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review by Michael Debbage Falling somewhere between the commercial ditties of Jin Brickman and the traditional influences of David Lanz, Gerzeli has self-described his music as "contempoclassic." Based on this audio experience, this would be an accurate description of what your ears are about to hear. That would be the case if you are willing to take the chance on this relatively unknown artist. There is not a lot to tell about this new coming. Born in England, migrating to Toronto and eventually settling into the far suburbs of Los Angeles, Gerzeli began playing taking formal piano lessons at the tender age of 9. Clearly, the practice has paid off as this album shows remarkable memorable melody that amalgamates a heavy dependence on classical roots. Skip forward to "Afternoon At Csarda Cafe," which is firmly rooted in orthodox influences. While the stop and start tempo keeps matters really interesting, Gerzeli's melancholy bridge adds to the mystery creating an inspiring reflective moment. Even though the composition clocks in close to five minutes, it leaves you desiring more. I can only imagine its greater beauty if it had been supplemented with a full orchestra. However, in its stripped down form, the song reflects the artist's keen ability to execute yet present a deft touch to the keys leaving you breathless. Speaking of soft touches, the fluid flow of "Kite Flying" is another distinct moment. Imagine a warm summer's day with a firm consistent breeze blowing. Just enough to keep an interesting moving canvas of clouds to pass you overhead. Meanwhile, your kite is gently floating and gliding effortlessly in the air, dancing gracefully like a ballerina girl. Gerzeli matches his music with the title making for a wonderful word picture. Additional reflective moments are found courtesy of the melancholy "Just Me & Mom," bringing to mind the wonderful style of Paul Cardall. Here, Stephen certainly goes for the heart with an inspiring and emotionally poignant chorus. If you are not touched, check your pulse, as you may not be of this world. Better yet, explore "Nocturne (Day's End)" with an equally stirring moment mixing both major and minor keys with a most successful and unusual effect. While the above are only some of the many finer moments found here, the surprise is the lack of filler tracks reflecting the strong songwriting and arrangement capability of Gerzeli. The production levels have room to grow, but considering the independent status and (I am sure) a budget constraint, the results are still of fine quality. That aside, there is very little to criticize. If Gerzeli is capable of continuing the high value of compositions found here, given the right break and exposure, it is only a matter of time before this piano man becomes a household name. |
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