The Cole Broderick Quartet was formed in 1992. In 1993, they played the Newport Jazz Festival and began recording what became a 4 CD box set, Seasons of Saratoga, which received a Critics Choice Citation from Billboard Magazine. Broderick’s music has been played on radio stations across the United States, Canada and parts of Europe. His band was also featured nationally on Bobby Flay’s Food Network TV Program.

This is his sixth CD, but first solo recording. The sound is soft, but not fragile. The moods cast by the changing melodies are as lilting, dreamy, and ethereal as the dawning, between dream and waking state the title refers to. The styles reflected here run from enchanting ballads, and blues to bossa nova to Christian to outright swing.

"If It Ain’t Baroque" and "Spirit 11" are more upbeat, but elegant, subtly capturing the wide breadth of straight ahead jazz flavor encapsulated in solo instrumentation. "One Day Left to Love" and "God Had to Save the Best For Last" were inspired by poems written by Broderick’s partner, Ann Hauprich. The title tune is sunny, warm and smiling, showcasing Broderick’s sophistication, talent and technique. "Go!" is a bit more spirited, but every bit as delightful. "Little Boy" takes on a more reflective, nostalgic tone. Following is "Say What!" which carries an edgy, soulful insistency. "Jenny" saunters in quietly, but picks up momentum and emotion as it cascades along. "Francis Fudge" is a rich, inviting rollick infused with dazzling highlights and deep, but playful, undertones.

This recording is a smart collection of solo piano work. Broderick’s style is classic and refined, yet airy and bright, forging ahead with billowy exuberance and lighthearted zeal -- an excellent choice for lovers of piano jazz.