Michele McLaughlin: Reviews

How Can You Mend...

A broken heart is a large, cavernous space to fill. It can sometimes be filled with words, or time or music. Or all of the above. Michele McLaughlin is doing it with music on her new release Out of the Darkness. Writers are encouraged to write what they know, musicians can do no less. Her marriage ended in 2009 and her world collapsed around her. It is heart wrenching to come home and find yourself alone and all the things you used to do together mean very little when you do them alone. Nevertheless, like the aftermath of a funeral, you must go on. All your time is spent with the prospect of healing. This is what Michele is doing with her music. Trying to fill her heart up again.

The overall feel of the album is changeable. The solo piano compositions range from somber to dramatic to melancholy and with many tangents. That is what the spirit does after a faltering experience; it looks for explanations, for balance and for peace. 

How do you feel when you are told you no longer have worth? Forsaken is the music to that experience, from glowering depression to immense sadness. The overall theme asks "Why have you done this?" over and over again. There is tremendous sorrow in the notes, each one more than a tear, more than a recrimination or more than a question. 

The Descent starts out like a well-known sonata, than transforms into a contemporary piece of angst in is its most painful form. I could almost imagine an experience akin to losing your mind for a time. Nothing makes sense and your life has no meaning. Fortunately, you keep your sanity while in the process. 

The title tune, Out of the Darkness is the turning point. It is a mere glow at the end of the tunnel, but a hopeful glow. It is a time to remember that the process of healing always begins inside no matter what the wound looks like on the outside. The music begins to take on a suggestion of warmth and neutrality. Not yet emotionally hopeful, but with more resolve. 

When So Long Mr. Selfish came out of the speakers, it actually startled me. It was so out of context that I thought perhaps it was on the disc by mistake. The tune, performed with a player piano sound was like the soundtrack out of a 1920's silent movie where the music is the dialogue. The tone was certainly evil, fiendish and melodramatic. Once I realized that, I sat back and listened to the movie it made in my mind and the villain ended up on the railroad tracks. Not a bad ending. 

The tone finally begins to lighten with the song Finding Solace in Friends and I am actually kind of glad. The slightly cheerful, almost energetic tune begins to add balance to the sadness that I was exposed to on the earlier part of the album. The tune is not only one of hopefulness, but of gratitude.

In the Stillness of Peace is a song that Michele gifts to herself. The sweet, gentle music is an affirmation that peace pursued is peace found. The climax to the album however, is a song called Rejoice. It is Michele's discovery that there is life after tragedy. The music is the sum of all the parts of her journey, sad and catastrophic, neutral and melancholy and finally a new discovery of happiness. 

I hope that Michele has found a modicum of peace with this album. That is for her to determine. I know that I went along for a short time with her on the journey and I learned a bit and maybe even grieved a bit with her. I also felt better for the experience. Michele’s composition skills and very good and she writes how she feels. 

Rating: Good +   

- reviewed by RJ Lannan on 7/16/2010

Out of the Darkness
Michele McLaughlin
2010
41 minutes

One of the most bitter moments of the life of the composer and pianist Michele McLaughlin, has been the source of one of the most remarkable works in her musical career, Out of the Darkness. As usual, the artists give life to his most famous works in the most adverse situations in their lives, and thankfully and unfortunately, this is a clear example. A CD consists of thirteen pieces that describe every moment, every feeling and every thought that the pianist suffered in those painful moments, really interesting compositions, very elaborate and deeply beautiful. On this occasion, we also have to pay a few words of tribute to the designer of the CD, the brilliant and renowned Matt Strieby (New Leaf Design), who has done a fabulous job, a masterpiece, possibly one of the best finishes I have seen so far.
"Forsaken" is the first piece of the album. Although deeply depressing and painful, this piece is one of the most beautiful in this work. A clear description of a moment wounded, where a myriad of feelings they cross the body: pain, disbelief, rage, anger, helplessness ... All the bitter feelings a person can feel. It's amazing the strength and heart-breaking power that has this work. One of my favorites!.
Synonym of loneliness and deep sadness is "The Descent". A left-hand arpeggio is the basis for sad lament that plays the right hand. One piece with a slow-moving melody, so sad and such a feeling of loss that freezes the soul. These are moments of reflection and a thousand questions unanswered.
With "Indignation" the sign of pain disappears, giving way to a feeling of pure hatred. The piece draws a harsh environment, although without a show a great energy, conveys that feeling of anger.
"Forbearance" offers a different view. Tired of so much pain and suffering, it's time to look at life through different eyes, the world does not stop, we must continue. The warm and comforting melody of "Forbearance" is good counsel, offering endless possibilities, all full of light. Another of my favorites!.
The composition gives title to this album, "Out of the Darkness", is really exciting. A piece that embraces the soul and invites you to live, to enjoy, that is not little. The touch of the notes is so expressive and passionate it is easy to feel the same emotions that a day filled to the artist. Beautiful and inspiring. I love this piece!. Wow!.
The frenetic "So Long Mr. Selfish" is a masterpiece. Michele hands run with vigor on the keyboard, giving life to this intrepid piece, downloading it all the accumulated anger. A really wonderful way to show with the energetic dance of notes and chords, a complete indifference and careless for all the damage caused. Is necessary to live!.
Brief but intense is "Transformation." A work that combines pain and hope at the same time; hoping to see that something good will come after everything happened. The first part of this track invites us to "move forward without looking back" with repetitive chords and a second part to the life-giving powerful chord progressions, shows a clear light at the end.
"Perseverance" is the strength and courage. The piece shows the courage and the will to keep walking the face of adversity. A quick touch of high notes, accompanied by strenght low chords that accentuate the feeling of power and rage.
There are also moments of joy, "Finding Solace in Friends" shows us these moments. Possibly the most affectionate melody and full of joy for the entire album, Michele teaches us, after all, his gentler side. The theme has a melody that radiates indifference, joy and optimism. I like it!.
"New Light" is the peace that precedes the storm. Immeasurable calm surrounds the listener with this delicate piece. Inspired by a morning in which the artist awoke full of optimism and good vibrations, this theme is the desired rest after all the sensations of pain and sadness.
Affectionate, lovable and full of love is "In the Stillness of Peace." A theme that give life to the dancer touch of the left hand and the furtive high notes that reproduces the righ hand. Truly a delight that gives way to the most beautiful thoughts. What delicacy!.
Another of my favorites, and a gift for the ears is "Rejoice." This is the theme that reminds us that, after all, the life makes sense and we must continue our adventures. This piece has a strong sense of freedom and peace. a clear indication that the objective has been achieved. Wow!.
After becoming fascinated with the compositions of this CD, Michele put the icing with another masterpiece. A reprise of the previous track "So Long Mr. Selfish" orchestral version by Glen Gabriel. A really nice surprise and a majestic end to this fantastic and wonderful album!.
Out of the Darkness is the latest work by Michele McLaughlin and is a true masterpiece, both in the quality of the compositions, and the presentation designed by Matt Strieby. Pieces written from the depths, which are a clear description of the emotions that the artist has lived, is one of the few times that the explanatory text of the titles are not necessary, as each piece manages to convey the same feelings that describe the titles. For those who have not yet had the opportunity to hear Michele's music, this is a huge opportunity, they will remain hallucinated by these amazing and passionate melodies. Out of the Darkness is a VERY highly recommended, which will form part of the albums nominated for "Best Album RNA of the Year 2010."
Store: 5/5
http://www.facebook.com/l/d184c;Reviewsnewage.com
07/12/10"

Out Of the Darkness

Michele McLaughlin

2010 / Michele McLaughlin

40.7 minutes

 

An unfortunate aspect of being an artist is that it is often life’s most painful experiences that bring out the best of their artistic expression. Emotional extremes make us all dig deeper into who we are, but most artistic personalities have the capability of going much deeper and feeling those emotional extremes even more intensely. It’s an odd mixture of blessing and curse, but when the result is a creation that is superior to anything an artist has done before, it takes away some of the sting. Such a creation is Michele McLaughlin’s Out Of the Darkness. The thirteen tracks express the very personal and turbulent journey of the breakup of McLaughlin’s marriage and subsequent divorce, seeking ways to quell the pain, trying to find a way to survive, and then emerging much stronger and happier than she thought possible. I’ve been on this journey a couple of times, myself, and everything about this music rings true - the roller coaster of emotions and then gradual healing. I deeply sympathize with what McLaughlin has experienced, but this album is stellar! It is her eleventh release to date, and twelve of the thirteen tracks are solo piano.

 

“Forsaken” begins the journey. Intense, sorrowful, and broken are the words that come to mind to describe this piece. It is also utterly beautiful. “The Descent” expresses despair, loneliness, and fear. Played in somewhat hushed tones, it is very inward-looking, trying to get past the feelings of grief and heartbreak. “Indignation” reaches the place where anger and resentment replace some of the hurt. “Forbearance” is the moment of acceptance - a turning point achieved. The music indicates strength returning and the knowledge that things really will be okay with time and healing. “So Long Mr. Selfish” is a great piece. It appears as a piano solo and then again at the end as an orchestrated bonus track. The piece was approached as a release of anger and became an over-the-top comic expression of “good riddance!” Both versions are wonderful! “Transformation” expresses the process of changing everything, dusting oneself off, and beginning again.  Of course, there is still sadness and hurt, but there is also hope and looking forward again. “Finding Solace In Friends” is the most lighthearted piece in the group - musical sunshine! “New Light” conveys a rediscovered sense of optimism and inner peace. “In The Stillness of Peace” gracefully conveys a soothing inner calm. “Rejoice” is McLaughlin’s “ultimate song of gratitude and celebration.” Far from giddy, this is a celebration of a healed heart that has reached a point of moving on. The bonus version of “So Long Mr. Selfish” is triumphant and glorious - a musical kick in the pants! 

 

I really appreciate Michele McLaughlin’s courage in sharing what she has expressed in Out of the Darkness - in both the music and the poignant liner notes. I also need to mention the stunning artwork and album design by Matt Strieby - he does an amazing job! Out of the Darkness is Michele’s best and strongest work to date, and is available from www.michelemclaughlin.com, Amazon, CD Baby, and iTunes. Very highly recommended!

 

Kathy Parsons

MainlyPiano.com

 

5/11/10

Stirring.
Posted in Uncategorized on October 22, 2009 by srrbell

Busy, busy week! I haven’t been able to get on here at all. But I’m here now! And I’ve brought quite a treat with me. I was recently introduced to a woman named Michele McLaughlin. I had no trouble finding her the first time I did a google search, so maybe she’s more known than I realize. But she’s new to me.

According to Michele’s website, she is a “New Age Contemporary Pianist and Composer.” She began playing the piano at a very young age and learned to play all her favorite songs by ear. However, it wasn’t until 2000 that her first album was released.

I’ve always LOVED the sound of piano. It is by far my favorite instrument. But it is very rare that I find a contemporary pianist who moves me like Michele McLaughlin does. Her music has been described as “haunting” and I couldn’t have chosen a better word myself. It’s enchanting, powerful, and full of emotion.

If you like solo piano music, this is definitely a woman worth checking out.

A Celtic Dream is pianist Michele McLaughlin's 10th release and one can certainly hear why she has persevered in a marketplace full of New Age piano artists. Her performing artistry runs through the album like a clear brook. The CD's 15 cuts are relatively complex, devoid of cliche, yet still accessible for all but the least adventurous listener. Inspired by a trip to Ireland in 2008, McLaughlin allowed the somber, mournful, yet still highly spirited ethos of her heritage to permeate this music. Regardless of whether the tempo is fast or slow, the overall emotion is usually dark and forlorn with a few exceptions, such as "Slainte". "Across The Burren" introduces some recognizable Irish motifs, but other songs are more ethnically ambiguous, such as "The North Sea", which aptly conveys the roiling, tempestuous nature of that body of water.

A Celtic Dream
Michele McLaughlin
2008 / Michele McLaughlin
51.8 minutes

“A Celtic Dream” is pianist/composer Michele McLaughlin’s tenth album and was inspired by a recent trip to Ireland, the land of most of her family’s ancestors. Many of the pieces have an infectious energy and upbeat drive, while others are more subdued and reflective, creating a rich palette of moods and musical colors. In her notes about the individual pieces, McLaughlin tells the stories behind the music, giving a bit of history about the places she visited as well as aural illustrations for some of the Celtic legends (these notes are also on her page on CD Baby). The melodies of all of the pieces are excellent and very expressive, but McLaughlin’s left hand tends to get stuck into a repetitive pattern. This is an effective device from time to time, but can wear a little thin with too much usage. Most people won’t hear it, but my piano teacher’s ears get rather distracted by the repetition. Overall, this is McLaughlin’s strongest work to date.

“A Celtic Dream” begins with “Summer Solstice,“ a bright and sprightly piece that celebrates the longest day of the year and the sun’s journey through that day. Energetic and joyful, it sets the stage for the rest of the album. “Slainte” is a Gaelic toast to good health, and this little piece seems to celebrate just about anything and everything - a delightful confection. The title track slows down the pace to more of a ballad and is one of the more beautiful tracks on the CD. My favorite piece is “Irish Rain.” Here the repetitive left hand pattern mimics rain falling while the right illustrates the mist that comes with the rain. Mysterious and melancholy, it evokes feelings of longing as well as the chill that comes with a misty rain. “Lament” reminds me of David Nevue and how he often creates strong emotional feelings with utter simplicity in his musical lines. “The Clurichaun” is a lighthearted delight. The Clurichaun is related to The Leprechaun and runs around at night raiding wine cellars. When he finds one he loves, he stays and makes it his home, guarding the cellar forever. A mischievous elf, this piece is full of fun and energy. “For The Lambs” is a tribute to the spring lambs who were free to roam and play in the countryside of Ireland - sweet and joyful. “From Where We Came” is gorgeous and is dedicated to Ireland, McLaughlin’s ancestors, and their rich history. Melodic and very flowing, it’s a lovely tribute. “Carrowkeel” is about the largest passage tomb cemetery in Ireland that dates back to about 5000 BC. Very dark and dramatic, it’s a impressive closing for the album.

“A Celtic Dream” is quite a musical excursion and rekindles my desire to see Ireland myself. It is available from www.michelemclaughlin.com, cdbaby.com, and amazon.com. Good stuff!

Kathy Parsons
MainlyPiano.com

12/1/08

Dedication
Michele McLaughlin
2008 / Michele McLaughlin
45.6 minutes

“Dedication” is pianist/composer Michele McLaughlin’s ninth album to date and contains an assortment of fourteen original piano solos that were inspired by major events and the special people of everyday life. A mostly self-taught pianist who quit piano lessons when they took the fun out of playing, McLaughlin has an energetic and often dramatic style that indicates how personal this music is to her. Her melodies are always interesting and engaging and range in mood from quiet calm to rather turbulent.

“Dedication” begins with “When You Were Still Around,” a piece begun as a memorial for McLaughlin’s recently-deceased grandfather and mother. When her grandmother passed away this past spring, McLaughlin was asked to play for her funeral and decided to finish this piece. Along with a sense of loss, the piece also conveys hope and the comfort of happy memories. “Drifting Through Antiquity” has a melodramatic, old-world charm, and was inspired by McLaughlin’s honeymoon in Greece and Italy. “Music Box Angel” has a hauntingly beautiful melody, but the left hand plays the same three notes for the whole piece. It can probably be argued that the bass part in a music box is very repetitious, which it is, but I’ve never seen or heard a music box that can play at the exact same speed for more than four minutes. To me, the left hand is too mechanical and detracts from the lovely, flowing melody on the right hand. “The Eternal City” was composed after a short visit to Rome. One of my favorites on the CD, this piece has a strong energy and sense of movement - almost a dance. The right hand has several cross-overs into the deep bass that heighten the drama. “Brandon’s Song” is a sweet love song to a beloved son. “Learning To Fly” is another favorite. Visualizing the struggles of a young bird being coaxed to leave the nest during a nasty storm and its struggles to succeed in order to please its parents, McLaughlin has set to music the challenges of overcoming our own fears and also of parenthood. I like the energy and passion of this piece a lot. “Palamidi Fortress” is a bold, dramatic piece inspired by a castle on a hill in Greece that was made up of five smaller fortresses so that if one was attacked the others could defend the castle as a whole. Conveying strength as well as vulnerability and beauty, this is a powerful piece. “A Sad and Sorrowful Goodbye” is about loss and the difficulty of saying “goodbye” to someone you love. Graceful and expressive, it’s a very touching piece. “Dream Come True” is about the happiness gained by following our dreams and reaching for the stars.

“Dedication” is a charming collection of biographical piano solos. Look for it at www.michelemclaughlin.com and www.cdbaby.com.

Kathy Parsons
MainlyPiano.com

12/26/07

Christmas - Plain & Simple
Michele McLaughlin
2006 / Michele McLaughlin
42.5 minutes

Michele McLaughlin’s “Christmas - Plain & Simple” is one of the best solo piano Christmas albums I’ve heard. Consisting of ten traditional carols and five original pieces, this CD is a perfect blending of old and new music, played with spirit but without a lot of “look at me!” flash. McLaughlin’s touch is strong and confident, yet full of grace and expression. Her arrangements of the traditional pieces are true to the originals but freshened up and contemporary. The five new pieces fit right in with the older songs and add a very personal message. (They also make me want to hear more of McLaughlin’s own music, so be watching for more of my reviews of her work!)

The CD begins with “Winter Solstice,” one of McLaughlin’s own pieces. Spirited, with an infectious energy, and bouncing with joy to spare, this is a great start! This is one of those pieces that make my fingers itch because they sound like such fun to play. “Away in a Manger” is a gentle and tender lullaby, alternating between the original German melody and the “Flow Gently, Sweet Afton” alternative. “Still, Still, Still” begins in the upper registers of the piano, suggesting sparkling snow in the stillness of night - a lovely arrangement. “The Toymaker” is another original. Playful and innocent, it also has an irresistible energy. “Holiday Gathering” effectively conveys excitement and joy with a hint of poignance. The simple, straightforward treatment of “Silent Night” describes perfect peace. “Greensleeves” is gorgeous. It’s interesting how McLaughlin has taken these well-worn pieces and made them sound new and exciting even though she really hasn’t changed them much. She’s added passages to many of them, but, for the most part, sticks with the melodies, adding interesting accompaniments and relying on her heartfelt and expressive touch to make them her own. “By The Fire” is the fourth of McLaughlin’s pieces, a lovely, graceful bit of musical comfort. Warm, relaxed, and inviting, it’s a beauty. I absolutely love the minor-key mystery of “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen,” and this arrangement is one of my favorites. The original passage in the middle of the piece is a great segue that comes back to the melody. My favorite track is McLaughlin’s “Celtic Christmas.” This piece is such an expression of joy and energy that it makes my heart sing and my feet want to dance. (My fingers are itching again, too!) The other traditional pieces are “We Three Kings,” “Angels We Have Heard On High,” “O Holy Night,” “The First Noel,” and “Joy to the World,” and all are excellent.

I’m usually getting pretty burned out on Christmas CDs by this time in December, but I have thoroughly enjoyed “Christmas - Plain & Simple.” It is available from www.michelemclaughlin.com, amazon.com, cdbaby.com, and iTunes. Highly recommended!

Kathy Parsons
MainlyPiano.com

12/4/07

Reflections: The Best of Michele McLaughlin 2000-2005
Michele McLaughlin
2006 / Michele McLaughlin
1.1 hours

“Reflections” is a collection of pianist/composer Michele McLaughlin’s twenty best pieces from her six CDs released from 2000-2005. This music was originally recorded on a digital piano, but was re-recorded for this CD on an acoustic grand. The music is mostly breezy and light, with themes about love, friends, family, and a pleasant variety of other topics. A mostly self-taught pianist who quit lessons because they “took the fun out of playing,” McLaughlin’s music comes from the heart, bringing a bit of musical sunshine to her listeners. There is nothing complicated about McLaughlin’s music (nor does there need to be), and her messages are warm and inviting, describing life and experiences that are mostly on the calm and contented side. The Utah-based composer recently released her ninth album, “Dedication” and is a Whisperings Artist.

“Reflections” begins with “I Love You,” a piece with a sweet lullaby quality that could indicate it’s a love song for a child. “Without You” speaks with tender longing and deep love. “Russian Music Box” is one of my favorites. Mysterious and in a minor key, it has an innocent charm. “Just Because” is another minor-key piece that I really like. The swirling arpeggios on the left hand and moody chord changes create an effective mood. “An Evening With Friends” is a very simple piece that conveys warm and caring thoughts. “Enraptured” is a little bit darker and more passionate - another favorite. “A Tale of Courage” is a ballad of strength and perhaps heroism. “Learning to Grieve” looks within, but is more thoughtful than heartbreaking - a lovely, very personal piece. I like the feeling of movement and the mysterious spirit of “The Fairies Dance.” My favorite piece on the album is “The Lonely Ballerina,” which has a more classical approach and sounds a bit like a music box - a poignant and touching melody, played simply and beautifully. “Swept Away” ends the CD with a buoyant, upbeat piece that bubbles over with happiness.

If you are new to Michele McLaughlin’s music, “Reflections” is a great place to start. If you have her earlier CDs, you will appreciate the richer sound and resonance of a grand piano. Available from www.michelemclaughlin.com, iTunes, cdbaby.com, and amazon.com. An enjoyable listening experience!

Kathy Parsons
MainlyPiano.com

When the holidays have you pulling your hair out, finding safe refuge is crucial, and Christmas--Plain & Simple may be your escape hatch. Michele McLaughlin's album is, plain and simple, new age piano music that will soothe the spirits and lift the heart. If you enjoy the talents of George Winston, for example, you will be swept away by McLaughlin's bright and emotive touch here.

Instrumental piano music can transport the weary soul to a much calmer locale. McLaughlin's album did that for me this evening. Largely self-taught, the artist has great instincts as she navigates the keyboard, and her rich arrangements bring impressive textures out of ancient carols you have heard hundreds of times before. A songwriter as well, McLaughlin's five sweetly-crafted originals are naturals. I especially enjoyed By the Fire, which brought to mind special moments curled in an overstuffed chair by the hearth.

Christmas is all about memories, both old and new. Beautiful new age music can facilitate contemplation and intensify the recollections of a lifetime during the holidays and beyond. Let Michele McLaughlin's solo piano on Christmas--Pure and Simple help you open yourself to the power of the possible. It's a lovely trip.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2006)

I've been really into classical music lately. I found this really wonderful iTunes station called Whispering: Solo Piano, and I heard "The Lonely Ballerina" by Michele McLaughlin and instantly fell in love with it. A great deal of her music sounds like it could come from a music box, and I love it. I really do.

This IS Christmas!

Beautiful music really sets the mood of this wonderful time of year! Listening to Micheles smooth, touch helps me keep my perspective in this hectic time of year!

Really, really like it!

I really like this CD. So far my favorite piece on it is The Beginning of Forever, but all of the songs grow on me more and more as I listen. Other favorites are Russian Music Box and The Fairies Dance.

You can feel the passion you have in your music. its beautiful!

one of the most beautiful piano cd's i have ever heard. I feel the passion in each and every song and the title is perfect for each song. thanks you

Beautiful music Michelle ! So relaxing. I love it. Thanks.

Loved your new CD

Enjoyed it very much. Very peaceful and relaxing to listen to.

more inspiring piano

Like the rest of Michele's cds, the music (all piano) is easy to listen to without being boring. Perfect for listening to again and again and again.

soulful piano music you can listen to again and again

If you like piano music, this and Michele's other cd's are must haves. Uncomplicated, yet each time you listen, you pick up more of the nuances of each tune. It's perfect for my massage business.

Michele McLaughlin certainly has nothing to hide as a musician. She has a clean, musical style that is mostly right-handed (or right end of the piano, if you will). She has genuine compositional talent, and a style which is a bit similar to that of Wayne Gratz. Her music is endlessly listenable. Yes, it is easy on the mind, but I've never quite figured out what is wrong with that.

McLaughlin's albums aren't all that easy to find, but if you are looking to add another good pianist/composer to your collection you will find her work more than satisfactory.

THIS CD is as good as the others, and better than the earlier ones. It has more variety, but still keeps the rhythm. We use all of these CD's for exercise music.

Delightful, cheerful music
Reviewer: Joyce Knopf
After The Storm is a delightful, cheerful CD. Great for brightening dreary days. It lifts the spirit.

Everyone who has heard me playing "A Change of Color" has asked where they could get a copy. It really does reflect the influences that Michele talked about in her bio. I heard Night Sky for the first time on DirecTV's Music Choice. They play it A LOT.

For physical therapy exercises (boring) A Change of Color, and The Beginning of Forever are soothing, inspiring, and in a perfect rhythm for either fast or slow movements. Please, anyone who is doing PT, try it.