Review by Kathy Parsons
Solo Piano Publications


The Rose & Other Love Songs
Matthew Cook
2002/Arianna Recordings
57:00

“The Rose & Other Love Songs” is a remastered collection of solo piano pieces recorded live in 1994 and 1997 and previously-released on cassette. As usual, Matthew Cook’s selection of music is eclectic and comes from jazz, standards, and pop sources - something for just about everyone! I really enjoy the variety of selections and Cook’s various playing styles, which range from deep dark blues to singing ballads to easy-going jazz. “Georgia On My Mind” is my favorite track, and is also one of my favorite pieces to play. Cook’s arrangement has a leisurely, bluesy feel with some great improvisational riffs - what a great interpretation of this classic! “Webs/Wind Beneath My Wings” blends Cook’s original “Webs” with the classic pop tune/movie theme - another standout. “Webs” is gorgeous - soulful and yet sparkling. “My Funny Valentine” is one of my favorite standards, and Cook’s take on it is perfect - dark and haunting. I also love his version of “Unchained Melody,” which is tender and loving, much the way the late Bobby Hatfield sang it in The Righteous Brothers. The CD ends in a lighter mood with the jazz classic “Green Dolphin Street.” Other titles include “What a Difference a Day Makes,” “Send in the Clowns,” “Here’s That Rainy Day,” and “When Sunny Gets Blue.” This is a really enjoyable collection.

ORDERING INFORMATION:

CDs are $13.00

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