Strength in the face of the challenges of everyday life is best shown through quiet confidence and positivity. That’s the approach to life presented by Newfoundland pianist and composer Wade Tarling in his debut solo piano album, Strength. Born in Burnaby, BC, Tarling has been playing the piano for 20 years and has honed his talent under such esteemed musicians as John Medeski, Billy Martin, Chris Wood and John Scofield. In this album, Tarling brings to bear all that fine musical training as well as the experiences he has had performing all over the world.
Don’t let the apparent gentleness and mellow tones of the music fool you. This album, a project that has been a long-time ambition for Tarling, packs a punch and is full of depth and meaning. He himself describes the tracks of his album as stories of love, hope and equality. Using his own unique musical vocabulary, he is able to unfold musical stories which are able to inspire hope and inner strength in the midst of life’s struggles.
Like the many facets of a gem, each of the compositions include provoking images that define ever more clearly what true strength is all about.
The title track of the album nicely introduces the theme of strength that is carried and developed throughout. In it, Tarling’s music is effectively paired with the poetry of Lisa Marie Walters, which is spoken over the music. Images of mighty mountains and crashing seas accent even more deeply the message of confidence which the music evokes.
It’s also worth singling out the album’s second track, entitled “Peace.” He continues to give more insight into the meaning of strength, this time through peace. In this composition, one can almost hear influences of impressionism, inducing an inner serenity that comes from being grounded in a sense of reality and place.
The final track, “Always Beside You,” rounds out the entire theme of the album. The warm and comforting tones of this piece bring the listener home again to a place of reassurance. It is a reminder that the struggles of life aren’t meant to be faced alone, but rather we can draw on the strength of others.
Strength will prove to be easy and mellow listening, but chances are you’ll come away with much more. If the world has you feeling down and you’re in need of a little hope and positivity, Tarling can most certainly provide.