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During the month of December, with its frequent releases and continuous playing of Slade’s music, it seems like most songs become unappealing background noise. However, Thomas Bartlett’s Standards stands out as a non-traditional holiday album featuring solo piano renditions of familiar jazz and old-time tunes. The calming and uncomplicated melodies offer a remedy to the holiday chaos, making it suitable for quiet and reflective evenings rather than bustling trips to the shopping mall.
The acclaimed musician Bartlett, also known as Doveman, has gained recognition as a talented pianist for popular artists. Collaborating with the likes of Taylor Swift, Sufjan Stevens, and St Vincent, he is currently working on a Broadway adaptation of The Great Gatsby with Florence Welch. During his time recording with Bebel Gilberto for her father’s album, Bartlett found himself casually playing classic songs like “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” for his own enjoyment. (Public relations materials mention that he was watching the BBC’s Line of Duty at the time.) The intention was to detach his fingers from his mind and let them freely play. Gradually, these fingers began to evoke memories of his grandmother’s beloved songs, including Irving Berlin’s often sentimental tune “How Deep Is the Ocean.” Along with unexpected choices like the bossa nova track “Black Orpheus,” Bartlett presents these songs in their purest form, recorded in one take and evoking a hauntingly familiar feeling without being overly sentimental.
Source: theguardian.com
