Call of Love

In 2009, the multiple Grammy-nominated pianist/composer — one of the core artists in the genre formerly known as new age — teamed with acoustic guitarist Dominic Miller for an exquisite duet project In a Dream. On this, his next non-holiday release, he keeps the flow going with Miller while inviting two more amazing veteran musicians — Paul McCandless (oboe, soprano sax, penny whistles) and Jacques Morelenbaum (cello) to the mix — creating a beautifully haunting, wonderfully textured classical pop affair. This is hypnotic ensemble work at its most heartfelt and haunting, but it all begins with Kater's solo piano passage on the title track. Slowly and tenderly, the other musicians enter the fold, as McCandless and Morelenbaum duet alternately with the pianist. "Breath of Life" starts out with Kater in a classical mode with subtle enhancements by Miller and McCandless. Kater and McCandless join in truly rapturous tandem on the soaring "Everlasting Waltz." Kater's graceful touch has always been balanced with lighter pop sensibilities, which come to light here on tracks like the joyful "Song of My Heart." Miller's longtime connection to Sting is honored with a lovely piano/guitar duet on "Fields of Gold." Kater has always been a great ensemble player when he's not doing his solo piano work. Nearly 30 years after his debut recording, Call of Love proves he's still at the top of his compositional and romantic game.