Inner Voyage is pianist/composer John Paris’ third full-length CD, following his 2004 debut Journey of Soul and last year’s Reflections. A life-long musician whose career has spanned more than forty years, Paris has played the piano alongside some of the biggest names in show business. He entertained millions of people all over the country as the leader, composer and arranger of his show band, Atlantis, which was based out of Las Vegas. Combining his vast professional experience with his training in jazz and classical music, Paris’ original compositions are a fusion of jazz and new age styles intended to leave the listener feeling spiritually uplifted, healed, relaxed, and rejuvenated. Paris comments, “Music has always been a very special part of my life. It has been my healer, mentor, doorway to spiritual evolution and comforter. As an artist, I venture to bring you to a warm familiar place…like the feeling before a long awaited homecoming.” The fifteen tracks on Inner Voyage were mastered by Joe Bongiorno at Piano Haven Studio, assuring that the piano sound is warm, clear, and smooth.

Inner Voyage begins with “Golden Heart,” a beautifully-flowing ballad that spills over with love and tenderness. “A Minor Musings” has a more improvised feel with a tinge of mystery. Dark and dramatic, I really like this one! “Lila Grace” is a delicate love song that could have been composed for a child - also a favorite. “Surprise in the Forest” is light and playful, making me wonder just what the surprise was - great musical storytelling! “Golden Coins” is a breezy improvisation that I find very relaxing in a jazzy and upbeat sort of way. “Welcome” is lyrical, elegant, and a bit moody - I like this one a lot! “The Clock” is a really interesting concept piece with a steady, repetitive rhythm that seems to be the movement of time while the melody dances all over the piano - as life tends to do. “Wonderment” conveys the dreamy magic as well as the excitement of that pure, innocent awe that happens spontaneously and unexpectedly and leaves a person feeling tingles.

Inner Voyage is an excellent choice for listeners who like jazz mixed with their new age piano. The music is complex enough to reveal new things with each listen, but is also very accessible for those who prefer their piano music in the background. It’s available from johnparismusic.com, Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Check it out!