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Review by Sheldon T. Nunn
04-20-2004
One of the more stimulating aspects surrounding jazz as an art form is the music's ability to
stimulate the intuitive spirit that comes from within. For the most part, creativity plays a primary
role in that process. What begins as an idea that is etched in sound activated energy, does somehow become
a tapestry of colorful melodies and harmonic rhythms. At various times during an artist's career, he or she
is able to pull every creative dynamic into a cornucopia of improvised influences. One CD in particular
entitled Horizons by pianist Bill Cornish, every ingredient that allows a musician to
delve into the creative spirit coming from within has definitely manifested itself.
For the most part, Horizons is a very difficult recording to classify. Not that it is
irregular in approach, the CD flows aesthetically and fluidly from one style of jazz into the other. What
is even more apparent is the level of imagination Bill Cornish exhibits in making this release a reality.
At first glance, Bill begins his journey into sound with an expedition into synthesized harmonics. The first
track Precis is definitely along those lines of influence. That tune provides a vintage view of new
age stylized techno panoramics. From that point on, the CD exhibits a multi-faceted view of Bill's creative
ideas, which is the real reason why classifying the recording becomes rather difficult. While listening to
this release, the feel of contemporary melodies, generous grooves and improvised effervescence are very
apparent. Horizons is an album that allows for spontaneity, mesmerizing harmonies and a
qualitative perspective in getting the message across to his listeners. Collectively, these ingredients
can be found in new age, contemporary and smooth styles. Cornish makes life interesting by including
all three of these approaches in making a personalized 14-track statement.
Horizons is a nice piece of work, as well as a warm listening experience. The CD appeals
to the innermost processes that allows jazz to be an artistic endeavor. With this release, Bill Cornish
has painted a jazzscape into sound that is most pleasing to the ear. In approach, there is a formula that
allows the intuitive spirit to come from within, which is truly the stuff of jazz in all of its wonderful
flavors. Make no mistake about it, this is a true indication of a genre that has evolved and re-invented
itself any number of times over the last 100 years. Bill Cornish may well be one of the primary
influences carrying the genre to even greater heights during the 21st century. In the mean time,
Horizons is a major step in that direction.
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