Search - Kevin Kern :: Winding Path

Tremendous Offering from Kevin Kern

S. Cairns | Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, United Kingdom | 06/03/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

""The Winding Path" is Kevin Kern's latest CD for Real Music, and what an outstanding collection of tracks is to be found on this 44 minute disc.With far more emphasis on blending other instruments with his exquisite piano playing, this CD is quite different from his previous efforts. Long-term Kern fans need not worry, however. The additional accompanying instruments merely enhance the beauty of his piano playing, and make this one of my all-time favourite CDs.2002 fans will be delighted by the duo's quite prominent presence on the disc. From Pamela Copus's gorgeous flute playing on tracks 1 and 10, plus harp on track 2, to Randy Copus's percussion on tracks 2, 5 and 9, it is not difficult to see why some of the tracks have a 2002 feel to them. I agree with Kathy Parson's observation that this is very evident on the first track.All the tracks are strong on this CD, but favourites include tracks 1, 3, 8 and 10. I note that Kevin dedicates Track 3,"A Million Stars" to "all those who reach for the stars". This is likely to be a popular track with his fans, partly because it is extremely beautiful, and also because it truly is solo piano.This CD is exceptionally well presented, and has a wonderful feel to it. The CD insert contains an introduction to guided visualisation, where the listener is invited to go on a relaxing journey whilst listening to the music.It may be of some interest that this CD was apparently going to be originally called "Leaf, Twig and Petal". I think that the change of name was a wise move, and is more befitting of the content.On a par with "In the Enchanted Garden", this CD is right up there in terms of melodic beauty, and way beyond it with regards presentation. Kevin is using other instruments to compliment his piano playing, and this shows a willingness to move forward with his music. It, in no way, detracts from the beauty of the lead instrument.I give this CD my highest recommendation. It is a joy to listen to from start to finish, and it is no wonder why there seems to be great excitement surrounding this disc. Stunning."

From Solo Piano Publications

Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 06/04/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As a long-time fan of Kevin Kern's music, I'm excited to say that I think "The Winding Path" is his best album to date. Due to a serendipitous equipment failure just prior to the recording sessions, this album is much more acoustic than previous albums and the "canned" strings are all but gone. Kern recorded this album on an amazing Hamburg Steinway that he refers to as "God's own piano," and his passion for this instrument sings through on each piece. Joining Kern on this album are 2002 (Pam Copus does an incredible job on all of the wind instruments, and Randy supplies bells and other sounds), Jeff Kinsky on guitar, Jeremy Cohen on violin, Terence Yallop on bells on one track, and Kevin's wife, Pam, on rainstick. And then there is that piano. The combined forces produce a "great big soundscape" (Kevin's quote) that may surprise some of his fans. The music is still very gentle, soothing, and uplifting, but the feel and quality of the album is bigger and fuller. I love it! Kern says that the difference in his approach to this album is that this music will be the "heart and soul and center" of his live appearances - concert audiences are in for a real treat! "The Touch of Love" opens the album on a rather ethereal note. The 2002-influence is really strong on this piece, and it is a truly beautiful collaboration. Pam Copus' flute has such a feeling of yearning, combined with sweet voices, and that marvelous piano (and pianist!). "The Way of the Stream" is a gorgeous guitar/ piano duet with a few additional sounds for color. "A Million Stars" is a wonderful piece that Kern created in the studio at Terence Yallop's suggestion that he "play the sky." (Pieces like this make my fingers itch!) The clarity and sparkle of the upper registers of the piano are perfect for depicting a clear night skyscape away from the lights of the city. This is definitely one of my favorite Kern pieces (not just from this album). "High Above the Clouds" begins with the sound of a thunder storm; Pam Copus comes in on Native American flute, playing a lovely, melancholy melody. Then the piano picks up the melody and develops it. The piece becomes a flute and piano duet with some background accompaniment. "Through the Veil" is a classic Kern anthem with the addition of a rhythm track. Mostly piano and guitar (with Pam on rainstick!), the melody is compelling and heartfelt - another one of my favorites on this album. My favorite track on "The Winding Path" is the title track, which features Kern on piano, Copus on flute, and the incredible Jeremy Cohen on violin. An achingly beautiful piece, this one touched me deeply each of the ten or so times I've heard it.Bravo to Kevin Kern and company for producing a "real" standout! A guided visualization is included in the liner notes for those who are so inclined, but the music is vivid and colorful enough that you can probably produce your own daydreams to accompany it."

Real Music

Paul Green | 06/13/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Winding Path" is a rare great album, a must-have for all who loves emotional, intelligent, comforting piano-based music... Thank you very much, Kevin, for this wunderful and timeless record."