|
This is
a splendid CD. Covering a range of styles, from gentle,
soothing music to full-blown pyrotechnics, this live CD
showcases some of the former Windham Hill pianist's
finest tracks. Recorded at Chester High School
auditorium in front of an All-School Reunion, the
audience included none other than a certain Mr. George
Winston- of whom many would consider to be the original
New Age pianist. Winston shares Philip Aaberg's love of
Montana, and both write extensively with their homeland
acting as an inspiration.
The CD opens with the quiet "High Plains", with
Aaberg tinkering initially on the high notes of
the piano register at slow tempo, before the
pace quickens and a pretty melody unfolds. The
second track combines "The Big Open" and
"Upright", and lasts for over ten minutes. Some
great piano playing is on show here. "Before
Barbed Wire" is the album's third track, and is
more quiet and reflective- although it has its
moments! Many would consider "Marias River
Breakdown" to be Philip's most popular piece,
and it is no surprise that it makes an
appearance here. Differing in parts from its
original form, the piece begins with a
water-type improvisation which George Winston
describes as one of the highlights of the
concert. "Beautifully improvised" is high-praise
indeed. The piece is a joy to listen to, and
successfully captures the rhythm of the water.
On "Welcome to the Church of St. Anytime",
Philip really goes for it! Soothing music this
is not!
A personal favourite of mine is Track 7,
entitled "Westbound". It would seem that a
railroad cuts through the city, with trains
passing through day and night. Philip Aaberg has
clearly listened to the sound of the thundering
trains, and has come up with a remarkable piece
of music which captures these enormous beasts as
they continue their journey. What rhythm in this
piece! Even more remarkable is someone's divine
intervention. As the piece concludes, and the
piano falls silent, a passing train's whistle is
clearly audible- perfectly on cue, and much to
the audience's delight! Perhaps the train driver
knew....
The eighth track, "Montano Half-light"
sees the tempo return to quieter and
more reflective music. It is very
beautiful. "Every Deep Dream" rolls
along nicely, with a catchy theme. It's
a happy piece and very pleasing to the
ear. The penultimate track, "Frogman",
sees Philip demonstrating his virtuoso
playing ability. This rocks, man! The CD
closes on a calmer note with
"Going-to-the-Sun". Aaberg's left-hand
maintains the toe-tapping rhythm, whilst
his right hand teases out a lovely
little melody to conclude proceedings.
Philip Aaberg tells a few stories
between tracks, and this helps to
personalise his music.
Lovers of top-notch piano music covering
a range of moods, will really appreciate
this CD. With Philip Aaberg, you never
quite know what's coming next, but that,
as a listener, is to be welcomed as it
makes one listen harder. This is music
that demands to be listened to. I really
enjoyed this CD, and its sister CD,
"Blue-West"- also on these review pages.
S.C.
|
