Search - Wayne Gratz :: Island Sanctuary

From Wind and Wire, Issue 12

Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 01/26/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is Wayne Gratz's first album of original material in three years, and it was definitely worth the wait! Many of Wayne's fans (myself included!) were dismayed by the string of cover albums that have come out over the past few years - had we lost one of the best pianist/composers out there? Never fear - I would call this Wayne Gratz's best album to date! A master of turning a simple musical phrase into a meaningful and poignant message, this gentle masterpiece was inspired by the beauty of Merritt Island in Florida, near Wayne's home outside of Orlando. The pieces are solo piano and small ensembles made up of guitar, cello, English horn, bass, French horn, and light percussion. The album works so well as a single entity that it's difficult to pick a favorite track. "This Is" is a lovely cello and piano piece with a slightly melancholy feel to it - perhaps inspired by the kind of beauty that brings a tear to the eye and a catch in the throat. "Stars Rising" has a sparkling but tender piano line with soft watercolor washes of cello - minimalist, but evocative. "Departure" closes the set on a more upbeat and joyous note, underscoring that this was indeed a wonderful experience. Other nature-inspired titles include "Hawk Above the Hammock', "Walking on Water", and "Sandpiper's Congregation". "Island Sanctuary" is soothing and uplifting from start to finish, and I highly recommend it! This is contemporary piano and Wayne Gratz at their best!"

This guy is good!

Robert | wichita, ks United States | 12/13/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you like new age piano,and you have never listened to Wayne Gratz, you havent heard the best! If you have heard him before, but not this album, get it! I dont particularly like his copycat pieces..ie.music of the night..etc. I like his original pieces. This album has an abundance of good songs.My favorite piece is Florida, but I like them all! Wonderful! (...) More!More!"

A Sandpiper's Congregation

Marc Ruby? | Warren, MI USA | 05/05/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"People who nose around my reviews know I have a soft spot for the acoustic genre usually mislabeled 'New Age.' I've always been at a loss as to what I should call it, but listenable is what it is. Wayne Gratz has established himself as a fine pianist with excellent skills as a composer/stylist. His playing is melodic, but complex, and some of his albums are on my regular playlist.



I don't want to admit how many times I've listened to Island Sanctuary, Gratz's 1999 album and easily one of his very best. It just keeps getting selected on my iPod. I usually listen to albums like this as one whole composition rather than a series of tracks and am less aware of transitions than I am of the state it puts me in and how pleased I am with the playing. This is such a case, although there is an underlying theme (Merritt Island in Florida, where Gratz makes his home), what's important is the music, and that commands attention.



This is an easy album to get lost in, whether I'm reading, working in the shop, or just listening. Theres a modicum of electronic enhancement, plus some appearances of small ensembles, but the overall effect is of an album of great piano work. If you want to know what Gratz is like at his best, get this album, go out on the porch, relax, and set a spell. You won't be disappointed."