Published on Feb 19, 2002
The piano can be one of the most soothing and romantic
instruments in the musical world. There is something about
listening to those who have mastered the 88 keys, hearing them put
musical visions into a form we can hear which captivates the senses
and tugs at the heartstrings.
Maybe this is why I knew I was going to like
Songs Without Words II, the latest compilation of
instrumental works from new age pianists, before I even heard the
first note. Even if I had only heard of a handful of the artists,
like Jim Brickman, David Benoit and Janis Ian, I had an inkling
that this was going to be a special disc.
Thankfully, executive producer Benoit does not disappoint
throughout this 45-minute, 11 song collection. Don’t let the term
“new age” or the fact this is released on Windham Hill fool you;
these songs refuse categorization, wanting only to be accepted on
their own merits – of which, they have plenty.
Interestingly enough, the duet between Brickman and Benoit
(“Glory”), while pretty, is not the highlight of this collection.
That honor I’ll give to Barbara Higbie with her selection “Charlie
Riley”. Originally released on her CD
Variations On A Happy Ending, this tune captures the feel of
ragtime blues locked in the body of Vince Guaraldi. It’s a lot of
fun to listen to, and makes me wonder why Higbie isn’t more
well-known. It also makes me want to hear more of what she has to
offer.
Simply put, though, there is not a bad song to be found on
Songs Without Words II. It is interesting to hear the
different approaches to the keyboard that each artist brings to the
table, realizing that these artists have more in common than you’d
think. Of special note are the performances by Janis Ian (“Days
Like These”), Alan Pasqua (“To Love Again”), Brian Culbertson
(“You’re Not Alone”) and Taylor Eigsti (“Past Voices”). No slight
is meant towards any contributor I haven’t named individually –
frankly, without their input, this disc might not have been as
magical as it is.
Time, then, for the sole complaint I have – this disc is so
enjoyable that 45 minutes seems too short. Still, a minor
quibble.
Songs Without Words II is an exceptional collection of some
of the best pianists of this age, and is a disc that should appeal
to music lovers of all ages and styles. It kind of makes me wish I
had reviewed this one for Valentine’s Day – but then again,
romance, like this disc, shouldn’t be bottled up for special
occasions.