Montana Stillwater by Wayo Hogan
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
Many have attempted musical tributes to our national parks. Some do it more effectively than others, actually inspiring a visit or two to a particular park. There’s definitely an art form to it – bridging the gap between art and nature – requiring grace, imagination, and skill. Here, in the debut piano album, “Montana Stillwater,“ by pianist and composer, Wayo Hogan, we have a gorgeous meditative tribute to Glacier National Park. The park is located in northwestern Montana on the U.S. / Canadian border and includes more than 1 million acres and parts of two mountain ranges. So, capturing this beauty musically, I would say, could be rather daunting. Wayo has done it beautifully.
This New Age acoustic piano album captures the breathtaking contrasts of Glacier National Park, from its serene lakes to dynamic peaks. The recording magically transforms nature’s beauty into a meditative, reflective journey. Produced by Scott R. Hansen at the remote Stillwater Landing studio, with recording engineer Steve Buck and technical engineer David Hansen, the album reflects the brilliant spirit of Montana’s wilderness with authenticity and masterful artistry.
The album opens with the peaceful and melodic “Stillwater Landing,” which perfectly captures the ambiance of wide open and untamed spaces as well as the serene, yet lively energy of the park. Following is “On Lake McDonald,” and here in every nuance we can feel the mood of the water, sun, and wind on our face. This is very nicely done. “Whitefish Lake” elicits these feelings as well. It’s lively, flowing, and intricate and goes beyond surface level to what mysteries may lie beneath.
“Swan River” is flowing, meandering, and ever-changing at the same time. Wayo has a velvety touch on the piano, which makes this scintillating piece very special.
Some other highlights: The tranquil, melodious “St. Mary Falls” is exquisite, probably as magnificent as the waterfall itself. It’s a favorite on the album.
I’m not sure what I would do if I encountered a bear on the trail, which to my understanding, can happen frequently in the park. I like the way “Bear Valley” has great cadence and breathing spaces incorporated nicely into it. You’re going along, exploring. . .and then. . . what? This is a great piece.
And following, aptly, is “Crown of the Continent,” which is what Glacier National Park is sometimes referred to as. Global treasures such as diverse ecosystems, and threatened wildlife (including bears), call the park home. This is another flowing composition with a reverent, contemplative mood. Very enjoyable and inspiring.
Apparently, if one can make the hike up Huckleberry Mountain, the reward is amazing panoramic vistas of the Livingston Mountain range. It seems to me the piece, “Huckleberry Mountain,” perfectly conveys what one might see there. Majestic and magical, this is lovely. Make note to visit.
“Many Glacier” is supposed to be one of the most beautiful spots in Glacier National Park. The composition reflects this as it is gorgeous, light, airy, flowing, and memorable. Quite meditative as well, it’s another favorite on the album.
This album closes out with the lively and playful finale, “Cherry Pickin.” Who knew that cherry picking is actually a “thing” in Glacier National Park? Now, no doubt, we must visit.
Get this thoroughly enjoyable, immersive, and inspirational album here or your favorite streaming platform: https://bigforkbay.hearnow.com/montana-stillwater
Press Inquiries: Olivia Alpi at [email protected]