Pianist Mario Dueñas Aims For Spiritual Transcendence on New Album
The piano playing of Mario Dueñas aims for greater heights; more specifically, Dueñas is communicating with God with his music. Unaccompanied, the setting is personal and intimate; each of Dueñas’ performances echo the spiritual yearnings of his heart. Every composition is like a chapter in a book, a collection of Dueñas’ Beliefs.
At times, Dueñas’ avant-garde experimentalism crosses over into New Age. His use of electronic keyboards gives the album a synthetic feel that is nevertheless warm to the touch. Much of this has a visionary outlook. “Part IV: Love” is certainly a soothing beauty but it’s transcendent, too, as if Dueñas is reaching for the heavens above. The “Love” that Dueñas is speaking of here without words is not romantic fulfillment; this is not a sentimental ballad. Rather, it’s a higher love, a need to feel the warm embrace of God.
Slow, atmospheric tracks are abound but “Part II: Other Minds” accelerates the tempo. The melodies here generate sparks. Similarly, “Part IV: Free Will” is as jubilant and energized as its title suggests. From beginning to end, Dueñas allows us to experience the deepest recesses of his soul, and we are fully enriched by it all.
Website: http://marioduenasmusic.com