Wind Chimes is Greg Maroney’s fifth solo piano album to date, and he an artist who gets better with each new release despite the fact that all of his previous releases were great! His easy grace at the piano comes from a lifelong relationship with the instrument that allows him to communicate whatever emotion or event he chooses in a way that seems as natural as talking. Maroney draws the inspiration for his music from his natural surroundings, life experiences, and the people in his life. On this album, he refers to the many sets of wind chimes that hang at his farmhouse in rural Pennsylvania - how they are always in the same places, but how the sounds change from day to day depending on the wind, the thickness of the air, and his own moods. Music (and all forms of creativity and artistry) is much the same. On one day, a set of chords will go in a lighthearted direction, but the next day they could become very dark and moody. Maroney expresses many moods and emotions on Wind Chimes, but overall, this music is upbeat, contented, and very beautiful.

The CD opens with “Dance of the Imagination,” a gracefully swirling piece that has a lovely rubato flow that feels much like a daydream. I love “Breathe,” a slightly more abstract, ambient piece that also swirls and dances, but is a little darker and much more passionate - just gorgeous! “Dancing Dogs” has a Baroque style and a theme and variations form. The main theme is played straight; the first variation is a little livelier and more embellished as it picks up the pace. As the piece evolves, it gets faster and more and more fun - these are some happy dogs! “Sanctuary Medley” is a bit more stately and classical. The first movement is hymn-like in its formality, but the second has a beautifully free flowing quality, perhaps suggesting two different types of sanctuary. “Spring Breeze” is another standout with its peaceful, gentle warmth - refreshing! “Haunting Beauty” reminds me a bit of “The Reluctant Ballerina,” one of my favorite tracks from Maroney’s Harmony Grove album - very elegant and graceful. I also especially like “Sailing to Atlantis,” which is more mysterious and dramatic. As the title implies, one senses adventure and moving forward into the unknown. “Taking Wing” sings of freedom and joyous exhilaration.

Greg Maroney has outdone himself once again. One of my favorite pianist/composers, his music is always a delight to listen to and absorb. I’m sure this album would be fine as background music, but give yourself a treat and crank up the volume and listen to a pianist who really knows what he’s doing! Wind Chimes is available from gregmaroney.com, amazon.com, and cdbaby.com. Recommended!