By: Joshua Finley
Composer-pianist Dan Kennedy has released his tenth album, ASCEND TO ADONLEIGH (Mt. Pollux Music, 2024), marking a bold evolution in his musical journey. Known for his work as a conservatory-trained solo pianist, Kennedy’s latest release represents a radical departure from his traditional sound. Kennedy has crafted an innovative and genre-defying project by blending his signature Yamaha C6 concert grand piano performance with pulsating electronic beats, programmed drums, bass, and synths.
This new EP has already made waves in the instrumental music scene, climbing to #3 on the New Age Notes Radio Chart and securing rotations on notable programs such as Kelly Sapergia’s Northern Lights, One World Music, and Mike Thurnell’s Songs from a Quiet Place. With ASCEND TO ADONLEIGH, Kennedy reimagines his artistry, creating music that is at once healing and high-energy. Fellow composer Doug Hammer described it as a “techno dreamscape.”
A Bold Leap into the Unknown
Dan Kennedy has long been recognized for his soothing piano compositions that exude a soothing quality. His work has been featured on multiple platforms, including SiriusXM, Music Choice, and Spotify. However, ASCEND TO ADONLEIGH stands apart, showcasing Kennedy’s willingness to challenge expectations. The four-track EP combines the rich acoustics of a Yamaha C6 concert grand piano with layers of electronic instrumentation, offering listeners a fusion of classical, contemporary, and electronic influences.
Kennedy describes the album as “a futuristic use of pulsing beats, direct expression, plus a healing vibe,” a sentiment echoed in the work’s evocative, otherworldly soundscape. Each track encapsulates a journey into the imaginative, with the piano leading a charge through a dynamic interplay of rhythm and melody.
Photo Courtesy: Dan Kennedy
The Artist Behind the Music
A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory and the New England Conservatory of Music, Dan Kennedy brings a level of technical mastery and emotional depth that sets him apart from many instrumental artists. With performances spanning 21 states, Québec, and thousands of internet plays, Kennedy has solidified his reputation as a composer-pianist with universal appeal.
Kennedy’s accolades include winning a 2022 Global Music Award, a 2022 Native American Music Award, and the Enlightened Piano Radio Album of the Year in 2019. These achievements highlight his dedication to musical excellence and his ability to connect deeply with audiences. His collaborative history is equally impressive, having worked with luminaries such as Charles Neville, T-Bone Wolk, and Will Ackerman.
Photo Courtesy: Dan Kennedy
Reception and Critical Acclaim
ASCEND TO ADONLEIGH has been met with enthusiastic critical praise. Doug Hammer commends the album’s blend of innovation and artistry, noting, “Dan creates a techno dreamscape with pulsing synths and an enticing groove. The piano joins in the fun, leading the way to Adonleigh.” The platform Aural Awakenings highlights Kennedy’s musical agility, remarking, “Kennedy moves through a colorful range of chords with effortless ease.”
The EP’s approach has also resonated with radio hosts and fans alike, who praise its ability to offer both soothing and energizing experiences.
A New Chapter for Dan Kennedy
This album underscores Kennedy’s versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories. While his past recordings have showcased the traditional beauty of solo piano, ASCEND TO ADONLEIGH introduces listeners to a bold, modern sound that incorporates both acoustic and electronic worlds.
The music reflects a growing trend among instrumentalists to push genre boundaries and adapt to evolving listener preferences. For Kennedy, this shift represents an opportunity to reach broader audiences without losing the core of his artistry.
Available Now
ASCEND TO ADONLEIGH is available for streaming on Spotify and other platforms. Fans can also explore Kennedy’s extensive discography through his official website and social media channels.
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Published by Stephanie M.
