Label: Independent
25 is the 15th and latest studio album of new original music from Mark Barnes, as well as his own take on Christmas classics.
The album celebrates his recent induction into the Indie Music Hall of Fame in Los Angeles, 25 years of making music, and his love for all things Christmas.
25 is a diverse selection of musical interpretations, and the artist reflects his emotions from the Holidays and the turmoil of our times through the music.
“Believe” begins this recording with a soft synth layer backing a slow, acoustic piano tempo. The sounds give you an immediate pause as the sweet notes fill your space and perception with a sense of reflection and spiritual significance. The synth layer adds a modern twist to the traditional piano, creating a unique and captivating sound.
“Mary Did You Know” is one of my favorite Holiday tracks. The melody is beautiful, and I recall the lyrics as equally significant in accompanying it. The song, which reflects on the miraculous birth of Jesus, is particularly poignant when played on the piano. This served as a powerful reminder of the blessed holiday and the birth of Jesus.
“O Come O Come Emmanuel” commences with ethereal sounds and an orchestral synth backdrop. It conjures a vivid scenery in your mind’s eye. This rendition, a unique take on the original, showcases the transformative power of electronic synths and sounds. It offers a fresh perspective on the original melody, revealing the beauty of improvisation.
“We 3 Kings” continues with the flow of traditional holiday classics performed on the keys in the most exceptional way. The tone is fantastic, with the synths swirling in the background. As I have come to recognize over time how important that synth layer can be, I am again reminded of its fitting place. It’s like how a drummer follows the bass player. It’s a partnership that is essential to any composition, and here it shines like a bright star.
“Snowbound” shifts from traditional classics to seasonal memories for those of us who grew up in all seasons. When you’re a child, being bound by snow is exciting because you are not out there shoveling and using the snowblower. Your only concern was playing in that winter wonderland, building snow forts, sliding, and just breathing in the cold, crisp air. I recall being out all day and coming back with frozen toes. Sweet memories are induced by the lovely touch of Mark Barnes on his acoustic piano. To me, it sounded like a lullaby of love and time that I will never be able to recapture, so some sadness is part of what I felt—emotionally moving music.
“Slumber For The Sleepers” continues with the tone and texture of a sweet lullaby-like composition. As I age, I am feeling more sentimental and appreciative of my childhood, wishing I could turn back the clock to see my own children as little ones again. This brings me to the thought of being grateful for my life, living it to the fullest, and having two wonderful adult children who bring me light and joy, just as they did when they were little. Once again, I was moved emotionally and spiritually by these magnificent keyboards, that combination of acoustic piano and synths.
“Innocence
Lost” takes on different meanings in various contexts. This, of course, depends
on the listener and their own experiences, as it would apply to any music. The
excellence of the solo piano is the continuous thread that weaves into a
colorful patchwork quilt of music.
As I have been listening, I can hear the influence of classical music deeply steeped in the playing, and that is what makes it all so wonderful.
“Shipwrecked” takes you on a different journey and a step away from the themes you had heard previously. Although that is true, the piano remains as gorgeous as ever. The tempo moves carefully along as the synth provides a gentle backdrop. I found it surprising how calm this all sounded, given the title, which would suggest something tragic and a more robust approach. But after further contemplation, you could ponder on the ship run aground and its silence and solitude, no longer riding the ocean’s waves alive and free. This would bring a touch of sadness to any sailor (of which I am one from many years ago).
“Abandoned” is a logical progression from the previous track, inviting you to capture the essence of each track and the story it tells. The piano’s keys, regardless of the track’s title, are a testament to the artist’s ability to shape potentially tragic themes into emotional reactions. It’s a reminder that beauty can be found in the eyes and senses of those who choose to behold it.
“All of Us” closes out this piano solo instrumental recording. Looking at the title brings it all together as a cohesive whole and makes all the listeners one. Hearing all this music is for everyone. And this time, some vocals arrive in the form of a choir, giving it a spiritual, church-like feel.
Mark Barnes’ 25 brings light and joy to a dreary day. His talented fingers and compositions will engage a listener, allowing you to reflect on the past, the future, and the present, and offering hope for a new day that awaits just around the corner.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder
October
31, 2025
Tracks:
01. Believe
02. Mary Did You Know
03. O Come O Come Emmanuel
04. We 3 Kings
05. Snowbound
06. Slumber For The Sleepers
07. Innocence Lost
08. Shipwrecked
09. Abandoned
10. All of Us
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