Instead of Heaven

This title track from Tobin Mueller's newest solo piano album, "Instead of Heaven" demonstrates Mueller's versatility as a composer and pianist. The music combines Romantic Impressionism and modal jazz, creating a hybrid style that is Mueller's hallmark.

"Once again proving his unpredictability as a composer, pianist and musical storyteller, Tobin Mueller's 'Instead of Heaven' is a collection of ten solo piano meditations inspired by Greek mythology, arranged as an instrumental song cycle. Mueller's creativity and musical ideas know no bounds..." - Kathy Parsons, Mainly Piano

Musical influence include modern pianists such as Brad Mehldau, Keith Jarrett, Bill Evans, John Taylo, Kenny Wheeler, Tigran Hamasyan, Liz Story, as well as Chopin, Debussy, Rachmoninov and traditional Celtic folk.

The inspiration for this piece centers on the Greek poet Hesiod, the first writer in the Western tradition that regards the author as an individual capable of playing an active role in the telling of the story. Even though it is the 5th track on the album, it was the first track Mueller composed for this project and represents the style he was building on. The piece explores connections between the heavenly and the existential. Beginning with a metaphorical starfield, it finds its footing in a simple melody underscored by shifting chords. After many variations, the straightforward final section leaves one with a sense of deserved satisfaction, the earned result of a meditative journey.

"Instead of Heaven" is a song cycle of meditative piano solos inspired by Greek myths. The video series includes stories and lore, incorporating gorgeous artwork from classic to modern. Please check out the other videos in this series.

"There are special moments in each composition that are uniquely breathtaking. Inventive chord progressions add to the musical language of both modal post-bop jazz and contemporary classical piano. Mueller's music is often virtuosic yet avoids showiness. Everything feels organic and true. He requires the listener to pay attention yet also frees them to go on imaginative tangents. Storytelling on a deeply poignant level infuses every piece, expressing a singular personal honesty while revealing universal emotions. A rarity." - George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly

Produced by Kenny Cash, Factory Underground Studios.

For more info, free downloads and complete liner notes, see: https://www.tobinmueller.com/heaven/