One of the most diverse and talented jazz composers today presents a career spanning 5-volume compilation. Every track delivers. Contemporary jazz at its finest."
Best of Tobin Mueller presents his best contemporary jazz, funk, fusion, and vocal recordings. Volume 1 includes his best original jazz recordings; Volume 2 reinterprets the greatest jazz standards; Volume 3 highlights his progressive rock jazz-fusion forays; Volume 4 is a collection of his best original vocal works; Volume 5 focuses on his chill jazz, new age and late night offerings. All tracks have been remastered, some have been remixed and edited, many contain additional instruments layered in, a few are completely new versions released here for the first time.
“
Tobin Mueller composes some of the freshest, well-crafted jazz tunes of the era. He adroitly combines post bop, fusion, funk and progressive Big Band in entertaining and unique ways. Woody Mankowski's skill on saxophone is a joy to experience, as are the contributions of bass legend Ron Carter. A highly anticipated collection..."
Many of the selections come from his three long-play double albums Standard Deviations, What Survives and Wonder. Remixed versions from his recent recording Prestidigitation are also included. Older recordings are represented, as well, such as Come In Funky (featuring Ron Carter), The Muller's Wheel (featuring Woody Mankowski) and others. A few tracks are new, never released on any previous album.
“
Nothing short of excellent. Tobin Mueller, who has performed across the entire spectrum of jazz, combines genres to recreate a fabulous assortment of jazz classics."
"One of the many great things about Tobin’s music", writes U.K reviewer Dave Franklin, "is that it is always busy. Not to the point of being overly complex or unnecessarily ornate, space and atmosphere are vital unseen instruments in his creative process, but built on deftly compiled sonic layers, tones and textures interlaced to create satisfying arrangements. If there is a word that means both eclectic yet perfectly controlled and also adventurous yet familiar, then Tobin Mueller’s music would be its perfect definition."
“
Snatches energy out of the universe and tosses it around like a meteor shower! Fusion jazz at its best. It reminds me of the days when Herbie Hancock’s Headhunter album was blowing our minds. It wreaks of that kind of inspiration."
Tobin Mueller has released over 35 albums in his career, written a dozen musical plays, composed over 500 songs. He's composed for Broadway, film, ballet, youth education, video games. He has recorded with Grammy winners Dave Brubeck, Ron Carter, Michael Hedges, Donny McCaslin, Jon Anderson (from Yes), Brian Welch ("Head" from Korn), Hall of Fame blues guitarist Paul Nelson, as well as Grammy nominees Dane Richeson (Blue Note Records), Ken Schaphorst, Entcho Todorov, Janet Planet and more. His albums have included contributions from drummers Scott Rockenfield (Queensrÿche), Lamar Moore (Lettuce), Mike Nappi (J. Geils Band) and countless other musicians from around the globe. Early in his career, he had the honor of playing with Maynard Ferguson.
“
Extremely impressive body of work from a one-of-a-kind artist. Joyous. Soulful. Vibrant. Sophisticated. Fascinating."
Note: This collection will not include Mueller's extensive solo piano recordings. These will be released in the upcoming 2-volume series: Tobin Mueller: At The Piano.
remastered - feat. Ron Carter, Woody Mankowski (original version on What Survives)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Jazz, funk, hip hop and bop combine, featuring jazz legend Ron Carter."
• YouTube Music Video
extended version, previously unreleased - feat. Woody Mankowski (shorter version on The Muller's Wheel)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "A seamless series of variations. A display of skill worth checking out."
• YouTube Music Video
remastered - feat. Bob Levy, Woody Mankowski (original version on Rain Bather)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Mueller's nonet is in full swing mode. Lighter than air."
• YouTube Music Video
“
Fun and funky, sweet toned and creative, tunes woven together like they were for The Brecker Brothers. Mueller plays more angles than a musical Rubik's Cube. Highly recommended."
The Players:
Tobin Mueller: acoustic piano, electric pianos, organ, vintage synths
Woody Mankowski: soprano, alto, tenor saxes
Bill Barner: clarinet; Sal Giorgianni: flute
Dane Richeson: drums, percussion
Acoustic bass: Jeff Cox; electric bass: Butch Taylor
Guitar: Fran Dagostino, Paul Nelson, Richie Hart
Additional acoustic piano: Chris Mueller
Additional sax: Doug Schneider, Tom Washatka, Sal Giorganni, David DeJesus
Additional brass: Bob Levy, Carl Fischer: trumpet; Ken Shaphorst: flugelhorn
Additional drums: Joel Rosenblat, Isaiah Schmidt
Additional hand percussion: Ruben de Ruiter
Featured violin: Martyn Kember-Smith
Featured acoustic bass: Ron Carter
Featured vocals: Angela Hope
An amazing jazz amalgam that captures at its zenith Mueller’s genius ability to dance in and out of motifs and themes while paying such great respect to the jazz composers he quotes. He makes the intertwining of the composer's intent with his own interpretation sound effortless, expansive, beautiful, awesome..."
Inventive, energetic, joyous virtuosity elevates each track. Paul Nelson’s electric guitar sizzles. Woody Mankowski’s saxophone soars. Drumming is stellar. Fresh, clean, crisp. You will not view these tunes the same after hearing Mueller’s thoughtfully crafted takes."
If you’re a fan of the likes of Weather Report and Return to Forever, keyboardist and arranger Tobin Mueller is going to be your buddy. Volume 2 is hip, swinging fusion, lit up, big and bold. Goes beyond Head Hunting: a world of kaleidoscopic covers. Highly recommended.”
A great album. Jazz taken to its broadest, highest & deepest potential. Tobin Mueller has set the benchmark. Play it, and play it again, and again, and again…”
by Stevie Wonder; remastered - feat. Paul Nelson, David DeJesus, Mikie Martel, Ruben de Ruiter, Isaiah Schmidt (original version on Prestidigitation)
• YouTube Music Video
by Herbie Hancock; remastered - feat. David DeJesus, Paul Nelson, Ruben de Ruiter (original version on Prestidigitation)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Fabulous new arrangement."
• YouTube Music Video
by Joe Zawinul / Jon Anderson; remastered - feat. Woody Mankowski, Lamar Moore (original version on Prestidigitation)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Could be the best Birdland cover ever recorded."
Featured on That New Hype: "Marvelously seamless medley! Epic and fun."
• YouTube Music Video
by Frank Zappa; remastered - feat. Mikie Martel, David DeJesus, Paul Nelson, Isaiah Schmidt (original version on Prestidigitation)
• YouTube Music Video
by Lennon-McCartney; new version, previously unreleased - feat. Woody Mankowski, Lamar Moore, Kenny Cash, Mike Nappi (older version on Standard Deviations)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Inventive, moody, powerful. Excellent build, climax, denouement."
• YouTube Music Video
by Emilio Castillo, Stephen "Doc" Kupka; remastered - feat. Paul Nelson, David DeJesus, Isaiah Schmidt (original version on Prestidigitation)
Featured on All About JazzVideo of the Day: "High energy, fresh arrangement. Spectacular."
• YouTube Music Video
by Sly Stone; remastered - feat. Paul Nelson, Mikie Martel, Isaiah Schmidt (original version on Prestidigitation)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Hip, sleek funk-jazz."
• YouTube Music Video
by John Coltrane; remastered - feat. Bill Barner, Ruben de Ruiter (original version on Prestidigitation)
Featured on All About JazzSong of the Day: "Inventive, romantic jazz waltz."
• YouTube Music Video
by Lenny White / Chick Corea; remastered - feat. Woody Mankowski, Emily Rohm, Ruben de Ruiter, Isaiah Schmidt original version on Prestidigitation)
Featured on All About JazzVideo of the Day: "Sensuous, polyphonic jazz vocal medley. Magical."
• YouTube Music Video
by Hoagy Carmichael; new version - feat. Woody Mankowski (original version on Standard Deviations)
Featured on Industry Reviewz: "Transcends the Smooth Jazz genre. An oasis of calm on an album of restless diversity."
• YouTube Music Video
“
What binds this diverse music into a seamless album is a group of amazing musicians sharing the unbridled joy of making music together. It swings and soars, rocks and rolls, often all but dancing out of the music player. More than impressive!"
I’ve long been a fan of Tobin Mueller’s virtuoso piano playing and compositional genius, but hearing his weathered voice, compromised by illness, uncovers yet another level of interpretive skill. Wonderful.”
A symphonic whirlwind of prog passion! Led by the massive keyboards of Tobin Mueller, dense harmonies and contributions from the likes of Scott Rockenfield (Queensrÿche) and guitarist Bob Piper (Pleaides), this is a true combination of energy and poetry. The music flows from idea to idea like birds winging from tree to tree. You will return to this collection time and time again.”
remastered - feat. Anton Mueller, Darren Chapman, Scott Rockenfield (original version on Wonder)
Featured on Grind Louder: "Another hit from Tobin Mueller!"
• YouTube Music Video
remastered - feat. Supa Manta, Thor Oliverson, Carl Fischer, Sal Giorgianni, Suzanne DelTufo (original version on A Bit Of Light)
• YouTube Music Video
remastered - feat. Woody Mankowski, Dane Richeson, Chris Mueller (original version on Radio Edits)
• YouTube Music Video
“
‘Volume 3: Prog Fusion’ pushes everything to more profound places, higher, beyond the normal limits of music-making. Twenty-Two tracks redefining what prog is, what it might be… due to the album’s sheer adventurousness and exploratory nature. You are left with a masterful array of music that takes you on unexpected journeys to the heart, to the nature of possibility and potential. An album forged of classical grace and rock groove. Pop accessibility and jazz complexity. An album that disregards rules and demarcations. A truly post-genre suite of music!”
The Players:
Tobin Mueller: acoustic piano, electric pianos, organ, vintage synths, basses, vocals
Anton Mueller: vocals, electric bass, acoustic guitar
Guitars: Bob Piper, Darren Chapman, Paul Nelson, Tadashi Togawa, Thor Oliverson, Jim Edwards, Norman Goodman, Lennon Loveday, Steve Stone
Drums: Scott Rockenfield, Rob Thurman, Isaiah Schmidt
Saxes: Donny McCaslin, David DeJesus, Woody Mankowski
Trumpet: Carl Fischer, Mikie Martel
Flute: Sal Giorgianni
Hand percussion: Ruben de Ruiter
Spoken word: Gregory DelTufo, Suzanne DelTufo
Additional bass: Thor Oliverson
Additional vocals: Emily Rohm, Jessica Flood, Tim Cunningham, Woody Mankowski, Supa Manta
Like Shakespeare's Sonnets, these songs are the most personal and innermost expressions of Tobin Mueller. The listener is introduced to Tobin as poet and playwright as well as Tobin the musician and composer. Literally in his own voice, we are privy to his thoughts, feelings, and observations about life. The recordings intimately accentuate his clear and expressive voice. The order in which they are presented adds to the enjoyment. While his solo piano compositions may be the heart of his artistry, these songs articulate his emotions in ways that are close and revealing. Listening, you will get to know him like longtime friends do. An evocative and moving experience.”
- William Bletzinger, graduate of Carnegie Mellon and Yale Schools of Drama and director of Mueller's first play
written in 2000, recorded at my apartment in NYC;
remastered - feat. John Luper, Donny McCaslin (originally released on A Bit Of Light)
• YouTube Music Video
written in 2001 for a film score made entirely of tangos;
remastered - feat. Entcho Todorov (originally released on A Bit Of Light)
• YouTube Music Video
written in 2004 to jam with members of MacJams.com;
remastered - feat. Fran Dagostino, Bill Barner (originally released on A Bit Of Light)
• YouTube Music Video
written in 2006, lyrics by my wife, Suzanne DelTufo;
remastered - feat. Martyn Kember-Smith, Anton Mueller (longer version on A Bit Of Light)
• YouTube Music Video
written in 2003, dedicated to my brother-in-law;
previously unreleased - feat. Darren Chapman on guitar, Ron Carter on bass
• YouTube Music Video
“
Tobin Mueller makes albums with a lot of depth, forged of deftly wrought musical lines, albums with sonic intrigue and rewards garnered from numerous replays. Vocals is the album where the lyrical component adds one more layer to enjoy, and for reviewers like myself, one more level to explore in his already intricate and intriguing music. Soul searching, social commentary, intense personal experiences, music as redemption, singing as celebration, all explored brilliantly. A subtle and fluid conversation.
composed in 1975 under the title "Autumn Oh Autumn"; rewritten in 2001 following 9/11, dedicated to my daughter;
remastered (from September 11 Project)
The Players:
Tobin Mueller: vocals, acoustic piano, electric pianos, organs, accordian, nylon string guitar, harp, synths, basses, various percussion
Anton Mueller: backing vocals, acoustic guitar, mandolin
Mikie Martel: trumpet, flugelhorn, saxes
John Luper & Darren Chapman: electric guitar
John Selvia: electric fretless bass
Ruben de Ruiter: hand percussion
Ugo Rossi: drums
Featured sax: Donny McCaslin, Woody Mankowski
Featured clarinet: Bill Barner
Featured acoustic guitar: Michael Hedges
Featured violin: Entcho Todorov, Martyn Kember-Smith
Featured acoustic Bass: Ron Carter, Kenny Cash
Additional backing vocals: Johnny Gray
I was going to say that this album shows us another side to Tobin Mueller, but after reviewing his previous albums, that sentence hardly does him justice. His willingness, not to mention his deftness and talent, to rework and reinterpret other people’s music, as well as his own, and do so in a way that brings something new to the table, is brave and clever. We have seen how great he is at building layers of tone and texture, deftly interlocking sounds, and creating wonderfully ornate musical weaves. Now, we see how good he is with the opposite. With space, understatement and restraint.
But what I love about Tobin Mueller the most is his understanding that songs, especially his own, are journeys rather than destinations, and there is no way of knowing when or where that journey ends. Such an attitude means he is always ready and willing to add the next step to the story of a song. To have it pass through new sonic realms and unexpected genres, to have it change and evolve over the years. I wish more artists would be this adventurous, this adaptable and this un-precious about their music.”
"The Way You Look Tonight" by Jerome Kern / "The Nearness of You" by Hoagy Carmichael;
remastered - feat. Mike Nappi (original version on Standard Deviations)
remastered - feat. Woody Mankowski, Chris Mueller, Dane Richeson; from Tobin's musical Creature (originally released on What Survives)
• YouTube Music Video
remastered - feat. Woody Mankowski, Chris Mueller, Jeff Cox, Dane Richeson; from Tobin's musical Creature (originally released on Radio Edits)
• YouTube Music Video
Best of Tobin Mueller, Volumes 1-2 - First two volumes of his 5-volume compilation, presenting Mueller's best Contemporary Jazz, Funk, Fusion, Blues, more. A stunning collection featuring such greats as Ron Carter, Donny McCaslin, Paul Nelson, Dane Richeson, Scott Rockenfield 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.
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."
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.
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.
