Release Date: July 10, 2025
Label: Independent
It’s been eleven years since I explored John Otott’s Colors. I anticipated a distinct experience with Invictus, and I was not disappointed.
Before listening, keep in mind that Invictus is a short poem about overcoming adversity and self-mastery, written by the British poet William Ernest Henley in 1875.
“A Warrior’s Song” begins this new journey with orchestral arrangements and a cinematic soundscape, featuring rising tempos and wordless vocals. We are off to an exciting and colorful start!
“Giuseppi’s Dream” begins softly, then builds like the previous track, engaging your senses and creating an atmosphere that feels authentic and deeply emotional. The piano’s beauty is not overshadowed here; it is enhanced with uplifting orchestrations and powerful percussive elements.
“Invictus” maintains the continuity of emotion and music, shaping a soundtrack that becomes a picture in your mind. The piano takes the lead right from the start, with higher tones and textures, as the orchestrations are melodious and energetic. As the composition progresses, it becomes more layered and complex. For a title track, the expectations are high and easily met on this masterpiece.
“Into Dark Into Light” is a journey of transition, and it is indeed transitory. For music to capture the essence of that human condition, it must move constantly and change quickly, and it does. The piano takes center stage in leading the orchestral maneuvers. Wordless vocals are interjected once again for more emotion and substance. This is drama set to music, a captivating experience.
“Highlands Rhapsody” immediately sounds like classical-based piano interplay. Its beauty is perfection in notes that effortlessly float into your space and consciousness. The tempo is fast-paced and colorful, upholding the standard set in the previous tracks, with some excellent orchestrations that find a distinct place within the composition while enhancing the solo piano runs—a gorgeous soundtrack with melodicism and an enduring foundation in classical music.
“The Storyteller’s Journey” is the perfect title for music like this. The emotion and skillful musicianship administered in every track, and here, bring any story to life. Things start at a slower tempo and then gently move into a higher tempo, accompanied by a layer of synths that adds an orchestral, dramatic touch. The melody is distinct as the piano keys move with strength and presence, continuing to hold the foundation from which everything else is built.
“A Valentine Waltz” is the dance of the piano keys on your heart. It is the shortest track at 3:44. It captures the essence of the track’s meaning immediately, then builds upon that with short bursts of energy and varying tempos. Music that equals pure love through the keys.
“Call of the Canyons” recalls something organic or the vision of the wonders of nature’s work. The Grand Canyon, with its magnificence and mystery of layers and colors, is what came to me quickly. Being there is something surreal and quite memorable. The music’s sweeping orchestrations and melodies help evoke those memories.
“Remember When” pulls on your heartstrings within seconds. Every listener is different; however, music is universal, and its effects on your being are guaranteed if you look at the meaning of the track title. Reminiscing can vary depending on your age. In my opinion, it can hold happiness and sadness at the same time. That is what music like this does: it moves you emotionally and spiritually. When you hear someone say, “remember when?” that is what the piano and synths are saying loud and clear.
“Dare to Fly” straight away asks you that very question. John Otott is flying high in his music. His compositions ended here; however, what you are hearing—and have listened to—is life in motion, masterfully composed and performed by a talented composer and musician. This is drama and cinema, crafted to engage your mind, spark your imagination, and immerse you in the present. What a grand finish—a treat for the ears and mind.
Invictus will hold different meanings for many listeners. If you focus on the meaning of the album title or immerse yourself in every track and let the music shape your thoughts and emotions, either way works.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder
October
22, 2025
Tracks:
01. A Warrior's Song 4:17
02. Giuseppi's Dream 4:24
03. Invictus 4:15
04. Into Dark Into Light 3:47
05. Highlands Rhapsody 5:43
06. The Storyteller's Journey 4:05
07. A Valentine Waltz 3:44
08. Call of the Canyons 3:53
09. Remember When 4:04
10. Dare to Fly 4:35
