One of my favorite pianist/composers for many years, Christine Brown is probably the most creative arranger of solo piano medleys I’ve ever heard. In addition to her original compositions, she has released albums that combine Christmas carols with classical music, put pop songs together that you’d never think would work (they DO!), mixed pop/rock and classical music to create unique pieces that often surprise (and delight!). Now she has assembled a collection of twelve Lullabies & Daydreams that combine children’s songs with classics, pop songs and hymns - all very familiar and totally charming. The album is likely categorized as children’s music, and it’s perfect for that, but it’s so much more. The combination of these gentle songs and Christine’s elegant, silky piano touch soothes away all of the troubles we’re facing right now and makes the world seem much simpler and more friendly. These pieces are fully realized (not simplified), and the openness and honesty of the music make it a joy to listen to for people of any age.

Lullabies & Daydreams begins with “Moonlight Lullaby,” a blend of Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” and Brahms’ “Lullaby” - both classical icons that fit together seamlessly. “Imagine What a Wonderful World” combines John Lennon’s “Imagine” and “What a Wonderful World” - both beautiful and very poignant. One of my favorites is “Amazing Grace, Jesus Loves Me,” both very simple songs, but played with such feeling that they take on a whole new meaning. Ryan Tedder’s “Counting Stars” is paired with “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” and the results are magical. “Get Happy Together” mixes The Turtles’ hit “Happy Together” with the children’s song “Did You Ever See a Lassie?” - light and beautifully paired. Thanks to this album, I’ve had an ear worm of “Itsy Bitsy Spider” for the past couple of days, but it’s such a sweet arrangement that I really don’t mind. It’s charmingly paired with “It’s Raining.” I’ve heard Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” used in a lot of different ways, but juxtaposed with “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” is a first! Does it work? You bet it does! The closing track is a clever mix of “Hush Little Baby” and “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” leaving us with a feeling of peaceful restfulness. Nap time!

I always look forward to new releases from Christine Brown, and Lullabies & Daydreams is a sweet treat for your ears, mind and spirit. It is available from ChristineBrownPiano.com, Amazon, iTunes and streaming sites such as Spotify.