Search - Andre Gagnon :: Neiges

Wow! (no pun intended)

Jesse D. Hamm | Columbus, Ohio United States | 09/14/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The almost trademark serenity of many Andre Gagnon albums is relegated to the back burner on this particular endeavor, with Gagnon showcasing in full fury the complete range of his versatility both as a pianist and a composer. Accordingly, this nine-track outing covers a wide range of genres, offering a little bit of everything for the informed music lover.



Commencing from the beginning, the brief but satisfying

"L'Overture Eclair" provides a lively opening in preparation for "Dedethoven", in which Gagnon's virtuosic fingers cascade the length of all 8 octaves amidst a dramatic rendition that fuses the framework of Beethoven's third piano concerto with elements of Moonlight Sonata and other reputable works by the famous composer.



But, by far, the optimum highlight of this particular album resides with the terminally infectious disco groover, as appropriately and simply entitled "Wow". Clearly, the accetuation of its melodic beauty with the compliment of a festive rhythm section, culminating in significant layers of percussion and wah-wah guitar riffs, yields little room with which to contest the song's Juno award status, as obtained in 1976.



Finally, the title track, which itself commences under a melodic and ambient serenity before building to its dramatic conclusion, offers a worthy and fitting climax with which to conclude the album.



The rest you'll have to find out for yourself, so get cracking. It's only a click away.









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