Label: Little Hartley Music
The
title, When Shadows Talk, reflects the album's theme, which explores the
emotional depth and complexity of human experiences. As Fiona herself says, 'My greatest hope is that my music makes
a difference.'
I had a detailed overview of what each track meant to the
artist, but I decided to listen and respond to what I envisioned in the music.
I like to stand by that thought process, as each of us who listens will have a
blank canvas to create what the music inspires us to think, feel, and absorb.
As the piano began to play its lovely notes in 'Stasis', I was
immediately moved by its beauty and intimacy. Fiona's playing is fluid and
rhythmic, and I was drawn into the music's stillness, despite its inviting nature.
The emotional stimulation and sense of stillness coexisting were a unique
experience.
"The Ghosts of War Are Marching" seems like an ominous
title, and I think this should feel "haunting" with echoing piano
keys, which is precisely what it sounds like. The melancholy and realities of
war set in and bring my thoughts to my father, who served in WW2. The emotional
pain and depth of loss if you are involved in killing another human being must
be insurmountable. We all have heard the term "hauntingly beautiful,"
which perfectly explains this composition.
"Lava and Snow" are opposites in temperature and
textures, so I wondered how different this track would sound. It starts most
beautifully like measured steps down a path to a destination. Gradually, the tempo
picks up, and the rhythm and force of the music change, like the flow of lava
from an active volcano. However, there is no explosion from the top; it is
gradual and consistent, like how Fiona's fingers press the keys. This was like
beauty in motion, developed in my mind's eye as the snow cools the molten hot
lava, it hardens, and the notes are forever trapped inside you.
"Angel's Message" is the longest track at 5:20. It
immediately gives recognition to classical influences as I know them. The title
indicates one of spirituality and prolific communication to all listeners. I
found it very interesting separating her hands on the keys. To me, that is one
of the fascinating aspects of the piano and how one person can play two parts
and make it one gorgeous symphony of sound. One woman, one piano, and the
creation of resonating sounds of piano keys that draw you in, and permanently
hit you all at once. I am astounded by her sense of rhythm and the
incorporation of different tempos; it's the song within a song.
"The Lost Ballerina" is thought-provoking.
Interestingly enough, I just went to see the new movie Ballerina last night;
however, that is an entirely different setting and story. I heard an infinite
sense of rhythm and purpose, with hints of sadness all around the edges of this
thing of elegance, telling me the story. The playing is very purposeful,
creating imagery from beginning to end. It's gorgeous.
"In the Deep" is short at 2:22. The melody emanates an
unknown darkness. As the piano chords paint that picture, you feel like falling
into it. It feels real, as images of the deep ocean come to mind.
"Outside the Circle" can create emotions and thoughts
just by the title's implication. A circle is drawn to capture something; boundaries
are there, and you may feel trapped and unable to break free. But outside the
circle, you are "outside" looking in. You are free, but limitations
are imposed because you are not "in" the circle. The piano weaves its
tapestry of sound and light, giving more meaning to the track's words. The keys
ebb and flow like a river of sound coursing through your soul. Its simple
beauty defines the meaning of the words.
"Finding the Clearing" is an interesting choice of
words after the last track. This would indicate another path, an alternative to
any other that allows total and complete freedom. There are no lines in the
sand here; you can roam and discover your truth and destiny. Once again, the
piano's keys directly reflect that one thought that the title would indicate.
It sounds like a waltz or lullaby to soothe those who need that kind of
reassurance and calm to get into the clear.
"The Mirror" recalls looking into that glass. What do
you see beside your image? Do you define yourself by what you see in front of
you or what is inside you as a sentient and spiritual human being? The tempo is
slow and defined, and meant for you to "reflect" on thoughts that
immediately come to mind. Is the mirror inanimate, or are there other people
you use for that reflection? Perception is indeed in the eyes of the beholder.
I felt a realistic sadness to the track, although its beauty gave me hope.
"The Journey" is what you have been on, listening to
all this piano-based music. The journey of life and all that enters it is what
you are about. The music builds as does your life's journey. This is how the
piano's keys speak to you and all your senses. Music can be transitional, and
so is life. Fiona's playing is simply extraordinary on this track. The heart
and emotion come through clearly.
"Hitting the Glass" suggested the term "hitting a
glass ceiling" used in conjunction with corporations, where one stops in
growth and opportunities, and incites you to begin looking elsewhere for those
things. It's short and sweet, and the tone of the keys quickly conveys the message. It is the shortest track at 1:22.
"The Brown Bird" begins like a classical masterpiece,
with emotion and energy like a bird in flight. Then, with a quick shift down in
tempo, it suddenly lands. The music is short-lived, but the image is created
with immediacy and stays true to the last note played.
When Shadows Talk is a prolific title with music to
match. Fiona Joy Hawkins creates an instrumental piano masterwork with 12 thought-provoking,
colorful tracks. Her artistry and deeply felt emotions bleed through the keys
with a purpose and meaning beyond words.
The track titles evoke a thought, and your journey takes different paths as you move through the music. This is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys instrumental music, particularly piano-based music.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR
Reviews Founder
June 12, 2025
Tracks:
01. Stasis (4:38)
02. The Ghosts of War Are Marching (3:07)
03. Lava and Snow (4:52)
04. Angel’s Message (5:20)
05. The Lost Ballerina (Solo Piano) (3:22)
06. In the Deep (2:22)
07. Outside the Circle (4:41)
08. Finding the Clearing (3:09)
09. The Mirror (3:14)
10. The Journey (Solo Piano) (5:03)
11. Hitting the Glass (1.26)
12. The Brown Bird (2:30)
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