Blending a progressive rock sensibility with intricate percussion and an undeniable choral majesty, the latest from Tom Sharpe is a symphony of world music — truly a breath of “
fresh aire.”
Through his longtime work with the platinum-selling New Age ensemble Mannheim Steamroller and iconic former Styx frontman Dennis DeYoung, Tom Sharpe has earned an impeccable reputation over the years as an in-demand multi-instrumentalist and composer. In 2002, his debut solo record, Like Setting Myself on Fire, met with considerable critical acclaim. And in 2014, the award-winning Chicago-based musician returns with his sophomore effort.
“Music to me is pure passion and emotion.”
–Tom Sharpe
Produced by Bryan Robb, Lifting the World is “lifting,” indeed. Throughout the record, Sharpe’s intricate drum and percussion work is at times reminiscent of Bill Bruford’s with King Crimson — major bonus points, for sure. Additionally, his piano and keyboard performances and arrangements are equally superb. Violinist Jennifer Page and cellist Amanda Nelson are also due huge kudos for their amazing and often chilling contributions — BRAVO!
Of its many highlights, certain selections pop out consistently with each listen. Possessing a distinctive tribal vibe, “World Speak” is an all-drum and percussion composition and makes for a perfect opening track.
“It seems that Lifting the World is reaching listeners
right at their hearts, which is great to hear.”
–Tom Sharpe
“Lifting the World Pt. I” is a compelling eight-minute opus. The powerful drum work combined with mighty orchestral and choral arrangements makes for one of the record’s most impressive highlights. In fact, I’ve personally chosen this particular composition as the official intro track for
my own band’s upcoming 30th anniversary concert run.
Clocking in at seven minutes, “Three Stories” is a majestic aural roller coaster ride. The track opens with a delicate string and piano section, then transports listeners briefly to the Orient— only to build suddenly to a crashing orchestral crescendo. Then, with one’s blood pumping and heart racing, Sharpe delivers the listener gently back to the beginning — amid an equally delicate piano outro.
Another of the record’s brightest high- lights, “The Cathedral Is Where You Are” delivers a brilliantly tear-jerking string intro that segues seamlessly into lush orchestration, peppered with epic
Enigma-style vocals.Organic, emotional and captivating,
Lifting the World serves as a beautiful and engaging personal soundtrack to the listener’s own private movie.
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