Embark on a captivating journey through the musical genius of Rick Wakeman with his latest album, "Piano Odyssey." Released on October 12, 2018, under Sony Classical, this album is a masterful blend of progressive rock, symphonic rock, and art rock, showcasing Wakeman's unparalleled talent as a pianist and arranger. Spanning just over 54 minutes, "Piano Odyssey" is a testament to Wakeman's ability to transform classic songs into breathtaking orchestral and choral arrangements.
The album features a mix of Wakeman's original compositions and his unique takes on beloved classics. Tracks like "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," "Bohemian Rhapsody," and "Roundabout" are reimagined with piano, strings, and chorus, highlighting Wakeman's innovative approach to arrangement. Alongside these well-known pieces, the album also includes Wakeman's own compositions, such as "Rocky (The Legacy)," "Cyril Wolverine," and "Jane Seymour," offering a glimpse into his creative prowess.
Wakeman's virtuosic piano playing is at the forefront of "Piano Odyssey," demonstrating his technical skill and emotional depth. The addition of strings and chorus adds a rich, symphonic quality to the album, making it a standout in his discography. Whether you're a longtime fan of Rick Wakeman or new to his music, "Piano Odyssey" is an album that will captivate and inspire.
(P) 2018 Rick Wakeman under exclusive license to Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)George Harrison, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Liebesträume / After The Ball (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)Rick Wakeman, Franz Liszt, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
And You & I (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)Steve James Howe, Chris Squire, Jon Anderson, William Scott Bruford, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Rocky (The Legacy)Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
The Boxer (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)Paul Simon, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
The Wild Eyed Boy From Freecloud (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)David Bowie, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Strawberry Fields Forever (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Roundabout (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)Steve James Howe, Jon Anderson, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Cyril WolverineRick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Jane SeymourRick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Largos (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)Antonín Dvořák, George Frideric Handel, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir
Bohemian Rhapsody (Arranged for Piano, Strings & Chorus by Rick Wakeman)Freddie Mercury, Rick Wakeman, The Orion Strings, Guy Protheroe, English Chamber Choir, Brian May