Aleksei Sokolov is the composer behind the “Piano Solely” project. In his debut album of the same name, he has released six solo piano pieces.
Aleksei’s style of composition closely aligns with contemporary minimalistic music, reminiscent of Steve Reich. His dynamic and flexible performance adds a unique touch, making each piece captivating. Despite the repetitive arpeggios, the human quality of his performance ensures that each part of the ostinato feels distinct. The result is an extraordinary classical minimalistic piano experience, reminiscent of Philip Glass and John Adams.
“Piano Solely” exudes a serene and soothing mood, with each piece offering a soft and warm auditory experience. Aleksei himself describes his first album as “a collection of musical sketches,” but this should not be taken to mean that the music is anything less than a great piece of art. Yes, “Piano Solely” does not possess the twists and complexities found in Mahler’s symphonies, but that is not the album's intent.
“Piano Solely” aims to take listeners on a gentle journey through a pleasant horizon, offering a respite from the frantic pace of life and allowing one to appreciate life in slow motion. And indeed, it achieves this beautifully.
“Seagull” the opening piece of the album is a great example of how the warmth of the fingers of the performer had melted the harmonic blocks of ostinato. My favorite piece “Memory” comes second, it starts as a simple piece but the chromatic descent of the harmony makes it sound somber and lovely at the same time.
The third track “Waltz” worthy of the name has the famous three beat rhythm, but it is so soft that you won’t even feel it. It’s more of a mental dance than a physical one.
Next comes “Dream” with a relatively faster arpeggio and a high pitch melody creating a dreamy soundscape.
“Island” is the least minimalistic piece in terms of composition in this album, but has the same quality of performance and timber.
The album ends appropriately with “Final” a sad piece, a reminder of farewell with a heart touching melody line.
“Piano Solely” has this quality that you can’t stop listening to it once you start. I've listened more than I needed to write a review for it and as I’m writing these final lines while listening to the album, I know that I will continue listening to it for a while. So, yes, in a word, I really suggest you take a listen as well.
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