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Pianist, Mariah Parker - Windows Through Time (Ancient-Future Records) Mariah Parker’s musical odyssey began from the moment she could reach the keys on the grand piano in her childhood home, heralding the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of music. Her academic tenure at UC Santa Cruz was distinguished by her involvement with ethnomusicologist Fred Lieberman and the iconic drummer Mickey Hart on the “Planet Drum” project, marking her early foray into the fusion of musical traditions. Parker’s prowess as a composer and bandleader was further cemented through her vibrant performances in festivals in the U.S. and Europe. Her discography began with the critically acclaimed Sangria in February 2009, followed by Indo Latin Jazz Live in Concert in 2017, which enjoyed 16 weeks of prominence on the National Jazzweek Airplay chart. Both albums have been celebrated globally for their innovative soundscapes and compositional brilliance. Windows Through Time is Mariah Parker’s latest exploration into the depths of Latin jazz, articulated through the lens of her unique musical vision. This album is a confluence of cultures, time periods, and musical expressions, encapsulated within seven masterfully crafted tracks. Each piece is a vignette, offering listeners a portal into varied emotional landscapes and narratives, meticulously woven together by Parker and her ensemble of accomplished musicians. Windows Through Time shines bright with its collaborative brilliance, bringing together a constellation of musicians whose contributions are cohesive and interactive. The interplay between Claudia Villela’s haunting vocals and Paul McCandless’ saxophone on the title track exemplifies the album’s synergistic spirit, creating a dialogue that is magical and transformative. Matthew Montfort, known for his pioneering work on scalloped fretboard guitar, introduces a unique timbral quality that blends seamlessly with the intricate rhythms provided by the ensemble. This collaborative approach enriches the album’s sound palette but also embodies Parker’s vision of bridging musical traditions through shared creativity and exploration. “The Very Wings” mirrors the ethereal quality of Wim Wenders’ film, “Wings of Desire, ” with Paul McCandless’ saxophone embodying the essence of an oboe’s lyrical flight. It’s a composition that explores the dualities of temporal flow and timeless presence. The title track, “Windows Through Time, ” features Claudia Villela’s haunting vocals, evoking a poignant reflection on paths not taken. This track stands as a testament to the album’s core thematic exploration of memory, time, and the ineffable quality of human emotion. “Sol de Barcelona” captures the vibrant essence of Spain with rhythmically rich sections contrasted against moments of expansive musical dialogue, showcasing the ensemble’s dynamic interplay. “Espíritu Samba” races with the exhilarating tempo of a samba, intricately arranged in 7/8 time, encapsulating a whirlwind of simultaneous occurrences before settling into a Cuban descarga. In “True North, ” Parker navigates through modal soundscapes suggesting the internal compass guiding one’s journey through life, highlighted by a brief, shifting 7/8 section that adds a layer of complexity and introspection. “Duende” delves into the realm of Spanish art and music, invoking an intense emotional state through the resonant strings of the scalloped fretboard guitar and the depth of the cajon. Lastly, “Rendezvous” serves as an homage to enduring love, inspired by Parker’s discovery of her parents’ wartime correspondence. It’s a piece where melody and memory intertwine, offering a heartfelt tribute to legacy and affection. Parker’s innovative compositions are the backbone of Windows Through Time, challenging and expanding the sonic boundaries of Latin jazz. Each piece, from the ethereal “The Very Wings” inspired by “Wings of Desire, ” to the rhythmically complex “Espíritu Samba” set in 7/8 time, showcases Parker’s ability to weave diverse musical elements into a cohesive whole. “Sol de Barcelona” reflects her experiences in Spain, contrasting rhythmically dense sections with moments of spacious musical dialogue, highlighting her skill in creating dynamic musical narratives. Parker’s compositions, characterized by their modal explorations and unexpected time signature shifts, offer listeners a fresh perspective on Latin jazz, underscored by a deep respect for its traditions. The transcendent narrative of Windows Through Time is rooted in Parker’s profound exploration of themes such as memory, love, and the essence of human experience. The album flows as a musical tapestry, where each track contributes to a larger story of emotional depth and existential reflection. “Rendezvous” is a poignant homage to enduring love, inspired by Parker’s discovery of her parents’ wartime correspondence, while “Duende” delves into the passionate intensity of Spanish art and music. Throughout these compositions, Parker crafts an instrumental narrative that transcends time and place, inviting listeners into a reflective journey that connects the personal with the universal, the temporal with the timeless. This narrative depth, combined with the album’s musical collaboration makes Windows Through Time a project worthy of deep listening and recognition. With Windows Through Time, Parker is embarking on a journey rich in musical exploration and personal discovery. This album is a milestone in Parker’s illustrious career, showcasing her innovative compositions and the exceptional talents of her collaborators. Together, they weave a transcendent narrative that is as emotionally profound as it is technically impressive. Celebrated for its depth, innovation, and outstanding musicianship, the album is a beacon for the evolving landscape of Latin jazz, promising an immersive experience that resonates with the soul. 1. The Very Wings 5:19 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Matthew Montfort (scalloped fretboard guitar), Gary Brown (bass), Mark Walker (drums) 2. Windows Through Time 6:26 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Claudia Villela (vocals), Gary Brown (bass), Mark Walker (drums) 3. Sol de Barcelona 7:48 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Matthew Montfort (scalloped fretboard guitar), Sascha Jacobsen (bass), Mark Walker (drums), Daniel Feldman (percussion), Michaelle Goerlitz (percussion) 4. Espírito Samba 6:49 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Matthew Montfort (scalloped fretboard & electric guitars), Sascha Jacobsen (bass), Mark Walker (drums), Daniel Feldman (percussion), Michaelle Goerlitz (percussion) 5. True North 5:12 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Matthew Montfort (scalloped fretboard guitar), Kash Killion (bass), Mark Walker (drums), Ian Dogole (cymbals) 6. Duende 5:51 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Matthew Montfort (scalloped fretboard guitar), Kash Killion (bass), Mark Walker (drums), Ian Dogole (cajon) 7. Rendezvous 6:15 (Mariah Parker) Mariah Parker (piano), Paul McCandless (sax), Matthew Montfort (scalloped fretboard guitar), Kash Killion (bass), Mark Walker (drums), Ian Dogole (cymbals) *Compositions by Mariah Parker TOTAL RUNNING TIME OF CD: 43:50 Produced by Mariah Parker Recorded at 25th Street Recording, Oakland, CA Engineered by Gabriel Shepard Edited and mixed by Matthew Montfort “Windows Through Time” mixed by Celso Alberti Mastered by Tom Carr at 1854 Mastering, Staunton, VA Album design by Mariah Parker Album artwork by Kate Henke Cover photo by Elizabeth Kelley Artist: Mariah Parker Album Name: Windows Through Time Label Name: Ancient-Future.com Records Street Date: June 14, 2024 Add Date: June 10, 2024 Website: mariahparkermusic.com |
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