Piece of Mind is pianist Simon Denizart’s fifth career album, and a highly personal one at that. It is clearly the culmination of a process that began a few years ago, with the Montrealer tending towards the integration of world and neo-classical influences, as well as a cinematic display of emotional character. Denizart’s modernity lies in the blending of genres and in the neo-instrumental, post-prog spirit of the sonic panorama thus created, rather than in angular, chromatic harmonies. The result is music that is both contemporary and easily digestible by a neophyte audience. The essential presence of Elli Miller Maboungou on percussion, Michel Medrano Brindis on drums, Jonathan Arseneau on bass and a string trio substantially fleshes out an already edifying and highly visual raw material. Specialists will also find much to satisfy them, making Piece of Mind a highly successful album with excellent touring potential. Denizart’s tone, playing and style have come of age. Warmly recommended.
