David Berriman’s second collection of piano solos is a warm and cozy listening experience. With ten original tracks and four covers, “Sunburst of Sound” is actually more consistent in mood from start to finish than the eclectic “Angels’ Playground”. Most of the pieces are smooth, easy-going songs-without-words that carry an optimistic and contented feeling. “Boogie On Down the Road” is probably my favorite track. Berriman has a great handle on boogie and ragtime rhythms and styles, and plays them with a spirit of fun and good humor. “Follow Your Heart” is a sweet and heartfelt ballad, possibly coaxing a loved one to spread his or her wings. “Don’t Feel Lonely” is another favorite. Berriman’s style often reflects the influence of Floyd Cramer, as this piece does, with a simple melody line and uncluttered accompaniment, creating a beautiful, emotionally reassuring piece. I also like “A Love So Rare”. 

I was disappointed that Berriman chose to include synth strings as a background accompaniment to most of the pieces. (If you’ve read many of my reviews, you know that I have a very strong aversion to synth strings!) Fortunately, these are mostly washes to add color and are fairly unobtrusive, but Berriman’s pianism is strong enough and doesn’t need these embellishments. I’m also wondering if the world needed another solo piano recording of Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” - this one is based on George Winston’s arrangement.  (Or maybe it’s just me. As a piano teacher, I teach that old workhorse all the time, and tend to cringe when it crosses my path!) The other covers are “Theme from ‘A Summer Place’”, “Here Comes the Sun”, and “The Wind Beneath My Wings”. All are very nice arrangements, but Berriman’s original work is much stronger and more personal. In his defense, Berriman is looking for playing gigs for weddings and other events, and these are frequently-requested pieces. 

This a great album to relax with, to have as a warm backdrop for a nice dinner, and it’s terrific driving music for in the car. Very enjoyable and easy to access.
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