There was once a
time when the name Narada was synonymous with the
finest pianists. They boasted a roster that even the
original New Age Label, Windham Hill, could not
match. Pianists of the highest order, including
Michael Jones, Michael Gettel, Spencer Brewer,
Kostia and David Lanz regularly turned out classic
CDs which are still listened to around the world to
this day.
In 1992, Narada
released a CD which, put quite simply, would not be
released today. There was a risk attached to this
CD, because as well as featuring established giants
of the label, it also showcased newcomers in equal
measure. Narada do not release CDs anymore, and very
few labels would take such a gamble in the current
climate.
What makes this
CD extra special, is that it features a dozen
original compositions, many of which more than
justify the cost of the CD. It opens with a lovely
little number by old-timer, Spencer Brewer. "First
Rain" successfully captures the steady rainfall, one
moment gentle and predictable, the next swirling and
heavier. "First Rain" is definitely Summer Rain,
presumably at dawn. Spencer started playing at the
age of eight, and was composing his own music by
ten. Since then, he has owned an incredible 400
pianos. He sees it as the perfect instrument as...
"it openly receives my feelings and emotions without
passing judgment, and it responds with
understanding, compassion and tenderness. I feel
blessed to have had such a wonderful friend
throughout my life."
The next track
is by Michael Gettel, and contains his trademark
sound. Rhythmic and with his normal flurry of keys,
this piece "Gentle Earth and Sky" does not
disappoint. Kostia's first offering, "Girl From
Barcelona" is gentle and soothing as well as
melodic. It develops into a high-tempo piece, before
settling down to its original form.
Another
highlight is to be found with track 5- "So Close".
This is my favourite cut on the CD. It is extremely
melodic and accessible. Very positive and uplifting,
this is a much-loved piece in the New Age piano
world. Kostia returns for his second offering,
"Flowers on the Water"- a more intense track,
classically influenced. The ever reliable Michael
Jones also makes his second appearance on Track 8 of
this CD, with "Aspen Summer". A very tender opening
suggesting dawn of a Summer's day, gradually
develops into daytime and the wildlife that comes
with it. One final favourite, is the CD's last
track, the rather appropriate "The Teacher" by Brian
Mann. A delightful melody happily plays, until the
listener is caught out by a sudden flurry of notes
at high volume- to me, this is the teacher losing
his or her patience with a child who has just tried
their luck once too often! A great way to end this
very impressive CD.
The linear
notes are extensive, with autobiographical notes on
each pianist featured. The recording quality is
excellent.
I really
enjoyed listening to this CD, and recommend it as a
wonderful introduction to the world of New Age
Piano, and the undisputed place Narada has had in
its history.
S.C. |