Evocation [Import]

The music on this CD evokes a number of images which will differ from listener to listener depending on his or her own experience. This is what I have always admired about Urquhart's music: it doesn't jab us in a hard, twisting way, tossing us around in an effort to drive home its point. Instead, each work subtly persuades and seduces us into shutting out the world and its daily storms, then takes us to a better, calmer place, a place where our awareness and sensitivities are heightened.

"Whale's Lament" is an absolutely heart-wrenching piece. "Strolling" takes us for a pensive walk through a park at dusk. "Blues" evokes the image of a pianist in a dark bar, a lone spotlight fixed on his solitary figure, smoke wafting from the cigarette dangling between his lips, a glass of scotch next to the music rack. "Nocturne" is a portrait in sound of the sadness of love lost. The final work, "Epilogue", is a perfect summation of the music on this recording, a thoughtful ending that seems to say, "This is a glimpse of the journey of life, of that which surrounds you everyday and everywhere. You could possibly miss it if you don't stop and notice." Thank you, Maestro Urquhart, for this journey-and the many journeys we look forward to taking with you in the future!

It is very difficult to point out a couple of exceptional pieces, as they are all incredible. "Poem" was composed for Urquhart's ailing father, and is a reflection of the peace that came upon his family with the acceptance of passage. It is structured, but has the improvisational quality of a soliloquy or a private and intimate conversation. There is sadness, but also a sense of grace. "Old Trees" is Urquhart's reaction to a world where ancient trees can be cut down for profit. The tale of the old trees is told from the trees' point of view, and is a call for mankind to leave a more reverent legacy. The message is heartbreaking. "The Whale's Lament" represents the singing voice of the whale as he or she makes a lonely journey through the ocean. I can't imagine anyone hearing this piece and not stopping dead in their tracks to listen more closely. "Wind Dance" is a bit more upbeat and rhythmic, but is still pensive and darkly beautiful.

This is my first review of 2003, and what a great way to start the year! I wouldn't be surprised if "Evocation" was my favorite album for the year. I give it my highest recommendation.