Written by RJ Lannon
One of Europe’s most well-known composers of electronic music puts aside her synthesizers and takes her place at the grand piano for her latest album called Silent Heart. Kerani is one of the most solid composers that always hits her mark with her lush, fantasy-tinged ambient compositions, but on Silent Heart love and romance take center stage. Her aim is to offer her music as a spiritual refuge against the pressures and pain of the modern world. She does this exceedingly well on ten contemporary pieces of musical art filled with bold expression and intense emotion. Let us explore this sanctuary of tuneful solace.
It is not often that a heart prefers to be a silent heart, but sometimes it is needed to regain composure and rebuild the emotional foundation. This does not mean a heart devoid of emotion. The first tune is Silent Heart and it is very emotional. It is a tender waltz of a yearning, hopeful heart. Kerani’s lush, eloquent piano and fervent violin melody is not one of submission, but of recovery. Time to take a deep breath and focus. What a beautiful tune this is.
The theme of The Gift suggest more than fancy paper and red ribbons. It builds on a foundation of refined, yet dynamic, post classical elements created by a warm electric piano. The music suggests this gift is made of smiles and love. And maybe the most precious gift of all, time.
Watching Clouds is a pastime that can be done by anyone at almost any time of the day, even at night. There is something soul stirring about letting your imagination run away with the fluffy white travelers that go from shapeless to your favorite characters in a matter of minutes. Or when the clouds cover the moon on a stormy night. As in Kerani’s music, it is poetry for the soul.
The eponymous tune Passion is overfilled with salty tears and warm smiles. It is a strong, expressive ballad that combines a dramatic performance of orchestra and piano with an emotionally-rich flow of passionate notes. It has a depth and sophistication that I would truly love to see performed live.
With a sound like an Alpine horn and a heartfelt piano melody Is this a Dream is deeply romantic and could be the dance for anyone who has ever known the miracle of love. From discovery to acceptance, from surprise to sharing, and on to sweet, sweet surrender this music is the pas de deux of kindred souls.
Nocturne is a deeply gentle romanza that would make Frèdèric Chopin blush. The glittering notes of Kerani’s music sparkle like the stars that emerge from the blackness of a clear night sky. No clouds can conceal the luster of these faraway jewels and no moon can disturb the stillness of this melody. Time means nothing on this night. Emotion is all.
Whether the Roman army is marching off toward Gallacia or the newest rocket is taking off for the Red Planet, the tune called Anthem would be more than appropriate. Kerani’s theme starts with a subtly slow cadence and builds in intensity, the music swells, and off we go. There are enemies to vanquish and planets to explore. And yes, there is a victory in the end. As a composer, Kerani always seems to be evolving, changing, and more importantly exploring new avenues of making her music a medium of transport for an emotionally starved audience.
Silent Heart is Kerani’s eleventh album to date and one of her best. The music is sensual and light and never bogged down by harsh or negative phrasing. Her dreamy themes are for everyone, everywhere. Sweetly excellent and highly listenable.
Reprinted with express permission from ArtisanMusicReviews.com
