Forever in Bloom is a collection of original pieces played in a variety of instrumentations on electronic keyboards. Melodic and accessible, most of the songs have a pop influence. Shirley Cason cites Jim Brickman as one of her favorite composers, and there is a somewhat similar approach in both composers’ work - an eagerness to please and to soothe the listener. My favorite track is a passionate and darkly gorgeous piece called “Queen of Hearts”, dedicated to the life of Princess Diana. A sense of tragedy prevails until an instrument comes in that sounds kind of like an Italian accordion. I find the contrast kind of jarring, but am sure Cason had her reasons for including it in such a heartfelt piece. “Eternity” is also very beautiful, with a sadness and deep sense of melancholy. Sincerity runs through all of Cason’s compositions, and most of the ten songs in the collection are on the lighter side. She also writes lyrics for many of her songs and includes them in the liner notes, should anyone choose to sing them - an interesting concept!

If you are in the mood for some quiet instrumental music , I think you’ll like this album! Forever in Bloom is available from Amazon.com, as are several downloads.