Release Date: August 22, 2025
Label: Kater Music
Website
My first thought regarding the title was, what would it mean to
have an Untethered Heart?
It could have multiple meanings depending on the context. My
thoughts tell me that my heart would be free (the first track is “Freed”) and
unattached to any one person, place, or thing. In which case, I would find it
impossible.
Listening to all the tracks, I am sure different thoughts and
feelings will arise, and the music will take me on an emotional
journey, setting me free for the duration it has to offer.
“Freed" begins with the piano taking small steps, and the
tempo is thoughtful. What is it we need to be free of? Free to think, express,
Love, and live. To me, that is freedom. As the piano moves on, there are some
significant steps forward with some tempo rises, then some flourishes of notes
casting beauty upon your ears and senses. One hand sets the tempo/bass part,
while the other is “free” to explore wherever it wants. Emotive and moving,
this is a lovely way to start the recording.
“Flight” (Extended) is the longest track at 5:47, and I
anticipate it will be quite complex. As it begins with piano and synth
elements, it rises in conjunction with the orchestration, evoking a symphonic
quality that takes “Flight.” It is dramatic and colorful. The imagery of a bird
taking off or a person reaching their goals, both personally and
professionally, can also be applied here.
That one word can be inserted into many different life
situations. More than halfway, Peter gives you a little flourish of jazz notes,
then as quickly as they come, they go away, and it returns to the uplifting
soloing on the piano. It’s energetic and invigorating. Then it slows right down
to a gentle closing for more reflection on what you just heard and felt.
“Spellbound” has a beautiful flow and flavor. I felt a mix of
joy and sadness at the same time—the classical influences are strong here. The
piano, with its beauty and grace, continually amazes me. Yes, I was
“Spellbound.”
“Spirit” (Extended) is a connection that unites all sentient
beings. The notes flow with purpose and meaning as the orchestration layer
lends itself to the song’s structure and emotional feeling, taking you to a new
place. Peter’s playing is rapid and with purpose. Again, the uplifting feelings
and elation in the keys of the piano are so evident that you feel the energy
and “Spirit” of his artistry. A very tasteful ending closes out the track.
“Hinterlight” is the shortest track at 2:14. The flow continues
with consistency and strength on this track. Although it is short-lived, its
impact is no less significant than that of the previous tracks. Short, sweet,
and memorable, a lovely melody.
The title track, “Untethered Heart,” now features the wordless
vocals of Kristin Hoffman. She sings beautifully, adding substance and a layer
to the music that I found moving and so impactful. Your heart is hearing it
loud and clear as the music accompanies the singer and nudges the vocalist to
higher highs of magnificence. If you were to make a significant impact with the
title track, this is how it's done.
“Boundless” energy, spirituality, emotion, and Love are all the
things that define this music. The piano creates a symphony all its own, and
anything added is just extra. Once again, I hear the influences of the
classical realm. The music of the piano, with its beauty and intensity, impacts
my senses in a way that can only be described as 'Boundless.' The combination
of melody, elegance, and aggressive playing forms a perfect blend of sound,
making for a fantastic way to close out this album with optimistic energy.
Untethered Heart is melodic, engaging, hypnotic, and visually moving, so it integrates with every fiber of your being. Peter, you are amazing. Your magical fingers swept me away to where I needed to go.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR
Reviews Founder
August 22, 2025
Tracks:
1. Freed—3:48
2. Flight (Extended)—5:47
3. Spellbound—3:24
4. Spirit (Extended)—4:51
5. Hinterlight—2:14
6. Untethered Heart—5:08
7. Boundless—4:14
