|
There is much
to be said about these Narada Compilation CDs. They
represent excellent value for money, and this
product contains no fewer than twenty-two tracks on
two CDs. Together with its companion CD, "20 Years
of Narada Piano", this CD showcases some of the
finest music that Narada has produced over the past
twenty-five years or so. It amply demonstrates what
a force it once was in the New Age piano world.
Thank goodness for memories like these.
Indeed, there is
an argument for snapping up this album while you can
as, due to the cruel world of economics and shifting
changes of taste, Narada as we remember it is no
more. CDs like this one are a thing of the past,
which make the contents even more special to the
discerning listener.
The first CD
opens with the very beautiful "Prelude: First Snow"
from popular label member Michael Gettel. It is an
unusually restrained piece from Michael-
successfully capturing the softness of early
snowfall. The notes twinkle like stars. Track 2 is
an offering from the extremely popular David Lanz.
"Summer's Child" is taken from his much acclaimed "Cristofori's
Dream" album. It borders on soft jazz in parts, but
is a pretty piece nevertheless. I think an English
Horn is used in parts. Spencer Brewer's "Portraits"
from the album of the same name, has a catchy
melody, and is very easy-going- perfect for
late-night listening. A personal favourite, "Song
for Eia" by Michael Jones is the first CD's fourth
track. At 8 minutes and 49 seconds, this is some
five minutes shorter than its original incarnation.
A pity that Narada decided to edit this piece, as
one cannot help but feel the Canadian's pianist's
full story has not been told fully here. The track
itself is tremendous (see the Sunscapes CD Review
for a detailed analysis and history of this
particular track). Wayne Gratz tracks are normally
very easy to listen to, and this sixth track is no
exception. "A Gift From the Sea"-from the album of
the same name- is very beautiful and relaxing in
equal measure. Another favourite! It also features
cello.
Michael Gettel
can do no wrong in my book, and he makes his second
appearance in the album's sixth track, with "Gentle
Earth and Sky". As soothing as the title suggests,
this is one to lie back, close your eyes and slowly
drift away to. "Heartsounds", from the album of the
same name, is an excellent and joyful piece of music
by David Lanz. It has the "feel-good" factor written
all over it. Track 8, "For You", by Russian pianist
Kostia (from the album 10 Pebbles), is another piece
that is incredibly relaxing. Kostia's work has a
classical feel to it, and one cannot help but admire
his considerable technique.
The CD's
penultimate track, "The Teacher", by Brian Mann, is
taken from an earlier compilation, also reviewed on
these pages- "Piano Solos". Very popular on its
original release in 1992, this track slowly builds
up until the teacher finally snaps and blows his or
her top! Very melodic, and the "explosion" of keys
is a real surprise! Pity the poor child!!! The
suitably titled "Farewell", another offering from
Kostia, closes the first CD, and is yet another
highlight on a CD brimming with magical tracks.
Quiet and reflective- almost mournful at its
opening, the piece becomes more positive and
"happier" as it develops. A lovely way to close the
CD.
On the CD's
second disc, Michael Jones opens up proceedings with
the very lovely "Mexican Memories". I read somewhere
that Michael had never actually been to Mexico, but
the inspiration came from what he envisaged the
country to actually be like. This piece follows
Michael's tried and tested formula of twinkling
solo-piano, guaranteed to leave the listener relaxed
and rejuvenated. Another piece I enjoy is the third
track, "Courage of the Wind" by David Lanz. David is
extremely popular in the United States, and his
piano solos are very easy to listen to. Undemanding
and perfect chill-out music. The excellent run
continues with the next track, "Blue Ridge, Part 2".
This is not solo-piano, and features a number of
different instruments, principally guitar with the
piano. But what a lovely melody from Wayne Gratz,
and it is easy to see why this is regarded as one of
Wayne's best pieces. "The Lost Roundup" (Track 6) by
Richard Souther, has grown on me over time. The
synth washes, which I disliked at first, probably do
add that extra little something to this very short
track.
If there was
any doubt about the popularity of Michael Jones, it
must be dispelled with the third appearance from the
Canadian pianist on this compilation CD. Here the
offering is "Aspen Summer" from the highly regarded
"After the Rain" album. The combination of piano and
David Darling's cello works beautifully.
With twenty-two
tracks, totaling almost two hours' worth of piano
music, this double CD really does represent
excellent value for money. Very highly recommended!
S.C. |
