Swedish composer Carl Liungman returns with ‘Change,’ an album that beautifully blends classical piano virtuosity with the introspective serenity of New Age music. This nine-track collection offers deeply personal reflections on themes of loss, transformation, and hope, presented through solo piano pieces that are both tender and evocative. Recorded live on a Steinway grand piano at Malmö Art Museum, ‘Change’ is a raw and poignant journey that reveals Liungman’s emotional depth as an artist.
Known for his ability to express powerful emotions through his compositions, Liungman uses ‘Change’ to explore the profound impact of watching his aging parents fade away while also reflecting on the wider societal changes and turmoil in our world. Despite the sorrow that permeates many of the pieces, there is also a distinct sense of hope and love, making the album a well-rounded emotional experience.
The bright, crystalline sound of the Steinway piano is perfectly suited for these compositions, providing clarity and warmth. In contrast to the energetic vibe of his debut album ‘Born’ (2020), which was recorded on a Fazioli grand piano in ABBA co-founder Benny Andersson’s Stockholm studio, ‘Change’ takes on a more contemplative tone. Producer Carl Granberg brings this live performance to life with an intimate, concert-like atmosphere that allows the listener to feel as though they are right there with Liungman, experiencing each note as it unfolds.
From the opening notes to the final piece, ‘Change’ is filled with moments of profound beauty. The subtle shifts in mood across the album’s nine tracks reflect both personal and universal struggles, yet Liungman never lingers too long in the darkness. Instead, he offers glimpses of light, portraying the inevitability of change as both a source of pain and a pathway to new beginnings.
Liungman’s classical training shines through in every composition, but his ability to weave jazz, chamber, and even pop elements into his work adds a unique layer of versatility. Over the years, he has composed for theatre, films, and art exhibitions, and these experiences enrich his solo piano work, giving it a cinematic, narrative quality.
Ultimately, ‘Change’ is a testament to Liungman’s gift for storytelling through music. It is an album that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys of loss and renewal, while offering solace through its elegant, heartfelt compositions. Whether you’re a fan of classical music, New Age soundscapes, or simply appreciate piano mastery, ‘Change’ is a must-listen.
