Album Notes

Michael Barden is a central Wisconsin pianist, who also presently serves as a Pastor of Worship at his church in Waupaca, WI; he also performs regularly with local jazz ensembles, including the River Cities Jazz big band (www.rivercitiesjazz.com).

His musical background and influences may come as a surprise to a listener of his 1995 recording, REST. Early in his life, Michael was greatly influenced by the innovations and power of Edward Van Halen, Frank Zappa, and Pink Floyd. Michael studied classical piano throughout his youth, becoming enamored with the keyboard compositions of J.S. Bach and Chopin along the way. In college, his attention turned toward minimalist composer Steve Reich and jazz keyboardist Chick Corea. Later, through his adult church experience, his piano playing was further shaped by black gospel style.

Somehow, this variety of musical influences is trying to come together through one musical personality. REST does carry many of these influences, although not overtly. Minimalism is clearly reflected in "Wheels"; romantic programmatic style is evident in "The Mountain"; "East From West" has an atmospheric quality; and all the music is highly improvised with Van Halen's attitude of "falling down the stairs and landing on your feet" (well, at least most of the time!).

His other recordings include Groovy Church Tunes (also available on CD Baby), and Glory to the Newborn King, Mike's arrangements of familiar Christmas songs.