Peter Saltzman – BLUES, PRELUDES AND FEUDS (A MUSICAL MEMORY): There’s not a bit of doubt in my mind; the promoter picked this one for review because of knowing my love for piano that “tells the story”, especially when “blues” is a part of the tale… the pieces are short, but they meld right into each other, as you’ll hear on “Blues For The End of Time“… all-original compositions by Peter that are timeless and full of memories of a life well-lived!
Most albums that are “themed” like this tend to get “stuck” in one mode of playing, but you will hear as you listen to “Fanatical In A” that Peter’s skill-range is broad-based, and he actually speaks more to the listener on this short piece than many pianists do during a whole set – a tasty piece of piano, indeed. Contrast that with the opening track, “Overt? Sure!!“, and you’ll have the perfect sonic picture of keyboard dexterity and ultimate energy for playing that so many other solo pianists lack.
What’s most unique about Peter’s collection of songs on this release, though, is that it’s impossible to “classify” his music, or pigeonhole it in any way, shape or form; you’ll hear that eclectic and fun-filled spirit most poignantly on my personal favorite of the 28 songs offered up, “Star Spangled Minor“… what a perfect way for a piano-lover to start off 2017… I give Peter a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) rating of a (perfect) 5.00; meaning that this also gets my “PICK” for “best original piano album”. Get more information at Peter’s Bandcamp site for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
