Ludovico Einaudi (composer/piano) Divenire

Sometimes dubbed a "minimalist" for his simple elegance and openness of expression, the bestselling Italian contemporary classical composer and pianist mixes eloquent solo piano pieces like the graceful, reflective "Monday," dramatic, film score-flavored compositions recorded with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (the moody title track, a sweeping and soaring &"Primavera"), and other tracks, swirling his piano with such quirky effects as loops, cello improvisation and overdubs, and reverse piano loops. Beyond those, one of his most striking compositions is "Fly," which builds an orchestral intensity on par with "A Day in the Life" and adds the touch of electric guitars to a spacy, liquid landscape. His masterful, multifaceted texturing skills make this thought-provoking, breathtaking in spots disc effective as a hypnotic, new age pop type listen perfect for meditation as well as an extension of his actual film score work. ~ Jonathan Widran

• Format: Vinyl
• Genre: Classical