August is the debut album by pianist/composer Danielle Short. The nine original piano solos were performed and recorded on a felted piano where felt or another soft cloth is placed between the hammers and the strings of the piano, softening the percussive effect of the hammers hitting the strings when the keys are played. Sometimes this technique allows the sounds of the inner workings of the piano to come through and sometimes it just softens the sound of the notes. Both methods are utilized on this album, depending on the individual pieces and Danielle's creative intentions. Most of the pieces are rather soft and dreamy, but there is a very pleasant variety in the music that keeps it fresh and interesting. Danielle is based in Nashville and had Michael Logozar produce the album - she was in very capable hands! The album was created for Danielle's nephew, August, who was born earlier this year. Quoting Danielle: "The album was also heavily inspired by the month of August and is an ode to summer’s end. As the seasons slowly shift and summer fades, I hope that within this collection of compositions, you might be reminded of the beauty that fills this time of year.”

Danielle Short started taking piano lessons that focused on ear-training at the age of five and began more formal classical training by the time she was seven, continuing on that path through college. More recently, she has slowly transitioned away from classical music and now focuses on improvisation and composition, taking inspiration from experiences, memories and daily life.

Appropriately, August begins with "Begin," a piece that flows gently and gracefully, setting the overall tone of the album. "Radiance" effectively uses the dampers of the piano to create an echoey reverb effect that has a slight otherworldly feel. The notes on the right hand are bright and lively, softened extensively by the pedal and felting - a very interesting effect! "For August" is obviously a tender love song and/or lullaby for Danielle's young nephew - I love this one! "Dreaming" has a very free, spontaneous feeling with a gentle left hand pattern supporting the flowing right hand melody. This one also uses the dampers to create a beautiful, otherworldly sound. "Between Memories" is another favorite with its simple but very effective right hand melody and flowing broken chords on the left. The felting and its echoey effects express the feeling of weightlessness on the piece called "Weightless." Almost ambient, it's a very soothing piece! "Stillness" is also very relaxed and serene, perhaps composed very late at night when the world seems to be at peace. The album comes to a close with "Reflections," a piece I'm sure was inspired by happy memories and experiences - very warm and dreamy.

August is a very promising first album and I look forward to future releases from Danielle Short! The album is available from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on streaming platforms including Spotify. Check it out!