Still the River Flows
David M. Edwards
2019 / David M. Edwards
66 minutes
Review by Kathy Parsons
Still the River Flows is the third album from pianist/composer David M. Edwards and his first solo piano album. A professional musician from the age of 15, Edwards has had a long career in a wide variety of bands and groups - from rock to country to jazz - and realized several years ago that in order to have a career as a solo artist, he needed to focus on a musical style that was truly his own. After spending a few years exploring what that style is, Edwards found that writing solo piano music “straight from the heart” best expressed what he wanted to say through his music. The results are lovely! The album begins with “Morning Song” and moves through what can be thought of as life compressed into one day. All of the fourteen pieces are smooth and melodic with a warm and comfortable feeling. The album was mastered by Joe Bongiorno at his Piano Haven Studio, ensuring a beautiful piano sound.
As I mentioned, the album begins with “Morning Song,” a gentle piece that overflows with the optimism and promise of a new day. “Summer Dance” is light and breezy with a carefree attitude. The title track is a favorite as it peacefully meanders while telling its story. “Just a Simple Song” has a melody that is sweet, uncomplicated and strong enough to support lyrics (none are needed!!!). “For a Long, Long Time” seems especially poignant and heartfelt - a story told with simple honesty and deep emotion. “On a Cloudy Day” expresses the gentle melancholy that can settle in on a sunless day and could also be a metaphor for one of the less wonderful periods that seem to appear in everyone’s lives. I really like this one, too! “Take Me With You” picks up the tempo with feelings of excitement and anticipation. “Wistfully” has a free, day-dreamy, floating-on-a-cloud kind of feel - very soothing and tranquil. “Wherever You Are” is a slow, beautiful love song that seems to be sad and full of longing - another favorite. “Walking By the Shore” expresses the peacefulness of a walk along the shoreline of a calm ocean or lake. The rhythm of the piece successfully mimics the easy ebb and flow of quiet waters and also provides a delicate massage for the mind. “Won’t You Stay” brings the album to a close with a piece that conveys deep feelings of love and tenderness and ends with a sigh.
Still the River Flows is a great start to a new phase in David M. Edwards’ music career! It is available from Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby as well as many streaming sites.
June 24, 2019