Pianist Matthew Fries delivers a solo piano album of original compositions here, and he’s got a good sense of melody and song. His touch is calm and relaxed, which works well on lyrical pieces such as “Muse” and the flowing “Whirl.” There’s a stately element to his delivery, lightly spry on “The Sweet Life” and giving a bit of a parlor atmosphere on “The Man From Memphis.” Hints of blues slides in on his well crafted “Positive Attitude” and a dash of Satie gives impressionistic hues on “Just Keep Swimming.” Easy to enjoy on a composition or performance level.
These songs beg for lyrics-a good sign.