Although this was released in 1995, it is still quite fresh into 2009. Glenn takes you several places. There are quiet days at home reading a book in front of the fire "Aubade," maybe a little dance floor ditty "Toccata," a bedtime story "Little Star," and even the mysteries of a "Dark Corner." There is little to jar you between these places. Glenn's playing maintains a casual tone overall. Come for a ride.
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Very introspective musings drawn across the keys by Glenn Hardy. History behind birth of 'Room 117' would be veryinteresting: ..while all great music is born through a kind of pain, this particular piece carries special pathos in its chords. A painting. Filled with echoes of things not first seen, but to the persistent: ...colors...light.
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“Compositions and Improvisations” is a fascinating collection of piano solos, alternating between composed pieces and studio improvisations. Moods and styles of music range from light and simple to pitch black and abstract. Glenn Hardy has been playing the piano since the age of four, and has had extensive training in classical music as well as jazz. That broad range of musical interests and strengths is very apparent in these pieces, and Hardy’s playing chops are impeccable. The composed pieces (the even-numbered tracks) are all very beautiful, but the studio improvisations have a wonderfully free quality and seem more introspective. “Room 17” was inspired by a favorite lakeside spot in Connecticut, and is very serene. I love “Granados,” which was named for the Spanish composer. One of the darker pieces in the collection, it is slow and dramatic with complex harmonies and rhythms - a gorgeous piece! My favorite track is “Dark Corner,” which, as the title suggests is very deep and kind of ominous. One of the more abstract pieces in the collection, it clearly demonstrates another facet of Hardy’s composing styles. “Toccata” follows “Dark Corner” - a lively, upbeat gem that almost dances out of the CD player. Both classical in structure and contemporary in treatment, it’s a great piece! “Mystic River Slow Drag” is jazzy with a touch of blues, and is another favorite. It is interesting that the CD opens with “Aubade,” which means “morning song,” and closes with “Morning Prayer.” Both have simple melodies and are gently beautiful. “Compositions and Improvisations” is a great album for those who like solo piano with some complexity and both classical and jazz influences.
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With so many new age piano albums and artists coming out these days, it's hard to know where to begin. It takes quite a lot for an artist to stand out- especially with the repetitive, cyclic and meandering atmosphere of new age that rarely breaks new ground or sounds noticeably original. What makes Glenn Hardy stand out in my mind is his intelligent use of short themes, motifs and ideas that are quick to set in, are accessible and tangible so that the listener is guided through this album with these signature phrases. This makes for a much more rewarding and memorable listening experience. Tapping into classical, Jazz and Blues influences as well, while still being "New Age," there is more depth and harmonic wisdom to these sparkling pieces. Definitely an album for the Liz Story or George Winston fan.
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