Seven is the debut album from Nathan LaMotte, a young pianist/composer who started playing the piano at the age of six. When he discovered the music of The Piano Guys several years ago, Nathan became intrigued with their eclectic sound and started writing his own music by combining a mix of classical influences with a modern sound. Along with Nathan’s original compositions, the album contains a couple of original arrangements of hymns and medleys that include classical themes. Nathan recorded the seven piano solos on the album over two-year period, and the music varies from reflective to big and bold - sometimes within the same piece! It’s an impressive start from a very promising new artist!

Seven begins with “At Last,” a bright and lively piece that expresses the excitement and release of completing a project. “Identity: Unknown” is a fun surprise. It comes from Nathan’s first attempt at a film score. He mixes original spy themes with segments from Beethoven’s iconic “Fur Elise,” and I think this one might even make the old guy smile! It starts out with a tentative and mysterious intro that gradually builds to the opening of “Fur Elise.” From there, the themes build intensity to a burst of the later theme of the Beethoven work. From there, it teases as it winds down a bit only to explode once more into a flurry of the main theme of “Fur Elise” and Nathan’s originals. It’s a really clever and exciting composition! “Blessed Assurance” is a lively arrangement of the classic hymn that all but dances for joy. “Breakthrough” mixes rock, pop and classical styles into a fast-paced piece that has a powerful theme and sounds like a lot of fun to play (sheet music???). “Reflections” is much softer, overflowing with tender emotions and grace - a lovely contrast to the bigger pieces. “The Return” is Nathan’s interpretation of what a medieval film score would sound like. A tapestry of varied themes are woven together to create a bright and vibrant picture that tells a story, and it’s another fun and exhilarating piece. The album closes with a medley of the hymn, “I Surrender All,” and Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” Swirling and dancing with an expression of joie de vivre, it’s an upbeat ending to a great first album.

Seven is available from www.song-wave.com, Amazon and iTunes.