I am Here - Steve Amirault

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Montreal-based pianist, composer, vocalist and B3 organist, Steve Amirault has been referred to by noted journalist Paul Wells as “a Grand Master,” and nothing could be more true or well-deserved. Nova Scotia born Amirault has graced international stages with an array of iconic jazz musicians, including the late Sheila Jordan, Joe Lovano, Dave Liebman and Eddie Gomez. In his new recording, Amirault plums his emotional and artistic depths with 12 original solo piano compositions that run the gamut stylistically, often incorporating subtle influences of his jazz heroes, which include Monk, Bud Powell, Ahmad Jamal and the Michel Petrucciani. Having begun his musical journey as a drummer, Amirault easily imbues every track here with a palpable rhythmic backbone as well as nearly unbearably gorgeous melodic lines. 

The programme opens with Wednesday Waltz. Sweet, lilting and intricate – Amirault’s fingers and ridiculous chops literally dance across the keys, on this nostalgia-tinged track. Of special beauty is Empathy – stark, moving and rife with almost Gospel-like motifs that Amirault utilizes to explore the uplifting process and sometimes the bitter dues of being an essentially empathetic human being at this time, on this earth.  

Another stand-out is Soho Dreams, a lyrical, groovy reverie that paints a picture of a beloved NYC neighborhood – with all of its fabulous contradictions. The deeply moving title track closes the project, and wraps this stunner of a recording with Amirault’s incandescent and soulful art – a heady cocktail of stunning technique, emotion and a wealth of complex musical ideas fearlessly and lovingly presented. Bravo!

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