Search - Philip Aaberg :: Upright

Every Deep Dream

B. Huck | New Jersey | 05/27/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Upright" showcases Aaberg's technical dexterity and prowess on his chosen instrument, as well as his melodic gift and superior songwriting. I can easily state that he is the most well rounded pianist I have ever heard and this album stands as my personal favorite. The compositions are top notch and the improvs hold up extremely well amongst the written material.

Drumming maestro Vinnie Colaiuta shines on the five tracks he plays on. Admittedly, Vinnie's participation in this recording was what first prompted me to purchase it. But obviously I was highly impressed with Aaberg's playing and writing. Soon I was aquiring more and more of Aaberg's output (to date, forty one discs that feature his playing) and all of them are worth having in one's collection."

Boogieing to Aaberg

bobnjulie01 | Bay Saint Louis, MS United States | 06/13/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Most of the time if you like the artist, the pianist, you're going to like their work. But I was expecting more laid-back material; and Mr. Aaberg and Vinnie Calaiuta(drummer) and other great accompaniment give us a show to remember. Having recorded all the tunes in a room with a basketball goal is nice but the jam laid down by these guys made me feel great, You can tell the group is loving it.There is some nice reference to using the bass keys. This one you must buy---if you can find it. All original material including 3 boogie tunes."

Just When You Thought Rock And Roll Was Only For Kids

Marc Ruby? | Warren, MI USA | 05/28/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This little demonstration of another side of Philip Aaberg has lurked in the Sweetgrass and Windham Hill catalog for some time. Possiblibly because of its eclecticism (Aaberg refers to is as Windham Hill's first dance music release) it hasn't enjoyed the same popularity as Aaberg more New Age work. Which is a shame, since it isn't very often you buy a New Age album and get to do a whole bunch of toe tapping.



Using both solo piano, and a rock ensemble including Vinnie Coliuta, John Clayton, Dean Parks, George Doering, and Don Falzone, Aaberg proves that he is equally at home playing boogie, gospel, ballad, funk, and just when you've given up, a little bit of light jazz to light your way. One of my favorites, Slow Dance is presented as both a group performance and a piano reprise, and yes, it took me back just a few years.



Aaberg, who graduated from Harvard with a B.A. in Music. Has played as both a classical musician, a rock keyboard player and, when no one is looking, a new age pianist. His is a very serious talent although his music is most often as uplifting as it is upright. If you thing Aaberg is all about High Plains, surprise yourself, give a listen."