Contemporary Instrumental New Age-Jazz Track Feature: Neil Tatar-Bella

Neil Tatar: Guitar

Premik Russell Tubbs: Soprano Sax

Tom Eaton: Bass

Jeff Haynes: Percussion

 

I think it's essential to add what this track is about through the artist's words, Neil Tatar. I highly recommend you read this before listening to the music. It will give it much more meaning as it carries the weight of those persecuted during World War Two.

 

Words of the artist: The storyline for my composition "Bella" is interesting and began in September 1939 in Radom, Poland. This was when the Nazis invaded Poland. "We Were The Lucky Ones" is a book written by Georgia Hunter and tells the story of a family's World War II experiences trying to survive in Nazi Occupied Poland. I read this book a couple of years ago and was mesmerized by the stories being told. I was struck by the similarities of these stories to those I heard from my own family when I was a child, having been born a few years after the war's end.

 

In the "Bella" track, Neil Tatar's sublime acoustic guitar is featured. The music combines contemporary instrumental and new age sprinkled with jazz via the Soprano Sax. The beauty and essence of the music reflect a mirror of a difficult time and the melancholy or sadness one may feel looking back on inhuman experiences that scared their souls forever.

 

On the other hand, without knowing what the track "Bella" is about, you recognize it as a calming and meditative sound. It does hold a certain charm and calmness amidst the pain and suffering that went on during the Nazi occupation. Everyone can count on finding a different place in time, whether you are someplace physically or just need a place in your mind and the reassurance that the music brings you to; it is that refuge for the human race that can be a saving grace in the moment of need.

 

Music can be many things to many people, but the one thing it does have for everyone is the timelessness of the melody, rhythm, and incredibly gorgeous six-string acoustic playing that Neil Tatar is known for. The track’s exceptional musicianship and production values are a superb tribute to the subject matter.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 17, 2024

Neil Tatar is an award-winning composer, guitarist, and pianist. A playful and expressive musician, he has a unique, contemporary sound, primarily rooted in blues, rhythm and blues, and light jazz. Influenced by his many years of working with legendary cellist David Darling and guitarist Will Ackerman, his passionate expression is recognized in his approach to everything he plays…READ MORE…

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review and Interview: Neil Patton-The Small Hours

Release Date: October 18, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Neil Patton's The Small Hours comprises many stories from one night. These are musical narratives of the nighttime hours as they are experienced worldwide. Spawned largely during the stressful months of pandemic shutdowns and social turmoil, these pieces were a source of solace and peace as Neil intentionally composed in a quieter vein. (Info derived from the artist).

 

I thought that would be a good way to start things off with discussing this music, giving each potential listener a glimpse into the how and why of this project of contemporary instrumental solo piano new-age music. You will discover one hour and ten minutes of relaxing and reflective piano music for the soul. It was recorded from September to December of 2023.

 

"Day's End" is the beginning of this journey, which gives one pause, as any good music would. Neil's piano is a soft invitation into his world, a lovely way to begin the recording. Close to five minutes of building chords and then bringing down the level give you a feeling of the emotions one can experience during a few hours of passing time.

 

"We Will Tell the Stories" Melody is a free-flowing and airy track with a similar approach to the previous track, which builds up and then steps down. This pace allows a listener to reflect on the tones and vibrations that vary within one composition. Once you become cognizant of that element, you hear it all differently and more reverently.

 

"Goodnight, Daddy" puts a twinkle and maybe a tear or two in your eye if you have the privilege of being a dad. I think about my children when they are little but enjoy and appreciate the people they have become. The sadness of the music made me wish I could go back in time to those days for just one day to remember all the joy they brought to me and my wife and when they were kids, too. I hope someday they will have the same rewarding experiences that we had.

 

Those are three examples of how a track’s title, meaning, and music that expresses those words become real. If you listen to music like I do, you will know precisely what that can mean.

 

Contemporary new-age instrumentals are very popular for piano solo work. I hear a good share of compositions in this range of musical styles on a regular basis. Thus, the challenge is to hear something that is actually different and gets my attention. The artist's role is to immediately capture the listener's interest and hold it from start to finish.

 

I think that is a monumental task, and for one to accomplish it is incredible. Neil Patton can get into that groove and hold you from the opening track to the last note.

 

I wanted to give the first three tracks as examples of the flow and range of sound you are going to hear, along with the emotional canvas it is going to create in the framework of your mind. I think as an attentive listener, which many of you are, you like to get a view of what to expect and then find your own meaning and relatedness to some of the things I may mention.

 

In the context of emotions, I cannot fathom what one artist must go through in creating 15 tracks like The Small Hours. It sounds complex and encapsulates a perspective of one's thoughts, feelings, and emotions being captured into a musical composition translated through the piano's keys.

 

As Neil Patton's music flowed from his fingers, it evoked many emotions: reflection, sadness, and satisfaction. It compelled me to delve into my innermost thoughts. But this is experiential music. On the other side of this profound experience, you can cleanse your mind of all thoughts and find a place of peace within. This is the transformative power of instrumental music, the all-encompassing reach of the piano.

 

Give yourself the gift of Neil Patton's music. Let it unwind you, take you on a journey, and cleanse your mind. Once you've experienced its power, share it with a friend or loved one. I can promise you they will be grateful for the experience. It only takes one hour and ten minutes of your day or evening to realize the impact this music can have on you and those around you.

 

Only in The Small Hours can we really appreciate the solace and grace of the piano with that one special person sitting at it, creating something from nothing into a beautiful piece of art. And that is exactly what Neil Patton does. When the night passes and "Daybreak" arrives (the last track), we can feel energized and ready for the new day, do it all over again, and come back full circle to find that energy in the music to invigorate our mind, body, and soul repeatedly.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 14, 2024

Tracks:

01. Day's End 4:55

02. We Will Tell the Stories 3:46

03. Goodnight Daddy 3:10

04. Good to See You Again 5:09

05. Above the Treetops 3:54

06. A Room with a View 5:20

07. Falling Up 4:53

08. The Moon and Sun Dance 3:27

09. A Prayer in the Darkness 4:05

10. The Small Hours 3:40

11. Trust 5:34

12. Shame and Grace 4:23

13. This Grief Lies Down Beside Me 4:36

14. Nightwalk (Be Thou My Vision) 5:28

15. Daybreak 7:13

Contemporary Instrumental Track Feature: Michael Dulin-True North

Michael Dulin’s “True North” is his music. His solo piano alone carries messages to his listeners.

Everyone has their truth; musicians tend to live it or relive it through music. Heartfelt and spiritual music carries something special with it. As indicated by the cover art's simplicity and definition, this contemporary instrumental piano solo work reflects the artist's journey and the emotions he seeks to convey.

 

The beauty it holds comes through the fingers of a true artisan baring his soul through piano keys.

 

“True North” and its elegance and majesty take the listener from their current reality to a world of gentleness and comfort. It is enjoyable to hear and heals simultaneously, offering a soothing balm to the soul. The frequencies and tones will resonate with the human spirit, bringing peace and tranquility.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

September 25, 2024

 Website:  https://michaeldulin.com/

Michael Dulin is internationally acclaimed as a pianist, composer, and producer whose music fans worldwide enjoy.

From age two, it was apparent that Michael had an exceptional gift for music…READ MORE…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contemporary Instrumental Featured Track: Michael Dulin-Open Doors

Based on the artwork for Michael Dulin's single "Open Doors," he says you should open the door and let the light shine in. Closed doors leave no room for personal growth, spirituality, and love.

His beautifully played piano, in sync with orchestrations that raise the track's tempo, creates a mesmerizing effect. The layers are intricately woven, giving the impression of his piano being supported by a talented orchestra. This manipulation of sounds, made possible by modern technology, is a testament to the innovation and creativity of artists. While nothing can compare to the power and grandeur of a live orchestra, the digital rendition is a beautiful complement to Michael's elegant piano strokes.

Michael Dulin embraces the spirit of the music and the technology at hand to create soothing and inviting music on "Open Doors."

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

September 28, 2024

Website:  https://michaeldulin.com/

Michael Dulin is internationally acclaimed as a pianist, composer and producer whose music is enjoyed by fans around the globe.

 From the age of two, it was apparent that Michael had an exceptional gift for music…READ MORE…

New Age Instrumental Review: Rick Sparks-Devotion

Release Date: ‎ September 1, 2024

Label: Independent

Website 

Rick Sparks' new EP, Devotion, is a musical journey underscored by healing and peace. Each track is designed to guide you towards a state of tranquility and spiritual awakening.

The title track, "Devotion," opens the recording. It reminds me of angels, heaven, and the beautiful chorus of voices coming together to lead you there. The softness of the synths and the wordless voices put you at ease instantly, and you know that the sounds were meant for a purpose, as mentioned on the cover art: healing and peace.

 

“River of Peace” is more than just a track. It's a continuation of your spiritual journey. The layers of keys and synths create a beautiful soundscape, with the wordless vocals adding an element of exceptional beauty. Each track in this EP is a stepping stone, guiding you to stay in that frame of mind and spirit you have just attained.

 

"My Refuge" starts with an acoustic piano, and angelic voices add atmosphere to create the healing spiritual experience many seek. The added layer of the synths gives the track a velvety and airy feel, which is how the music makes you feel once you let yourself fall into it and be the guiding light you may significantly need. This flexible music allows you to enjoy the audio dimensions or use it to relax and meditate, depending on what you are seeking.

 

"The Sacrifice" continues with the choir of angels and the layer of synths they seemingly melt into. At the same time, it will melt into your consciousness. The first thought that came to mind was Jesus's sacrifice for humanity to forgive all our sins. We could use his assistance these days. The music is consistent with many elements, leading you into another dimension of thought and being.

 

"Be Still and Know" starts with synths and the sound of a bell, and then the voices come in. It is interesting how everyone interacts differently with music. This track reminded me that I do not need a large ornate building to believe in a higher power because this music feels healing and spiritual. It's all I need to connect. The bell sounds several times as the end of the track draws near and closes out, reinforcing my connection to the music.

 

"The Road Home" begins with the voices emanating through your soul, and the soft synths again engage you. The road home means the afterlife when our spirit and consciousness leave our physical bodies to be with the loved ones that have crossed over. Since I was old enough to decipher that concept, it has been my belief. Music like this combines beauty and the essence of the artist's creative force and spirit. It can touch you and bring things into a more realistic focus, and your strength inside comes to the surface, and you know you will arrive home someday.

 

Rick Sparks has created an artistic, musical companion for anyone spiritual or seeking a new frame of mind or reference to ease their minds and souls. Devotion is a shining example of that and can be a valuable tool for all of us. Just start listening and decide for yourself.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

August 20, 2024

Tracks:

1. Devotion (4:44).

2. River of Peace (4:46)

3. My Refuge (3:57)

4. The Sacrifice (3:49)

5. Be Still and Know (5117)

6. The Road Home (5:01)

Celtic New Age Review: Electric Neural Network-Fàirean (Horizons)

Release Date: August 16, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

The Electric Neural Network is a collective of artists that havereleased their first album, Fàirean (Gaelic for “Horizons”). They wish to remain anonymous and be looked at as a group or collective, as it were, that they are.

As you delve into the album, you'll be treated to a unique fusion of traditional Celtic music and contemporary New Age elements. The blend is elegant and fascinating, with flutes, percussion, and voices creating a deep, rich sound. This captivating and immersive listening experience reflects the intended Celtic influences, with a solid foundation of New Age as their springboard to the eventual sound on each track.

 

Despite its solid Celtic accent, the music remains profoundly relaxing and spiritual, making it perfect for meditation. This unique blend, called Celtic New Age and elements of the World genre, takes New Age's tenets and implements an entirely different genre to meld styles and sounds. The result is music that is not only beautiful but also consistent and believable in its tone, atmosphere, tradition, and spirituality.

My personal favorites from the album are “Air a Rathad a-Rithist (On the Road Again)” and “Aonar Le Mo Smaointe (Alone With My Thoughts).” The blends, textures, eclecticism, tones, andcolors touched my soul. I believe that was the intent of their music, which is typicalwith this type of presentation.

 

The production values of Fàirean are excellent, and the instrumentation is of superior quality. For a first release, it is undeniably impressive, and I cansee a bright future ahead if they choose to continue on this path. I must also mention that this music would be a perfect fit as a soundtrack for movies and series on Netflix and other streaming platforms. 

 

I recommend that listeners of new age and world music seek out and listen to this recording. The relaxation and stress relief, which could benefit those in the health field seeking healing and therapeutic sounds.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

September 20, 2024

Tracks:

1. Bruadar a' Bhuachaille (Shepherd's Dream)

2. Madainn Ur (A New Morning)

3. Sreabhadh nah-Abhann (River Flow)

4. Seachad Air Faire (Beyond the Horizon)

5. Air an Rathad a-Rithist (On the Road Again)

6. Galatai

7. Féileacán (Butterfly)

8. Croí Grainne (Grainne's Heart)

9. Aonar Le Mo Smaointe (Alone With My Thoughts)

Instrumental Contemporary-Jazz-New Age-Classical Review: Javier Marquez-Momentum

Release Date: March 8, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Before listening to Javier Marquez's third album, Momentum, I read some information he provided: Momentum could be the perfect showcase of Márquez's universe. Its soundscapes are an excellent place to surrender. And there, Javier surrenders to his feelings and daydreams, often using various wind instruments.

I found the cover art compelling, and it reminded me of the Mott The Hoople album The Hoople. It's a different genre, but there are some similarities and good memories for this music fan.

 

Javier plays the Armenian Duduk, bansuri, oboe, soprano sax, piano, guitars, pan drum, marimba, EWI, synthesizers, and sequencer.

 

"Resilience" starts the recording with atmospheric music and superb vocals from Julie Elven. The Armenian Duduk provides some delicate acoustic picking; the dreamy vocals will have you floating away in no time. Give yourself up to the music, as the artist offers all the sounds to allow you to open that window of opportunity to let go.

 

"Duermevela" begins with a soft and light piano, and a Bansuri (Bamboo flute) induces atmospheric sounds of tones and colors. As the track moves on for over two minutes, it takes on a jazz-world feel, most definitely with the fretless bass lines.

 

"Quietude" fits the title perfectly, with its opening Armenian Duduk taking the lead as the piano stays in the background and then goes to the front with the background of strings to accompany it for an orchestral direction. The track sounds sad around the three-minute mark, and you can feel that emotion in the music's quiet. Relaxing and contemplative, we move on to something different to follow.

 

The title track, "Momentum," begins with operatic vocals. The Armenian Duduk is the lead here again, and Clara Sorace lends her angelic voice to give the track a decidedly heavenly touch of class. At 3:25, it is one of the shortest tracks on the album but leaves an indelible mark on your consciousness. Interestingly, this approach was taken with a strong title for the track.

 

"Balada Das Ondas," which translates to "Ballad of the Waves," is another short-lived track and the shortest at 2:33. The piano and guitar are lovely, with a soft touch that gently and convincingly brings you into the music. Because of the song's length, it must move you instantly, which it did to me. It melts the stress away from your day.

 

"Pulsar" starts very differently than all the other tracks. It is upbeat and free from any expectations from hearing all the previous tracks. In other words, it is as eclectic as the entire album has been; however, the difference between this is that the energy and level of instrumentation go in an entirely different direction. It is hard to define any categorization. However, jazz has influenced it more than any other track, and it is the only track featuring the soprano sax.

 

"When We Leaving Home," as it indicates, would have some strong feelings attached depending on the circumstances of your leaving. Whether for an hour, a day, or permanently, each feeling would have a range of intensity. The Duduk and nylon guitar playing is very laid-back and reflective, and there is a hint of sadness as well. A nice flow and softness invite a listener into the music without a care.

 

“Ephémère,” translated, is ephemeral, fleeting, faddish, and short-lived. It starts with an exciting sound, the pan drum (Javier), with its ringing echoing tones similar to steel drums but much higher and more resonant. It is a stimulating track that picks up in pace with varying degrees of sounds and tones. It almost sounds like two instruments playing at once. It was the most intriguing track on the recording because it was so different, an outlier, compared to all the previous compositions.

 

"Under no Flag" could have many meanings depending on your identity and the possibilities. I will look at it as the artist is under his influence, and no country or flag controls what he creates for his audience to listen to. It ends up being one of the more beautifully constructed tracks with three main instruments converging: the piano, oboe, and acoustic guitar. It was the quiet storm of jazz for my ears and a superb way to close the curtain on this mixture of sounds and textures to engage your consciousness.

 

Momentum is a strong release that showcases diversity and musicianship. The mixture of contemporary, classical, new age, and jazz is a musical patchwork quilt that any discerning music lover can understand and appreciate.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

September 3, 2024

Tracks:

01. Resilience

02. Duermevela

03. Quietude

04. Momentum

05. Balada Das Ondas

06. Pulsar

07. When We Leaving Home

08. Ephémère

09. Under no Flag

New Age-Contemporary Instrumental Review: Bernward Koch-Calming Colors

Release Date: ‎ August 30, 2024

Label: Tree Tales Records

Website

Bernward Koch, a renowned musician in relaxation and meditation music, once said, "Music gives wings to a brighter life." His music, including the album Calming Colors, is a testament to this belief. Calming Colors is his sixteenth release, continuing his legacy of creating soul-soothing and mind-relaxing music.

"Distant Bell" leads off the album. Soft and gentle piano starts you on your journey. In just a second over four minutes, the artist changes the colors and tones of the composition with rhythm and eloquence. The sound of the bell is calming and reassuring.

 

Based on the title, "Solemnly" takes on a different outlook and sound. We go from absolute beauty to a more reflective and solemn mood. The piano encourages us to look at something more serious in our lives, process it, let it go, and move to the next track, free of that change in mood. The beauty of the music leads you out of that frame of mind to find a silver lining in a dark cloud.

 

"Meadow Dreams" indicates a lovely place in your mind's eye or an actual physical area where your dreams can take place and become more of a reality just by being there and getting the necessary focus. The music is dreamy and soft, and you can imagine yourself floating on top of a cloud in a clear blue sky. Everything begins to come together quickly, with the cloud as your transport and the sky as the message coming through.

 

"Sunny Fields" continues the same path as the previous track with a purposeful and gentle invitation to that place where you go, body, mind, and spirit, to reenergize and make the sunshine in your heart. Again, this could be a place you design spiritually or go to physically, as the music soothes and leads you there. The piano is absolute and beautiful. At the end, the music flutters like a colorful butterfly taking flight.

 

In "Children's Lullaby," the sweetness and innocence of childhood come into your view. If you are a parent or you know a child through marriage or another family member, the significance of a child can change your life and way of thinking quickly and permanently, and it should. The background layer of a synth and orchestration complements the piano's spirit and love of the subject matter.

 

"Windy Walk" changes the atmosphere again, as all the previous did convincingly. Going for a walk in the fresh air, sunshine, or sunrise or sunset can be calming to the soul. Even though the wind may be blowing, it feels refreshing as it brushes across your body, especially at a particularly warm time of the year. The music tells you the story, highlighting a few key things, such as there is no storm, it is precisely the opposite, and you can add flavor and appreciation for the elements to your walk. The wind precisely provides that.

 

"Forever Green" continues down the path of life, that of nature, I would believe, as the warmth of the sun and the essence of life water rains down to invigorate the green life. People who live in warmer climates can live this 365 days a year. It can also be a song of hope that we will stay green to sustain all life and have the respect of Mother Earth she so deserves. I appreciated the rhythm and gentleness of the track and how reassuring the music is filled with healing and the creator's spirit. Such incredible beauty is found in the keys of a piano.

 

"Little Daydream" brings back that state of mind when we can disconnect for a little while, spend time inside our minds and souls, and go to that place that belongs only to us. The piano leads with a tenderness yet strong direction and purpose. Music that touches your soul and provides the tones and frequencies to get to that brief timeframe where you slip away just because.

 

"Autumn Light" brings us back to nature, which is valid for those who experience the change of seasons, which can be incredible and experiential. It is a precursor to winter when living creatures and plant life go into a deep slumber. The mix of colors fills the mountains and hillsides and draws people from all over to witness the beauty. The piano again paints the proper scenario of perhaps a leaf gently falling to the ground, signifying the season is here. The season's coolness is refreshing, making you feel alive.

 

The title track, "Calming Colors," is exactly that; all the colors in the music and instrumentation offer different shades and colors in the atmosphere. The music is undoubtedly atmospheric, creating moods via all the sounds and frequencies, like the human mind reacting to varying colors through your eyes. There is also a subconscious level of interaction, and likely not recognized or acknowledged enough, the keyboard layers give another lens to process the calming effect of specific colors. 

 

"Sweet Solitude" is necessary to collect our thoughts, organize things for our day and evening, or decompress from a busy day. Because this music is so beautiful and luring, it makes that solitude even more special and filled with the energy to change a thought process or mood considerably. Life is sweet, and solitude is sometimes the one ingredient that can help us keep it that way and be grateful for each we receive.

 

Now it is time for a "Walk on the Beach," which can be entirely different than all the other experiences we have had listening to this piano-based music. This has more energy taken from jazz, and you hear some guitars for the first time. The feeling of tropical paradise takes shape as the piano and guitar bring you there. The track is the most different than them all, stepping away from the style that set a precedence on the eleven tracks before. It is nicely done and a surprising yet delightful change that leaves you wondering where we could go.

 

In conclusion, Calming Colors is a consummate collection of tracks that can be used for relaxation or meditation. Each track, from the gentle piano of "Distant Bell" to the energizing jazz of "Walk on the Beach," offers a unique sonic experience. The album's title serves as a guide, indicating the mood and atmosphere each track is designed to evoke. If you approach this album with an open mind and a desire for tranquility, your experience will be as complete and enjoyable as possible.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

August 17, 2024

Tracks:

01. Distant Bell 4:01

02. Solemnly 3:15

03. Meadow Dreams 3:07

04. Sunny Fields 3:44

05. Children's Lullaby 2:52

06. Windy Walk 3:41

07. Forever Green 3:35

08. Little Daydream 4:09

09. Autumn Light 3.46

10. Calming Colors 4:44

11. Sweet Solitude 3:50

12. Walk on the Beach 5:08

Contemporary Instrumental Review & Interview: David Franklin-One Day in Spring

Release Date: June 7, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

When one thinks of spontaneity, several things may come to mind. I start by saying this because David Franklin recorded this album spontaneously in one sitting. That is an incredible achievement. So, One Day in Spring, David sat at his piano and created ten tracks related to one season of nature that gives life back after a cold winter.

 

"Just Before Dawn" starts softly, as one would expect in the quiet of the morning when the first rays of the sun start shining through. It's a serene and peaceful moment, beautifully captured in this track. The notes fall off the keys like morning dew, creating a sense of tranquility and peace.

 

"The Gloaming" takes you to the twilight or dusk of the day. We fast-forward in time, opposite the previous track but just as picturesque and meaningful. The softness of the keys gives you comfort as another day ends and you look forward to a new day, instilling a sense of reassurance and hope that is both comforting and optimistic.

 

"Birds Start Their Songs" takes you back to another day filled with the joyous sounds of our feathered friends. I love birds and their different songs. The keys take you on an intimate exploration of their sounds during the early morning hours and throughout the day. Birds are one of God's miracles, and I appreciate them. David continues the flow of musical expressionism with his delicate touch.

 

"Another Bird in the Garden" continues the story of birds in a different light. The piano remains relaxing and inviting; however, some changes bring a different color and energy this time. If you are a gardener, you hope the birds are eating those pesky insects invading your food as you picture that scene. It is an exquisite tune with an untypical rhythm of the previous tracks.

 

Initially, I thought that "Grieving the Dreamscape" as a track title was a step away from the concept of this album. That thought was put to rest rather quickly as David played the tune as beautifully as all the others. It is slower and, thus, very purposeful to reflect upon the meaning. I am unsure of the meaning, but it means something to the artist, and you will find meaning in it just as you did all the others.

 

"As Light of Mourning Finally Flows" is a play on words. Previously, you were grieving, and now you are mourning. Is this the stage you must go through emotionally to get to the other side? Whatever that may be, there is light, providing a positive direction for one to go. The piano serenades your thoughts, feelings, and emotions as they merge. You listen to those beautiful keys, which take you to the next stage. It's time to leave, and so…

 

"Night Has Left Us All" is the logical next step in the composition process. These compositions follow a thought pattern and a particular flow as the artist moves his fingers to express what is in his soul. There is a sadness overshadowing the night as it departs.

 

"Remembering George Winston" takes a few minutes to pay tribute to one of the greats on the piano. David's appreciation for George Winston's albums, particularly those named after the seasons on Windham Hill, was a significant inspiration for this album. His work was instrumental in shaping David's musical journey, and this track is a short and sweet remembrance of that influence.

 

"Caffeinated and Reconsidering Slime Molds" is quite the title, and it did lose me for meaning. That was unimportant once I started listening, even though he helped me with the rest of the tracks. This is music for those who truly can appreciate the piano as an orchestra in and of itself. David "gets caffeinated" with the music towards the song's end as it picks up considerably. It is a lovely piece and very rhythmic.

 

"Trees and Silence are Living Beings" is a great title and is so true. They are living beings with a vast underground network where they create habits for insects and other creatures and communicate with each other. So, as they may stand there silently, they are busy beneath the earth. This is the curtain closer to the recording and very appropriate. It has color, liveliness, purpose, and meaning as David takes the instrument through the paces to end this musical journey with elegance.

 

David Franklin's One Day in Spring is a beautiful group of compositions that is relaxing, meditative, and often energetic with the waves of chord changes and tones. Like the season it represents, it brings warmth and life to the piano's keys, and new thoughts and hopes to emerge from your consciousness; like the flowers and other plant life sprouting their leaves from the trees and ground, a new season begins. The music will touch you and leave an impression.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

July 23, 2024

Tracks:

01. Just Before Dawn (3:23)

02. The Gloaming (3:24)

03. Birds Start Their Songs (3:20)

04. Another Bird in the Garden (4:30)

05. Grieving The Dreamscape (4:23)

06. As Light of Mourning Finally Flows (4:34)

07. Night Has Left Us All (2:32)

08. Remembering George Winston (2:51)

09. Caffeinated and Reconsidering Slime Molds (3:30)

10. Trees and Silence are Living Beings (2:34)