Were I With Thee
4Tay, 2021
8/10
A very creative project that assembles Michelle Areyzaga’s inimitable soprano with Dana Brown’s elegant piano, the pair set women’s words to song, where many countries are represented.
“How Do I Love Thee” starts the listen with warm, firm keys as Areyzaga’s stunning pipes guide the beautiful and romantic spirit, and “To My Dear And Loving Husband” follows with much grace as the intimate keys align perfectly with the emotive singing.
Deeper into the listen, “Wild Nights (from The Shining Place) rumbles with a bit of tension as the busy piano and diverse singing suit each other well for the mood, while “What Lips My Lips Have Kissed” flows with a dreamy quality amid the powerful voice acrobatics.
Further yet, “Hope (With Feathers)” soars with a majestic and poetic demeanor as the twinkling keys get jumpy, and “Passion” continues the meticulous playing from Brown as Areyzaga’s incredible pipes hit some very high notes.
Both the artists bring a wealth of talent and skill to the equation, and with writers like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Emily Dickinson, Gabriela Mistral and many others showcased, Were I With Thee makes for a unique and captivating listening experience.
Travels well with: Shea-Kim Duo- The Sound And The Fury; Victoria Bond- Illumination: Piano Works Of Victoria Bond