By way of introduction, the album reflects many influences from jazz to classical, new-age, etc. and is quite unique in its explorations of form and mood...
ALBUM NOTES
Peace to all. From time to time, circumstances and energy converge to open up new possibilities... Musicians have the power to create, within the bounds of the "fleeting present," soundscapes which can mirror the vast recesses
of the soul. That's a lot of territory to cover and I know it will keep us busy for quite some time.. In the scheme of things it isn't that often that recording equipment is at the ready to "take it down" for future reference.
The music in this album is the product of two consecutive nights in my studio. I view it as a celebration of what can happen when one lets go and allows the spontaneous flow of the
spirit we are all connected to, and are a part of, to express itself. All but one of the pieces ("Olivia's Song") were generated on the spot without any preconceived notions.
On the other hand, I have been strongly influenced by the richness, the passion and the beauty that is in jazz, classical, contemplative and other world music. As I played, all of
this flowed out from within. I was in a zone. I felt an intoxicating sense of adventure, and peace, and a clarity and an openness to whatever might occur... I hope that some of this will communicate to you as you partake of the
experience... RJ
Endorsements
Here are a few comments from some highly regarded musicians that have previewed the album.
Charles McPherson - "I've known Rich for over twenty years now, and used to play with him often when I first moved to San Diego. I have always thought of him as being a talented artist and musician. Here is proof of my assertions
embodied in this CD of original music by Richard. These renderings convey deep musical thoughts and feelings played beautifully on the piano. I strongly suggest giving this a listening."
Jeff Williams "Just wanted to thank you for the CD which arrived yesterday. I listened to it last night and enjoyed it. The sound is excellent and your touch is beautiful. The instrument itself seems of the highest order. Even
Keith Jarrett would be pleased to play it. And the CD is aptly titled since the music has a dreamy quality that is quite soothing....."
Mundell Lowe "Richard James used one of my favorite forms of composition. It's what I refer to as free-form. There is a feeling that the music goes on and on, avoiding the well known cadence. The music has a very calming
effect. Good luck, Richard..... I like it."
Mike Longo "The Richard James CD was a joyous and rewarding listening experience for me both on a pianistic level as well as compositionally. Don't miss it!"
Dave Mackay
"It's beautiful.. Your album is brilliantly created and courageously intimate."
Peter Sprague - "Hi Richard, got a chance to listen to your CD yesterday and just loved it! Great sound, I love the space, the smoothness of it. All really great. You should put it out there. Anyway, thanks for sending it to
me and I really dug it..... Bravo!"
Alphonse Mouzon "Thanks for sending me your solo piano CD. I like it a lot! Very soothing! Richard A. James is a great pianist and composer that deserves wider recognition. His CD As In A Dream is fantastic!".
Shep Meyers " Just a note to thank you for sending over your new CD. I listened to the whole album, and I am amazed at the incredible piano sound on this record, and in truth, I
want to record on it. The sound is truly great! As for the musical content of your CD, I
believe that you have evolved a very personal and original style, made extra special by improvising the tunes off the top of your head. Very impressive. The music is very introspective and meditative, and I can see the CD being
pressed and distributed by some of the record
companies looking for a different twist to this kind of material. "Looking Bach" almost seems like it was written out, and I love what you did with it. The theme of "Olivia's Song" is beautiful--sounds like a movie theme in
parts. "Zone" is in a zone and speaks for itself. All in all, Richard, a great effort, and I congratulate you.
Lori Bell Richard James's new solo piano CD has a velvety sound just like his touch. This recording is a culmination of his roots in jazz and his love for classical music, especially impressionism
