Art is often the bi-product of life's many ups and downs, joys and challenges, and the creation of that art can often heal the artist as well those who come in contact with the art itself. Such is the case with Bryan Quinn's debut album, Rejuvenescence. I first listened to this album on a long drive a few days ago and was very impressed with the variety in the music as well as the ever-changing instrumentation, and I was blown away to discover that Bryan Quinn played all of the instruments himself! (He also mixed, mastered and produced the album!) The album begins at an emotional rock-bottom and progresses through the gradual process of healing, acceptance and happily moving forward.

The dictionary definition of "rejuvenescence" is: "As in revival. The act or an instance of bringing something back to life, public attention, or vigorous activity. The renewal of youth or vitality." The subtitle of the album is: "A Tale of Loss, Healing, and Growth... Told Through Contemporary Music Featuring World Flutes." Both are accurate summaries, but you really need to experience the album several times to fully understand the impact of the story and emotions behind the music. I think you'll find that it's well-worth the time!

Rejuvenescence begins with "Relationshipwrecked," a mournful duet for two flutes - one walnut and one bamboo. Feelings of solitude and loss run throughout this piece, explaining without words how the story started. "Longing" is a trio for two flutes (cedar and bamboo) and piano and expresses the wish that things could go back to the way they were. The first time I listened to the album, "Blue" was a real surprise! I don't think I'd ever heard the blues played on a wooden flute before, but there it was, backed by drums, bass, piano, rhythm guitar and lead guitar - all played by Bryan! It's definitely one of my favorites on the album! "Solitude" expresses the heaviness the can come with a painful loss. Played with three different flutes and acoustic guitar, deep sadness and isolation flow through every note. "Rumination" describes hitting bottom and almost giving up. Walnut flute and a variety of synthesizer pads tell this story. At some point, "Optimism" and hope return, but they are often fleeting - at least for awhile. Walnut flute, string ensemble and a mallet percussion ensemble gently lighten the mood. "Introspection" continues the healing process along with growth and acceptance. Aspen flute, acoustic guitar and synth pads express this changing outlook and the evolution into a more positive state of mind. "Exploration" goes in a much different musical direction with a variety of bamboo flutes and world drums, describing the process of discovery and experimentation. In "Brea(d)th," Bryan explores meditation and deep breathing. Much more ambient and peaceful, this beautiful piece includes flute, electric guitar, synth pads, singing bowls and rain sticks. "Redemption" is another favorite with its light-hearted and buoyant rhythms and joyful walnut flute. Drums, bass and acoustic guitar round out the band on this one. "Reflection" is a soulful and very peaceful duet for an ancient contrabass kauri flute and piano that looks back to see what lessons might be learned from past mistakes - also a favorite! The title track is the last track on the album and includes piano, a coastal redwood bass flute and string ensemble. Calm, gently optimistic and moving ahead with life, it's a beautiful close to an excellent debut album!

Rejuvenescence is available on CD and downloads from Bryan's website, to stream or download from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes, and from many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Check it out!