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REVIEW: Pure Piano Portraits
This debut solo piano album from Jeff Bjorck is a very pleasant surprise, and each of
the twelve pieces is a soothing breath of fresh air. Dr. Bjorck is a clinical
psychologist, researcher, and professor at Fuller Theological Seminary's Graduate School
of Psychology, and his music seems to be very reflective of an artist who knows himself
well. A gentle serenity is present in each of the pieces, as is a sense of optimism and
moving forward. Be Thou My
Vision and Jerusalem
are Jeff's excellent arrangements of two of his favorite hymns; the other pieces are
original, and were composed over the past twenty years. Simple, heartfelt melodies with a
classical feel give the CD a very calm, pensive mood throughout. There are no pianistic
pyrotechnics, but none were intended (or needed!). For reference only, I would say that
fans of Wayne Gratz and Robin Spielberg will love the straightforward melodic lines, and
the uncluttered performance style. Evocative song titles include Butterfly Sunrise, Mountain Echoes, and River Sunset, and each of
these is a lovely musical portrait. Twilight is a spare,
gentle mood piece. My favorite track is Waiting For Farewell, which
Jeff composed during his father's final stay in the hospital. Much sadder than the other
pieces, its emotional content comes through with a special bittersweet poignancy. Starlight Ragtime Waltz
is also a favorite, although I don't hear any ragtime in there! Jerusalem is probably the
most dynamic track, with its opening deep bass chords and simple melody; this evolves into
an arpeggiated bass and the melody becomes an anthem; at the end, the deep bass returns as
the melody trails off. This is a very fine piano album, and I strongly recommend it!-
Kathy Parsons
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© Copyright 1998 - 2006 Jeff Bjorck