Personally new the artist and she was such a good musician, it was sad that she died. The first song, she wrote it for her colloge class she only got a "c" on it. It deserves better than that.
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Just what I expected from this gifted artist.
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For awhile it seemed that many of the solo piano albums being released were safe and predictable, and it was becoming increasingly more difficult to tell one artist from another. This past year has brought forth some excellent surprises, but some of these outstanding albums might be difficult to find. One that is especially deserving of the search is Laurie Z’s newest release, “Roots”. I love this album! This is Laurie’s third recording, after “Window to the World” and “Life Between the Lines” which were made with her band. “Roots” is an autobiography set to music, and clearly demonstrates Laurie’s diverse and deeply personal composing styles as well as her mastery of the piano. A classically-trained pianist since the age of four, her touch is warm and expressive. 

The album opens with “Stranger in a Familiar Land”, which is one of my favorites. It is full of passion and perhaps a sense of questioning or wonder. “Michael’s Song” is more subdued, but has its own wonderful flow. “In the Monterey Mist” feels just like the title - cool and soft with no hard edges. “For the Love of a Child” conveys a real sense of joyfulness and fun in its uptempo melodic swirls. “The Mysterious Painter” is another piece I love. It is a little darker, but is also passionate and somewhat questioning. “From the Ashes” is a study in optimism, and is again much more uptempo. “Dream Come True” returns to a quiet mood, but a happy and peaceful one. The title tune has a classical touch and lots of colorful minor chords. The feelings expressed are almost unsettling  at times because they are so clear and real. A great surprise is “Too Blue”, which fits in perfectly, but is different from the other cuts with its bluesy/gospel style. It hints that Laurie Z can get “down and dirty” at the piano with the best of them! The last cut, “Good Night, My Friend” is like a warm and personal conversation with a close friend at the conclusion of an evening you wished didn’t have to end. The other three pieces on the album continue to intrigue the ears and emotions with their blend of passion and peace, as well as their flowing melodies. Everything about this album rings true and real, and I hope it is the first of many solo piano recordings from this dynamic composer and artist.
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This CD is filled with music that is both relaxing and mentally stimulating. When I listen to it fond memories from the past come alive and my imagination takes flight. I get a creative surge from her music. It's great to listen to while making a romantic dinner and in a candle lit bath afterwards. I love this CD. It's great for inspiration. I lay on my hammock in the shade and listen to this CD until I am relaxed and filled with creative ideas for my own work!
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