Radiant is the dynamic and passionate third album from Serbian pianist/composer/educator Kosta Jevtić. Now living in Northern Norway, Kosta became one of my favorite artists with his 2020 debut album, Reflections on a Journey and last year’s Eclectic Studies. Recorded live at Arda Recorders studio in Porto, Portugal, the album was recorded on a Fazioli concert grand piano, and the sound quality is exceptional. There is also a very impressive live video of the recording session on YouTube that adds another dimension to the music (link below). The six tracks on the album are original, varied and deeply personal. They are rooted in classical traditions expressed with a more contemporary approach. Other than “solo piano,” Kosta’s music doesn’t fit neatly into one genre or category - a big plus in my opinion!

Radiant begins with “Chasing the Melting Sun,” which was inspired by a three-hour westward flight at sunset - joyful excitement set to music. While the left hand plays rapid runs all over the piano keyboard, the right plays a light-hearted melody. Complex but very accessible, it’s an amazing start! I’m hooked on this album already! The title track is a delicately-layered piece about inner transformation through subtle changes. True to its title, the piece sparkles and shimmers as it dances up and down the piano keyboard, sometimes mysteriously and sometimes very positive and confident. “Alsta” was inspired by Kosta’s first visit to Norway in 2017 - the rhythm of the train, the seagulls over the island of Alsta and the changing landscapes all contributed to the feelings of excitement and discovery that run throughout the piece. At almost eight minutes, Kosta takes us on a colorful journey as seen through his eyes and musical spirit. Roughly translated, “Arioso Amabile” means “sweetly, in the style of a song” and the piece with that title is an ode to Lisbon, a city Kosta loves deeply. It’s a warm, melodic and very gentle tribute to a beloved place. “Nidelva” is named for a river in Norway and is a celebration of the city of Trondheim, its bridges and “charming” skyline. Bright, sparkling and often very dramatic, it paints a vibrant picture of a place I’d love to see sometime. The album closes with “Streets of Chiaia,” a piece that beautifully captures “the vitality and pulse” of the City of Naples, another favorite destination for Kostia’s travels and a place he considers to be a second home. Bursting with vibrant energy and excitement, it’s easy to get very pleasantly lost in this joyful music!

You may have noticed that I didn’t name any favorite tracks on Radiant, and that’s because I couldn’t choose - they are all excellent in their own way! Be sure to watch the video of the six tracks as they were recorded live in the studio (link below)! I found it both exciting and very inspiring!

Radiant can be streamed and/or downloaded on Amazon and Bandcamp, and is also on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Very highly recommended!