Friday, April 24, Ton Scherpenzeel was appointed Ridder in de Orde van Oranje-Nassau (Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau). In a few years time, this musical jack-of-all-trades will be celebrating 50 years in the business as a composer, lyricist and keyboardist. He is best known for the prog rock band Kayak (which he co-founded). He was also the keyboardist for Camel (UK) and Earth and Fire (NL). On ‘A Fleeting Light’, his latest album, ‘only’ Tom’s virtuoso piano playing can be heard. ‘A Fleeting Light’ and ‘Chasing the Wind’ are improvisations. The three other tracks are new, ‘basic’ versions of previously released Kayak songs.
The opening of ‘A Fleeting Light’ is serene. In no time at all, the music feels relaxing, yet at the same time it provides energy, much like the feeling nature gives you. Most changes in the music are gradual, yet there is more than enough variation in tempo and volume. In addition, there are a number of shifts in atmosphere; one section is melancholic, while moments later the music sounds cheerful. The contrasts between heavier, more frivolous and light piano playing alternate subtly. The sound quality is excellent, allowing these variations to come into their own. Occasionally there is a slight acceleration, evoking the feeling of a small but fast-flowing brook, followed by calm once more. These changes complement one another; they do not ‘compete’ with one another at all. This is music to drift away with, or to listen to intently.
It regularly touches me, even when just a single note is played. This opening track remains largely calm. Yet this 38-minute epic is captivating; the build-up to the end is beautiful. It’s incredible that someone can improvise like this.
After a brief silence, ‘Ayre’ follows; this connects well with the title track. The same goes for ‘Irene’ – these stripped-back versions are obviously different, but certainly worth a listen! Ton manages to maintain that relaxed feeling right through to the final two tracks.
Just one instrument, played with virtuosity; you can regularly hear the strings resonate. Allow yourself the time to be in your own bubble for a while and clear your mind. Sometimes you just need that. Whether you’re listening through headphones or via the speakers… whether you’re daydreaming or prefer to listen intently, it’s all possible. ‘A Fleeting Light’ is an album to take your time with, and do absolutely nothing else.
(8/10) (OOB Records)
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Tracklist:
01 – A fleeting light – (38:05)

02 – Ayre – 3:57)

03 – Chasing the wind – (1:47)

04 – irene – (3:38)

05 – Lost blue of chartres – (2:55)47)