Featuring: Michael Hedges, Scott Rockenfield, Bob Piper, Steve Stone, Aaron Paul, Mystified, The African Wêreld Choir, Audiocracy, Lennon Loveday, Shadow of Nine and more. Produced by Kenny Cash, Factory Underground Studio.
Following on the heels of his successful Jazz album Standard Deviations, Mueller has turned his virtuosic chops to Progressive Art Rock and Pop Fusion. WONDER is a tapestry of layered vocals, masterful guitar work, multiple keyboards and percussion. The instrumentals merge experimental electronica with full symphonic orchestrations and anthem pop. The music exemplifies both definitions of 'wonder'...
WONDER: 1) a feeling of astonishment mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar or inexplicable; 2) or, a feeling of doubt and uncertainty sparking curiosity.
Fusing the power of progressive rock with the nurturing affection of lullabies, WONDER is an "epic 28 track 2-volume tour de force. A breathtaking array of music." (Industry Top 100)
The album cycles between vocal pieces and instrumentals. This gives listeners a chance to contemplate, to daydream, to create an internal storyline before the next set of lyrics kicks in. Each disc contains an hour of music, but the variety of styles deployed makes the time fly.
Wonder and curiosity permeate the album. The cover-art is a portrait of Mueller's granddaughter, Laura, the daughter of Tobin's son Anton (a featured vocalist on the album). The back cover features Nora, daughter of Tobin's son Will (a doctorate in biology but also an excellent drummer).
What began as an homage to youthful emergence grew into much more. There is a political aspect to this music, tempered by innocence and thoughtfulness. Themes of independence are coupled with those of reliance and compassion. Awe expands into transcendence and redemption.
“
A masterpiece in the Epic Prog tradition.”
- Progressive Magazine
Progressive Rock evolved at the crossroads of rock, jazz and classical music, infusing rock with a new sense virtuosity. It is inherently complex, embodying the grandeur of opera, the intricacy of the Baroque, the power of heavy metal. Many prog-rock albums celebrate epic myths and conceptual narratives. Wonder follows in that tradition. It is expansive, experimental, enthusiastic and uplifting. The scope of this collection is invigorating, a testament to the best aspects of bewilderment and efflorescence.
WONDER is produced by Kenny Cash, Factory Underground Studios. Cash produced Mueller's previous albums Standard Deviations, Afterwords, Of Two Minds and Flow. Album art is by Tobin Mueller Mueller and John Shyloski.
“
A symphonic whirlwind of prog passion! Led by the massive keyboards of Tobin Mueller, the dense harmonies of vocalist Anton, contributions from the likes of Scott Rockenfield (Queensrÿche) and Grammy winning guitarist Michael Hedges, ‘WONDER’ is a true combination of energy and poetry. 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.”
- Brian Gerhart, The Progressive Ear
Note: The bonus tracks at the bottom of this webpage are not included on the CD. They are free to download.
Special thanks: Kenny Cash, Tom Stewart, Bill Bletzinger, Patrick Wayland, Marc Alan, Suzanne DelTufo, Anton Mueller and especially Tobin's granddkids Laura, Nora and Chase for their innocence and love.
MP3s and Liner Notes
Volume 1
• When The Future Comes
• Let The Rumpus Begin
• Rebellion is a Lullaby (to the boy inside)
• Rock The Baby
• Over The World (instrumental)
• Speak Truth To Power
• The Long Sleep
• Dare To Sing
• Ascent Of Wonder
• Gethsemane Revisited
• I Won’t Leave You (medley)
• I Won’t Leave you (instrumental)
Volume 2
• Before There Were Gods
• Pandora's Box
• Puzzle City
• Lilith's Lament
• Was There Once a Time
• Chaos is a Ladder
• Dreams (Awake to Me)
• Out of Toyland
• What Thou Lovest Well
• Merlin's Awakening
• Let Yourself Dream
• Lady of the Lake
• Pull Me Home
• What I Was Thinking While You Were Talking
• Loolay Lullaby
• God Bless America
Bonus Tracks
• Relentless Chaos of the Ocean
• Queen Crimson
• Charon's Requiem (alternative version)
• Out of the Forest (instrumental)
• Borate Zone (Please Eat)
• The Chimney Speech
• When You Awake to Me (alternative jazz version)
This impressionistic song of survival, emergence and immigration acts as a prologue. Newly arranged, edited and remastered (see Audiocracy: Revolution's Son), this fresh version features new piano additions by Tobin Mueller, along with organ, synths, backwards drum programming and additional vocals; acoustic guitar by Anton Mueller; electric guitars by Bob Piper; drums by Rob Thurman. "There are thousand, maybe millions now, coming over the hill. Past the wreckage of the dreams they've sown and will cherish still..."
Progressive rock instrumental collaboration with Vancouver B.C. duo Shadow of Nine, featuring Lennon Loveday on guitars. Tobin Mueller plays all keyboards. Celebrating play, the title is an homage to children's classic "Where The Wild Things Are".
Newly arranged, edited and remastered version of Revolution's Son from Audiocracy. Features lead vocals and bass by Anton Mueller; additional vocals, organ, synths, percussion by Tobin Mueller; guitars by Darren Chapman; drums by Rob Thurman. "Beyond every law of the Father is the tearing off of the label for the boy inside to realize the boy inside."
A collaboration between continents, Tobin Mueller's arrangement places The African Wêreld Choir in the center as he creates a multicultural new take on the lullaby. Features Tobin on piano, electric piano, organ, synths, percussion; Frank Dagostino on guitars.
This music was originally written a 1992 science fiction musical Mueller never completed, Dreamless. It was later adapted into a 14 minute scene from Mueller's Off Broadway show Creature (1996) under the title Over the World. Mueller's progressive rock band Audiocracy recorded a version for their concept album Revolution's Son retitling it Escaping The Fray Zone. This latest version features new piano additions by Tobin along with organ, synths, piano, percussion and adaptive guitar.
A hard rock revolutionary anthem. Features Anton Mueller (lead vocals, bass); Tobin Mueller (additional vocals, organ, synths); Darren Chapman (guitars); Rob Thurman (drums). "Gather like flowers all the promises of Eden once told. Speak truth to power and then just walk way."
Although titled like a lullaby, this music is actually a New Orleans funeral second line procession. Mueller explains, "When I was younger, I always considered falling asleep to be akin to death. It's only fitting that I write a lullaby that doubles as a funeral procession."
A post-Eden love song. Features: lead vocals, bass and acoustic guitar by Anton Mueller; additional vocals, organ, synths, percussion by Tobin Mueller; electric guitars by Tadashi Togawa. "Like a story with an ending you can write if you turn the ink to blood."
Composed and first recorded in 1992, this track was to provide background music to a science fiction musical Mueller never completed, Dreamless. He eventually adapted it for his 1996 Off Broadway rock opera Creature. It was originally titled Grave Robbing. The dramatic ending underscores the souls resurrecting before being combined into the body of the Creature). This version features Steve Stone (Dolby Labs) on guitars and drums. Mueller plays all keyboards and additional percussion.
A new arrangement of Gethsemane Again from Audiocracy: Revolution's Son, edited, remastered and renamed. Features Anton Mueller (lead vocals); Tobin Mueller (additional vocals, organ, synths, bass, drum programming). A personal interpretation of the most honest passage in the Bible, the moment God decides to remain silent and leaves his Son to decide for himself. "Time is running out on everything I thought was true and holy."
A dramatic lullaby anthem. This music first appeared as the finale from Mueller's Off Broadway show Creature in 1996 (the second half ot the medley). It was later adapted for his 2005 Off Broadway musical drama Runners In A Dream as quiet lullaby (the first section of medley). This new version combines the two, with new piano accompaniment. Vocalists in order of appearance: Michael Seelbach, Emily Rohm, Gail Goebel, Tobin Mueller, Tim Cunningham and Deb Fett. "What survives here will make sense of my life for you."
As stated above, this music first appeared as the finale from Mueller's Off Broadway show Creature. It was later adapted for his 2005 Off Broadway musical drama Runners In A Dream as quiet lullaby. This new arrangement is meant as a kind of concerto epilogue. Additional reinterpretations of this music can be found on Afterwords and Afterwords Bonus Tracks under the title One With Stars.
Mueller is one of the most versatile and eclectic artists out there. ‘Wonder’ is a gem! Raw power and haunting beauty in both the music and lyrics. A celebration of playing! Hauntingly beautiful and sweet as well. One of my 'Picks’ for 2019!”
A beautiful love song combining themes of timeless innocence, reincarnation, deep connection. A collaboration between Mueller and Grammy-winning guitarist Michael Hedges, remastered. Mueller transforms Hedge's haunting instrumental "Lenona" (1981), with the blessings of the Michael Hedge's Estate. Fretless bass is played by the new age pianist George Winston. "Before there were gods, before we knew the difference. Before there were lines that marked the land, you knew me. That’s what you said." (Adapted from a comment Tobin's wife Suzanne made to him 20 years ago.)
Another progressive rock instrumental collaboration with Vancouver B.C. duo Shadow of Nine, featuring Lennon Loveday on drums, guitars. Tobin Mueller plays all keyboards. The abrupt end indicates the moment Pandoar opens her fabled box...
An example of layered vocals combining progressive rock and dense jazz harmonies. Newly arranged, edited and remastered version from Audiocracy: Revolution's Son, features Bob Piper (guitars); Anton Mueller (lead vocals); Tobin Mueller (additional vocals, organ, synths); Scott Rockenfield (drums). "Falling angels beyond proofs, like confetti made of stars." This song follows "Pandora's Box" by design.
The residue of Pandora's Box continues in this Trent Reznor inspired experiment combining Industrial Rock, Jazz and Opera. First published under the title Charon's Requiem (see Bonus tracks below), this trancated version includes new additions by Tobin Mueller on acoustic and eletric pianos, in addition to his original glitchy synths, bass and drum programming. Features Alessandra Zwegler, vocalist.
This song was written after 9/11/2001 while Mueller was living in New York City. It was later adapted (altered lyrics) for his 2005 Off Broadway musical drama Runners In A Dream. The original version appears on for tribute album The September 11 Project: Ten Years Later released in 2011. This version, newly arranged, maintains the original lyrics. "Was there once a time when lives went on and on and on? And what we knew as love would somehow shield and conquer all?"
This piece combines two songs Mueller originally wrote for Merlyn, another musical he never finish. The opening organ prelude was originally title Vortigern's Fortress, referencing King Vortigern, the man who grabbed the British throne from Constantine, fathered Ambrosius Aurelianus and Uther Pendragon, grandfathered King Arthur. As a boy, Merlyn's vision helps save Vortigern's fortress and establishes Merlyn as a seer. This version pairs it with with Mueller's Escape from the Crystal Caves underscoring, when, in the story, a grown Merlyn escapes Vortigern's book burning decree and the destruction of the Crystal Cave library. The music's joyousness reflects Merlyn's secret desire to be free of his burdens, how he uses this chaos as a ladder to climb out of his confining life. (It is also an homage to Littlefinger's quote from Game of Thrones.)
A simple lullaby that doubles as a love song. This is one of Mueller's most successful songs, covered by several singers through the years. Originally composed for Mueller's 1996 Off Broadway musical Creature, it was later repurposed for Runners In A Dream. Emily Rohm's version appears on the Frankenspell Superstar soundtrack. Woody Mankowsky's jazz version appears on If I Could Live Long Enough. This bare-bones version is by Aaron Paul who played the character Amichai in Runners In A Dream. "Tobin Mueller has done it again, crafting an intimate ballad that floats and infiltrates like a dream. Simple yet inventive, it creates a moving narrative of care and hope, sure to touch every mother, father, grandparent and those who seek comfort in this world. Aaron Paul’s gorgeous tenor accentuates the elegance of this lullaby." (BlowYaSpeakers.com)
Based on several holiday tunes, including Toyland, Carol of the
Bells, She Moved Through the Fair and Auld Lang Syne, this was first released as a Bonus Track on Tobin Mueller's 2013 Christmas album, Midwinter Born. Jim Edwards plays guitars, Mueller plays all other instruments.
Composed in 1976 while Mueller was still in college, the title of this gentle waltz is inspired by Ezra Pounds' Cantos (written while he was imprisoned by the fascist dictatorship in Italy during WWII). This version incorporates backing vocals by the L.A. singer Joseph Gray. "So our hearts and our minds gather in treasures that our joy tells us is ours."
Mueller composed this piece for a friend's wedding processional back in 1994. He then arranged it for his unpublished musical Merlyn) and recorded it in 2004. All instruments are played by keyboard except the hand percussion which Mueller played and recorded by hand. This version includes acoustic piano additions, recorded in 2019 (as have all the piano additions on this album).
Written as a stream-of-conciousness lullaby for Mueller's 2005 Off Broadway musical, Runners In A Dream, he recorded a version of it for his 2013 release Hard Place To Find. This is a new arrangement. "There’s a vision inside you, that you are something more than what people see: Something holy."
Originally composed for Mueller's unfinished Celtic musical Merlyn, this arrangement features the vocalese of Mystified. Mueller discusses dreams that helped inspire the show in his memoir Book of Dreams, pages 44-50.
Mueller wrote the first version of this song in 1980, altering the lyrics and adding the bridge/coda in 2001. This is an all new arrangement adding fretless bass, strings and harp to the original nylon string guitar accompanimenmt. The prior arrangement appeared on Mueller's 2016 release If I Could Live Long Enough. "Let me fall past the notions of the world I know. Past it all. Past this soul. Where wordless senses start, let me reach out beyond the help of God, with no belief to hold, just this love I know."
The original version of this tune was forged as an experiment through the website MacJams.com in 2006. The late great guitarist Fran 'Ziti' Dagostino from Boston posted an acoustic guitar track. This track was then proccessed, flip, manipulated by 'Deputy Doofy' then passed along to Tobin Mueller. All keyboards are played by Mueller. This version is an edited remastering of the original. The original appeared on Mueller's 2014 release Come In Funky.
Composed in 1985, this song was written to Tobin's second son, William Francis Mueller (born 1984), father of Nora (who graces the back of the CD). It was first recorded for Mueller's 2007 album A Bit of Light. It is fitting to complete this collection with a lullaby written to the father of one of the grandchildren to which the album is dedicated. "The suppleness of brightening night will soothe and mend, and all the dreams I’ve spun to you will lend."
WONDER is the new progressive rock album by Tobin Mueller. This 28-track tour de force cycles between densely layered vocals and epic instrumentals, ballad anthems and lullabies, providing the listener an imaginative journey. Volume 1 is progressive rock at its finest, with jazz and rock opera influences. Volume 2 focus more on fusion pop ballads, but is full of surprise intensity as well. Neo-Prog meets Neo-Classical. A mind-bending, breathtaking array of music."
This track was edited and remastered to be on this album but will instead appear on Mueller's upcoming Best of Piano compilation, TOBIN MUELLER: Best Piano Solos.
Originally composed for Mueller's 1991 CenterStage musical Robin Hood (which ran Off Broadway from 1994-5 under the title Freedom's First Light), this new arrangement features Mueller on piano, backed by an orchestra in which he also plays every instrument. I did not make the cut for this album.
Taken from Mueller's 2005 Off Broadway musical, Runners In A Dream, this speech is recited by Aaron Paul (see "Dreams (Awake to Me" above) playing the character of Amichai. He is explaining the chimnneys to the young Ilse.
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.
Volume 1
