“Shifting Sands,” the 4th release by solo pianist, Lynn Tredeau, is an eloquent, elegant, timelessly lovely journey from beginning to end.
From the first notes of “Lost in Familiar Surroundings,” we immediately feel at ease and relax into the gentle melody. We find ourselves transported to a place where we may have all found ourselves at one time or another: Feeling lost, but somehow knowing that we’re really not. This is a place where we can remember who we are and need not feel lost at all.
All of the songs on “Shifting Sands” are thoughtful, expressive, delicate, yet deliberate, and noteworthy for not only the consonant, flowing melody lines, but also for the exquisite phrasing. Yes, “Shifting Sands” is tranquil, relaxing, and lovely just in itself and as a peaceful listen. But as the title “Shifting Sands” might imply, there is something else beneath; a much deeper meaning to all.
For example, Track 7, “Life at 4,” with its easy and melodic movement, evokes a wistful remembrance of simpler times. Yet at the same time, there is underneath, a certain sophistication and “knowingness” of spirit that weaves its way through the composition.
I must say, I got lost in this sheer loveliness of this album, and in particular in the song “Travel Me Home,” which is track 6 on the album. Like all of Lynn’s tracks on “Shifting Sands,” It’s sensitively played and this one is quite mesmerizingly hypnotic. I am also particularly fond of Track 10, “Oasis.” It’s got a wonderful structure, a simple melody line, and although no lyrics are shared with us, I feel like there are probably some that go along with this.
Track 5, “Looking to Lowman” gently reminds us that inside every tragedy, as the fire that occurred there in the Boise National Forest in 2016, there is love and beauty. We just have to try to see it through the embers. And through the song’s own beauty we are given opportunity to pause, listen, and reflect upon the multiple paradoxes and odd juxtapositions of life.
Lynn Tredeau is a multi-talented musical artist and one to definitely watch as her ascent is assured. Simply beautiful solo piano. “Shifting Sands” is a “must have.”
Artist Website: http://lynntredeau.com/
Music review by Dyan Garris for New Age CD.com – Best New Age Recording Artists
