Posts Tagged ‘The Geometry of Silence’
Timothy Johnson – Silence speaks volumes
Timothy Johnson is that rarest of things in modern music - an original. He is both a composer with an aesthete’s ear and a performer of genuine emotional depth.
His debut album - ‘The Geometry of Silence’ - showcases of all that is best about his music. It is made up of thoughtful and complex piano compositions, while at the same time being accessible, modern and light.
Timothy’s talent is his ability to work around and modify standard forms - giving the listener subtle surprises while enjoying something deceptively familiar.
There are two pieces for solo piano and two for three pianos in this suite of songs, with each showcasing a different part of Timothy’s ability.
The opening track, ‘Sky Through The Trees’, creates subtle changes in pattern by shifting velocity, while the next - ‘Parallel Lines’ - has three pianos playing the same pattern in different keys. The title track has three pianos interwoven over the top of each other to create a rich and textured sound, and the finale - ‘Way Out’ - is the darkest of the four.
Over all, ‘The Geometry of Silence’ is an album that will have any discerning fan of brave, inventive and intelligent music foaming at the mouth. But, although Timothy’s music is best described as impressionistic minimalist, it is also melodic and easy on the ear.
Perhaps the mix of the accessible and the challenging is a product of Timothy’s background in music. In many ways, he is the definition of a renaissance man. He has studied classical composition, worked in musical theatre and composed film scores. He has also filmed, edited and written music for several videos - primarily for non-profit organizations.
But with the release of his first solo project, Timothy is going back to what he loves doing most, with the added insight provided by his previous work in the visual arts. As he explains, his music has moved from creating a melodic space to making a visual one.
Timothy Johnson may be a new name to many, but that is something which is about to change. ‘The Geometry of Silence’ is an album that rewards the listener more with each passing play. It is beautiful and difficult and intriguing all at the same time. And it should find its way onto your CD rack soon.
‘The Geometry of Silence’ is out now.
Timothy Johnson
7631 Sterling Drive
Oakland CA 94605
[email protected]
www.timothyjohnson.com