Andy Milne
had no intention of recording a solo piano CD focusing on typical
standards
, so he instead chose to mine the relatively untapped music popular with
rock
audiences of the 1970s and 1980s, with surprising results.
Milne
is hardly the first
jazz
musician to record a work by
Sting
, but his lyrical, pastoral setting of
"Message in a Bottle"
unveils its potential in a
setting.
Neil Young
's work is a more startling choice, though
's dramatic
improvisation
of
"After the Gold Rush"
may not be easily recognizable to
Young
's fans, as his hints at its theme are fleeting.
slows down
"Don't Let It Bring You Down"
and sticks closer to its roots, offering a stunning interpretation. The pianist's approach to the late
reggae
giant
Bob Marley
's
"I Shot the Sheriff"
frees the tune from its trademark rhythm, which broadens its appeal to listeners who never investigated the genre seriously. His tense setting of
Bob Dylan
"The Times They Are A-Changin'"
incorporates an ominous vamp and signals a warning that there are clouds on the horizon.
Joni Mitchell
"The Circle Game"
is another gem, cast as a reflective
ballad
suggesting a quiet day alone in the country.
's three originals are also compelling performances, highlighted by his playful
"The Metamorph."
He closes the disc with a touching one-chorus arrangement of
"Danny Boy"
that proves there is plenty of new ground to be found in this popular old Irish air. Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden