Tom Ameen's new solo piano album, Let's Go To The Movies, is a wonderful collection of twelve well-known movie themes and songs from the 1970s, 80s and 90s that Tom loved to play as he was growing up. It seems like these kinds of collections often embellish the original music with a lot of flashy runs and glissandos rather than focusing on the melodies and emotional content of the music. Those can be fun, but they often showcase the artist more than the music itself. Tom's approach is warm and expressive, refreshing these familiar themes while emphasizing the melodies and making them his own. Overall, the results are soothing and relaxing (a few tracks are more upbeat and lively) while offering the comfort of familiarity. In an interview we did a few years ago, Tom mentioned that John Williams is his favorite composer, so it is no surprise that quite a few of the pieces were composed by him. I might also mention that several of the themes are ones that I worked on with my piano students over the years and even they feel fresh and new! (You can't get a much better endorsement than that!)

Let's Go To The Movies begins with the main theme from Jurassic Park, arranged in a rather dreamy, reflective style that is an interesting change from the "bigger," more march-like arrangements you usually hear - a great start! "Gizmo's Theme" from Gremlins expresses tenderness and love - beautifully arranged and performed! The theme from E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial begins quietly, very gradually picking up the tempo as well as building on the drama. "Titanic Medley" includes several pieces from that movie that flow gracefully from one to the next. I find it fascinating (and very enjoyable!) that Tom arranged "My Heart Will Go On" as a waltz - and it works great! The theme from Superman is often a big orchestral piece and while Tom's arrangement has plenty of flair in places, much of it is quieter and more subdued - fun as well as very uplifting! "The Mission Theme" is one of my favorites on the album with its beautiful melody and heartfelt expression. "Home Alone" is an arrangement of "Somewhere In My Memory" that ranges from poignant to passionate - also a favorite! "I Feel Love (Benji's Theme)" is a sweet and gentle love song suitable for any age - or any beloved creature! The theme from Chariots of Fire was a huge hit (as was the movie!) and provided the big breakthrough for its composer, Vangelis. Tom's arrangement is a little quieter and more subdued than the original, but is equally inspiring! I think I worked on the love theme from St. Elmo's Fire with most of my students over the years and never really got tired of it. Tom's arrangement is a breath of musical fresh air and a lovely way to end the album! Where's the popcorn???

Let's Go To The Movies is a very enjoyable trip down movie Memory Lane and I highly recommend it! It is available from Amazon, Apple Music/iTunes, and streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. I give it an enthusiastic both thumbs up!