Speaking of travel soundscapes soundtracks,
Brian Becvar's Real Music debut
Once In a Life takes us on a fascinating tour of South America, placing his own orchestral keyboard grandeur into friendly rhythmic patterns and environments. While never quite matching the sweep over sea spray and Andes landslides established on the death defying opening track, "If Tomorrow Comes," the composer comes close several times, most notably on the sweeping "Mountains of My Life," "Escape to Iguacu" and the Methenyesque "The Midnight Ride." While he enlists the complementary input of
Dave Koz,
Jimmy Haslip and guitarist brother Bruce here and there,
Becvar is most effective in those reflective moments which give birth to striking melodic soliloquies. Those who find their ride down South too panoramic and new agey can chill awhile and watch the inflight pop-jazz, Koz-laced movie "Mediterranean Nights," which adheres closer to convention but sacrifices none of
Becvar's remarkable spiritual beauty.