A very heavy new-age influence dominates this album touted as a mix of “Nu Jazz,” new age, and electronica. For a fleeting moment here and there, there is perhaps a slight trace of the electric punch on acoustic piano often only seen or heard from the likes of renowned pianists David Benoit and David Lanz, but, for the most part, pianist Stephen Peppos is, quite simply, a magnificent artist who handles new age quite well in his latest release, Vertigo.
This very generous 16-song album is a listening pleasure whether you’re just lounging about or driving along some picturesque coast. This is a very imaginative set, full of spirit, and Peppos leaves the interpretation of this beautiful music to the listener. The canvas has been placed before you and the groundwork laid for whatever path you choose to take. This artist really attempts to pass on to you his imagination in a very generous fashion. The music is the one complement that makes your own imagery quite easy to conjure up.
When you sit back and listen to pieces like the serene yet rousing “The Blessing,” you quickly understand the formula this pianist has concocted, and you like it. Before you sink too deeply into that bliss, Peppos tosses in a funkier ditty like “Beach Baby” or a new-age mover with a twist in “Snowball’s Chance” to keep it all so very interesting. A quality recording.
Tracks: Lazy Day, In the Piano, The Blessing, Beach Baby, Atmos, Forever, Vertigo, This Time Around, Summer's End, Snowball's Chance, Air Floats, Chasing the Sun, Enchantment (prelude), Enchantment, The Way Home, End
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