  If
you like solo piano music but haven't heard Jon Schmidt, you better
prepare yourself for a thrill ride. No one else in contemporary piano
is capable of capturing emotion with such intensity and precision.
"To the Summit" is Jon's fifth studio album, following the
creativity of popular songs such as "Waterfall," "Homecoming"
and "Tribute." Luckily there is still plenty of territory
for Jon to explore, because "To the Summit" introduces heavier
influences of jazz and new age than on his previous works. The result
leaves fans wondering where he might go next, since he's now conquered
nearly every peak in the modern piano world.
Many
of Jon's fans may have thought that nothing could match "Waterfall"
for its energy, rhythm and musical imagery, but, surprise! "Game
Day" and the title track from "To the Summit" are
masterpieces of musical plot: the action rises without a break and
builds to a cathartic height before resolving into a reflective
ending. "Game Day" sets to life the emotion of a high-stakes
rugby match and is dedicated to Jon's high school coaches. "To
the Summit" is his best attempt yet at contemporary jazz, with
sax master Ray Smith lending a healthy melody line through the middle.
Both songs offer prospective virtuosos much to live up to if they
wish to ever approach Jon's mastery of keys and syncopation. These
two tracks show off his seasoned talent without going over the top.
Some pianists think they have to show off by adding superfluous
runs that end up detracting from any hint of melody. When Jon composes,
his melodies are in the forefront.
Surrounding
the two climax songs are lighter gems proving his innate ability
to calm hearts with soft, peaceful tunes. There are more hints of
the romantic, Jim Brickman side of Jon in tunes like "Our Song,"
a sweet duet with his wife that remains a staple of his stage show.
There's also his first recorded attempt at accompaniment with "I
Do," a renewal of marital vows set to lyrics written by Peter
Breinholt and sung by Neal Middleton. "Rush Hour on the Escalante,"
"Night Song," and "Air on the 'F' String" are
some of Jon's less ambitious works, but they each leave listeners
feeling peaceful. "Prelude" and "Sacred Ground"
are an appropriate warm-up and cool-down. And lest he leave any
style undone, he throws in a thrilling rendition of "Can't
Help Falling in Love" complete with Billy Joel-esque riffs.
This
album is the closest thing to the intensity of seeing Jon perform
live. It's hard to imagine topping his first two albums "August
End" and "Walk in the Woods," but "To the Summit"
certainly offers a view from a loftier musical vista.
------------------------
Jared
Johnson
|
