Search - Parrish, Matthew :: Circles

Music for work, romance or hanginý with friends

07/13/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have played Matthew Parrish's Circles CD in a surprising range of atmospheres, which is not always the case with instrumental music. Usually jazz and classical music CDs have their "homes." I have some CDs I listen to as I work, others that are played while I (ah-hem) enjoy romance, and still different CDs that are better as a non-intrusive background music for an evening with friends. However, Matthew Parrish's CD fits all these atmospheres and probably many others. Why? While the music is devoid of demanding lyrics that intrude upon your concentration while working, it also has just the right amount of flavor and interest to keep me alert and interested in it. The music is definitely NOT boring. I stop and listen to the chords (?? - I am just an untrained music lover) from the tracks and bounce to the beat a little before returning my concentration to the task at hand. The overall sound is soulful and playful at the same time, although some tracks are just downright soulful. I have played his CD on "loop" while enjoying a candlelit dinner at home. I have also enjoyed having his CD playing when friends and family gather. Parrish's tracks keep the mood of the visit "up" while not interfering unnecessarily with conversation - except when people inevitably pause to ask, "Who is that?" as they consider purchasing the CD for their collection. I hope we hear more from this new (to me) and highly talented musician."