Search - Spencer Brewer :: Portraits

MAGICAL MUSICAL MYSTERY

B. Borgognoni | FLINTSTONE, GA USA | 10/30/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This collection never grows old despite constant use.
Brewer is a very under-appreciated musician and this album is a sleeper that I consider a "must-buy"for fans of the genre.
There are many moods expressed though a brooding and hypnotic
feeling predominates...a feeling that however evokes joy rather than sadness...absolutely unique and compelling musical magic..
buy it used if you can't find a new copy..."

The Art of the Melodist

Marc Ruby? | Warren, MI USA | 01/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Of the many 'New Age' pianists that I listen to, I have to confess that Spencer Brewer is one that I generally put on when I really want to do something else - background music. This isn't much of a criticism, since generally I am doing something else, and Brewer's music winds up being played fairly often. In addition, Brewer is a musician who truly enjoys playing in ensemble, which means that there is often some surprising texture in his work (In the Park). But Brewer relegates his left hand to being his accompanist - hammering out chords or arpeggios (Silhouettes) instead of taking an equal part in the performance. For my part I reserve my greatest respect for musicians like Michael Jones and George Winston who have really mastered their instruments polyphony.Portraits is probably the favorite of my older Brewer albums. What shines here is what Brewer does best - the construction of melodies. In a sense he more of a songwriter given the strength of his tonal lines (Carnival and Tomorrow's Child). He is, after all, the man who wrote the YMCA theme song. More than once I've found myself humming along, or discovering that what is playing in my head is a remembered Brewer composition. His touch is light and easy-going, hence its tendency to work its way into the background, becoming part of what the listener is doing.Once again, hats off to Brewer's delight in bringing in his friends as part of his work. In a history of appearances on some 40 different albums he has shown an ability to built creattive partnerships on the fly, which is an impressive accomplishment for anyone who specializes in a solo instrument. Portraits is an excellent starting point for becoming acquainted with a prolific and influential artist."

Great Album

Daniel L. Galloway | Hannibal, MO USA | 03/29/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have had this album for years, and have given it as a gift to best friends. Timeless, beautiful music that is more enjoyable with repeated play."