Neil Patton versatile contemporary solo piano Neil Patton – SOLITAIRE: The dictionary definition for versatile is “able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities“… if you think about that in the context of the wonderful solo piano work that Neil is doing on his new release, just substitute the word “styles” for “functions or activities“, and you’ll have a perfect idea of what he is doing with the fifteen songs he has put together for your listening pleasure here… just compare the jubilant mood he projects on songs like “Walking On Air” to the floating ambience of spirit you’ll hear on “Adrift“… both are beautiful, but it’s almost like he’s “painted” sonic moods for you to remember moments from your life.
Since I enjoy being able to “see” the artists, as well as hear them, I recommend you watch Neil’s “teaser” for the album…
…there are several other preview shots from this album on Neil’s YouTube channel, so be sure you SUBSCRIBE while you’re there.
As I pointed out in my review of his previous work in issue # 162, Neil is extremely adept at getting the most out of his piano, as you’ll clearly realize when you listen to the deep overtones he magically pulls out of his sound board on “Bound“… the recording on this new release is stunningly clear, and you’ll hear every little nuance of every note he plays! I can (easily) predict that this composition will be nominated for an award (and GET it, too).
The first time I listened to the deep, dark tones of the closer, “Gethsemane“, I knew it would be my personal favorite of the fifteen Neil offers up… it’s the longest piece on the album (8:16), which gives him plenty of room to dig down deep into the depths of the agony the title is representative of… this is another composition that surely merits strong consideration for an award… no “gimmicks“, just simple and straightforward playing, but it will stay in your mind (& heart) for years to come… again, the overtones and harmonic echoes are just spectacular!
I give Neil a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) of 4.99 for this amazing sonic journey. Get more information on Neil’s page for the new album. Rotcod Zzaj
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