Peter Calandra’s “The Gambit” is Dedicated to the Artists That Inspired Him

Peter Calandra is a prolific composer and keyboard player whose solo albums are wonderfully diverse, spanning world music, jazz, contemporary jazz, new age, pop, and neo-classical. The thread throughout his music is the lyrical expressiveness of the compositions and purity and purposefulness of the musicianship. Three of his recent albums of original music — First Light (2015), The Road Home (2017) and Carpe Noctem (2018) were nominated for ZMR Awards.

His newest single, “The Gambit” is is a beautiful tribute to the late Keith Jarrett and his influential solo piano albums Lausanne-Bremen and the Koln Concerts. As we get older musicians we admire leave us. When Peter was a developing musician, there were a handful of pianists who came to prominence in the late 1950’s-1960’s that were inspirational, influential, and whose music has been a constant companion throughout his life.

Calandra’s emotional connection to the music of Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and Keith Jarrett is apparent in the lyrical expressiveness of his compositions and the purposeful musicianship.

“The music these people created not only taught me but the stories and feelings that their music evoked were there to help me through turbulent times. Almost as a salve to the uncertainty of being a lost teenager and being a companion as I grew into an accomplished musician,” shares Peter.

Connect with Peter Calandra via:

Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / Spotify / Soundcloud

Josiah Mann Releases Debut Album ‘Grace’

Josiah Mann
Ford Photographs – Nashville Architectural Photographer

Josiah Mann’s debut album, Grace, is an indie pop and adult contemporary concept album that tells a love story from beginning to end. The album has been in the making for 15 years, and it shows in the carefully crafted songs and emotional journey portrayed through the music.

From the upbeat and passionate “Angel” to the heartbreaking “Rainy Day,” Josiah Mann’s vocals and piano work capture the emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey. The sound is reminiscent of Snow Patrol and John Mayer, blending electric guitar and piano riffs with driving percussion and soulful lyrics.

What sets Grace apart is the accompanying mini-film consisting of 10 music videos that bring the album’s narrative to life. Each video corresponds to a track on the album, showcasing the highs and lows of the relationship as well as the protagonist’s emotional journey.

The album’s story has a happy ending, with Josiah Mann himself having found love and support for his artistic goals. “This has never been about getting famous, it’s been about translating and expressing what is in my heart in the sincerest way I can,” he says.

Grace is a well-crafted album that takes the listener on a journey of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. It’s a promising debut for Josiah Mann, and one that is sure to resonate with fans of indie pop and adult contemporary music.

Connect with Josiah Mann

Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / TikTok / Spotify / Soundcloud