Elements Series: Fire

Peter Kater

2005 / Real Music

60’30”

“Fire” is one of the four-part Elements Series by Peter Kater. Like “Water,” “Fire” is completely acoustic. It features Kater on piano, Paul McCandless on various wind instruments, and Ludvig Girland on violin. Kater was wise to not embellish the music, as these are three consummate artists who work together seamlessly, creating a warm, inviting, and soothing hour of musical beauty. Like water, in “real life,” fire can be dangerous, frightening, and destructive, but Kater and company have focused on the soothing and healing qualities of the elements. On this album, it is more about candlelight and cozy fires in the fireplace than a raging inferno. Some of the seven tracks are quiet and ambient while others are a bit more passionate, but there are no hard edges or turbulence. This music is about being gently transported to a place of peaceful serenity, and succeeds extraordinarily well. All four CDs in this series are gorgeous, and my favorites are “Water” and “Fire.” Pour yourself a nice glass of wine and find a comfy spot to relax and enjoy “Fire.” It is available wherever Real Music’s releases are sold. Recommended.

Kathy Parsons

MainlyPiano.com

11/10/05