Piano-Heaven Award Winner: Almost Home by Michael Jones

The release of a new Michael Jones CD is always something to savour, and this is one exceptional piece of work from Canada's finest pianist. Having severed his ties with Narada back in 2002, this is Michael's second CD to be released independently on his own Pianoscapes label. The move has given him more artistic freedom, and this shows from the very first track.

Almost Home is a wonderful collection of seven piano solos based on the poetry of Walt Whitman. It is my 13th. CD by Michael Jones, but there is nothing unlucky about this purchase; it is right up there with the very best.

The CD opens with the beautiful "Song for the Open Road". This fourteen minute piece invites the listener on a meandering journey, a journey that I would be happy to make every time. Just as Whitman's poems are split into verses, so, in a way, is this track, with subtle differences to the carefully trained ear. Melodic and inviting, I really enjoy listening to this piece, the opening of which has a hymn-like quality.

The second track is my particular favourite. "A Child Went Forth" has a mournful opening, but soon changes into the most delightful piece. It becomes majestic, and the music has a joyful feel to it from around the fifth minute- you can almost tell Michael enjoys playing this one!

"I Hear the Earth Singing" is a beautiful title, and how apt it is for another of my favourite tracks. It has a playful quality; one can almost hear the birds singing and the ducks splashing, enjoying the gifts of Nature.

"Wanderings of a Restless Soul", "Wings on the Wind" and "Almost Home" are all compositions of the highest quality. Michael has a uniquely special touch on the Grand Piano. No other composer plays with such delicacy and feeling, and these qualities shine through in the above pieces.

The CD's closing track, "A World Made Fresh Again" is an exceptional piece. The opening reminds me a little of "After the Rain", but it soon goes on its own magical journey. The title implies that all is right with the world again, and the music certainly captures the optimism and positive tone that this would bring. It is a lovely way to close the CD.

Michael Jones has a unique style. His music embraces the listener with its beauty and tranquillity. Each piece tells a different story.

In the rushed World of the 21st. Century, where everything is split into bite-size chunks, it is so refreshing to find a musician who is not afraid of telling his story in the way he chooses. The listener can immerse themselves in the music, travelling along on the musical journey and the end result is unforgettable.

At over 72 minutes in length, there is plenty on offer for lovers of relaxing piano music here.

Almost Home is a splendid CD, and one that I have no hesitation in giving my highest recommendation. It is to be hoped that Michael is not "Almost Home" with his music, but instead will have plenty of musical journeys for his listeners to make for years to come.

S.C.