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Brian Gibson
What impresses me most in listening to the twelve pieces presented on Ionia, is Gibson's subtle technical genius. His expression and economy of notes is incomparable to any other player in this genre I've ever heard. Trust me, listen to this album, and listen to another pianist's recent music, ...i.e Liz Story, David Lanz, or George Winston. You'll immediately go back to Brian Gibson's music. The album is provocative, spiritual and overall, very high-caliber. A classical influence is strong at times, but it is blended well with free flowing improvization. There is a passion you can hear in every note that Brian plays. The music combines New Age atmospheres, classical nuances, with folk music influences and, in addition to providing a very pleasurable listening experience, can be useful when you have some time to yourself, to bring your thoughts and emotions into balance. The album will be a delight for anyone who enjoys solo piano music. I found that Brian's music stirred mental imagary, more so than comparable music from George Winston and similar composers. Clear reminiscences, transparent soundscapes, daydream images, all seem carefree, ...delicate, impressionistic inventions, which subtly suggest wistful, sentimental stories. A great example is "I Remember this is Always", an exquisite progression of moving patterns. Another highlight, "Through the Clouds" is a full bodied composition, vibrant, reverant, and innocently hesitant in expression. "A Jewel in Erin" is one of the most dramatic pieces, moving inquisitively in clear, liquid tones resolving, then setting out again. Each composition is rendered with a unique stylistic and emotional musical signature, derived from simple open modes and casual rhythmic patterns. I can feel Brian's energy and passion as he performs each song. His gift for melody and tasteful arrangements converge to produce memorable, inspiring music that will easily be enjoyed by listeners of all ages. Each composition holds up on its own, yet they also relate to each other to evoke an emotional experience, to tell a story without words. The technical quality of the recording is meticulous. This album held my attention through repeated listenings. In particular, 'Deep in the Night with You' stands out as an instant classic. The tune is hauntingly beautiful, dreamy, and comforting, ...and I find that it still moves me after hearing it many times. I get goose bumps each time I listen to that song. Highly recommended. Review by Ben Kettlewell information:
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Brian
Gibson is a pianist of superior talent and extraordinary
ingenuity. Prior to listening to his exquisite display of
musicality on The Waters of Ionia, I had begun to grow weary
of contemporary piano music. With the dozens of solo piano
recordings crossing this desk each month, it's hard not to
be partial against them. Most of these recordings are
beautifully packaged and filled with competent playing; it's
just that there is such a glut of them, and less than a
handful generally are worth listening to, or ever make an
impact anywhere outside the immediate area where the pianist
lives and performs. I feel blessed that once in a while a
collection of truly beautiful all-original compositions
catches my ear. Such is the case with The Waters of Ionia,
ten compositions that combine a heartfelt lyricism with a
clear understanding of the link between music and
spirituality, in this solo performance, with no overdubs, on
a grand piano in a small studio in Pennsylvania. Producer,
Kevin Maxwell has certainly found a real gem with the
discovery of Brian Gibson.