Phillip Strange: Quiet
The influence of Bill Evans on Strange is undeniable. The presence of Keith Jarrett is also felt. But the lyricism, the sensitivity to the melody, the spacing of a minimalist approach. all recall Evans. Throughout the session, Strange explores a number of harmonic ideas staying well within the bounds of reason and thoughtfulness. Listen to his rendition of "Over the Rainbow" as he treats this tune much like a classical sonata written along the lines of Frederick Delius' "Five Piano Pieces", clean and unassuming but magnetic. This tune is one of the brightest on a set that is otherwise serious to the point of being somber. His "Sacred Heart" is almost eerie with it serene opening of Tibetan like chimes, a serenity that is soon shattered by subsequent chords. This is not Delius, but more like Stravinsky. On "Don't Explain", Strange shifts back and forth between the melody and improvisional digressions.
Mr. Strange's playing requires the strict attention of the listener. Luckily this album has much to offer to keep the listener's attention and is recommended - - especially for those who are or want to study piano.
Track Listing
Quiet; My Song of Brazil; Trieste; Let Go; Don't Explain; Say the Right Thing; Over the Rainbow; Still Life; Land and Sea; Sacred Heart
Personnel
Phillip Strange - Piano
Album information
Title: Quiet | Year Released: 2001