Monday, June 17, 2013

CD Review – River Flow: Sanctuary, by Catherine Marie Charlton


Catherine Marie Charlton’s latest album is aptly named. Like a river, it flows smoothly from beginning to end. And also like a smoothly flowing river, it provides sanctuary from the hectic hustle and bustle of life.
 
The CD contains one long 60-minute piece composed, performed, and recorded in one take by Charlton on her Steinway B grand piano from 10:01 p.m. to 11:01 p.m. on September 6, 2012, while her family slept upstairs. Perhaps because Charlton made this music during her brood’s nocturnal slumber, the disc has the sound and feel of a late-night set at a quiet, intimate jazz lounge. The composition is engaging and lively while at the same time soothing and tranquil.
 
Although the album consists of one primary track, the one piece is divided into several parts based on riffs, movements, and themes, much like the tributaries of a river. This allows listeners to find and listen to their favorite parts of the overall tune, even while the whole piece can and is designed to be enjoyed in its entirety.
 
This is an excellent addition to the catalog of fine solo piano CDs available on the market.
 
--Raj Manoharan

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