Becky Archibald’s The Long Ride Home is a fascinating collection of musical “journeys” in a broad range of styles and approaches from ‘40’s jazz to boogie to new age with an edge. This is not music to snooze to, as the styles vary a lot, but it is music that invites your full attention and participation to savor the innuendoes and subtleties of Archibald’s piano playing. Not many composers include humor in their music, and it’s fun to find two songs in this collection that invite chuckles or at least smiles. “Sumthin’ Funky” is a quickie piece that explores dissonance with high energy and a catchy beat. “Daddy’s Kind of Rock” is even more fun. Taking inspiration from her father’s record collection, Archibald throws in splashes of Henry Mancini, James Bond, and other recognizable themes and ties them together with an infectious walking bass line. I really enjoy this piece! “40’s Love Song” is a slinky bit of nostalgia that would be comfortable in any piano bar. It’s not a cheap imitation, though - this piece is full of poignancy and emotion. “Haunted” gracefully tells the story of ridding her piano of annoying noises by following inner instructions to avoid playing specific notes on the piano. The tone of the piece goes from mysterious to flowing and back to mysterious. “Sunrise” takes on a more “new age” feel - more quiet and abstract than some of the other pieces. “Strength Within” continues in this style, but is bolder, as the title suggests, contrasting strength with gentleness. This is definitely one of my favorites! “The Secret” is almost ambient with its atmospheric openness. The title track is a semi-bluesy ballad that closes a very impressive and expressive listening experience. I highly recommend The Long Ride Home to those who are looking for more than background music. It is available from Amazon.com.