Philip Swanson's 2009 album of piano solos,
Ikkyu's Dream, is cast in the modal, quasi-improvisational style that is strongly associated with fusion jazz of the late 20th century, and the blurred harmonies and piquant sonorities that are rung from the piano will remind many listeners of the keyboard music of
Keith Jarrett.
Swanson's soundworld is delicate and evocative of reveries in nature and impressionistic scene painting, and the arpeggios, tremolos, and arabesques that decorate his melodies add soft, indistinct dissonances that drift into each other through the atmospheric use of pedaling. This album predominantly features compositions by
Swanson, but there are also numbers by
Miles Davis,
Horace Silver,
Chick Corea, and
William Ackerman, and a lively adaptation of
Rodgers & Hammerstein's My Funny Valentine, so the mix of standards and original pieces keeps the program varied and the listener engaged. The evenness of moods makes this a delightful CD for relaxation and quiet background listening, and
Swanson's lush playing makes this a suitable accompaniment for daydreaming.~Blair Sanderson