My favorites in this collection are pretty varied. "Thumbelina" comes from Mark Isham's soundtrack for the classic children's story. Gentle and quiet, this is a lovely opening. I really like "Billy In the Low Land," which is a variation on an American fiddle tune. It is easy to picture Montana's vast open spaces and to feel the peace and contentment of a simpler country life. "Valse Frontenac" is a traditional waltz from Quebec, and is a sweet and sincere piece full of charm and simple elegance. I prefer Philip Aaberg's recording of "Nevertheless, Hello," but Winston does this great piece justice. "The Twisting of The Hay Rope" is a joyful ancient Irish piece with a beautiful melody. "You Send Me," a slow-dance arrangement of the Sam Cooke classic, works well as a piano solo. "The Mountain Winds Call Your Name" is one of the originals, and much of it is played on plucked piano strings - a technique Winston has relished for a long time; it's an interesting piece. My favorite track is "Music Box" by Rentaro Taki, a haunting little piece with a bittersweet melody. I also really like Winston's arrangement of "Goodnight Irene," an easy-going waltz composed by Huddie Ledbetter (Leadbelly) in the early 20th century. The final two tracks are loving tributes to two of Winston's cats, both very tender and sweet, and full of Winston's distinctive open spaces. George Winston has truly become a legend in his own time, and has had a strong influence on many pianists and other musicians. "Montana - A Love Story" is a continuation of his tradition of gathering pieces from a wide variety of sources and making them his own. Winston's many fans will love this album! | ||
| George Winston - Montana: A Love Story | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-11-01 |
| "Montana - A Love Story" is George Winston's tribute to his home state, and contains an eclectic grouping of piano solos coming from a variety of sources. The only real surprise on the album is that only five of the seventeen pieces are Winston's original compositions, but I doubt that his fans will be disappointed. From the beginning, Winston has called himself a "folk pianist" rather than "new age," and quite a few of the tracks are folk or traditional songs that Winston arranged as piano solos. Winston has again included a piece by fellow native-Montanan Philip Aaberg, a pianist Winston greatly admires and respects (who doesn't???). Most of the pieces are melodic and graceful, with the possible exception of Frank Zappa's "The Little House I Used to Live In," which is more discordant and abstract - can't say that I like that one much. Winston mentions in his liner notes that he is playing a lot of solo piano dances, and he includes some of his favorite pieces from those as well. Several of the tracks have a strong Asian-influence - an interesting development. My favorites in this collection are pretty varied. "Thumbelina" comes from Mark Isham's soundtrack for the classic children's story. Gentle and quiet, this is a lovely opening. I really like "Billy In the Low Land," which is a variation on an American fiddle tune. It is easy to picture Montana's vast open spaces and to feel the peace and contentment of a simpler country life. "Valse Frontenac" is a traditional waltz from Quebec, and is a sweet and sincere piece full of charm and simple elegance. I prefer Philip Aaberg's recording of "Nevertheless, Hello," but Winston does this great piece justice. "The Twisting of The Hay Rope" is a joyful ancient Irish piece with a beautiful melody. "You Send Me," a slow-dance arrangement of the Sam Cooke classic, works well as a piano solo. "The Mountain Winds Call Your Name" is one of the originals, and much of it is played on plucked piano strings - a technique Winston has relished for a long time; it's an interesting piece. My favorite track is "Music Box" by Rentaro Taki, a haunting little piece with a bittersweet melody. I also really like Winston's arrangement of "Goodnight Irene," an easy-going waltz composed by Huddie Ledbetter (Leadbelly) in the early 20th century. The final two tracks are loving tributes to two of Winston's cats, both very tender and sweet, and full of Winston's distinctive open spaces. George Winston has truly become a legend in his own time, and has had a strong influence on many pianists and other musicians. "Montana - A Love Story" is a continuation of his tradition of gathering pieces from a wide variety of sources and making them his own. Winston's many fans will love this album! | ||
 | Amy Lauren - Close Your Eyes | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2004-10-25 |
| I would have to think that saying Amy Lauren's "Close Your Eyes" is a bit of a snooze would be a positive review! The pieces were composed as solo piano lullabies and relaxation music, and they succeed well. Gentle and soothing with no harsh edges, the music becomes slower as the album progresses. With a few exceptions, I had a hard time staying too focused on the music when listening to it actively, but it makes a lovely backdrop for quiet activities or for letting go of the cares of the day (or night!). Many of the 20 tracks are made up of sequences of flowing notes, creating a similar experience to listening to water in a fountain or a stream - hypnotic. Despite the subtleness of the music, a few of the pieces really stand out to me. One is "Calm Is the Night," which is a bit more melodic than some of the others, and a perhaps a touch bittersweet - a very lovely piece! I also especially like "Midnight Song," which also has more of a melody and a feeling of peaceful introspection. "Begin to Dream," reminds me of Wayne Gratz's gentle touch. Actually, this CD is similar to Gratz's "Sleepy Baby Suite" without the nature sounds. "Close Your Eyes" is a peaceful collection of lullabies for babies of all ages. Let the soothing sounds carry you off to Dreamland where everything is beautiful and unhurried. "Close Your Eyes" is featured on Whisperings Solo Piano Radio.
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| Amy Lauren - Close Your Eyes | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-10-25 |
| I would have to think that saying Amy Lauren's "Close Your Eyes" is a bit of a snooze would be a positive review! The pieces were composed as solo piano lullabies and relaxation music, and they succeed well. Gentle and soothing with no harsh edges, the music becomes slower as the album progresses. With a few exceptions, I had a hard time staying too focused on the music when listening to it actively, but it makes a lovely backdrop for quiet activities or for letting go of the cares of the day (or night!). Many of the 20 tracks are made up of sequences of flowing notes, creating a similar experience to listening to water in a fountain or a stream - hypnotic. Despite the subtleness of the music, a few of the pieces really stand out to me. One is "Calm Is the Night," which is a bit more melodic than some of the others, and a perhaps a touch bittersweet - a very lovely piece! I also especially like "Midnight Song," which also has more of a melody and a feeling of peaceful introspection. "Begin to Dream," reminds me of Wayne Gratz's gentle touch. Actually, this CD is similar to Gratz's "Sleepy Baby Suite" without the nature sounds. "Close Your Eyes" is a peaceful collection of lullabies for babies of all ages. Let the soothing sounds carry you off to Dreamland where everything is beautiful and unhurried. "Close Your Eyes" is featured on Whisperings Solo Piano Radio. | ||
 | George Gershwin ,Michael Dulin - A Nice Boy from Brooklyn | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-10-19 |
| Equity Digital is rereleasing pianist Michael Dulin's two earlier classical recordings at the same time as his newest release, "Timeless: Classics for a New Age" (October 19, 2004). Originally released in 1999, "A Nice Boy From Brooklyn" is comprised of "The Gershwin Songbook," Six Preludes, and eight Improvisations that were never written down by Gershwin himself, but were transcribed from live radio broadcasts from 1926 and 1928 by Artis Wodehouse. Dulin's mastery of the piano makes all thirty-two tracks seem effortless and showcase his brilliant virtuosity as well as his amazing versatility. A world-class pianist with a long career in classical music, Dulin makes all of these pieces his own, giving them a sparkling freshness and a feeling of spontaneity. He added some of his own embellishments to the improvisations, but otherwise, remains faithful to Gershwin's original scores.
The extensive liner notes, also written by Dulin, give insight into Gershwin's personality with quotations from other artists and people who knew Gershwin, and then gives a history of many of the selections. "The Gershwin Songbook" was originally published in 1932, and is made up of eighteen variations and arrangements of songs that Gershwin used to entertain his friends in the intimacy of living room settings. Many of Gershwin's most famous and popular songs are included such as "The Man I Love," "Swanee," "Fascinating Rhythm," "Lady Be Good," "'S Wonderful," and "I Got Rhythm." The variety of styles is amazing - from bluesy ballads to full-tilt finger-flying jazz. Dulin's emotional range and tonal colorations are remarkable. The Six Preludes are quite short, and Dulin calls the firs three "his most perfect compositions." Of the six, I especially like "Blue Lullaby," a dark, slinky little piece. Some of the eight Improvisations are variations or arrangements of pieces from the songbook, so it is fascinating to see what Gershwin (and Dulin!) did to flesh them out. Again, Dulin's playing is fresh and flawless. Some of the titles in this section of the recording are "Clap Yo' Hands," "Someone to Watch Over Me," "Sweet and Low Down," and "'S Wonderful/Funny Face." If you are new to Gershwin's music, "A Nice Boy From Brooklyn" is an absolute must-have. If you know all of Gershwin's music, this is also a must-have to hear the music as it was composed and interpreted by the composer himself. So much of Gershwin's music has been performed and recorded over the years, and most of it is improvised and arranged by the various musicians who play it, so it's refreshing as well as informative to hear the "real deal" - or, at the very least, how the music began and evolved during Gershwin's life. I give "A Nice Boy From Brooklyn" my highest recommendation. Great stuff! | ||
 | George Skaroulis - Athena: Best of George Skaroulis | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2004-09-14 |
| "Athena - The Best of George Skaroulis" is an eight-year retrospective of this artist's most impressive body of work. The sixteen tracks include four never-released pieces, so even if you own all of Skaroulis' previous albums, this is still a must-have. Known for his evocative blending of piano and keyboard as well as traditional Greek musical idioms and contemporary piano stylings, the title track is a bit of a surprise with its Yanni-like big sound. The song was originally released on "Return to the Homeland" in a somewhat different format, and that version is also included on the album. This track includes piano, a beautiful violin part played by Paul Mercer, percussion, and additional keyboards. Rhythmic and celebratory, it is very Greek in style and sound. A great start! The only piece on the CD that isn't original is Skaroulis' lovely arrangement of "Hymn to Liberty (The Greek National Anthem)." Presented as a piano solo, its simple melody is haunting. "Goddess" is another new track, and is one of Skaroulis' most beautiful pieces. A melancholy piano is accompanied with Jairaj Swann on electric bass and Alex Wolf on guitar, along with elegantly interwoven synth parts that give it an ethereal quality. "The Dance" clocks in a less than a minute, and demonstrates that less can truly be more - a perfect solo piano vignette. I also really love "Return to Patmos," a reflective and haunting piano piece with synth strings washes that actually enhance the piece. "Voice of the Ancients" is the fourth of the new pieces, and includes a male voice speaking in the background behind shimmering string and synth sounds. Another vignette, it's an interesting interlude. Other titles include "Numinous," "Reflection," and "Hopes and Dreams." All of the tracks have obviously been carefully and caringly selected, and there isn't a weak track on the album. If you are new to George Skaroulis' music, this is an outstanding introduction to his work. One of my favorite artists, Skaroulis deserves a much wider audience. Very highly recommended!
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| George Skaroulis - Athena: Best of George Skaroulis | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-09-14 |
| "Athena - The Best of George Skaroulis" is an eight-year retrospective of this artist's most impressive body of work. The sixteen tracks include four never-released pieces, so even if you own all of Skaroulis' previous albums, this is still a must-have. Known for his evocative blending of piano and keyboard as well as traditional Greek musical idioms and contemporary piano stylings, the title track is a bit of a surprise with its Yanni-like big sound. The song was originally released on "Return to the Homeland" in a somewhat different format, and that version is also included on the album. This track includes piano, a beautiful violin part played by Paul Mercer, percussion, and additional keyboards. Rhythmic and celebratory, it is very Greek in style and sound. A great start! The only piece on the CD that isn't original is Skaroulis' lovely arrangement of "Hymn to Liberty (The Greek National Anthem)." Presented as a piano solo, its simple melody is haunting. "Goddess" is another new track, and is one of Skaroulis' most beautiful pieces. A melancholy piano is accompanied with Jairaj Swann on electric bass and Alex Wolf on guitar, along with elegantly interwoven synth parts that give it an ethereal quality. "The Dance" clocks in a less than a minute, and demonstrates that less can truly be more - a perfect solo piano vignette. I also really love "Return to Patmos," a reflective and haunting piano piece with synth strings washes that actually enhance the piece. "Voice of the Ancients" is the fourth of the new pieces, and includes a male voice speaking in the background behind shimmering string and synth sounds. Another vignette, it's an interesting interlude. Other titles include "Numinous," "Reflection," and "Hopes and Dreams." All of the tracks have obviously been carefully and caringly selected, and there isn't a weak track on the album. If you are new to George Skaroulis' music, this is an outstanding introduction to his work. One of my favorite artists, Skaroulis deserves a much wider audience. Very highly recommended! | ||
 | Michael Allen Harrison ,Fred Korman - Michael Allen Harrison: Composer / Pianist | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-07-03 |
| My one-word summary of Michael Allen Harrison's double CD set, "Pianist/Composer," is "WOW!" I have seen and heard Harrison's name for a long time, but none of his CDs came my way for review until I reviewed one of his students' CDs (the very impressive Alexx Carnathan) earlier this year. I was not prepared to be so dazzled and charmed at the same time. This set is made up of Harrison's favorite compositions from the past twenty years or so, and includes his new "Concerto #1 in Eb Major," which is a tour de force all by itself. Both discs are very eclectic in their musical range, but Disc 1 is more classical overall, and Disc 2 has a jazzier flavor. The majority of the pieces are orchestrated or have accompanying instruments in addition to the piano, but Harrison's piano is the star of the show. We're only halfway through the year, but I'm certain that this will be on my list of favorites for 2004. The three-movement concerto opens the first CD. The first movement ("I Breathe") started out as a love ballad in Harrison's musical, and evolved into a gorgeous 12 1/2 minute piece influenced by some of the Romantic composers. The first half of the piece is gentle and sweet, but begins building in the middle to a fiery climax. Primarily piano and strings, this piece really sets the stage for what's to come. It highlights Harrison's gentle touch as well as his magnificent bravado and virtuosity. The second movement ("Will You Take Me There") is a bit more orchestrated, and the lovely melody is haunting and passionate. The third movement is full of flash and dynamic pianistics. A piano solo, Harrison must be sitting in a puddle by the time he gets done playing it live! Great stuff! "Remembrance" is a tribute to the 50th anniversary of Israel's independence and to the lives lost during the Holocaust. Performed with Aaron Meyer on violin and The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, the piece has a deeply emotional and tragic feeling, but also suggests triumph and moving forward. I love "Transitions," a piece inspired by a wild rainstorm. Full of passion, power, and a subtle touch of mystery, the playing on this piece can take your breath away - effortless control and amazing chops. Stunning! "Fly Away" is another favorite. It started as a cool groove for a vocal tune, and is a piece Harrison and his band play differently every time. This version is piano, light percussion, and a wonderful oboe part performed by Fred Korman of the Oregon Symphony. A great CD, but, wait -there's more! As I mentioned, the second CD is a bit jazzier overall, but there are several different styles present. "Tomorrow's" was composed as a gift for Harrison's daughter on her graduation from junior high. Lightly orchestrated and featuring oboe, guitar, and piano, this piece is sunny and radiant. "Moments in Passion" is a dark, sultry piece with piano, guitar, and percussion that would be a wonderful slow dance - a favorite. "Standing Alone" is a slow bluesy piece that could have stepped out of the 1930's - I really like this one, too! "Nocturne in Db Major" is a gorgeous improvisation that was recorded as it was being created late at night in the studio while imagining the time of the great Romantic composers. "Little Bit Naughty" is a great blues piano solo - slinky and fun! "Ema Sh'li (Mother of Mine)" is a haunting ballad composed for Harrison's mother's 50th birthday. A warm, bittersweet, and very loving piano solo, it is both classical and contemporary, and thanks "Mom" for making him practice the piano when he was a kid. "Composer/Pianist" is truly an outstanding collection on so many levels. I get to feeling kind of jaded from listening to so much piano music, but this set really blows me out of my seat! I give it my highest recommendation. | ||
 | Lisa Hilton - Cocktails At Eight... | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-05-31 |
| "Cocktails At Eight" is a collection of twelve original and three cover tunes played as piano solos and small ensemble pieces. Free and improvisational, Hilton's style incorporates jazz, classical, and new age elements, creating strong and sensitive musical lines that feel effortless. One of the reviews I read said, "She's satin and silk with a touch of denim," and that seems very appropriate. Many of the pieces are elegant and graceful, and others are more bluesy and fun. I really like this album! What caught my ear first was Hilton's excellent arrangement of Paul Desmond's "Take Five." Joining Hilton on piano is Tal Bergman on drums and Reggie McBride on bass. The trio is true to the original, creating a mellow groove. I love "Seduction," a slinky blues solo with lots of sparkling trills and runs all over the piano - fun and funky! Duke Ellington's "Echoes of Harlem" is another ensemble piece with piano, bass, and drums, and is also a standout. The walking bass line on the left hand and bluesy melody on the right are infectious, with the bass and drums staying in the background, adding to the dark, smokey mood. "Kilimanjaro" is a bit more classical and pensive. The melody is simple, elegant, and rather sad, but very beautiful. "August 1999" is a graceful, introspective piece with a flowing quality. "Candlelight" is quiet and mysterious. "Moon River" is played by the trio - an easy, gentle arrangement with heartfelt emotion. "Waterfall" is a lighter, more rhythmic piece than most of the other piano solos. I really like this one, too - it sounds like a lot of fun to play! With a compelling bass line on the left hand, the right hand skips around like water bouncing off of rocks. "I'm On My Own" closes the collection with a beautiful ballad. This time the ensemble includes piano, violin, cello, and woodwinds, so it is more of a chamber piece, reminding me a bit of the flowing elegance of Suzanne Ciani's music with her band, The Wave. "Cocktails At Eight" is the first of Lisa Hilton's albums that I've heard, but I'm hooked! I love her versatility and the ease with which she changes styles and moods. Highly recommended! | ||
 | Esteban Ramirez - Fly With Me | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-03-30 |
| "Fly With Me" is an unabashedly romantic collection of piano solos and ensemble pieces by pianist/composer Esteban Ramirez. There are some keyboard washes, but most of the additional instruments are "real," and include oboe, cello, and violin. Warmly optimistic from start to finish, the pieces are melodic and very easy to listen to both in the foreground and background. Calling the CD "like a soundtrack to a love story, " not all of the pieces are full of sunshine. There are a few bumps in the musical road, but most of them are small. About half of the twelve tracks are solo piano, and even though the ensemble work is beautiful, I really like the solo pieces best. The CD opens with "Promise," which has the fresh innocence of "The Feather Theme" from "Forrest Gump." "Alone Is Not For Me" is a gorgeous piano solo full of passion and yet reflective - a bit of soul-searching at the piano. "The Embrace" sounds like the perfect movie theme for a great love story, full of grace and emotional energy with strings and oboe behind the piano. "Love and Moonlight" is one of the solos, and is so gentle and serene. It is easy to imagine lovers doing a slow dance on a warm evening surrounded by stars and soft moonlight. "Tonight You Shine" is a tender love song that is again sweet and serene. "A Dream Is Not Enough" reminds me a bit of Kevin Kern - strings, oboe, and an uplifting message. "I Am Stronger Now," the closing piece, is a bit more complex and introspective. Again very emotional and expressive, Ramirez' passion communicates very deeply. Made up of several sections or movements, this piece is gorgeous. "Fly With Me" is a very enjoyable CD full of touching moments and deep emotion. | ||
 | Peter Kater - Red Moon | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2004-01-06 |
| "Red Moon" is Peter Kater's Grammy-nominated CD for Best New Age album of 2003. It is an ensemble collection of pieces with a very Native American yet contemporary flavor, a style Kater is as noted for as he is solo piano. "Red Moon" features Kater on piano and synthesizers, but he is not the dominating musician on most tracks, allowing his stellar guest musicians to shine fully. These musicians include Mary Youngblood on Native American flute; R. Carlos Nakai on vocals, flute, and eagle bone whistle; Chenoa Egawa and Robert Mirabal on vocals; Paul McCandless working his magic on penny whistle, sax, oboe, and duduk; and Tony Levin on bass guitar. Many of the tracks are upbeat and rhythmic, while others are a bit more soulful and subdued. Five of the eleven tracks contain vocals in Native American languages and chants, which are very enjoyable and interesting, but, as usual, I much prefer the instrumentals, which absolutely soar. "Night Realm" opens the collection with percussion, duduk, and flute, and then piano and later vocal. This is a fascinating piece because it's impossible to classify. There are jazz, Native American, and other ethnic influences, but it is still uniquely itself - a joyful blending of all of these ingredients. "Deep Waters" adds an element of mystery with a rhythmic backdrop for the dark and sensuous flutes and sax. "Only In Your Arms" is one of the few mostly piano pieces, and it's both gorgeous and deeply passionate. Nakai's flute and McCandless' oboe enhance the depth of feeling. Other instrumentation is also added, but Kater's piano sings through. "The West" has the feeling of a movie soundtrack - a field Kater has a lot of experience in. Another rhythmic piece, this one is mostly piano and Native American flute, and is darkly beautiful. "Never Ending Journey" is one of my favorites, and features Ara Tokatlian on pincullo flute. With jazz tinges, the flute, piano, and guitar really take flight - a great piece! "This Moment" is more of a smooth jazz piece with piano and flute as well as percussion and synth washes. "Dream Catcher" is an almost ethereal slow dance, again mostly flute and piano, and so soulful and passionate - another favorite! Peter Kater has once again shown why he is one of my favorite artists. This is a great album whether you are new to Kater's music or a longtime fan. Recommended! | ||
 | Jazz Piano Chords | |
| "A Great Guide!" | 2003-11-24 |
| "Jazz Piano Chords" is a well-thought-out and equally well-layed-out book for the beginning as well as the more experienced jazz pianist. There are many chord dictionaries on the market, but this one is specifically designed for jazz pianists, and it goes into detail about how chords are structured and when to use and not use specific types of chords. Preceding the chord charts are about twenty-five pages of text with explanations of the basics of what intervals and chords are and how they function in different musical settings (solo piano, as an accompanist, in a combo, etc.). The text then moves into voicings and a thorough exploration of the various kinds of chords with many charts to illustrate how these chords are built and used. Next follow the chord charts for all keys, charts of chords used for harmonizing in all keys, and charts of quartal harmonies in all keys. The final chart is spelling suggestions for the various chords. An award-winning jazz pianist as well as a composer of many different styles of music, Misha Stefanuk shares a wealth of knowledge in a concise and very readable fashion. An easy-to-use reference book as well as an excellent textbook, it is recommended for any pianist who wants to learn how to play jazz and to understand the fundamental structure of jazz piano. | ||
| George Skaroulis - Season Traditions | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2003-11-08 |
| "Season Traditions" isn't a new album this year, but it's new to me, and it's one of the most beautiful holiday albums I've heard. I just discovered George Skaroulis and his music earlier this year, and it's been such a delightful discovery! This solo piano collection of thirteen Christmas and New Year's songs includes two originals, "The Gathering" and "Coming Home," as well as "Greek New Year Song," all played with warmth and a wonderful depth of emotion. George Skaroulis brings such a fresh and honest approach to everything he does, and whether the music is original or composed by someone else, he has a marvelous ability to make it his own. An example is "O Tannenbaum," which is a song most of my younger piano students want to play since it is easy and repetitive. It's one of the first carols I get tired of during the holiday season, but somehow Skaroulis has made it new and beautiful again. One of my favorite tracks is "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen." It's one of my favorite carols anyway, but this arrangement is hauntingly gorgeous. Some of the chord and rhythm changes are unexpected, taking the piece in new directions. I'm always amazed at how open "Carol of the Bells" is to a huge variety of approaches. This one is pensive, very rubato, and a bit haunting. "Silent Night" has a lot of open space, suggesting a quiet peace and perhaps stars twinkling in the sky and reflecting in a new layer of snow. Every track is a gem, played with George Skaroulis' elegant and reflective style. Other titles include "What Child Is This?" "We Three Kings," "The First Noel," and "Angels We Have Heard On High." Very highly recommended! | ||
| George Skaroulis - Season Traditions | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2003-11-08 |
| "Season Traditions" isn't a new album this year, but it's new to me, and it's one of the most beautiful holiday albums I've heard. I just discovered George Skaroulis and his music earlier this year, and it's been such a delightful discovery! This solo piano collection of thirteen Christmas and New Year's songs includes two originals, "The Gathering" and "Coming Home," as well as "Greek New Year Song," all played with warmth and a wonderful depth of emotion. George Skaroulis brings such a fresh and honest approach to everything he does, and whether the music is original or composed by someone else, he has a marvelous ability to make it his own. An example is "O Tannenbaum," which is a song most of my younger piano students want to play since it is easy and repetitive. It's one of the first carols I get tired of during the holiday season, but somehow Skaroulis has made it new and beautiful again. One of my favorite tracks is "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen." It's one of my favorite carols anyway, but this arrangement is hauntingly gorgeous. Some of the chord and rhythm changes are unexpected, taking the piece in new directions. I'm always amazed at how open "Carol of the Bells" is to a huge variety of approaches. This one is pensive, very rubato, and a bit haunting. "Silent Night" has a lot of open space, suggesting a quiet peace and perhaps stars twinkling in the sky and reflecting in a new layer of snow. Every track is a gem, played with George Skaroulis' elegant and reflective style. Other titles include "What Child Is This?" "We Three Kings," "The First Noel," and "Angels We Have Heard On High." Very highly recommended! | ||
 | George Skaroulis - Generations | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2003-10-05 |
| "Generations" is the original theme music composed to accompany "The Generations Music and Photography Exhibit," which featured historical family photographs taken in the 1920's by George Skaroulis' grandfather,Theo Patronis. Patronis was born in Greece in 1897 and came to the US in 1913. With his camera, Patronis documented the family history as well as the old and new worlds he called home. The photography exhibit opened in Patmos, Greece in July 2000, and then had its premiere in the US in Atlanta, Georgia in January 2001. Pianist George Skaroulis' music captures an appreciation of life's simplest moments, as do the photographs in the 8-page booklet that accompanies the CD. For the most part, the music is quiet and peaceful. Some of the tracks have additional instrumentation, but the album is gentle and serene, and some of the pieces are breathtaking in their simple elegance and heartfelt emotion. "Hopes and Dreams" opens the CD with piano and oboe in an almost wistful duet that sets the tone of the album. "Photographia" is a beautiful piece with a simple melody that mirrors the poignance of the photos. As the title implies, "Nostalgia" is a reflective, bittersweet piece, remembering times gone by. The title track begins with a variation on Chopin's Prelude in Cm, and evolves into a wonderfully flowing piece that includes flute and strings along with piano; this is one of my favorites on this album - very soulful and emotional. "Dreams of Children" captures a gentle innocence along with a moving forward. "Se Ymnumen" is another favorite - a very minor piece full of passion. It was inspired by a liturgical piece heard often in Greek Orthodox church services. (It was also on Skaroulis' debut CD, "Homeland.") "Melodia" is a simple, compelling piece that is reflective and very poignant. A self-taught pianist, George Skaroulis doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles in his music, and none are needed. The messages are clear and straightforward, and Skaroulis is one of the more expressive pianists on the contemporary scene. Another exceptional album by an exceptional artist. Very highly recommended! | ||
 | George Skaroulis - Second Nature * | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2003-10-05 |
| "Second Nature" is quite simply one of the most beautiful recordings I've ever heard. George Skaroulis' piano music is effortless, full of grace, and emotionally uplifting without any sticky sweetness or pretension. One senses a very giving and gentle soul behind the music, making the album all the more likable. "Soothing" and "relaxing" are words that are used to describe so many albums in this genre (most of them, actually!), but peace and tranquility emanate from each piece - although several are dark and moody (I like that!!!). This is a collection of twenty-one pieces that would be a wonderful backdrop for almost any activity, but I found myself stopping to listen more carefully each of the ten or twelve times I've played it (so far! - this one ain't gonna collect dust on the shelf!). As a piano teacher, I listen to piano music for a living; and as a reviewer, I listen to piano music in most of my free time. It takes a lot to knock me out, and "Second Nature" has done it. Skaroulis' music is immediately accessible without any commercialism. He expresses his deepest emotions without manipulating listeners or hitting them over the head with the obvious. Along with his original compositions, Skaroulis has included a beautiful vocal/piano arrangement of "The Water Is Wide." Vocal selections on a mostly-instrumental album can be annoying, but this one fits in beautifully. He has also included poignant arrangements of two of Mark Isham's movie themes - "A River Runs Through It" and "Mrs. Soffel". And then there are the originals. There are too many favorites to name them all, but I'll try to give you a sampling. The title track is stunning - bittersweet, full of longing, and yet flowing like a river. "Reflection" is a shimmering vignette at under two minutes in length, but the openness of the emotions expressed make it a standout. "Aqua Clara" takes a different approach than the other pieces, and has lyrics spoken in Italian. More orchestrated and rhythmic than most of the other tracks, the piano, strings, and voices convey a wide range of emotions. A mysterious piece, Paul Mercer's violin adds a dark and haunting quality. "Cold Morning Shadow" was co-written with Mercer; keyboards support Mercer's sorrowful viola, melting into the ambient "Awakening." The CD closes with a reprise of "Aqua Clara" that is simple, elegant, and very sad. "Second Nature" is nothing short of amazing. I could go on for days, but give yourself a treat! I can't imagine that anyone would be disappointed in this CD unless they were looking for rap or maybe a polka record. Great stuff! I give it my highest recommendation. | ||
| George Skaroulis - Generations | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2003-10-05 |
| "Generations" is the original theme music composed to accompany "The Generations Music and Photography Exhibit," which featured historical family photographs taken in the 1920's by George Skaroulis' grandfather,Theo Patronis. Patronis was born in Greece in 1897 and came to the US in 1913. With his camera, Patronis documented the family history as well as the old and new worlds he called home. The photography exhibit opened in Patmos, Greece in July 2000, and then had its premiere in the US in Atlanta, Georgia in January 2001. Pianist George Skaroulis' music captures an appreciation of life's simplest moments, as do the photographs in the 8-page booklet that accompanies the CD. For the most part, the music is quiet and peaceful. Some of the tracks have additional instrumentation, but the album is gentle and serene, and some of the pieces are breathtaking in their simple elegance and heartfelt emotion. "Hopes and Dreams" opens the CD with piano and oboe in an almost wistful duet that sets the tone of the album. "Photographia" is a beautiful piece with a simple melody that mirrors the poignance of the photos. As the title implies, "Nostalgia" is a reflective, bittersweet piece, remembering times gone by. The title track begins with a variation on Chopin's Prelude in Cm, and evolves into a wonderfully flowing piece that includes flute and strings along with piano; this is one of my favorites on this album - very soulful and emotional. "Dreams of Children" captures a gentle innocence along with a moving forward. "Se Ymnumen" is another favorite - a very minor piece full of passion. It was inspired by a liturgical piece heard often in Greek Orthodox church services. (It was also on Skaroulis' debut CD, "Homeland.") "Melodia" is a simple, compelling piece that is reflective and very poignant. A self-taught pianist, George Skaroulis doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles in his music, and none are needed. The messages are clear and straightforward, and Skaroulis is one of the more expressive pianists on the contemporary scene. Another exceptional album by an exceptional artist. Very highly recommended! | ||
| George Skaroulis - Second Nature * | |
| "from MainlyPiano.com" | 2003-10-04 |
| "Second Nature" is quite simply one of the most beautiful recordings I've ever heard. George Skaroulis' piano music is effortless, full of grace, and emotionally uplifting without any sticky sweetness or pretension. One senses a very giving and gentle soul behind the music, making the album all the more likable. "Soothing" and "relaxing" are words that are used to describe so many albums in this genre (most of them, actually!), but peace and tranquility emanate from each piece - although several are dark and moody (I like that!!!). This is a collection of twenty-one pieces that would be a wonderful backdrop for almost any activity, but I found myself stopping to listen more carefully each of the ten or twelve times I've played it (so far! - this one ain't gonna collect dust on the shelf!). As a piano teacher, I listen to piano music for a living; and as a reviewer, I listen to piano music in most of my free time. It takes a lot to knock me out, and "Second Nature" has done it. Skaroulis' music is immediately accessible without any commercialism. He expresses his deepest emotions without manipulating listeners or hitting them over the head with the obvious. Along with his original compositions, Skaroulis has included a beautiful vocal/piano arrangement of "The Water Is Wide." Vocal selections on a mostly-instrumental album can be annoying, but this one fits in beautifully. He has also included poignant arrangements of two of Mark Isham's movie themes - "A River Runs Through It" and "Mrs. Soffel". And then there are the originals. There are too many favorites to name them all, but I'll try to give you a sampling. The title track is stunning - bittersweet, full of longing, and yet flowing like a river. "Reflection" is a shimmering vignette at under two minutes in length, but the openness of the emotions expressed make it a standout. "Aqua Clara" takes a different approach than the other pieces, and has lyrics spoken in Italian. More orchestrated and rhythmic than most of the other tracks, the piano, strings, and voices convey a wide range of emotions. A mysterious piece, Paul Mercer's violin adds a dark and haunting quality. "Cold Morning Shadow" was co-written with Mercer; keyboards support Mercer's sorrowful viola, melting into the ambient "Awakening." The CD closes with a reprise of "Aqua Clara" that is simple, elegant, and very sad. "Second Nature" is nothing short of amazing. I could go on for days, but give yourself a treat! I can't imagine that anyone would be disappointed in this CD unless they were looking for rap or maybe a polka record. Great stuff! I give it my highest recommendation. | ||
 | Johannes Linstead - Zabuca | |
| "from Solo Piano Publications" | 2003-02-14 |
| "Zabuca" is a fiery, passionate Spanish guitar tour de force from Johannes Linstead. Linstead's fourth album to date, the title aptly translates to "shake-up" or "to stir the feelings of." There is a wide range of emotions and playing styles in the ten tracks, from the festive "La Cabanita en la Playa" and "Guayabera" to the gorgeous "Echoes of the Forest" and sweetly seductive "Eleni." Linstead is joined by a variety of musicians on various percussion instruments, piano, flute, bass, cello, vocalizations, brass, and violin, giving this album a very big and full sound. The upbeat pieces are rhythmic and fun, and the quieter ones are warm and heartfelt, indicating how versatile this guitar virtuoso really is. Both traditional and contemporary flamenco styles are utilized, but this album is very much in the present. "Eleni" is a ballad from the heart that is passionate, a little melancholy, and a bit mysterious. The instrumentation on this piece is more spare with some lovely female vocalizations in the background, giving it an intimate feeling. "Echoes of the Forest" begins with the sound of running water, tropical birds, and other exotic wildlife; then the single guitar enters with flute and gentle percussion right behind it. From the liner notes: "Listen to the echoes of the forest, for soon the secrets they reveal may disappear forever...." Although the simple melody is sad, there is hope in the message - a very beautiful piece, and one of my favorites. Part 2 of the same piece has the recurring melody played on flutes with a gentle tribal rhythm. I also love "Heat in Torremolinos," one of the more upbeat and joyous pieces. It isn't as brassy as some of the other uptempo songs - mostly guitar, bass, and percussion - and has an infectious rhythm that won't quit. Calling his music "nouveau flamenco" tells part of the story, but there are also elements of gypsy, salsa, and numerous other styles incorporated into Linstead's music, creating a true world music vision. Even though this isn't a style of music I usually listen to, I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing "Zabuca." Highly recommended as music to wake up to! | ||
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