REVIEW by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold (April 29, 2015)
Tobin Mueller’s latest double CD, "Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and Tobin Mueller", may be his most
ambitious and sophisticated recording project to date. Continuing the concept he initiated in his
"Impressions of Water and Light", where he performed original arrangements, variations, and new
compositions based on the works of Ravel, Debussy, and other Impressionist masters, "Flow" uses the
protean output of Johann Sebastian Bach as its core inspiration, and lets the Baroque master lead Mueller
as a composer and pianist into a journey of re-interpretation and new creation – a journey that
inevitably explores the interactions of Baroque and Jazz.
Selected tracks from Disc 1
1
Joy
6
First Starfield (Prelude No. 1)
8
Leopold's Short Life: A Prelude and Fugue
9
Sleepers Wake
15
Encore and Amen (Prelude No. 21 in G Minor)
In the fifteen tracks of Disc One, Mueller plays his own piano arrangements and interpretations of
Bach’s music, discovering in the eighteenth century genius not only the precision and grace of his
compositional structures, but also deconstructing these harmonies and melodies in order to penetrate
their inner life, and then letting that spark carry him to another place in his own artistic soul. Disc
Two features two original suites for piano (and a bonus track piano duet from his 1998 musical "Creature")
that are the result, the composer tells us, of spending half a year immersed in Bach’s music and in the
study of his piano suites, as well as the Goldberg Variations. Despite the compositorial lessons Bach
may have offered Mueller, these two works stand majestically on their own, addressing the listener in
an idiom that at once is classic and modern.
In listening to Mueller’s interpretations of Bach’s own music, one is struck not only by his skill
as a pianist, but by his comprehensive grasp of Bach’s form and structure; for only with such a complete
understanding as his foundation, can Mueller dare to embark on his own “takes” on these classics. Highlights
of the first disc are many. The rhythmically varied interpretation of Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, "Joy",
which opens the collection, serves as an overture to what follows. "First Starfield", derived from Bach’s
Prelude No. 1 in C Major, is a beautiful re-imagining of Bach’s melody using parallel fifths under and
over Bach’s line and subtly shifting the downbeat midway through the piece. "In Anna Magdalena’s Hands"
is a take on the Prelude of Bach’s Cello Suite #1, which recreates for the piano the lush, romantic
chordal line of the unaccompanied cello in the original. "Leopold’s Short Life" (based on Prelude and
Fugue # 2 in CMinor) is arranged as a big band piece which evocatively suggests the transience of life
and the inexorable ticking of time, while "Sleepers Awake" is set down as a dialogue between right and
left hands, between the voice calling the sleeper to consciousness and the Jazz groove of the baseline.
"Night at the Theatre" constitutes Mueller’s interpretation of Minuet in G, (a work now commonly
ascribed to Christian Petzold, but still associated with Bach through his wife’s notebook) in which he
begins in a Broadway idiom and shifts to an eloquent and contemplative kind of soliloquy. Finally, the
first CD ends with "Encore and Amen", a virtuoso tribute to what Mueller calls “the energy of an [Bach’s]
infinite mind,” before it solemnly concludes in a reverential “amen.”
Suite: Flow
1
Tide Pools
2
Momentary Undertow
3
Yin and Yang
4
Salmon Ladder Variations
5
Bird In Migration
6
Curved Surfaces
The second disc contains two suites for piano, each in six movements. The first, entitled "Suite:
Flow", explores the concept of ebbing and flowing energy mirrored in the rhythms of nature from tidal
waters to migrating birds, and salmon swimming upstream. While Bach may have been Mueller’s departure
point, there are a great many other influences which can be heard coalescing in the rich musical language
of the work, among them the transparent and limpid harmonies of Impressionism. "Flow" begins with a slow
first movement, “Tide Pools,” in which the rippling waters and receding eddies are reflected in the elusive
chords. “Momentary Undertow” continues in slow tempo using arpeggios to evoke the circular flow and the
eventual ascending pull. The third movement, “Yin and Yang,” is a light textured synthesis of two styles
of playing, juxtaposing and integrating chords and arpeggios. “Salmon Ladder Variations” offers a marriage
of Thelonius Monk and J.S. Bach in which short repeating figures suggest the fish ascending the ladder
and slipping back, yet never abandoning their intense drive to procreate. “Bird in Migration,” the fifth
movement which blends Charlie Parker with Blues and Bop improvisation, depicts the bold flight of the
birds as an expression of freedom. The suite ends with “Curved Surfaces,” varying the melody of the first
movement and using a waltz tempo to reference the dance-like gigues that ended Bach’s French suites.
New England Suite
1
River Ice (Winter)
2
Ghostly Bells (of Independence)
3
Lighthouse (Spring)
4
Train (Summer Tango)
5
Nor'easter (Early Autumn)
6
Berkshire Shadows (Late Autumn)
In his "New England Suite", also in six movements, Mueller meditates on the passage of the seasons and
the cyclical forces of nature which flow through the universe with musical majesty. “River Ice” with its
dark, repetitive chords that color the opening movement with a hint of Native-American roots, evokes the
crystalline sparkle of the ice breaking up and reshaping itself. “Ghostly Bells (of Independence)” with its
changing keys and tempi recalls the bells that have tolled throughout New England’s history, the varying
pitches beautifully captured in the melody with the pure, clarion peeling at the end of the movement an
intimation of approaching spring. “Lighthouse” introduces a sense of renewal, its bookended sections in
waltz-time, with a middle section reference to Bach’s Well-Tempered Klavier #4. “Train” becomes a metaphor
for summer with its allusion to the romance of the road; Mueller’s walking bass in the left hand signifies
the continuum, while his right punctuates that with the sound of a train whistle and the suggestion of stops
along the way. Movement five, “Nor’easter” conjures up the gently pelting rain on windowpanes and roofs in
early autumn with a delicate, lulling quietude before seguing into the final movement, “Berkshire Shadows,”
that pulsates with a gentle maturity and restful vigor. There is just a whiff of Ives here, as there is in
the first movement, as well as the lush resonance of a description of the “season of mists and mellow
fruitfulness” in John Keats’ “Ode to Autumn” before the suite ends on a gentle upward progression that is as
much question as statement.
In addition to the pleasures of these imaginative interpretations and compositions, Mueller offers the
listener a memorable acoustic experience and an attractively packaged visual one. The sound is rounded,
subtle, intimate, and captures all the nuances of the artist in conversation with his piano and with his
inspirations. The two CDs (with a generous 121 minutes of music) are accompanied by an informative sixteen-page
booklet, handsomely illustrated with artwork. Mueller, who is an accomplished writer as well as musician,
offers well-articulated insights into the pieces and invites the listener to embark with him on an exciting
voyage.
"Flow" takes the listener on a complex and profound journey. On one level, these are works which require
thought and comprehension - a knowledge of the Bach’s originals - but on another level, they exist in their
own unique realm to be heard, absorbed, and experienced in the flow of the moment. And that intangibility,
that ephemerality is precisely their genius. Mueller’s compositions are firmly grounded in an impressive
musical technique and far-reaching understanding of past idioms, at the same time that they are bold,
sometimes playful, often rebellious excursions into uncharted territory. The gift that "Flow" bestows on
the listener is the insight into the dialectical truth that from form comes freedom.
Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and Tobin Mueller is another very ambitious project from one of the most
creative musical minds out there, Tobin Mueller. His first two-disc set, Disc 1 contains fifteen solo piano
interpretations/arrangements of some of Bach’s best-known pieces, and Disc 2 is a set of two original suites
composed to demonstrate how Bach’s music has influenced Mueller and his own music. Disc 2 also contains a
bonus track, bringing that total up to thirteen piano solos. Bach is perhaps the greatest composer who ever
lived and he continues to be a favorite among many jazz musicians as well as classical music aficionados.
All of the music on Disc 1 is recognizable, and even though most of the interpretations have very strong jazz
elements, my feeling is that Bach would strongly approve of Mueller’s creations. The CD set also contains a
16-page booklet that provides an historical perspective on Bach’s life and music as well as Mueller’s explanations of his creative processes. In addition to all of that, the artwork, also by Mueller, further provides spirited and colorful illustrations to accompany the music. It’s a beautiful package and the music provides a unique listening experience that is sometimes a bit challenging but always very enjoyable.
I always find it fascinating to hear how composers interpret classical music, giving well-known nuggets a
new spin. Mueller did this exceptionally well with his previous album, Impressions of
Water and Light, which was a look at Claude Debussy and other composers of the Impressionist period.
Flow is a brilliant second part to a promised three-part series which will include
the music of Chopin in the future. I love that Mueller ignored
all boundaries for musical genres in this music, juxtaposing modal jazz, blues, Broadway, prog rock, and new
age (and others) with classical stylings, giving free reign to his vast experience and training along with an
imagination that knows no limitations. My favorites on Disc 1 include “Reinvention No. 13,” a playful a take
on Bach’s Two-Part Invention #13; “Double Fantasia and Fugue in Gm,” a dark bluesy arrangement that feels just
right; “In Anna Magdalena’s Hands (Cello Suite #1, Prelude),” a beautiful tribute to Bach’s second wife who
transcribed much of his music; “Leopold’s Short Life: A Prelude and Fugue,” based on Prelude and Fugue #2 in
C Minor, arranged as a Big Band piece that has a real swing; “Bach on Vaudeville (Two-Part Invention #8 in F),
again very playful and full of fun; and “Air,” based on “Air on the G String,” a slow, pensive interpretation
arranged in a set of variations that incorporate a number of jazz styles.
Disc 2 contains two 6-part suites - “Suite: Flow” and “New England Suite” - as well as the bonus track
from Mueller’s 1996 musical, Creature. It doesn’t seem likely that a listener stumbling upon any of these
pieces would hear an immediate connection to Bach’s music, but Mueller explains in the liner notes (also
available on his site) which ideas he was exploring as he composed this music. Much more jazz-oriented than
classical, the rich, complex harmonies and inventive rhythms go in a lot of unexpected directions that keep
the music consistently interesting as well as fun to listen to. I especially like “Tide Pools,” “Bird in Migration,”
“Lighthouse,” and “Train (Summer Tango).” The bonus track, “One Body of Man, a duet” was recorded live in 1998 and
is a series of variations on a theme from Mueller’s off-Broadway musical, Creature, which is based on the Frankenstein
story. Upbeat straight-ahead jazz, the piece really rocks and closes this impressive album with a great big grin.
All of Tobin Mueller’s albums are very different from each other, so if you are not familiar with his music
or have only heard one album, check this one out! If you have his entire collection, this one will not duplicate
anything previously recorded! It is available from Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Very highly recommended for a
one-of-a-kind listening experience!
- Kathy Parsons, MainlyPiano.com
FLOW
REVIEW by Terry L. Pearson (May 5, 2015)
This is a truly enjoyable CD set! As a musician, I’ve learned to spot quality in music, but have been intimidated
by jazz in any form. With “Flow”, Tobin Mueller has broken down that wall by sneaking in through the door of my
affinity for the classics. His variations and reinventions of Bach in the first CD are very inviting, warm and
comfortable, and I was gently ushered into the second CD with Tobin’s original compositions. The experience was
one of delight. Tobin’s creativity shines, and his arrangements carry you smoothly through colorfully nuanced
musical adventures. Being new to this genre, Tobin’s creations showed me the potential it had for many different
styles. The melodies and well-placed notes make for one enjoyable ride!
"Flow" will remain in my stack of favorites for some time to come, and I recommend it to all, no matter what
your usual listening pleasures may be.
Flowing playfully
REVIEW by Thor Oliversen (May 15, 2015)
Bonus Track from Disc 2
13
One Body of Man, a duet
I find this album to be a great companion while I'm working or when I need to calm my mind. This is good
medicine! Tobin approaches the music of J. S. Bach respectfully, but also with a genuinely playful refreshing
approach, adding his tasteful original touches.
There are so many beautiful details in his piano playing, the playfulness gets the good feelings flowing.
Tobin really gets in a zone with these tunes. The bonus track "One Body of Man, a duet", is my favorite, a
bluesy jazz piano duet.
No need to force things - go with the flow, and for a while, be in the place where no action is needed. That
being said, Berkshire Shadows is a place I want to be (final movement of his "New England Suite"). Recommended!
[Note: Thor Oliversen plays bass/guitars on Tobin's song "When My Heart Still Beats" from A Bit of Light (2006).]
FLOW
REVIEW by Bill Barner (May 11, 2015)
I’ve been listening to Tobin Mueller’s new solo piano 2-CD album “Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and
Tobin Mueller” the past few days. Like last year’s “Impressions of Water and Light” -- where Tobin rearranged
and improvised on well-known pieces by Debussy, Ravel, etc. -- on disc 1 of “Flow” he does his own jazz-influenced
thing with Bach melodies. On disc 2 you find two suites composed by Tobin and inspired by Bach. None of the 2
hours of music on these CDs sounds like imitation Baroque. Rather, “Flow” carves out a niche somewhere between
classical, jazz, and new age music. Many musicians have arranged, reinterpreted, or reimagined Bach. But, this
recording is unique and quite enjoyable. Five (out of five) stars!
[Note: Bill Barner plays clarinet on "Caught In The Current" from Tobin's 2008 release Rain Bather.]
Escher, Bach & Mueller: Explorations of Order & Chaos
REVIEW by Jeffrey Price, M. C. Escher international expert, collector and owner of
The Artists’ Market
I want you to know how much I am enjoying FLOW. I feel I could listen to those two discs forever and
continue to find them enjoyable in the best possible ways and on so many levels. This enjoyment is expanded
with the way you’ve paired images to the music in your music videos. Because of my fascination with Escher, I
was especially drawn to “Leopold's Short Life - adapted from Bach, illustrated with Escher” based on
"Prelude & Fugue No. 2 in C Minor" from Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier.
Through your musical imagery, it struck me head-on that Escher's vision is fundamentally a
search, a contrast, and an exploration of order and chaos. Both of those forces are all around us,
and perhaps there is no more fitting realization of that contrast than in music in general and Bach
in particular. There are many reasons for that, as you know, but one I had not thought of until I heard
your playing (and this is certainly not limited to Bach) is that you approach the keyboard with two
hands. What are those hands doing? Certainly not the same thing! Often one hand takes the role of rhythmic
order, laying a pathway so to speak, while the other hand explores more abstract forms. And then sometimes
it changes - the hands might switch their roles, or perhaps they both take on the quest for order or the
exploration of whatever else there is. It can be that way in a picture too, though in different ways of
course.
I truly believe that Escher did not fully understand these things, nor can we, but he was particularly
mystified because it drove him to work, work tirelessly, work his whole life, to express something in
pictures, concepts that had no shape for him in words. And yet he knew that his pictures were only
scratching at the surface of understanding the duality of things... he barely formed the question clearly,
let alone believed he found the answer! But he knew deeply that Ringsnakes was right... I'm sure of that...
and I believe he saw hope, dreams, and fear in his little woodcut of The Well. He sensed we might climb out
of it, and that there was something beyond the darkness just as his portraits contained both their figures
and the space around them in the form of clouds or spheres. These are not easy things to understand, and
words often don't fit quite right... nor do pictures... but Bach was speaking in a different language, a
language beyond words.
You are gifted, blessed, and probably cursed as well to hear and then strive to express some of those
deep things that cannot be said any other way. You ended your music video with a little woodcut Escher
created towards the end of his life, one that is not well-known at all. It is called an apple blossom
in the Escher books, but it is actually a pinecone, a larix to be specific. It has (and it hides) a
marvelous symmetry, just as nature disguises perfection in the chaos around us. If you imagine yourself
a little bee flying above that pinecone and looking straight down at its pattern, the shapes you would
see would be concentric rows of petals, and those petals would have to be pushed just a little to become
fish. Escher did that pushing himself in another small print we call Concentric Fish. And yet, if we see
fish in the world they always take on peculiar forms, individual from one another, each like a separate
note, tied to all its neighbors and yet floating on its own. It's something like that: the hidden
perfection of things leaking out now and then, letting us catch a glimpse of something utterly incomprehensible.
Through you musical visions I feel I understand Bach and Escher just a little bit better tonight,
and that is a valuable bonus and somewhat separate from enjoying the music and seeing pictures that I
have admired for most of my lifetime. Thank you for creating that, and for sharing it with me, and thank
you for indulging my tangle of words attempting to appreciate it in the spirit in which you may have
created it.
Jeffrey Price, The Artists’ Market
Tobin's Solo Piano Collection
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: 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: 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 & 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".
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 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 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 - 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: 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 - 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."
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 - 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 - 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 - 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 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 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 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 - 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 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.
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 - 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: 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: 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 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.
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 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 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: 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.
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 - 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 - 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 - 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.
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 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: 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.
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 - 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 - 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 - 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.
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.
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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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
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.
