Mark Pinkus - My Love To You (2008)

"My Love To You" is the sixth release from Canadian pianist/composer Mark Pinkus. Classically-trained from an early age, Pinkus began composing as a child and obviously feels very comfortable with a variety of musical styles that range from tender ballads to ambitious concept pieces. The fourteen compositions on this album have strong melodies and express a fascinating assortment of emotions and experiences. Pinkus' classical roots are obvious, but his music is very accessible and doesn't utilize a lot of flashy technique unless the music calls for it.

"My Love To You" opens with "Victory," a piece with two major themes, one of which is strong and march-like and the other much gentler and more delicate. Pinkus effortlessly weaves these diverse themes into a seamless whole. "So Long" is an enchanting song without words and one of my favorites. Graceful with a touch of melancholy, the piece conveys emotions that are honest and ring true. "Conversations Between an Old Woman and a Young Man" is an amazing dialogue with two distinct musical voices. The old woman's voice is slower and more confident while the young man's is light, carefree, and perhaps a little reckless. "Never Let It Go Away" is a sweet and gentle love song. "Walking in Time" is another favorite. The mood is light and relaxed, but there is an underlying energy that propels it forward. "Sparkles" is more of a concept piece. The main theme flows like light dancing on water; another theme is more frenetic like a spinning prism that sends sparks of light flying in all directions - a very visual piece! "Temple of Health" also has several themes. The first is calm and hymn-like; as the energy picks up in the bass of the piano, the treble soon joins the joyful race. The themes then alternate between reverence and high-energy, ending with a big grin. "Seashell Island" is my favorite. It begins very mysteriously in the deep bass of the piano. The main theme is gorgeous, conveying beauty, sadness, and grace. This island has a passionate story to tell! The fluid elegance of "Time To Forgive" touches the heart with its sweet tenderness. "Meditation Stone" is a bit more abstract, but demonstrates another facet of Pinkus' composing styles. Slow, mysterious, and very relaxed, it's a lovely close to a great album. Recommended!