Roussak, Andrew: Blue Intermezzo

Blue Intermezzo, the sophomore release by pianist Andrew Roussak, is a polarizing album. Essentially 50 minutes of piano compositions, it is pleasant enough in small doses, but for many people, it will become too tedious too quickly. There is a sense of extreme familiarity amongst the pieces that only die-hard enthusiasts of this style will appreciate.

Born in Russia in 1968, Roussak has spent most of his life as a pianist. Besides his solo work, he has played in several bands, including progressive metal outfit Dorian Opera, and he's enjoyed a fruitful career as a studio musician. In contrast to the symphonic, full band production of his debut, No Trespassing, Blue Intermezzo consists entirely of piano. Taken one track at a time, it's intriguing, but eventually it all runs together like a mundane suite.

"All Good Things" opens the album with a classical touch; chords are pounded heavily and rhythmically, and there's a decent amount of arpeggio and staccato. "Strange Tango" is a bit more playful, and Roussak's fingers truly feel like they're dancing seductively. The two "Iliade Book" tracks complement each other nicely thanks to some progressive rock tendencies and a wide array of emotions and styles; it tells a complex story, and the dynamic shifts are interesting. Finally, "Forgotten Walace" weaves around with the delicacy of a paper bag caught in a windstorm, and Roussak masterfully chooses his octaves.

Again, if an album full of piano ballads sounds appealing, you'll probably like Blue Intermezzo. Otherwise, you'll likely grow bored before too long. The tracks don't possess enough diversity to announce themselves properly, resulting in the listener tuning out as the record plays. Had Roussak expanded these pieces to include more instruments, it would probably be more worthwhile, and while his intentions are respectable, they don't make for a very absorbing experience.

Track Listing
1. All Good Things
2. Greensleeves
3. Strange Tango
4. Irreducible Simplicity
5. Blue Intermezzo
6. Iliade Book 6 – Swap Armour
7. Iliade Book 8- Divine Withdrawal
8. Nocturne For Julia
9. Forgotten Walace
10. Portraits of My Friends
11. Schafe Konnen Sicher Weiden
12. Wir Eilen Mit Schwachen Doch Emsigen Schritten

Added: June 27th 2011
Reviewer: Jordan Blum
Score:
Related Link: Artist MySpace Page
Hits: 1745
Language: english

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