American Anxiety EP By Zishi Liu

 

American Anxiety EP

By

Zishi Liu

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This latest ep brings a whole new dimension of music to me on this sunny morning; the cadence of my day is further enhanced by the inventive manifestations within this realm of Progressive Jazz entitled American Anxiety by Zishi Liu, I must admit the title can also be said to be relevant right now with regard to that country and the confusing turmoil that surrounds it.

However the acclaimed jazz saxophonist and composer Zishi Liu looks at his narrative from a perspective of an arrival into the boundless realms of this massive continent, and all the complexities that swirl around one like the never ending tornado it truly is, and the opening track portrays that perfectly, its insightful yet slow moving overtones and rapid changes, alter grow and expand into one of the most impressive and artistic opening tracks within the genre on the opening piece Breathe.

American Anxiety reminded me of my first time travelling to New York City, it’s a location where everything is, everything was, and will be, constantly, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, the driving saxophone from Liu is enhanced further by this large band his has assembled, but in my view the guitar of Eric Hofbauer was simply outstanding, whilst in the engine room the percussive talents of Francisco Mela brought a level of Jazz symbiosis to the party like non before, proving to us all that this is exactly how to make a title track stand out for all to see and enjoy.

The mournful refrains of our penultimate piece are gifted to us next on the composition entitled The Death of Yue Fei.  This slightly short form manifestation builds on a two dimensional mood and has both a level of anticipation weaved into a clever juxtaposition with its somewhat reflective and emotive nuances.

The final part of this artistic endeavour comes in the guise of the track Lotus, a meditative testament to the past perhaps; it’s gentle and enticing Zen-like opening leads us perfectly into a land of plenty, and is a fine example of East meets West with utter ease, if ever the term global fusion could be used in the world of Jazz, this track could be held up as a prime example of it.

The single performances from each member here were incredibly inventive and fluent to boot, whilst the overflowing narrative from the master musician would draw a musical painting that would progress, pick up tempo and bring us one of the most addictive compositions that I have heard in this style for simply ages.

There is no doubt that any serious Jazz aficionado should have a copy of American Anxiety by Zishi Liu in their media player of choice, this 4 track release is outstandingly crafted, well thought out and inelegantly performed by the artist and his accomplished collective of musical cohorts. Here within lies a timeless collection of cogent perceptive Jazz, and many hours of immersive, thoroughly captivating and thrilling musical dramas is on offer here for you, on American Anxiety by Zishi Liu. 

Dancing Shadows By Christophe Goze

 

Dancing Shadows

By

Christophe Goze

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Christophe Goze is a composer of great quality and style and here on this brand new single entitled Dancing Shadows he teams up with vocalist Skeb, and the result is one of the best vocal tracks I have heard for years. This also has to be one of the most haunting reveries I have heard from the master guitarist and composer, normally known for his smooth Jazz compositions.

Goze has indeed broken new ground in what must be classified perhaps as a pop ballad, but for me and my vast years in this business, this could easily slide into the narrative that is known being known as New Age Vocal perhaps. Compositionally speaking this reminded me of another favourite track of mine called Lughnasad by Andy Pickford released back in 2002, he also was an instrumentalist who unusually used a haunting female vocalist to add flavour to his classic opus, and it worked brilliantly.

The production quality of this new song is utter perfection, and it is this textured and layered progression of tone and vocal superiority that makes this new manifestation so enticing. Skeb on vocals adds so much, the juxtaposition of Goze on guitar equally so, and I feel like sticking my neck out here, I would rate this to be one of the greatest singles in this style that I have had the good pleasure to listen to for the last decade at least, and if it doesn’t win an award and top the charts I will be completely floored.

Humanity's Silent Cry By Alejandro Clavijo

 

Humanity's Silent Cry

By

Alejandro Clavijo

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

A new artist to me came my way this morning via the medium of a brand new single entitled Humanity's Silent Cry, and its creator the ever so talented Alejandro Clavijo. I must be honest and say that I have never been a fan of felt piano, but here on this creative new release Clavijo gifts us a haunting theme, and the composition, methodology and choice of instrumentation works brilliantly.

The piece itself is a haunting reverie, something you may see on a Tim Burton movie perhaps, the back drop of a gentle synth pad is masterful in manifesting a mysterious and mist filled veil over the musical landscape that escapes from it. Whilst Clavijo’s piano builds on a clock like structure, and then bursts into life to create a fluent melody and direction.

This has to be one of the most captivating piano based compositions that I have heard for some time; it’s one of those tracks that you cannot help continuously playing, and a track that embraces the listener, taking them through the narrative of a new day filled with both hope and apprehension, Alejandro Clavijo has manifested something special here, and as such I predict a huge hit single is on offer for the artist with Humanity's Silent Cry.

The Presence of Love By Rick Sparks

 

The Presence of Love

By

Rick Sparks

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Rick Sparks is a composer and performer of some of the most beautiful piano and keyboard music around in this day and age, whilst that might well be a truism of sorts, nothing can be taken away from this man who has manifested such a stunning array of fine music over many years, for me that journey started with an album called Endless back in 2014 and continues to this day with this sparkling new single entitled The Presence of Love.

Here Rick brings to our attention the most perfect form of love within his music, the honest, truthful, and only real love, unconditional love, this then forms the musical narrative of The Presence of Love, the performance lays down a gentle tender tone, the soft touch on the keys and the gentle progression brings us all a sense of deep peace and contentment.

Within this comforting refrain there can be found a few slight chord changes that brings about a sense of confidence calm and serenity, overall this new manifestation has a palpable cathartic energy about its arrangement too, so all in all, there is simply no reason not to make this new single from Sparks part of your lives as well.

One has to finally add that on the world’s stage and in this genre, Sparks’ stands out as one of its top creators and composers, this new song totally emphasises that aforementioned statement, and even takes it further, so without doubt The Presence of Love by Rick Sparks is destined to become a massive hit, and maybe even more!

Talking to Whales By Ilka de Gast

 

Talking to Whales

By

Ilka de Gast

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This New Age music revival is now full on and this time around its narratives seem to be far stronger in the production and creational aspects of the genre, whilst back in the day, many would release albums about whales and dolphins, fairies and trees, but this time around it is very obvious that a lot of intelligence, thought, sincerity, consideration and topical awareness has gone into this well of bountiful musical pleasure, and that aforementioned statement can certainly be said for one of the best new age singles I have heard for years called Talking To Whales and performed by composers Ilka De Gast and Tommy Graven.

Utilising the harmonic craft of flautist Tommy Graven, vocalist De Gast manifests a contribution to the genre of a single that is not only utterly beautiful, but must surely have been channelled by the whales themselves, at her spiritual sanctuary known to her personally as “The Vortex”, just to add a little more context, we have a few special locations here in Cyprus, where we are sure that time and energy operates in a totally different way to all other places.

We can add further to the description of this stunning reverie that it contains a meditative quality like no other, the song is not just redolent of the subject matter, it is the subject matter, and personally I must state that I believe Talking to Whales by Ilka de Gast is easily one of the best new age releases I have heard so far this decade, and as such deserves to top the charts and perhaps more!

Silence By Lisa Cullum

 

Silence

By

Lisa Cullum

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The slow and gentle refrains of this brand new single by Lisa Cullum called Silence speaks volumes for its brilliant arrangement, this new manifestation starts in a deep dark well of tone and pulls itself into a position that allows it to survey all, in a fine melodic and flowing way, and whilst doing so she has captivated the listener with a simply spell binding performance on piano.

The symphonic gestures of this neo-classical masterpiece then blend into an almost eastern European flavour, and its silent pebbled streets are only washed clear by the rain and the notes struck from one of the most impressive piano presentations I have heard for decades, there is indeed a tale being told here and this piece draws the listener in, to never let them go!

There is also something about this new single that screams film soundtrack score to me, perhaps if Tim Burton is reading this he should contact the artist with regard to any new and haunting movies he has coming up, this new manifestation is of that quality, and I fully expect it to be a massive hit on the charts and who knows, perhaps an award or two as well.

Echoes of Light By Lisa Cullum

 

Echoes of Light

By

Lisa Cullum

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The London based neo-classical composer Lisa Cullum has been on my musical radar now for some years, four to be exact, and since then her talents as a composer and pianist have grown exponentially, here on this brand new five piece EP she expands her skill set even further on one of the nicest collections of piano based musings you would ever wish to have, and called Echoes Of Light.

The journey starts with From The Darkness, a track that must be classified as beautiful in its compositional structure, it truly is a creation that guides one from the dark and into the light, the gentle build, slow progression and superior piano and string segments, make this one of the most impressive opening pieces I have heard for years in this genre.

The following narrative has what could be described as a sensitive, almost pristine energy to its essence; there is a sense of mystery and curiosity here that is not only wonderfully crafted, but deeply compelling on the piece entitled Into The Light. The classical element here is incredibly palpable and one can through the cello string sections and careful piano, find a way out of the webs and mists of a darker past perhaps.

Clarity has something that I adore in any music, that hovering sense of intent, Vaughn Williams used to do it so well with those delicious violins, and here Cullum joins that club in manifesting one of the most heartfelt offerings this genre has seen for decades on Clarity. A track that floats with the fresh air of a new May morning, and in doing so brings a beautiful cadence to the day for any listener.

The penultimate narrative is a piano based creation of great texture and quality and called The Last Moment, there is something so very moving about this performance, that matched with the string segments brings a true sense of a mournful texture to the heart and mind on this emotive creation.

Our last and concluding piece is called Silence, the tale starts from a deep place, and its tone and timbre slowly build, to pick up tempo which in turn brings forth an almost meditative structure with which to float within, a composition that has a duality of a haunting reverie, and one that could easily be used as a film soundtrack.

Echoes of Light by Lisa Cullum in my view is the best work of the artist thus far, here on this sublime new EP she has taken many musical moments and shaped them into six very listenable and captivating creations, here is a release that any listener will be happy to fall in love with, and as such I can only see good things on the horizon for Lisa Cullum and Echoes of Light.

Days of Gypsy Nights By Doug Wyatt

 

Days of Gypsy Nights

By

Doug Wyatt

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This new release by Doug Wyatt has to be one of the most enjoyable for me personally that I have had the pleasure to listen to this year so far, and that says a lot, as I get gifted a fair amount of Jazz based albums for review, there was something so fluent and smooth about this creative pastiche of compositions within the realm of this new album entitled Days of Gypsy Nights.

This release contains 9 bliss filled reveries, the first of which is entitled Iroquois, a charming full flowing narrative that has a delightful symphonic sense to its construction. I remember the name from my Native American studies, and the piano of Wyatt here created a spectacular backdrop of sound that perhaps could take us vicariously to that very location, a tip of the hat must go here to the saxophone of Michael Rosen, and the crafted percussion from Marcello Pellitteri on drums.

The following creation is called As I Am, As I Dream to Be, its combination of colours and textures brought a pleasant sanctuary of peace to fill my musical soul. One of the most important parts of a Jazz band is the engine room, or the rhythm section, and among the rising notes of the sax and layered piano, we were treated to a sublime performance by Giuseppe Bassi on double bass.

Days of Gypsy Nights is such a beautifully created and produced album it is a simple pleasure to behold its great graces, like the heart felt opus of Afraid to Love, or perhaps the symphonic partnership of piano and strings on Katy's Spring.

Then the masterpiece takes centre stage as we listen intently to the title track itself Days of Gypsy Nights, we can enjoy the sumptuous performance on piano by Wyatt, we can travel with the tonal delights of the New Zealand String Quartet as they manifest a bed of sound to allow the piece itself to pick up speed and move ever onward, whilst the supreme talents of both Michael Rosen & Michael Waldrop on sax and drums take us to Jazz heaven on what must be one of the most complex yet incredibly listenable offerings from the album.

Composer Wyatt must be elated with his musical creations, all of which are bursting with life and create a fine tapestry of tone and timbre, like the gentle piano reverie of The Pseudo-Iterative, or perhaps the outstanding Mythaka, a song which utilises the sublime talents of Francesco Ponticelli on double bass, and with the simply picturesque string driven short form narrative of Ulysses, we are literally driven right home to our door, and the concluding creation from the album.

Return to the Sea Beyond as a final narrative is lush, smooth and beautifully performed, the opening foray by Wyatt is some of the most artistic and tender piano I have heard for simple ages in this genre, with the inclusion of strings the listener can feel totally fulfilled at the coda.

For me, I would recommend Days of Gypsy Nights by Doug Wyatt in a heartbeat, this isn’t just a Jazz album, this is a sublime example of perfectly created, presented and produced instrumental magic, with a team of incredibly talented cohorts who each in their own add so much to this breath taking album, as such I predict with great confidence that Days of Gypsy Nights by Doug Wyatt is going to be a huge chart hit, and maybe even more!

Hush (Extended Version) By ENILSounds

 

Hush (Extended Version)

By

ENILSounds

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

ENILSounds have been on my musical radar for some 3 years or so now, today as new single flies across my desk which is possibly the best so far, we can feel the mood of this new creation Hush (Extended Version), which in my view is somewhat surprising, as for me I personally found it quite emotive, but overall it is one of the most beautifully performed works from her thus far.

A gentle childlike ballad can be found here, as indeed the title may give a hint to the eager listener, but there is so much to enjoy here, with the vocals at times reminding me of Kate Bush, the keyboards were a key point to, manifesting a truly moving backdrop of sound.

This as a song that could be classified as almost anthem in style, but the key changes and drops down to a more minor refrain, these were simply awesome and utterly made my day whilst listening to it and it is this that created a powerful and emotional arrangement for us all to enjoy.

Hush (Extended Version) by ENILSounds I would say is the artist’s seminal work so far, everything is pretty much perfect here, pitch, tempo, construction and compositional textures all sublime, and as such I have a feeling that this could well be the biggest hit yet for the composer and performer, and deservedly so. 

Fleeting Struggle By Samer Fanek

 

Fleeting Struggle

By

Samer Fanek

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I must admit a happy smile drifted across my face as soon as saw a new release by pianist Samer Fanek was on offer, and even more so when I found out that I was going to be reviewing it, this brand new offering, the first since 2022 is called Fleeting Struggle, and is a timely reminder of just how very talented this composer actually is.

The opening foray to this latest master creation is steady and very moody; a sense of apprehension is also built into its crafted narrative, one that is soon elevated to a wondrous level with added percussion and an almost Middle Eastern flavour into the mix as well.

The mid part of the composition pulls back slightly then builds again into a more symphonic creation; from then onwards this classy new manifestation flows like a full flowing winter river, with added guitar included into its inventive narrative, and contains one of the most intelligent codas to conclude this brilliant new single as well.

There can be no doubt Samer Fanek is back, and will no doubt be riding the wave of the instrumental genre whilst doing so. This new powerful piece Fleeting Struggle is the breath of fresh air we all needed, and for me a guaranteed hit in the making for the artist.

Stops Along The Way By Cliff Sarde

 

Stops Along The Way

By

Cliff Sarde

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is something about this brand new single by Cliff Sarde which brings a chilled cadence to any day, and any time, this moving ever onward composition of tranquilly and calm is a gift of a serene musical environment that is just too good to pass up, and called Stops Along The Way.

Sarde has become well known for his instrumental flavours over the years, introducing his listeners to a globally fused catalogue ever since the 80’s, and then into the 90’s with legends like R. Carlos Nakai, here though his arrives at the station with his trade mark sound of a sultry saxophone, and steady Jazz vibe for us to travel on further in bliss with.

This is one of those singles that could go down well in many genres, but will be most welcomed within the ranks of the chill out and smooth Jazz circles. For me, this is an offering that has a timeless texture to its tapestry, and I for one have a feeling of absolute certainty that Stops Along The Way by Cliff Sarde is about to pull into the metro station marked, successful hit, it is indeed that good, a sumptuous performance, classy production and presentation can all be found here, so what other result could there be!

Dancing Between Worlds by Lisa Swerdlow

 

Dancing Between Worlds

By

Lisa Swerdlow

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The genre of piano with added instrumentation would no doubt be much emptier without the undoubted talents of piano supremo Lisa Swerdlow within it, and to prove that aforementioned statement, why not take a listen to her latest single entitled Dancing Between Worlds, it is a veritable symbiotic partnership of fluency and symphonic mellow tone.

The smooth and delightful creation is in my view one of her best so far, the orchestral gestures are wonderfully gentle and caress the nature of the overall composition without smothering it, whilst Swerdlow on piano is simply magnificent with every note played.

This is one of those proud moments, when you know you have released a sublime creation; one perhaps even of film score standard, and at times one can hear a little David Lanz touch in the pulling back of a presentation, only to allow the crescendo to take centre stage gloriously.

My musical senses tell me we are listening to one of Swerdlow’s best ever manifestations, and the good news to follow that, is that this new single is coming from her forth coming album of the same name, I for one think she will have a hit on her hands with both projects, and deservedly so, as this single is stunningly beautiful and called, Dancing Between Worlds.

Shall We By Shambhu

 

Shall We

By

Shambhu

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The talents of Shambhu have been with me now for some 15 years, ever since the release of Sacred Love in 2010, since then it has been a glorious ride of moving acoustic guitar and instrumental music never to be forgotten, today we roam into that musical garden of many delights once again, with his brand new single entitled Shall We.

There is a charming fluency by Shambhu that constantly flows through his music, the energy is always pure and highlights a positive and thoughtful refrain with each and every note and chord played, here on this brand new creation, one can feel that start of a new beginning within the weave of the arrangement, it is a soothing and palpable feeling of calming pleasure.

Shall We is a crisp new release, one that is akin to waking up on a spring morning with the scent of hope in the air, I am sure the fans of the acoustic guitar genre, which is one that is growing by the hour, will appreciate this new uncomplicated offering from the artist.

I am sure that the tranquil nature of this manifestation will also garner the musician yet another massive chart hit; this is one of those pieces that can be much loved for its reflective moments, but always offering the listener a warm sanctuary of sound to rest within.

The single releases April 30^th, but you can pre-save it here: https://tinyurl.com/esxz2pm4

Purple Silhouette By James Michael Stevens

 

Purple Silhouette

By

James Michael Stevens

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The legend that is James Michael Stevens is back with another album, and gifted to this wonderful world is one of his most beautiful yet entitled, Purple Silhouette, each track is a painting in his own art gallery of tone and timbre, in what I honestly can say is probably one of his best works as of yet.

This cornucopia of piano delights is 10 songs of some of the most soothing there are in this genre, and it all starts with the textured reverie of the title track Purple Silhouette, a tender presentation packed with colour, tenderness and compassion in what is a stunningly graphic opening.

The recurrent theme within this second piece is performed with a slow, but exact precision, this repeated rhythmically delightful melodic offering would also make a great lyrical theme for a song perhaps, but on its own it stands proudly and beautifully and called Rondo Amore.

Much can be said for this composition as well entitled Beautiful Prelude, this is a creative arrangement that flows like a stream in late Autumn, one that is still full of hope, and one that brings forth elements of memory and reflection, this would be one of my personal favourites from this release.

When Poppies Bloom Again has to be one of the prettiest compositions on solo piano I have heard for ages, its delicate use of minor and major refrains truly make this a memorable arrangement, it tender structures are indeed what James is known for, but this piece goes even further manifesting a heart-warming arrangement of great hope into the weave of the offering as too.

I was so pleased to see this one up next as we have a Cherry Blossom Prelude right here now on our streets, everything is bursting into colour, however James has gone much farther east than us here in Cyprus, and a true Eastern motif can be both heard and felt.

I adore watching the night sky, and of course our dear and wonderful lunar celestial object, here on Blue Moon Lullaby we have something that is utterly idyllic and also quite haunting, the astral qualities are here yes, but they are neatly juxtaposed with a memory palace of reflection that is almost spectral in its deeper essences.

It’s time for a dance, in fact it is time for a Snow Dream Waltz, this is yet another slice of perfection from the pianist, how could one not see two people skating together on an iced lake in late January to this one, the theme is happy, the movement is blessed with a sumptuous performance by the artist.

A horse of a different colour is about to arrive and called Shadow Soliloquy, this has to be one of the most crafted and artistic endeavours from the album, the repeated minor motif makes the base of the composition, whilst Stevens tranquil repose of the construction of notes is so beautifully formed, that it seems to melt into the shadows of the piece itself quite evocatively in a very poignant way indeed.

We have each night the opportunity to walk about 10 minutes to our local beach and watch the sunset on one of the most beautiful horizons in the world, so this offering, this penultimate track off the release has a little something special inside for us here and Midnight Shore is indeed a gift and a blessing that keeps on giving, a song impossible to ever tire of.

Concluding an album can sometimes be one of the hardest things to do, but not for James, he gifts us one last musical present that tucks us up in bed and pulls the covers upwards to keep us warm, and this hug of a track is called Go In Peace, a more tranquil creation you will not find to end a solo piano based album.

Purple Silhouette by James Michael Stevens is one in a very long line of releases by the artist, but I am beginning to think this could be his best thus far, each track is melodious, thoughtful, soothing and meaningful, this is true art in the making, and as such I can be left in no doubt that a huge chart hit could well be on the way for the pianist, with Purple Silhouette, he certainly deserves it.

Another Day By Medd & Shaw

 

Another Day

By

Medd & Shaw

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Another new album from a new band to me, headed my way this sunny April morning, this new release had so many different styles, nuances and attractions, that it made it the perfect place for me to reside in for many hours, the band is Medd & Shore and this liberating and classy album is entitled Another Day.

The title track takes pride of place and begins our journey, this crafted opening musical narration Another Day had a lush pace and a fine melodic energy, and at times reminded me in the early part of the song to those memorable creations of Al Stewart.

The album contains 12 very appealing offerings including the more Eagles styled Let It All Fall Down On Me, where a full flowing anthem created opus is ready for each and every listeners enjoyment, whilst on pieces like I Took the Long Way Home, a more folk styled manifestation can be found, lyrically beautiful and presented quite emotively.

This is truly an album where something for everyone can indeed be found, perhaps the more Midwestern country style of Rolling Back the Time, or the ballad You and Me, which would turn out to be one of the most fascinating from the album, and reminded me greatly of early Dire Straits.

The gentle Close Your Eyes Goodnight marks the half way marker of the album, while classic tracks like the unforgettable It’s About Life heralds our arrival in the second half of this brilliant release, again this emotive style works so beautifully with the multi-instrumental flavours contained within.

However this next piece is a complete breath of fresh air, the more rhythmic Love Is the Scenic Route of Life adds a wonderful layer into the nature of this clever composition.  There can be no doubt that Dorian Medd on vocals, guitars & percussion leads this massive collection of talented artists onwards towards success with such style, listen to tracks like When the Wind Blows as a prime example, and his partner in this stunning release Robert Shaw on vocals & guitars equally so.

I must admit I love a little Latin groove and Diamond Eyes featuring Juan Pablo Palencia fits the bill perfectly; the soft and sensual vocals here are simply sublime, as they indeed are on the last piece also featuring Juan Pablo Palencia and titled Rhayne, once more that wonderful Latin mood is there but softer, and is a great follow on from the penultimate track off the album entitled Money Don’t Buy Me Love, with a more rock Santana styled energy.

The band that Medd and Shaw have amassed is a vast and extremely talented crew, but to mention them all would see me fill up literally another page entirely! but kudos to each and every one of them for their fine contributions on an album that offers much, delivers on every track, and is both presented and produced with care, which then leads me to the obvious conclusion that Another Day by Medd & Shaw will deliver a massive chart hit for the artists with ease, it certainly deserves all the plaudits it gets.

Now I Will Know By Victor Towle

 

Now I Will Know

By

Victor Towle

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The smooth elements of a good acoustic guitar can bring forth some of the most mellow and meditative experiences, here on this brand new single from Chicago born composer and performer Victor Towle, we have just that and much more, in this reflective yet calming manifestation entitled, Now I Will Know a single from his f album Sleight of Hand which is set for release 1^st May.

Towle has long been an advocate for a more meditative and cathartic experience in music, and you certainly get that from this beautifully layered offering, the strum and notes combine to bring a totally immersive understanding, even when the tempo is kicked up a notch the overall narrative is still fluent, thoughtful and intelligent.

The gentle and touching soft instrumental backdrop adds flavour and texture to this tapestry of tone and timbre, and towards the latter half of the track one can feel the reflection appear, and then leave again with a smile and perhaps lessons learned.

For me, this is my original home, I learned to play acoustic guitar as a teen, and inspired by artists like Greg Lake on Take a Pebble, whilst that maybe decades in the past, each and every nuance on this bright and inspiring arrangement, including the harmonics and the mixture of minor and major chords still pull a wave of emotions across me to this day, one that will never leave, and leaves me to surmise that if there is any justice in this world of music, I can see a massive chart hit for Victor Towle and Now I Will Know on the horizon.

Check out the video for this release here: https://youtu.be/cAwIgDvmvEk

Shimmer and Fade By Michael Dulin

 

Shimmer and Fade

By

Michael Dulin

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

It is so good to hear another new single from the master pianist and composer Michael Dulin, I still remember my induction into the music and creations of the artist, for me that happened way back in 2003 and an album called Atmospheres, however here today and some 22 years later I gaze lovingly at this chilled new composition entitled Shimmer and Fade.

Dulin is master of his art, at one time even toured with the one and only Temptations as their keyboardist. Here on this brand new single he gifts us a moment in a lounge bar, or coffee shop, and as we gaze out into the spring pathways and alleys, we can watch the sun glisten on the cobble stones, then hide behind the odd errant cloud, as we caress our senses with this beautiful soft and mesmeric jazz piano manifestation.

Shimmer and Fade has some of the softest and most tender touches you’re ever likely to hear, and indeed if this track had of been 10 minutes long I would have still been transfixed by its graceful tones and gentle beauty. If any song needs to be a huge hit it’s Shimmer and Fade by Michael Dulin, simply put, if this song doesn’t grace the high echelons of the charts I will be stunned, this is solo jazz piano at its very best, and chicken soup for the soul.

You Never Know By Michael Hoppé

 

You Never Know

By

Michael Hoppé

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I have long been a fan of Michael Hoppé, in fact I used to start a show off years back with a track from his 2003 album Solace, and here we are some 22 years later and I am still enamoured and moved greatly by his manifestations within what can be called the Neo Classical genre. Today however, brings us a new offering called You Never Know and it is one of the finest examples that the aforementioned genre has to offer.

The subtleties of Hoppé’s symphonic creational masterpieces are something to always enjoy and lovingly behold, the early string sections remind me of the solace that Vaughn Williams brings to me, yet in the latter half of this piece there is an even deeper measure, as we feel the real honest depth contained within, that offered up in some way for me an example of the finest emotive classical styling since Dvorak and the New World Symphony.

Here on this glorious arrangement I believe that the always inspiring Michael Hoppé has brought into being a concluding symphonic narrative for a Hollywood movie, the build and progression contained within are easily the finest I have heard for years, and the coda one of the softest and sweetest there is. Listening to You Never Know by Michael Hoppé is indeed a panacea to cure all ills, and thus I can only see good things on the horizon for this blissful new single.

Sunsets and Skylines By Moon and Aries

 

Sunsets and Skylines

By

Moon and Aries

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is always room for a little breath of fresh air in the music industry and we have been gifted just that by the duet Moon and Aries, this musical offering called Sunsets and Skylines comes courtesy of them and is another slice of duel vocal instrumental magic that is now being known global as New Age Pop, and this is a superior single that will no doubt flood the airwaves with its energies of positivity and calm.

The pairing are Jordana Moon from the proud country of Canada, and German born keyboard magician Tom Aries. This track I have now listened to some 5 times in a row, it is incredibly addictive, as well as being incredibly smooth, soothing and flavourful.

The multi-instrumental tapestry weaved by Aries is simply amazing and an utter delight to swim within, whilst the superior vocals of Moon highlight the sublime quality of this manifestation, the clever duel vocals work wonderfully too, one has to further empathise the sensual and soulful lyrics and voice of Moon, further raising that musical bar to unrivalled heights.

Here is a huge hit in the making, at times reminding me of Mitten and Premal and also a more soulful hint of the band Deep Imagination can be found here. For me this is a quality composition, beautifully composed, produced and performed, and as such Sunsets and Skylines by Moon and Aries is going to be a guaranteed chart hit with absolute ease. 

- 20 By Richard Dillon

 

- 20

By

Richard Dillon

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is something deeply appealing about this style of solo piano, the sheer depth of construction is sublime, the vastness of the compositional structure and arrangement doubly so, it’s moving, deep and dark, and portrays the season of winter perfectly, as we look towards this latest single by Richard Dillon called - 20 performed and by Neil Patton.

The dark notes of the piano are our friend here; they manifest a cold barren wasteland of timbre like never before, and usher forth a track that is ultra-descriptive and brilliantly played by Patton. One must applaud Dillon’s creativity, he has manifested some fine works of art in his time, but - 20 must be his most chilling yet.

The slow almost outer worldly vibrations are here, and they are stunning, and with ease create a barren frozen vista of sorts, the performance by Patton is tempered and crafted, but performed with such an artistic flair that one cannot help but be impressed by its manifestation, there can be no doubt that Richard Dillon has composed something remarkable here, and thanks to pianist Neil Patton, that is now a gift to the solo piano industry that will be remembered for a lifetime, and is solo piano at its very best.

We Will Rise Once More By Wayne Bethanis

 

We Will Rise Once More

By

Wayne Bethanis

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This brave new single from supremo pianist Wayne Bethanis is probably the most multi-instrumental, and with ease the most anthem-like the artist has ever created. With such incredible compositions behind him in the rear view mirror, Bethanis has stood strong in the centre of this music ring, and proclaimed this new legacy of determination and courage like never before.

The gentle start of the song bursts into life and its rousing like inferences soon take hold as the song continues to grow and expand, percussion is added, a choral element then builds with style and grace and into an inevitable new anthem for the free minded, kind and open hearts across the globe; perhaps Bethanis has manifested from his muse an anthem for a brave new world yet to come.

Gentle piano segments allow the energy to once more build into a crescendo not seen on a song for eons, this is powerful stuff from the artist, and here on this new composition he has unlocked all that is good and true, and created a song for the ages that not only inspires the listener, but gives them a vehicle to enjoy the process too. If any song is going to be a massive hit in 2025 it just has to be We Will Rise Once More by Wayne Bethanis, there can be no other outcome.

Check it out here: https://lnk.to/WayneBethanis_WeWillRiseOnceMore

On The Moon by David Lanz & Kristin Amarie

 

On The Moon

By

David Lanz & Kristin Amarie

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There comes a time when you hear a specific song and think to yourself, if this doesn’t get to number one there is no justice in the world of music, fortunately the echoes of outstanding brilliance here are the twin powers of the globes premier pianist David Lanz, and Gaia’s classiest vocalist in Kristin Amarie, and their brand new single On The Moon.

This though is classic pop, with a stylish beat, lush crafted musicianship and extremely clever empowered moments of an uplifting nature, and more than anything else, one of the most addictive melodies and choruses that not only gets into your head, but takes up residence and never ever leaves, trust me, please trust me, you hear this song just once, and wherever you are, whatever you are doing, you will find yourself either humming or singing the chorus!

On The Moon is utter class and probably far too good for the Eurovision Song Contest, with the textured mastery on piano of the one and only David Lanz, the sublime range power and passionate vocals of top notch singer Kristin Amarie, and then add to that the smooth and fluent acoustic guitar of NY guitarist and producer, Alex Salzman, there can be no other outcome than seeing this song top the charts, now off you go, get online and purchase a copy, and while you do that, I will sing the chorus once more!

Imagine This by Jacquelyn G. Kleine

 

Imagine This

By

Jacquelyn G. Kleine

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I always regard reviewing and listening to a Jacquelyn G. Kleine creation as a most pleasurable moment to look forward to, so with the early April sun streaming in through my studio window, I have such a delight as I traverse the sonic highways of sound with Jacquelyn and with her latest single release called Imagine This.

Firstly pull up the art work whilst listening to this; it’s quite an experience to fall into a vast cosmos of stars and planets whilst immersing oneself into superior electronic musicianship such as this, there is also a clever addition within this single that needs to be highlighted too, the percussive beat that is a constant here, holds the overall composition together in such a crafted way, this allows the artist to take us on a vast voyage of sight and sound, whilst still remaining grounded.

Imagine This by Jacquelyn G. Kleine is a pastiche of keyboards, synths and electronic mastery that evokes a sensation of wonderment and joy, it is a more ambient piece that you would at first expect, and some aspects of this composition remind me in style of US electronic composer Forrest Smithson, however and regardless, there can be no other outcome for Jacquelyn G. Kleine and Imagine This, that yet another huge chart hit for the composer, and rightly so.

The Beauty of Sensitivity (HSP) by David Clavijo

 

The Beauty of Sensitivity (HSP)

By

David Clavijo

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The most wondrous thing about music for me is its healing gifts of tone and timbre, they can come from many aspects and styles of music, but today we are going to travel with the solo piano of David Clavijo on a journey called The Beauty of Sensitivity (HSP), many will understand the nature of hyper sensitive people, and yes music does help this greatly.

As I am sure this very gentle and caring composition by the artist will too, Clavijo is a multi-instrumentalist of great quality, and his compositional structures and arrangements have thrilled the world over, but here today the musician is creating what must be called a piano sanctuary for those who need it, perhaps to just submerge them into a safe zone, but in a cathartic way.

There are aspects of this new single that I find myself once more saying and referencing, the similar constructs of the late but always great Annie Locke, Clavijo like the aforementioned composer, has manifested here a warm hug of a composition that should indeed be embraced by all who follow the solo piano genre, and as such The Beauty of Sensitivity (HSP) should also become a bit of a hit on the charts as well.