Messiah CD

Track Listing of songs: 1. Allegro Ma Non Troppo; 2. Adagio; 3. ...

Track Listing of songs: Tristan Und Isolde : Tristan Und Isolde, Act I: Prelude;

Classical pianist Carol Lian and jazz drummer Ronnie Bedford got together in Wyoming to record a series of pieces for drum and piano, in tandem and in solo. This is truly an improvisational undertaking at its highest and purest form. Most of the music on this disc was created as the two were playing, building upon ideas and responses that the two cared about the most. Although compositional credit is likely shared by the two performers, none of the pieces were written down. "Beijing" captures the emotions and feeling that one has for the headquarters of this massive and ethnically diverse country. One hears a bit of Chinese euphony in this piece, but its prevailing theme is the conflict and then coming together that pervades a country the cultural, social, and economic shape of China. Some of the pieces are quite long, such as a calming "In the Night," which runs for almost ten minutes. Others are short and to the point, such as "Visions," which goes on for less than a minute. The timing depended upon the extent to which the mutual thinking of the two performers was brought to a satisfying consummation. Making this combination of instruments work is a challenge, as is listening to the outcome. Care must be taken to assure that one percussive instrument doesn't outdo the other and that has to be balanced against the comparatively limited melodic abilities of the drums. But there is sufficient meeting of the minds of these skilled musicians so that both challenges are conquered. ~ Dave Nathan Go to Google and search Carol Lian and Ronnie Bedford. Personnel: Carol Lian (piano); Ronnie Bedford (percussion).