Review Written by Victoria Scott & Staff
Merill Collins piano rendition of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” is lovely and captivating. The piano comes in strong with a dark and commanding bassline, as the melody slowly makes it's entrance.
Arpeggios and musical flourishes move the song forward during the familiar chorus as Merril's nimble fingers effortless play. The ever-engaging, dynamic composition is grand with musical surprises around every corner. Merrill is brillian in capturing both the dark and light elements of the song. The bold attacks in the bassline and fierce melodic section create a gorgeous tone.
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” is a classic Christmas song that reminds you of the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Improvisational sections add a jazzy vibe that take you away. It is the improvisation that truly makes this song stand out amongst other covers. It's refreshing to hear the melody stretch and grow into an enchanting presentation of melodies achieved by exploring the songs rhythmic and harmonic possibilities.
The song ends on the peaceful melody, the ring of a bell, and the deep bass lines walking out. Merill Collins takes a traditional Christmas song and gives it an unconventional and avant-garde style, which is her brilliant composition style. She is a composer who colors her music outside the lines creating vivid musical landscapes that mesmerize the ears.
About Merrill Collins
Merrill Collins started her indie label Spiraling Music Co. in 1983 and has since produced and performed many original works. Merrill loves co-creativity and has been working collaboratively with improvisational partners Laura Halladay and Maksim Velichkin since 2014.
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