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They
say that things happen for a reason, and the fans of
Kevin Kern have a massive technical problem to thank for
making this CD a very special one indeed. Kevin Kern was
due to record with his usual mix of synthesisers added
to his piano pieces when the machine responsible for
such things "blew up". The end result was Kevin had to
feature "real" instruments far more heavily than planned
and this is certainly no bad thing. The real violin, the
real flute, the real bells, etc. etc. give weight to the
album and help to make this a special listening
experience.
Kevin Kern has been one of the most popular artists on the Real
Music roster, and it is not difficult to see why. His music is
popular around the world, especially in South Korea and other
parts of Asia.
The American pianist, who is registered blind,
has composed several albums for Real
Music but this is by far his strongest
outing. "The Touch of Love" opens the CD
with a graceful piano melody, supported
with flute from Pamela Copus and
acoustic guitar from Jeff Linsky-
together with gentle drums and electric
bass from David Earl and Terry Miller
respectively.
The acoustic guitar returns on the
lovely second track, "The Way of the
Stream", together with harp from Pamela
Copus. The third track, "A Million
Stars" is a favourite. It is a piano
solo, and features a delightful melody.
Track Number four, "High Above the
Valley" is, perhaps, the highlight of
the CD. It begins with the sound of
rain, but soon a lovely piano melody
kicks in which increases in intensity.
Kevin really goes for it on this track!
He is supported by Coyote Oldman playing
the flute. "Ancient Guardians" has a
much slower tempo and is less intense.
It soothes to the heart of the soul,
combining piano and flute. Guitar and
piano make a comeback on the album's
sixth track, "Cauldron of Healing".
Again, this is a gentle, soporific piece
of music.
"Filled With Light" is the
album's second piano solo and is a short
number basking with beauty. "Through the
Veil" is another gorgeous track,
featuring acoustic guitar, drums,
electric bass and a drumstick (Pamela
Gibbs). Even the label's founder,
Terence Yallop gets in on the act of the
penultimate track, playing a bell tree.
Another favourite is the album's closing
track, "The Winding Path". Piano and
flute combine once again to beautiful
effect in what really is a gorgeous
composition. It is quite a mournful
track, but devastatingly beautiful.
Kevin Kern has excelled himself with this
offering. As usual, Real Music have done a fantastic job with
the packaging. The accompanying booklet is a delight to read and
has a luxurious feel about it. No expense has been spared here!
Real Music offer the listener a "Guided Visualization", but the
listener who sits down, relaxes and closes their eyes will have
an equally rewarding experience.
A fantastic CD- and one that is highly
recommended.
S.C.
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