Album Notes

Love SongsYuko Ohigashi2002/

Reviewed by Kathy Parsons At the ripe old age of 15, Japanese pianist Yuko Ohigashi already has several CDs of original pieces and cover tunes to her credit. She is currently studying music at Interlochen Academy in Michigan, and it will be interesting to see how formal training as well as the maturing process affect her playing and composing styles. "Love Songs" is a collection of movie themes, standards, and pop tunes that include "The Way We Were," "Alfie," "Love Story," "Moon River," and "Memory"- all pretty standard faire for piano collections. Yuko plays these pieces with flair and expression beyond her tender years, and it is truly amazing that she has developed such a powerful playing style with only minimal training. Her arrangement of "My Funny Valentine" is exceptional. I love this song anyway, but Yuko gives it wonderful expression with the melancholy, bluesy feel it requires. She also does an especially nice job with "Unchained Melody," keeping it simple and heartfelt. "Amazing Grace" is a bit of a surprise on a collection of love songs, but it works. "When You Wish Upon a Star" has a sweet wistfulness that is charming. So, if you're looking for an easy-listening collection of familiar gems, check this one out. More information about this artist is available on her website at www.yukopiano.com.