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Afterwords - Reviews
Cover, Afterwords
available on HearNow, YouTube Music, Amazon, Apple Music, Spotify

Reviews by:
Lemon WireCarla Maria SüllwoldKathy ParsonsJazz WeeklyJazzizRichard SchlettyScott YanowF. Norman Vickers

Click here to see the main Afterwords page.

“The Space Between Chaos and Shape”
REVIEW by
Dodie Miller-Gould (February, 2018)
Lemon Wire music critic

Tobin Mueller almost defies classification with his approach to music. His performance range reaches to nearly all existing genres. From progressive rock to jazz, to classical, Mueller has found ways to craft his artistic vision into the traditions offered by various types of music.

With a career that spans from 1985 to the present, Mueller’s work is deep and thoughtful. His latest album, “Afterwords,” is what the performer describes as “a collection of solo piano and spoken word meditations.”

The song “The Space Between Chaos and Shape” takes its title from a line from a Jeanette Winterson book, “The World and Other Places: Stories.” The complete line is spoken in the course of the song, which, in and of itself is an expressive piece that inspires thoughts about larger ideas regarding the human experience.

With as many roles as Mueller as fulfilled, it is difficult to know where to start in describing who he is and what he does. To state only that he plays piano and composes eliminates some of the triumphs and struggles he has overcome.

According to Mueller’s website, he is from a musical family. His grandfather was a violinist who used to accompany silent films, and Mueller’s mother was a jazz vocalist. Young Mueller accompanied his mother’s singing by playing piano, a task he undertook at age 14.

Mueller has Midwestern roots. He lived in Wisconsin and attended Marquette University in Michigan and the University of Wisconsin. Mueller moved to New York City and his “Off-Broadway career took shape.”

Mueller was living in the West Village when tragedy struck on Sept. 11, 2001. He subsequently volunteered at Ground Zero and suffered lung damage. This affliction took a toll on Mueller’s singing voice. But he continues to share his visions with audiences. Mueller’s discography includes almost 20 albums. They range from solo piano (including one version of “Afterwords”), prog rock, folk fusion and pop, not to mention jazz, big band, and funk.

Interestingly “Afterwords” is also listed as a jazz album. Mueller has created a version without the spoken word components. This might allow for more seamless listening, but it doubtful that any work of Mueller’s could be accurately labeled “simple.”

“The Space Between Chaos and Shape” is a brilliant and thoughtful song. For those just hearing of Mueller for the first time, the track serves as an insightful introduction to a body of work that is often as intellectually challenging as it is technically proficient.

- Dodie Miller-Gould, Lemon Wire

Afterwords by Tobin Mueller
REVIEW by
Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold (April, 2017)
Fanfare Magazine music critic

Composer and pianist Tobin Mueller’s newest recording project, Afterwords, offers the listener a very personal odyssey combining the spoken word with original musical mediations, in what the composer, himself, calls “the soundtrack to an intellectual journey.” The 2-CD set features seventeen original piano compositions played by Mueller - each a metaphysical response to a thought or question posed in a literary text. The selection of texts is far-reaching, as are the varied musical styles Mueller chooses to embody his ideas, yet there is a cohesive sense of progression that gives the collection an organic wholeness. Unlike a song in which lyrics and music merge, Mueller’s compositions are conversations – not only between spoken and instrumental, but also between contrasting harmonies and musical themes. There is an overall sense of questing that propels the arc of the work, as the composer grapples with significant existential questions, never completely answering them, but rather inhabiting the space where they dwell. Mueller’s compositional vocabulary and his prowess as a pianist are eloquent and elegant, lively and whimsical, provocative and inspirational by turns. This is another highly original recording project – both demanding and accessible - that will uplift the listener, challenge his philosophical perspectives, and stimulate his aural sensibility.

- Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold. Also see Carla's 2016 Fanfare Magazine interview: The Masterworks Trilogy.

An Astonishing Work of Art
REVIEW by Kathy Parsons, MainlyPiano.com (May, 2017)

I first became aware of Tobin Mueller and his music in early 2006 when I was asked to review his solo piano debut, Morning Whispers. Afterwords is the seventeenth of his albums I have reviewed and I would have to say that the constants in all of his projects have been change, innovation and artistry. I am always in awe of Tobin’s fearless pursuit of honesty and originality in his work - qualities that seem more and more elusive in these days of dumbing-down the arts to a one-size fits all sameness. It seems that Tobin’s projects over the past few years have become increasingly more personal, revealing more of his inner self than even he might realize. Afterwords may be his most personal project yet, pairing passages from some of his favorite novels, short stories and poems with his original piano solos. The quotations become meditations of a sort and were chosen from a wildly diverse group of authors that includes Ernest Hemingway, Jerzy Kosinski, China Mieville, Walt Whitman, and Dave Eggers. The musical pairings are equally diverse, demonstrating Tobin’s command of a broad range of music genres that weave in and out of the passages he has chosen, illustrating them as only music can while creating an astonishing work of art.

Afterwords includes a sixteen-page booklet with all of the spoken word quotations, Mueller’s thoughts about each quote, and many intriguing illustrations. There are nine tracks on Disc 1 and 8 on Disc 2, for a combined total of 84 minutes. The music ranges from jazz to classically-influenced and is sometimes lively and sometimes more meditative. The pieces flow from one to the next to tell a more complete story, but each piece is unique to the quotation that inspired it. It’s a fascinating journey through a collection of writings that influenced Mueller’s work and most likely his life as well. Like the music, the quotations are very diverse - sometimes ironic, sometimes tender and always thought-provoking. Afterwords is a unique project and a singular work of art.

Afterwords will definitely be on my list of Favorite Albums for the year! I give it my highest recommendation!

- Kathy Parsons, MainlyPiano.com

Debussy with a Swing/Blues Feel: A Treasure of Encouragement
REVIEW by George Harris (November, 2017)

An intriguing 2 CD set along with a bonus disc; Tobin Mueller delivers 2+ hours of rich and impressionistic piano, akin to Debussy and Satie, but with a swing and blues feel. On the two cd collection, he intersperses thoughtful verbal meditations, at times poetic, other times narrating from literature, that adds an extra texture to the notes. The concept is intriguing, and fits together well. If you’re simply into the music, the bonus or second disc (with only a smidgeon of prose) may be your thing. The idea works well on its own terms, and is a cozy, personal and intimate treat. Sort of like a musical fortune cookie, with each piece a treasure of encouragement.

- George Harris, Jazz Weekly

Choice Words Cascade into Piano Vignettes
REVIEW by Richard Schletty (April, 2017)

These are impressive impressions: Vocal and string vibrations of a man in and out of time, by an artist who knows how to coax from his instrument a wide range of emotions. As thoughts and feelings about his own human condition move beyond the boundaries of words, Tobin finds supernal expression in his piano. Both the obvious and the ineffable are expressed in melodic threads, runs and overtones, keystrokes of thought and of melody – pointed, counterpointed, but never disjointed. There are "cool" uptempo jazz idioms in this double album, but one does not have to be a jazz aficionado to breathe them in. It's easy listening, good listening. The spoken intros are nicely voiced-over by Tobin. Well-chosen wordbites from well-regarded literature open the door to each short sonic story. I feel closer to Tobin, having heard his voice in this album. There is frailty (due to his respiratory problems) admixed with openness, honesty and self awareness. What more can I say? Congratulations on this commingling of words and piano, an appealing tapestry of interwoven introspection and extrospection. Bravo! 

- Richard Schletty, Schletty Sound & Design

Vivid Virtuosity
REVIEW by Scott Yanow (May, 2017)

A virtuosic pianist with a vivid imagination, Tobin Mueller's rather fascinating improvisations on Afterwords are melodic but unpredictable, wide-ranging but logical. In the past he has recorded his musical depictions of everything from paintings and current events to areas of the world and holidays.

Afterwords features Mueller verbally quoting short passages from some of his favorite literature (including novels, poems and short stories) and then playing his musical impressions of the works and stories. His solo piano covers a wide range of styles and moods as does the literature that he chose to pay tribute to on this double-CD.

From Kurt Vonnegut ("Slaughterhouse Five"') and John Steinbeck ("The Grapes Of Wrath") to Ernest Hemingway, Walt Whitman, William Faulkner and Milan Kundera ("The Unbearable Lightness Of Being"), Mueller recites brief excerpts that sum up aspects of the works. The philosophical musings inspire his piano playing.

The 17 selections include many highlights. To name a few, "In The Amber Of The Moment" is given a thoughtful and impressionistic interpretation. "The Space Between Chaos And Shape" in its two sections hints at Igor Stravinsky, Keith Emerson and Keith Jarrett. "Stone Water Trough" is boppish and the swinging blues "Every Night A World, Every Morning A Circus" has touches of Oscar Peterson and stride piano while "Longing" is a dramatic and heartbreaking piece that fits its title. Other memorable selections include the melancholy waltz "Violated By Insight," "Dissolution, A Lullaby" which sounds as if it is a classical work from the 1800s, "The Shape Of Love" (a quiet piece about love that lasts forever), and the quietly upbeat title cut.

Afterwords is full of superior piano playing and well-chosen passages from the literature. In addition to the full release, seven purely instrumental tracks taken from the project are available as a separate CD titled Afterwords - Solo Piano Bonus Tracks.

This is highly personal music that is well worth exploring. 

- Scott Yanow, jazz journalist/historian and author of 11 books including The Jazz Singers, Jazz On Film and Jazz On Record

Inventive melding of styles and sensibilities
REVIEW by Jazziz (November, 2017)

For the past 12 years, Tobin Mueller has been exploring the solo-piano format in earnest. Struggling with genetic lung disorder, which was exacerbated by his volunteer work at Ground Zero following 9/11, Mueller says he found solace at the grand piano in his home, which he played each night after dinner for his wife. He’s since recorded several solo-piano albums which showcase his very personal melding of jazz, classical and New Age aesthetics. His latest, Afterwords, features Mueller’s musical interpretations of written text, his compositions inspired by quotations from novels, short stories and poems that have particularly moved him. The pianist, who has a theatrical background, folds into his performance his readings of text from authors such as Kurt Vonnegut, John Steinbeck, Ernest Hemingway and Dave Eggers. Mueller’s inventive melding of styles and sensibilities is well-illustrated on “The Space Between Chaos and Shape”, our selection [for the 2017 disc of innnovative new works included in the December issue], which sources a quote from Jeanette Winterson short story. “In the space between chaos and shape, the was another chance,” Mueller intones, his spoken interlude providing a bridge between an aggressive, propulsive opening section and a hushed, introspective conclusion.

- Jazziz Magazine

Listeners Will Be Well Rewarded
REVIEW by F. Norman Vickers (September, 2017)

This two-CD self-produced set is the first of Mueller's more than twenty-five albums which is accompanied by the spoken word. All are original compositions which the artist performs on solo piano. Some are upbeat and jazzy whereas others are more reflective and suggest more classically oriented compositions.

Tobin James Mueller is multi-talented as artist, playwright, composer and pianist. The adventurous listener will be rewarded of the effort. Mr. Mueller sent me this double-CD for review after he’d seen my review of Fred Hersch’s latest CD. He pointed out that, similar to Hersch’s bout with his medical issues, Mueller lives with a hereditary medical condition of which pulmonary aspects have been aggravated by inhalation of smoke and dust from the 9/11 attacks in NYC when he was living in the nearby neighborhood and volunteered to help.

The collection includes seventeen original compositions accompanied by Mueller’s brief spoken-over-the-music quotations from various authors whose work inspired him. A separate single CD Afterwords: Solo Piano Bonus Tracks, consisting of seven selections without the spoken quotations is also available.

Listening to this mature work may persuade many of us to explore Mueller’s earlier works as well. See www.tobinmueller.com for additional information.

- F. Norman Vickers, jazz journalist/critic, Jazz Journalist Association, Pensacola Jazz


Tobin's Solo Piano Collection
Instead of Heaven cover
Instead of Heaven - Mueller follows his upbeat jazz ensemble album What Survives with a series of contemplative piano meditations. All original compositions using Greek myth as inspiration, this 10-track album forms a lyrical song cycle, a spiritual journey of both emotional and intellectual content. Melds modal post-bop, Romanticism, Jazz Impressionism and New Age styles. Influences include: Keith Jarrett, Brad Mehldau, Michel Camilo, as well as Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninoff. "Each composition is breathtaking, adding to the musical language of both modal post-bop jazz and neo-classical piano." George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly
Flow cover
Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and Tobin Mueller is a double album featuring Mueller's reinterpretations of Bach's greatest hits (Disc 1) plus two original jazz piano suites by Mueller (Disc 2). Inventive, playful, joyous, beautiful, full of emotion and intelligence. Mueller embraces the sense of timelessness one achieves when in the state of flow, bridging the centuries, letting Bach's 300 year old manuscripts inspire through new expression. Jazz influences include Brad Mehldau, Fred Hersch, Gerald Clayton. "This may be the pianist-composer’s most ambitious and sophisticated recording. Highly recommended." Fanfare Magazine's 2015 Editor's Choice.
Of Two Minds cover
Of Two Minds: The Music of Frédéric Chopin and Tobin Mueller is the final addition to Mueller's "Masterworks Trilogy" in which he explores the intersections of classical and jazz piano. Mueller reinterprets Chopin's most iconic piano solos (Disc 1) and uses the preludes to inspire three original jazz piano sonatas (Disc 2). Seductive, rebellious, heroic and beautiful. Jazz influences include Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck, Keith Jarrett. "One would be hard-pressed to find an artist with a more creative musical mind than Tobin Mueller’s." Fanfare Magazine's 2016 Editor's Choice.
Impressions of Water and Light cover
Impressions of Water & Light is an exploration of the cross-inspirations between Impressionist and jazz piano, including adaptations of music by Debussy, Ravel, Fauré, Satie, Ibert and Carpenter. Tobin uses the written notes as if they are light and his imagination as if it is water, creating all new interpretations. This post-Impressionist music illustrates the intimacy between jazz and Impressionist music. You will never hear these works the same again. The gorgeous CD booklet is a work of art in itself, pairing an Impressionist painting with each piece. One of the three album in Mueller's "Masterworks Trilogy".
Impressions of Water and Light cover
Midwinter Born is a collection of jazz piano interpretations of traditional Christmas carols. Mueller captures the quiet simplicity, expectant playfulness and over-riding joy of the season. A delightful and sometimes surprising album destined to become one of your annual holiday favorites. The 18 track album includes: First Noel, Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Holy Night, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Carol of the Bells, Lo How A Rose E'er Bloom, Good King Wenceslas, Still, Still, Still and many more.
Morning Whispers cover
Morning Whispers is Tobin's first solo piano collection, a song cycle of tragic beauty. Music of healing and introspection. The use of key changes, unusual time signatures, and other variational devices makes this work involving, not merely New Age background music. Its gentle intensity, however, does not detract from its healing essence, its sense of inner joy. Influences include Aaron Copland, Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Bill Evans, David Lanz, Liz Story. Several of these piano pieces have since been used in film and documentaries.
13 Masks cover
13 Masks is Tobin's second solo piano collection. An exploration of the links between avant-garde 20th Century music and jazz. Tobin used illustrations of 13 medieval masks to inspire songs combining ragtime, jazz and 20th Century avant-garde classical. Influences include Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck, Art Tatum, Scott Joplin, John Medeski, as well as classical composers Shostakovich, Ligeti, Bartok. These pieces will startle and delight. "A truly unique album with music to really sink your teeth into."
Afterwords cover
Afterwords - Combining spoken word and solo piano, Tobin "illustrates" his favorite works of literature with a wide variety of new musical compositions. He pays homage to classic authors like Hemmingway, Steinbeck, Vonnegut, Faulkner, as well as new authors Dave Eggers, Chuck Palahniuk, Aimee Bender and China Miéville. Musical influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor, even Keith Emerson. "An astonishing work of art." Jazziz's 2017 Critics' Choice.
Afterwords: Bonus Tracks cover
Afterwords: Solo Piano Bonus Tracks - For those of you who prefer music without any interruptions, seven of the best tracks from Afterwords have been remastered with the talking edited out. Originally conceived for distribution to jazz radio stations, this Bonus Album is now avaiilable to the egeneral public. Influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor; post-bop, stride, new age, classic jazz.
Standard Deviations cover
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - Although this is mainly an ensemble album, half the tracks on Disc 2 of this two volume recording are solo piano arrangements. Think of this is a piano album with fabulous guest artists sitting in on 2/3s of the tunes! See Standard Deviations project page for complete Liner Notes and several Bonus Tracks. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
Tobin's Other CD Collections
Tobin Mueller's Jazz Collection
Tobin Mueller's Jazz Collection
LARGE ENSEMBLE & JAZZ COMBO RECORDINGS
Jazz / Big Band / Funk
Prestidigitation
Best of Tobin Mueller, Volumes 1-5 - 5-volume compilation, presenting Mueller's best Contemporary Jazz, Funk, Fusion, Blues, Chill Jazz, more. A stunning collection featuring such greats as Ron Carter, Donny McCaslin, Michael Hedges, Paul Nelson, Scott Rockenfield, Dane Richeson and Woody Mankowski. Mueller is front and center on piano, B3 organ, vintage keys. "Nothing short of excellent. Mueller has performed across the entire spectrum of jazz, creating a fabulous assortment of classics."
Prestidigitation
Prestidigitation - The best of Contemporary Jazz Fusion. Mueller's all-star band takes on Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Frank Zappa, John Coltrane, Weather Report, Stevie Wonder, Bill Evans, Tower of Power and more. Featured soloists: Paul Nelson (Grammy-winning guitarist), David Dejesus (Birdland Jazz Band director), Ruben de Ruiter (John Patitucci Band), Woody Mankowski (What Survives)... "A jazz-fusion tour de force. Each spin and turn opens the door to a new interpretive wrinkle that is sure to delight."
What Survives - Radio Edits cover
What Survives - Radio Edits - Jazz - Remastered Radio Edits of the best tracks from What Survives - Volumes 1 & 2. Fresh and spontaneous yet expertly crafted arrangements. Contemporary Jazz at its finest. Ensemble includes: Woody Mankowski, Ron Carter, Bill Barner, Doug Schneider, Tom Washatka, Ken Schaphorst, Bob Levy, Dane Richeson, Martyn Kember-Smith and Tobin’s nephew Chris Mueller. CD contains 15 tracks; digital version includes 3 Bonus Tracks.
Standard Deviations cover
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - Keyboardist Tobin Mueller is joined by Grammy-winner Paul Nelson (guitars), Woody Mankowski (saxophones), Lamar Moore & Mike Nappi (percussionists) to breathe new life into 33 standards in this fresh Two Volume CD. An homage to Monk, Ellington, Gershwin, Brubeck, Bernstein, Berlin, Kern, Mercer, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, Richard Rodgers, Harold Arlen, Billy Strayhorn and more. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
Come In Funky cover
Come In Funky Old School Funk and and small combo Jazz featuring legendary bassist Ron Carter. "You guys can play! These are, almost without exception, very complicated numbers in terms of rhythm and the general sync of solos with ensemble playing, a stellar set of recordings that, I believe, adds seriously to the body of jazz that this represents. A remarkable work in every single way I can think of. This is such a bright and happy album that is played with a spirit of invention and joy from the first notes to the last." - Paul Page
The Muller's Wheel cover
The Muller's Wheel is a collaborative project combining the talents of pianist Tobin Mueller and saxophonist Woody Mankowski, featuring their jazz quartet and their larger 8-pieace ensemble, playing swing to bop to fusion to funk. The styles of Count Basie, Charlie Parker, Lester Young, Herbie Hancock, The Brecker Brothers, Weather Report and more influence this homage to the jazz greats. This is joyous music. "It reminds us of the happiness we relive when returning to our musical roots," say Mueller and Mankowski.
Rain Bather cover
Rain Bather is an 80 minute long play CD featuring superlative solo performances by all-star band members. Most of the tunes are in the jazz-funk-fusion vein, but many others try to break new ground, defying easy labels. Tobin Mueller - B3 organ, synth; Woody Mankowski - soprano sax; Chris Mueller - acoustic piano; Jeff Cox - acoustic bass; Dane Richeson - drums; Tom Washatka - tenor sax; Doug Schnieder - tenor sax; Ken Schaphorst - flugelhorn; Bob Levy - trumpet; Sal Giorgianni - flute; Bill Barner - clarinet.
WONDER cover
WONDER - progressive rock/pop Jazz Fusion. Although this tour de force double album is mainly about the power of progressive rock, Mueller's interpretive jazz keyboards add a modal flavor to each track. Styles transcends prog and pop, with influences of jazz, classical, electronica and world music layered throughout. Features rearrangements of songs from his Audiocracy years, rock operas and stage shows, plus new material certain to blow you away.
Mickey Spleen cover
Mickey Spleen Save the Day - Jazz Musical Theatre. This delightful recording is Mueller's educational children's musical about the human body, health and the immune system. It features his CenterStage youth Theatre Troupe performing his film noir who-done-it musical comedy. Characters include Mickey Spleen, Vinny Virus, The Lymphette Sisters and the GI Guys. Mueller wrote 8 children's musicals, but this is the only all-jazz score.
SOLO PIANO JAZZ
Instead of Heaven cover
Instead of Heaven - Contemplative piano meditations, all original compositions using Greek myth as inspiration. 10-tracks forms a lyrical song cycle, a spiritual journey both emotional and intellectual. Melds modal post-bop, Contemporary Romanticism, Jazz Impressionism and New Age styles. Influences include: Keith Jarrett, Brad Mehldau, Michel Camilo, as well as Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninoff. "Uniquely breathtaking, adding to the musical language of contemporary piano." George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly
Afterwords cover
Afterwords - Combining spoken word and solo piano, Tobin "illustrates" his favorite works of literature with a wide variety of new musical compositions. He pays homage to classic authors like Hemmingway, Steinbeck, Vonnegut, Faulkner, as well as new authors Dave Eggers, Chuck Palahniuk, Aimee Bender and China Miéville. Musical influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor, even Keith Emerson. "An astonishing work of art."
Flow cover
Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and Tobin Mueller, especially Disc 2 - Tobin plays Tobin. Two post-bop jazz piano suites make up Disc 2. Each shows Bach influences, but draws more from contemporaries Brad Mehldau, Fred Hersch and Gerald Clayton. "This may be the pianist-composer’s most ambitious and sophisticated recording project to date... a journey that inevitably explores the interactions of Baroque and jazz." Fanfare Magazine's 2015 Editor's Choice Award.
Of Two Minds cover
Of Two Minds: The Music of Frédéric Chopin and Tobin Mueller, especially Disc 2 - Tobin plays Tobin. Three original jazz piano sonatas make up Disc 2. Each shows Chopin influences, but draws more from contemporaries Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck and Keith Jarrett. "One would be hard-pressed to find an artist with a more creative musical mind than Tobin Mueller’s - especially one with the playing chops to fulfill his or her vision." Fanfare Magazine's 2016 Editor's Choice Award.
Impressions of Water and Light cover
Impressions of Water and Light is an exploration of the cross-inspirations between Impressionist and contemporary jazz piano, including adaptations of music by Debussy, Ravel, Fauré, Satie, Ibert and Carpenter. "The listener has the sense that Mueller is having his personal conversation as a composer and pianist with these great 19th- and 20th-century composers." This is third album of "The Masterworks Trilogy" which includes Flow and Of Two Minds.
Impressions of Water and Light cover
Midwinter Born is a collection of jazz piano interpretations of traditional Christmas carols. Mueller captures the quiet simplicity, expectant playfulness and over-riding joy of the season. The 18 track album includes: First Noel, Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Holy Night, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Carol of the Bells, Lo How A Rose E'er Bloom, Good King Wenceslas, Still, Still, Still and many more.
Morning Whispers cover
Morning Whispers is Tobin's first solo piano collection, a song cycle of tragic beauty. Music of healing and introspection, these New Age and Neo-Classical pieces do more than evoke emotion: they tell stories. Influences include Aaron Copland, Bill Evans, David Lanz, Liz Story. Several of these piano pieces have since been used in film and documentaries.
13 Masks cover
13 Masks is Tobin's second solo piano collection. An exploration of the links between avant-garde 20th Century music and jazz, influences include Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck, Art Tatum, John Medeski, as well as classical composers Stravinsky, Shostakovich, Ligeti, Bartok. "A truly unique album with music to really sink your teeth into."
Afterwords: Bonus Tracks cover
Afterwords: Solo Piano Bonus Tracks - For those of you who prefer music without any interruptions, seven of the best tracks from Afterwords have been remastered with the talking edited out. Originally conceived for distribution to jazz radio stations, this Bonus Album is now avaiilable to the egeneral public. Influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor; post-bop, stride, new age, classic jazz.
Tobin's Rock Collection
Progressive Rock
Prestidigitation
Best of Tobin Mueller, Volumes 3-4 - Volume 3 of "Best of Tobin Mueller" presents Mueller's best Prog Rock and Fusion recordings. Volume 4 highlights his Adult Contemporary tracks. A stunning collection featuring such greats as Donny McCaslin, Michael Hedges, Paul Nelson, Scott Rockenfield, Bob Piper and Woody Mankowski. Mueller is front and center on piano, B3 organ, vintage keys. "Nothing short of excellent. Mueller has performed across the entire spectrum of jazz, creating a fabulous assortment of classics."
WONDER cover
WONDER - progressive rock/pop fusion. This tour de force double album combines the power and virtuosity of prog with the intimate simplicity of lullabies. Track list alternates between vocals songs and instrumentals, giving time to contemplate Mueller's poetic lyrics. Styles transcends prog and pop, with influences of jazz, classical, electronica and world music layered throughout. Features appearances by Michael Hedges, Scott Rockenfield, Bob Piper (Pleiades), Anton Mueller (Audiocracy), Steve Stone, Aaron Paul, Lennon Loveday (Shadow of Nine), more...
Prestidigitation
Prestidigitation - Contemporary Prog Fusion. Mueller's all-star band takes on Frank Zappa, Yes, Happy the Man, Weather Report, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Stevie Wonder, Sly Stone and more. Featured soloists: Paul Nelson (Grammy-winning guitarist), David Dejesus (Birdland Jazz Band director), Ruben de Ruiter (John Patitucci Band), Woody Mankowski (What Survives)... "A jazz-fusion tour de force. Each spin and turn opens the door to a new interpretive wrinkle that is sure to delight."
Audiocracy cover
Audiocracy - progressive rock - A post-political neo-prog concept album. Tobin Mueller: vocals, keyboards; Twøn: vocals, bass; Darren Chapman: guitars; Bob Piper/Tadashi Togawa: guitars; Rob Thurman: drums. "A symphonic whirlwind of passion and sensations. With their tight, gorgeous arrangements, the songs used every hertz of my sound system. The album flows from idea to idea like birds winging from tree to tree. I predict you will return to this album time and time again, gaining new insight, just like I did." - Progressive Magazine.
Alternative Rock
A Bit of Light cover
A Bit of Light - A progressive folk / cross-genre collection of songs Tobin's been accumulating for a decade, A Bit of Light includes some of his favorite collaborations with saxophonists, fiddle players and guitarists, mixing jazz, bluegrass, tango and folk-rock. World renown violinist Entcho Todorov, Grammy winner saxophonist Danny McCaslin and L.A.'s Woody Mankowski, Enlish fiddler Martyn Kember-Smith and guitarist John Luper provide fabulous highlights. The CD comes with a digital booklet in PDF format.
If I Live Long Enough cover
If I Could Live Long Enough - Previously unreleased outtakes from earlier projects, including the 1998-1999 Rain Bather sessions, the 2004-2006 MacJams collaborations, and selected songs from two of Mueller's musicals: Creature and Runners In A Dream. Featuring acoustic guitar by Grammy winner Michael Hedges, vocals by Woody Mankowski and Emily Rohm, and some of Mueller's best songwriting. Six free Bonus Tracks available here.
September 11 Project
September 11 Project cover
September 11 Project: Ten Years Later - Music written following 9/11/2001. Tobin was asked to participate in the 10th anniversary at Ground Zero ceremony and revisted these songs. He decided to put them out as an album instead of keep them to myself. Since he was unable to sing at the event, after contracting a lung disorder, this music gained layers of poignancy. Recorded in the months following the tragedy.
Fusion
Standard Deviations cover
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - Keyboardist Tobin Mueller is joined by Grammy-winner Paul Nelson (guitars), Woody Mankowski (saxophones), Lamar Moore & Mike Nappi (percussionists) to breathe new life into 33 standards in this fresh Two Volume CD. An homage to Monk, Ellington, Gershwin, Brubeck, Bernstein, Berlin, Kern, Mercer, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, Richard Rodgers, Harold Arlen, Billy Strayhorn and more. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
What Survives - Radio Edits cover
What Survives - Radio Edits - Jazz - Remastered Radio Edits of the best tracks from What Survives - Volumes 1 & 2. Fresh and spontaneous yet expertly crafted arrangements. Contemporary Jazz at its finest. Ensemble includes: Woody Mankowski, Ron Carter, Bill Barner, Doug Schneider, Tom Washatka, Ken Schaphorst, Bob Levy, Dane Richeson, Martyn Kember-Smith and Tobin’s nephew Chris Mueller. CD contains 15 tracks; digital version includes 3 Bonus Tracks.
The Muller's Wheel cover
The Muller's Wheel - Contemporary Combo Jazz - Remastered as "Müller's Wheel," this jazz ensemble recording takes you on a joyous history of instrumental jazz from acoustic fusion to bop, swing to funk. The happiest, hippest hour of music you'll ever hear, featuring Tobin Mueller on piano & organ, Woody Mankowski on saxes. All original tunes that pay homage to jazz greats that came before. Released 2010; remixed and reissued 2012.
Puzzle People cover
Puzzle People - Love and loss, joy and betrayal, courage and perserverence define this spoken word offering. Each poem selected is accompanied by Mueller's original music that ranges from jazz to fusion to pop prog. The force and color of Del's readings earn this collection a high recommendation, but the synergy of Tobin's breathtaking music make this a truly compelling addition to Mueller's collected works. The CD includes 3 instrumental tracks as well.
Rock Musicals
Best Of CenterStage cover
TOBIN MUELLER: Best of the CenterStage Years - soundtrack/musicals. Compilation of 42 songs from Mueller's 9 musicals produced under the CenterStage banner. Volume One highlights his delightful children's pop rock educational music; Volume Two presents his rock opera and dramatic Broadway offerings. From humorous wordplay to romantic soliloquys to rock anthems, this music informs, inspires, entertains and satisfies.
Tobin's Standards Collection
Prestidigitation
Best of Tobin Mueller, Volumes 2 - Volume 2 of "Best of Tobin Mueller" compilation presents Mueller's best covers of Jazz Standards, Fusion CLassics, more. A stunning collection featuring such greats as Donny McCaslin, Paul Nelson, Bill Barner, Kenny Cash, Ruben de Ruiter, Dane Richeson and Woody Mankowski. Mueller is front and center on piano, B3 organ, vintage keys. "Nothing short of excellent. Mueller has performed across the entire spectrum of jazz, creating a fabulous assortment of classics."
Prestidigitation
Prestidigitation - Jazz Fusion Standards. Mueller's all-star band takes on Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Frank Zappa, Weather Report, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Sly and the Family Stone, more. Featured soloists: Paul Nelson (Grammy-winning guitarist), David Dejesus (Birdland Jazz Band director), Ruben de Ruiter (John Patitucci Band), Woody Mankowski (What Survives)... "A jazz-fusion tour de force. Each spin and turn opens the door to a new interpretive wrinkle that is sure to delight."
Standard Deviations cover
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - The only instrumental album in Tobin's "Standards" collection. An homage to Monk, Ellington, Gershwin, Brubeck, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin, Henri Mancini, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer and more, featuring great players and innovative arrangements. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
Song Of Myself cover
Song Of Myself - Tobin's favorite songs from The American Songbook, reinterpretted. Intimate, heartfelt, devistatingly honest music. Complete lyrics and song notes are linked from Tobin's Song of Myself page. Ballads, blues, showtunes, folk rock, jazz - the music of Tobin's roots. These are songs he's song for decades, arrangements that have evolved and matured with him. "American Tune" by Paul Simon. "Blackbird" by Paul McCartney. Bob Dylan's "Dignity." A Joni Mitchell and an Elton John medly. "Being Alive" from Company (Stephen Sondheim). "Impossible Dream" from Man of la Mancha. "Oh Danny Boy." "Frozen Man" by James Taylor. Many more, plus two original songs by Tobin Mueller.
Hard Place To Find cover
Hard Place To Find - Tobin has released a second volume of his favorite songs from The American Songbook. Complete lyrics and song notes are linked from Tobin's Hard Place To Find project page. "Still Crazy" by Paul Simon. Bob Dylan's "Shelter from the Storm" and "Bob Dylan's Dream." Richie Haven's "Paradise." "Dulcinea" from Man of la Mancha. "Alfie" by Bacharach. "Somewhere" from West Side Story. Many more, plus one original song by Tobin Mueller. All songs have to do with journeying, questing, searching. Released June 2nd, 2013. "Tobin Mueller is something of a Renaissance man of the arts, and 'Hard Place To Find' presents another volume in his prolific and impressive output. More of an art-music album than a pop release, I recommend it if you are looking for something different and deeply personal!" - Kathy Parsons, Mainly Piano
Children's Educational Music: CenterStage-Musicals
To Save the Planet, an environmental musical.
Danger Dinosaurs, about the exctinction of the dinosaurs and the importance of friends.
Music of the Planets, about the solar system.
Mickey Spleen Saves the Day, swing-jazz anatomy musical.
I Want to Know, about the history of science & invention.
The Sound of Money, about economics.
Say "Yes" to Life, anti-drug/pro-self musical.
Frankenspell Superstar, Tale of a Man-Made Messiah, based on Frankenstein.
Robin Hood and the Free People of the Forest, musical drama about freedom and revolution.
Tobin Mueller: The Best of the CenterStage Years, a 2-volume 44-track compilation.
Best Of CenterStage cover
TOBIN MUELLER: Best of the CenterStage Years - soundtrack/musicals. Compilation of 42 songs from Mueller's 9 musicals produced under the CenterStage banner. Volume One highlights his delightful children's educational music; Volume Two presents his Broadway offerings. From humorous wordplay to clever histories, romantic soliloquys to powerful rock opera duets, this music informs, inspires, entertains and satisfies.

*Available directly from Tobin Mueller. Contact him for more information.