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.

A Graceful Splash By Suzanne Herman

 

A Graceful Splash

By

Suzanne Herman

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I have always said that Suzanne Herman is one of the great painters of piano sounds, she is an artist of great quality, and always portrays her subject matter to perfection, so that you, the most humble listener, are transported to that very moment, to that said location through her music vicariously.

Here on her latest breathtakingly brilliant new single entitled A Graceful Splash, which is a musical narrative about the graceful dance of a Whales sea-bound movements that she observed whilst on a visit to Antarctica: Suzanne has once again choreographed a track that is so very redolent of the subject matter.

Herman has a skill of combining tender tonal delights and allowing the passages to grow and naturally fall back, similar to the rise and fall of a summer tide, and she does this so very beautifully with every composition she has ever created.

With regard to this new single it makes an almost symbiotic link between her last offering which was called Where Oceans Meet, and here on this new manifestation of sublime solo piano. Suzanne Herman once more brings to the joy of the world, something utterly beautiful and very listenable; I can say without a shadow of a doubt that A Graceful Splash by Suzanne Herman is going to do just that in the charts and maybe more!

My 2.14 By Hiromasa Keya Kobayashi

 

My 2.14

By

Hiromasa Keya Kobayashi

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Hiromasa Keya Kobayashi is a relatively new name for me from the world of solo piano, but one that I have a certain fondness for musically, his mellow presentations are delightful to listen to, and that simplicity of style and construction is just what a listener needs to ease them into another day.

This new album entitled My 2.14 is a blissful parade of sublime solo piano works, ushered forth by the short form narrative of the heart-warming composition entitled Prologue; from then on in it is a journey of delightful piano themes, like the following arrangement The Last Kiss of Summer, a tender touch of the keys is needed and given with such skill and class, this is a beautiful performance, and one to be remembered perhaps as a timeless reverie.

The melodious and smooth Can't Let You Go is our next port of call, and here is a simply delightful composition, which brings me to a conclusion I have been holding back from, but this track highlights for me a similarity between the compositional style and performance, of the late but great Annie Locke, that sensitive warmth and tenderness is most certainly there with Hiromasa too.

Time for a little light hearted reverie now, in fact it’s time for Infatuation (Midnight Jazz Bar Mix). How can one not like this track, it is fluent, charming and happy, and that’s exactly what this crazy world needs this day more than ever. The following narrative For Alice will always make me think of the girl who went through a magical mirror and investigated wonderland, listening to this gentle thoughtful narrative, this could easily be used in a movie for that tale, it is that good.

There was something quite rhythmic about this next piece entitled China Rose, one could almost call it poetic too, it has a pastiche of gentleness about it that is truly palpable, and the performance is both confident and filled with colour.

Without doubt one of the prettiest pieces from this most delightful release is The Winds Of May - Letting You Go, one could imagine the sincerity pouring from this composition, a song that has a melody line so strong and uplifting, the musical expression here is also inspiring in its tone and timbre, but by using a soft palate of sound to do so, once more the artist has manufactured a piece that is utterly timeless.

The solo piano genre is vast, but I must add that there is room for someone like Hiromasa Keya Kobayashi to come into and make a name for himself, and as an example of the artists rise to piano fame one could easily point to this memorable and moving opus entitled The Room That Used To Be, a perfectly created composition, one filled with emotion, memory and a sublime and powerful performance, and yes, my favourite track from the album.

The album concludes in the same vein as it started, with a short form narrative called Epilogue (Alone Once Again), a composition that is like having the bedtime blanket pulled up around you before a calming sleep.

My 2.14 by Hiromasa Keya Kobayashi has to be one of the best solo piano albums I have reviewed this year, at its conclusion I felt fulfilled and happy, and that cannot be a bad thing can it? The artist is a name waiting to happen, a musician who clearly feels his music, understands its twists and turns, and for me was one of the most enjoyable piano based albums I have had the pleasure of listening to for a very long time indeed, this one has chart hit written all over it.

Best of Hanslik & Moniz Experiment

Best of Hanslik & Moniz Experiment

By

Hanslik & Moniz Experiment

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is something so vast and all-encompassing about this latest release from the Hanslik & Moniz Experiment, we can gaze back over years of work, in a musical voyage that span’s almost a decade and be grateful for this moment of electronic mastery that ushers forth the best of the pairing in this best of manifestation.

The two opening forays are inspirational, and contain some of the finest experimental guitar work I have heard for ages, the first of two being the explorative tones of the mega track The Visitor, which at times almost creates an interesting juxtaposition between a little jazz orientated progressive rock, and classic EM, and then onto the fascinating vibrancy of Seagrass Siren, a track filled with segments of artistry, and combined with a thoughtful and create tonal progression.

The guitar work of Moniz and Hanslik’s sublime keyboard efforts works beautifully on this next colourful textured offering entitled Parallel Circus; and gifts the listener a sweeping out look of a composition that was birthed in mix of a Jazz progressive composition of extreme colour and expression.

Much can be said for pieces like Time, with its quite brilliant chime and onward movement of sound, tone and timbre, this is a particular favourite of mine and can be found also on the album Gell’n released back in 2021, and the next few offerings come from the first album I received from the artists in the powerful, yet flowing release Friendly Planet, the title track is first up and is a good reminder just how fluent and smooth this creation most certainly is.

While the subsequent pieces in On Shore and Meadow highlight the abundant creativity of guitar and electric piano, both are instruments I love to play, and one can find also that both, like these two tracks, offer a soundscape that is so evocative and ambient in creativity, especially in the aspect of tonal descriptive music.

The album Evolution was release in the year of 2022 and was a huge step up the ladder for the artists, there is a layered aspect that is more pronounced in the compositions Evolution, Here to There and Escape, that is utterly transfixing, the instrumental work is moody on the title track and is a self-manifesting combination of great quality, whilst Here to There is breathtakingly cloud-like in its structures, and offers the listener a moment to float with keen and stylish guitar and keyboard work, whilst the final creation in Escape is a more earthly creation, but one that has a decidedly deft and mysterious texture to its overall timbre.

The year 2023 was a very productive time for the duet, firstly we can look back at the release of the album Call and Answer of which there are no less than 5 from the collection, starting with the bright and inspiring title track, which is a perfectly balanced in its structures, but still engages the nuances of a more explorative nature, whilst The Weight Of Truth has elements of ambient mega star Eno contained within the clever meandering composition.

This album for me was a much needed sanctuary away from the ravages of life’s rich and sometimes turbulent pathway, so pieces like the mellow and thoughtful pastiche of Serene Encounter meant a lot, and a fine example of transient keyboard and synth work from Hanslik indeed. Whilst the glorious track Did We Miss Anything, postulated a form of musical art work that was, and is so deeply compelling and palpable, the bass here may sound simple, but it is a key element in the narrative of the composition.

Then we finally move to the haunting reverie of Conversation Interrupted to conclude the arrangements from this powerful release of ‘23, with the questioning and experimental values of the arrangement. A manifestation of artistic endeavours, which seem to open one musical door after another, whilst leaving a sense of a surprise interjection in the mix, the synth work of Hanslik here was simply outstanding.

This best off compilation is brought to its inevitable conclusion with the inclusion of four tracks from what I personally believe to be the pairing’s best work thus far in the album, Modern Art. This is a release that is captivating, as is the first piece we traverse entitled Eye of the Beholder, the electronic mastery of Hanslik is brought to the fore here like never before, and the piece even contains a symphonic feel to it, in the same way with which the late but great Isao Tomita used to give us.

The short but very sweet Tapestry highlighted the sublime guitar work of Steven Moinz, which reminded me of work of prog guitar master Steve Howe and may also a little Steve Hillage into the mix as well, whilst the offering Impressionist would be our penultimate creation, one could indeed imagine walking around a modern art gallery listening to such music and viewing the works of say Claude Monet while doing so, this piece has so much room and ambience and perfect for that very moment of artistic perusal.

The ending to this massive body of work from the duo comes in the guise of the longest track off the album called Starry Night, the swirling motifs of both guitar and keyboards certainly match the cascading swirls of paint on canvas from Dutch Post-Impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh with ease, and is utterly the best most ambient and emotive manifestation with which to finish this amazing project off.

Best of Hanslik & Moniz Experiment by Hanslik & Moniz Experiment is one of those albums that if you are a fan of this experimental electronic ambient guitar genre, will look back upon later and be very glad you made the choice of purchasing it for your collection. This is nothing less that walking and talking musical art, and is some of the finest examples of the aforementioned genre out there and as such is one fans should not miss out on at all cost!

 

Open By Stephen Wallack

 

Open

By

Stephen Wallack

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Stephen Wallack has been a main stay of the solo piano genre for many years now; I can still remember my first encounter back in 2019 and the album Chapters, that release was like a breath of fresh air in the huge piano industry that still grows to this day, but Wallack stood out then, as he does some 6 years later, with his latest release entitled Open.

This is the Minnesotan’s 6^th album release, and once again his music flourishes with the energy of a fresh spring morning. The album starts with a prolific beginning called Faith, the performance is almost dualistic in approach, with quieter segments of a pondering nature, and then the more fluid energy is brought into the mix in an outstanding start to the album.

I want to praise Stephen right now for creating numerous tracks over 4 minutes long in the days of the micro piano composition, this is like a huge sigh of relief from this writer, as I at last have something to get my musical teeth into, an example of this would be the flourishing, yet thoughtful prose of the track Love Story at well over 6 minutes in duration, and to follow that up with Fall, at near on six minutes thirty seconds was blissful, thank you so much, the aforementioned track was also a delightful repose, and a delicate yet supportive piano narrative can be found within this lush composition.

Open is a 10 track solo piano release created on a Steinway S Grand Piano, the listener can find compositions of many colours and textures upon it, just like the quite breath taking arrangement of well over 6 and a half minutes long called Ireland, or the rhythmic pastiche of the piece One Last Run, with its natural melody and uplifting nature with a fluent instrumental tapestry, one that plays both light and dark, making for me a creation of great mood, intent and emotive energy.

One track that will encapsulate the listener is the haunting reverie of Girl In The Painting. There is a wonderful juxtaposition here that needs highlighting, the piece itself has an upbeat tempo, but also has a dualistic nature, this is a composition that breathes and recreates its own narrative, and in doing so, could well be seen as music for a movie.

The concluding musical narrative from Stephen is quite stunning and called Storm, one can see with ease the inspiration of one of his heroes in the late but great George Winston here, this is a final track of great quality tone and timbre and a sublime way with which to end the album.

Open by Stephen Wallack is the release that the solo piano genre has been waiting for, here upon this album the listener will find passion, textured fluency and 10 thoughtful and intelligent arrangements, and with all that being said, I have that feeling once again that Open by Stephen Wallack could well see chart success in the very near future, it is that good.

Isabel By Carbe and Durand

 

Isabel

By

Carbe and Durand

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The partnership of Carbe and Durand over the years has become legendary, especially in the vibrant Latin styled world of guitar with a globally infused twist, for me personally it has been a delight that I discovered back in the days of Incendio, and I wished I hadn’t checked, as that first album was now 25 years ago and called Misterioso, but here they are once more with another delightful new single called Isabel, so that pleasurable journey gladly continues.

The vibrancy of this new creation is tempered slightly by the emotive aspects of the composition, but fear not that sultry tone and timbre flows strongly within the arrangement, and the added percussion will take one to a sunset on warm summer beach with ease.

A piece perhaps of a dedication to an old friend or perhaps lover, the smooth transmission of the guitars both bass and acoustic is so wonderfully persuasive and blissfully slick, whilst the melody line is filled with a sweltering tenderness that can only be felt on a late August night.

This is Carbe and Durand at their talented best; rich in flavour, textures so transient and textured, and a performance that you only wished you could see live, as such Isabel from the duet has to be yet another massive hit for the dynamic duo of globally inspired guitar. 

Back To My Roots by David Mash

 

Back To My Roots

By

David Mash

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I would have to say that this has to be one of my most interesting projects this year without doubt, as today I am lucky enough to voyage with David Mash as we dive on deep into his latest album Back To My Roots, in what would turn out to be the most fascinating mixture of genres all on one album I have thus far encountered.

The opening of the album is enthralling and called Drain The Swamp, a true mixture of new age, meets blues rock, with a little global fusion stirred into a weave of a song so beautifully composed and arranged. Throughout this release you will hear the stunning presentations on guitar by Mash, whilst his partner in this project Bruce Nifong on alto saxophone brings to the table some of the smoothest performances you could ever wish for.

The beauty of music is that it is international and flavoursome, and whilst we may not have heard of some of the artists we come across before, we are sure to find comparisons from our own cultures or countries. Back To My Roots the title track was something to treasure, as a little funk was brought into the scheme of things in a way that at times reminded me of a funked up Soft Machine, or even a prog styled version of the Average White Band, regardless this was simply amazing stuff.

One of my personal favourites was the following musical narrative entitled Just Mo; a full flowing sax from Nifong drove the song along on a highway of charm and colourful textures, in a rhythmic pastiche of sultry sound that was all to addictive and entrancing, whilst offerings like the Appellation Trail drifted across the horizon of a better tomorrow, with the simply beautiful layered percussive elements, keyboards and sax, in a TV theme waiting to happen.

On Blüz For Rufe we have a somewhat deeper offering created by the artist, one thanks to the instrumentation employed it gave us the ever eager listeners an almost progressive jazz modality of sorts, the funked up bass line in partnership with the percussion and sax, ushered forth a sound I hadn’t heard the link of since the Icelandic jazz fusion band Mezzoforte, but harder.

So we can now swim in the deeper waters of the release and as we do so we come across a comforting creation entitled Prime. A soft tapestry of sound can be found here of a symbiotic partnership of both guitar and sax, only this time we can add into the mix the sublime bass presentation from James Nifong, this for me created a back line of sound that raised the narration of electric guitar and sax to an even higher level, and once more would remind me of UK jazz funk pop band Level 42 in style from their early years in the 80’s

Ictonomics was a piece that you are always glad you came across, and found well in the deeper waters of the release the combination of sax and guitar from Bruce Nifong and David Mash was delightfully funky to say the least, and its rhythmic pastiche of a timbre that was truly hard to get out of your mind later on in the day, a delightful issue to have from what is a wonderfully fluent arrangement.

The penultimate offering is entitled Bottles and is as smooth as it gets, one could easily see this being used on a TV show, it’s anthem like manifestation of tone was an utter pleasure to float in for the duration of the composition, the classy percussion and saxophone heralding a bright and ever onward musical arrangement that was simply blissful.

The title to the concluding track here may give the game away, and called Funktion 80•24. Why not indeed complete the project with the vibe that originally created the album, and its consistency like this that needs to happen to create something appealing for entire release, one with both Nifong and David Mash in full flow, and what was a sublime and crafted way with which to leave the album it was indeed.

Back To My Roots by David Mash was indeed a fascinating project to write about, but music of this elk I could listen to all day and never tire of, here the artist takes us back to revisit his Detroit roots, and in doing so manifests a musical reality that is both palpable and addictive, and with some of the most sublime performances to brighten our days, so where ever on the globe we may live, may the funk be with you.

Warmth by Fred Grenot

 

Warmth

By

Fred Grenot

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Fred Grenot has been creating some sublime music since his return to the genre, in fact I would say that 2023 turned into being a great year musically with the return of the composer, since then he has gone from strength to strength, and is now presenting some of his finest creations ever, as much can be said also for the beautifully textured new single entitled Warmth.

Projecting a feeling, or a sensation, is never an easy thing to do, musically you literally have to place yourself within the confines of the subject matter and feel it yourself, listen to the tones that come from that experience, take that, and simply create! Here Grenot does that superbly, his deep synths build a timbre akin the great Chuck Wild aka Liquid Mind in structure, and it works beautifully.

The depth in this arrangement is vast, it’s like jumping into a huge lapis August ocean, where one can feel totally surrounded by the immersive experience, but also warmed by its embrace. Fred’s touch on keyboards and synths is beginning to touch his listeners as well, and this wonderful musician is now creating sonic soundscapes for those who need a sanctuary of sound to escape into, and doing so with such ease and tenderness.

Warmth by Fred Grenot is an ethereal new single, it is part of the new vanguard of new age music that is caressing our senses in this decade, and long may it remain so, with manifestations like this around, the genre of new age music is safe, and as such each listener to this creative composition will be comforted in the knowledge that they have just listened to one of the best proponents of it.

Chasing Starlight By Louis Colaiannia

 

Chasing Starlight

By

Louis Colaiannia

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

It’s a joy in your life to have consistencies, for me I find that in music, and one of those on going occurrences that never leaves my side, are the works of pianist and composer Louis Colaiannia, whose creations have graced my time in the industry for some 12 years now, and thus it always brings me great pleasure when I get to review a new composition or creation, and today is that day, as I turn my gaze towards his latest single Chasing Starlight.

This was indeed a moment of bliss for me as this new single from the artist has a real sense of warmth contained within the narrative, one that reflects the subject matter perfectly, but also one that manifests such a beautiful fluency, and moreover a charming swing to the overall composition can be found here too, one akin to a slow dance with a loved one, or just a warm hug from a very good friend.

This remarkable new single from Louis also stands out as possibly one of those compositions that could also be turned into a lyrical project, and made into a charming reflective ballad, regardless this is a sublime performance and presentation from the composer, it’s rare for a single in the piano industry to have so much contained within these days, but in my view Louis Colaiannia with Chasing Starlight has knocked the metaphorical ball out of the park, this one has to be a massive chart hit with utter ease.