Tides Between Us is the thirteenth and most recent release from Scott Cossu, one of the original pianists on the Windham Hill label. An ethnomusicologist who has studied the music of a wide variety of cultures from around the world, Cossu’s music blends those influences as well as jazz, new age, and western classical music, making it impossible to accurately classify. I love it when musicians cannot be pigeon-holed, and Cossu presents a fascinating palette of musical colors on this album. In his liner notes, Cossu says, “This recording showcases my love of classical, blues, jazz, and R&B. I love to mix everything together to come up with my own style.” Cossu’s piano is accompanied by guitars, bass, drums, flutes, cello, harmonica, and a variety of percussion instruments. A resident of Washington State, Cossu has dedicated this album “to the Puget Sound, the people who live there, the shorelines, and waterways.” A portion of the proceeds is being donated to People For Puget Sound.

Tides Between Us begins with “Orca Dance,” a smooth jazz piece that celebrates the graceful majesty of these amazing creatures. Piano, guitars, and percussion give the piece drama and and elegance. “Early Morning Rain” expresses the warmth and comfort of listening to the rain while snuggled under the covers - delicious! “Just Imagine” is a gentle, happy daydream expressed with piano, guitars, and percussion. The title tune has an effortless, soothing flow and creates the hypnotic effect of watching water. Piano, cello, and guitar are mesmerizing. “Market Boogaloo” is one of my two favorites, and both pieces are upbeat romps that are full of fun and energy. If you can keep your feet still while listening to this one, you’d better check your pulse. Piano and some amazing guitar work plus the driving rhythm of the drums will get your toes tappin’ and your head bobbin’ with happy abandon! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve hit the “replay” button for this one. “Shepherd’s Song” is almost the opposite of “Market Boggaloo,” which is an indication of how varied the music is on this remarkable CD. Piano, cello, flute, and guitar again cast a dreamy spell, but this time in a much more melancholy mood. Gorgeous! “Twilight Cove” paints a picture of a very peaceful place and time. “Snow Falls On Tahoma” conveys both the sparkling beauty and the magnificent grace of snowfall in the mountains (Tahoma is the Native American name for Mount Ranier in Washington). Cossu closes the album with my other favorite, “Blues for Anthony.” Rip roarin’ piano, drums, guitar, and harmonica mix traditional blues with a bit of rock for another incredible toe-tapper. Love it!

Tides Between Us is a fantastic sampler of some of the many styles of Scott Cossu. If you are a longtime fan or new to this pianist/composer, there is plenty to like! It’s available from scottcossu.com, Amazon, and iTunes. Recommended!