Michael Evan Moore’s Winter Solstice EP is a beautifully crafted tribute to the quiet grandeur of the longest night of the year. This collection of six compositions weaves a tapestry of introspection, hope, and the beauty of winter's stark stillness. As a listener, it's an emotional journey that bridges the intimate and the universal, resonating deeply with themes of renewal and human connection.
As someone born and raised in Iran, solstices have always held a special place in my heart. The spring solstice marks Nowruz, the Persian New Year, a time of renewal and celebration, while the winter solstice—known as Yalda for Persians—symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. The longest night of the year carries a rich emotional weight, signifying the turning point when days grow longer and hope returns. And listening to the first and title track of Moore’s EP “Winter Solstice” I couldn’t help noticing that all these feelings are also present in this piece.
“Solstice” is a piece that sets the tone with its introspective and uplifting melodies. It feels like a call to look inward while keeping an eye on the horizon—a perfect sonic representation of the turning point the solstice represents. The music carries an epic quality in its crescendos, a sense of new beginnings, and the hope for the upcoming spring.
The album continues with “Memories,” a deeply nostalgic piece that immediately drew me in. Its lullaby-like introduction gives way to a more complex emotional landscape, mirroring the way memories often unfold in our minds. Dedicated to Moore’s late grandmother, it carries a personal depth that shines through every note. This piece evokes the longing for the missing loved ones. Listening to “Memories” I was taken back to my late father and his stories during Yalda night family gatherings.
“Starlight” shifts the mood to something lighter and more ethereal. Its twinkling piano arpeggios are like stars dancing in the night sky, evoking the quiet wonder of a clear winter night. There’s something magical about the simplicity of this track—it captures the small, beautiful moments that make the dark seasons more bearable.
Then comes “Snowfall,” a solo piano piece that immediately brought to mind the work of Ludovico Einaudi. The delicate, flowing melody captures the stillness of falling snow and the quiet introspection that winter often brings. It’s sentimental without being heavy, offering warmth amidst the chill.
“Family” brings the focus to the connections that sustain us. With its soft and elegant simplicity, it serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing the people we share our lives with—especially during the long, reflective nights of winter.
The EP concludes with “Moonlight,” a stunning piece that feels like a culmination of the journey. The piano arpeggios accompanied by warm timber of the strings and interrupted by the velvety sound of flute have created a sentimental atmosphere. This piece has a sense of closure but also sparkes new thoughts, lingering long after the final note.
Through Winter Solstice, Michael Evan Moore has crafted a deeply emotional and evocative experience. Each piece tells its own story, but together they form a cohesive narrative of the longest night—a narrative that embraces both the quiet of winter and the promise of light returning.
As we approach the winter solstice on December 21st, this album is the perfect companion for reflection, whether you're staring at a starry sky, watching snow fall, or simply sitting by the fire.
For those interested, CDs and merch for Winter Solstice are available for purchase—perfect for gifting or keeping as a personal memento of this beautiful season. This is a way to connect with the turning tides of nature and with each other.
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