Photographs is the first solo piano release from Azimuth, a Christian rock/pop band who has been an active music ministry for the past twenty years. Even though this is a solo piano album, it was truly a collaboration with composers Paul Gentry and Rhesa Siregar and pianist Ed Goldfarb. (It is very interesting to note that the composing collaboration took place by email between Washington State and Indonesia, using midi and mp3 files.) All twelve of the songs have words that are available at www.azimuthpiano.com (two are included in the liner notes), so the music has a very lyrical feel to it. Jazz, gospel, and pop influences can be heard in the music, which is melodic and very accessible but complex enough to keep more active listeners interested. Each piece is a vignette depicting a “snapshot” of different aspects of everyday life

“Autumn Passing” opens the CD with a haunting piece full of reflection, regret, and longing. “Oceanfront” is a bit more gospel-infused. Calming and yet gently-stirring, I really like this one! “Hear My Cry” seems to be an urgent prayer for help and grace. The right hand improvisations create a feeling of spontaneity and sincerity - a soliloquy of sorts. The title track is nostalgic, recalling times of childhood innocence and faith being relived through old photographs and the need to “picture” Jesus within to fill the times of loneliness and need. As the title suggests, “Mirror Inside” is about reflection and self-examination, and contains a powerful yet poignant musical message. I really like “Voice In the Wind,” which has its roots in rock music. Rhythmic and intense, one senses a certain amount of frustration at trying to be heard in the wind. Goldfarb really shows his piano chops here! “Christmas Morning” is both magical and tragically sad, perhaps thinking of what the future will hold for the innocent Christ child.

I hope Photographs is only the first of many solo piano albums to come from Azimuth. Uplifting and inspiring, the music is also simply a pleasure to listen to. It is available from cdbaby.com. Good stuff!