James Cahall’s new album Coming Home is in many ways a homecoming. For the artist himself it is a realization of a dream to compose and release piano music, which he had to postpone for years. For the listener the homecoming aspect is all in the album’s atmosphere; the bright and positive melodies illustrate the happy feeling of a long-sought homecoming. Ask anyone, being away is great – but nothing is better than coming home!

James Cahall began playing piano at the age of five, and learned all the basic skills. During high school his interest for classical piano declined, but still his passion for composing music was always there – even though there were no pianos around. In the meantime he studied to become an aerospace engineer.  It was not before his father gave him an electronic piano as a wedding gift, James found the time to pursue his passion for music. This has so far resulted in two albums, The Day Before Tomorrow (2008) and Coming Home (2009).

On a solo piano album, variation is the key to success. Even though all songs on Coming Home are quite fast (which I guess is due to youthful energy – the artist being 27 years old). I feel that there is more than enough variation to keep one’s attention throughout the 58-minute long album. All songs are long, between 4-6 minutes, with a melodic focus. I must add that are a few slow parts too, like passages on the thoughtful title track.

The bright and positive melodies illustrate the happy feeling of a long-sought homecoming.

James Cahall is not, as mentioned above, a professional pianist – but this reviewer finds that he easily could have become one. On Coming Home he plays with the force and authority of a true master.  The recording quality is very good (as expected since it is recorded on an electronic piano). For the darker tones (like on The Passing Storm), a Steinway would have been great of course, but the album does not lack anything in terms of sound.   

The album starts with the song Shades of Autumn. It has just the right amount of melancholy for such a title. Autumn is not just the end of summer – but the beginning of something new too. The leaves have to fall off in favor of new growth.

My favorite track on the album is Pearl’s song. It is that type of melody that just captures the moment and makes it impossible to think sad thoughts.

I was also moved by Midnight Dancer. This song has a very nice build-up that truly shows James Cahall’s skills as a composer.

Coming Home is an impressive album from a young artist. This reviewer concurs:  James Cahall is now home. May this be a place of happiness and creativity in the years to come!  

Sample the album on CDBaby.

Make also sure to take a look at Jamescahall.com - where you get to know the artist.