Reunion is the seventh album from pianist/composer Reneé Michele and tells the poignant story of finding her soulmate and falling in love while overcoming formidable odds and set-backs. A collection of twelve original piano solos and one orchestrated piece, the album was recorded in Reneé's recording studio on her own Bösendorfer piano, and was produced by German producer/videographer, Thomas Lehmann. Two of the tracks on the album, "Life is a Wave" and "Good Bye," have received Global Music Awards for "Best Solo Piano," and several tracks have also been released as singles.

In a nutshell, Reunion tells the story of an American woman (Reneé) and a German man (Thomas) who were destined to find each other despite the daunting distance between them coupled with a world-wide pandemic. For almost two years, the two corresponded and called, sharing their stories and dreams, before finally meeting in the US and settling in Reneé's home state of Oregon. Each piece represents a chapter in their story while expressing a wide range of emotions and experiences. I have reviewed all of Reneé Michele's albums since her 2002 self-titled debut, and I think this is her best album yet.

Reunion begins with an extended version of "Wish Upon a Star," a warm and gentle piece that was released as a single in 2022. This version overflows with a dreamy kind of tenderness that touches the heart as it establishes the mood for the album. "Beautiful Day" expresses the blissful feeling of joy and happiness while spending time with that special someone. "Best Friends" was actually composed as a tribute to Reneé's dog, a faithful companion for many years. An animal lover myself, I totally "get" this one and the love it expresses. I think "bittersweet" is the perfect description for "Goodbye," a piece that reflects on the mix of emotions that come with an unavoidable separation and the uncertainty of when you will see each other again. "Whispers of You" describes the feeling that someone you've never met might be the one you've been looking for your whole life. Heartfelt and deeply emotional, it's a favorite. "You" is a love song, pure, simple and from the heart. There are two versions of the title track on the album. The first is solo piano and describes the feelings of anticipation at finally being reunited after the two years of the pandemic, transportation delays and shutdowns. A mix of emotions that includes relief, excitement, tenderness and joy flow throughout this lovely piece. "Surrender" is a very personal and poignant piece that arose from Reneé's experience with a severe concussion, wondering if she'd ever play the piano again. The piece emerged from her deep inward journey and trust in a higher power - an amazing piece of music and my favorite track on the album! I really like the quote in the liner notes of the album that describes "Life is a Wave": "Life comes in waves. It is not a straight line but instead is made up of ups, downs, highs and lows. Stay open to each moment. Be with and love each other. You never know what the next wave will bring." Wise words that go with another favorite. The album comes to a close with the second version of the title track - arranged by Thomas Lehmann for piano and orchestra.

Reunion is available from Amazon, Apple/iTunes and streaming sites including Spotify and Pandora . Don't miss this one!