The beautiful North Country II sees the flugelhorn of Tom Barber adding its own special sonority to the piano and cello mix. Violinist David Coucheron joins in to form a trio with the piano and cello in Sienna, which has a typically rolling and full-sounding accompaniment to simple melodic phrases which speak directly and clearly. He also contributes to Madison, which is also powerfully sentimental but has a less overtly obvious melodic structure. Cellist Johannes Martens appears on the super-romantic tunes The Hudson, and Sidewalk, both of which run the risk of melting your loudspeakers, such is the sweetness of their effusion. While most of these tracks are indeed solo work, there are a number of other musicians involved. Pieces like Roxbury Park and the Lyle Mays sound-alike Manhattan roll along with a relaxed and open character, and could only come from a deep affinity with American culture. ‘Contemplative’ need not be confused with somnolent however, and as numbers such as the opening Snow in New York and Michelle show that more up-tempo numbers are very much a part of Gjeilo’s package of goodies. The contemplative nature of his playing is a defining factor in his style, and in the interview booklet notes he cites Keith Jarrett as an example of one whose work he has found attractive in the past. This is Norwegian composer and pianist Ola Gjeilo’s first ‘solo’ album, and following on from considerable success as a performing artist this release has been much anticipated by fans. ""This young musician has embarked on a hopefully long and gloriously successful career with this rather marvellous calling card""
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