There is absolutely no doubt about it; David J Pena and his music are, simply put, becoming better, richer and deeper as the years unfold. Perhaps this is in part to the vastly different perspective on life we gain as we mature, or simply like a good wine, his talent has matured over the years. Whatever the reason may be, this latest album The Journey from Pena is gorgeous, carrying with it a wide audience appeal and as each track tells a very relatable story, the album is totally enjoyable from beginning to end.
“This is an exquisite track from the album” … Jacquie Walker
Whatever the reason may be, this latest album The Journey from Pena is gorgeous, carrying with it a wide audience appeal and as each track tells a very relatable story, the album is totally enjoyable from beginning to end.
The sienna shades of The Journey cover show a GI walking down a long road towards a cloud-filled sky, which at first glance makes you wonder about the contents of the album to come; where does the image fit in, and what is the significance? Listen carefully to The Journey, immerse yourself in the sound, and paint your own picture of strength, joy, sorrow and reflection as a soldier begins the long, long, journey back.
Commencing with the very upbeat The Sun Will Rise Again it is the perfect piece to lift the spirits and tantalises for what is to follow, namely the catchy Kaleidoscope which bounces off the keys with a distinct attitude, filled out nicely with a rich orchestral background.
Pena lets go with the fabulously up-tempo Good Feeling which will have the feet tapping and the body swinging to the beat in the first few bars. Full of life, rhythm and pulsating sound make this the stand-out track of the album, at least for me. By the end of the piece, a feeling of absolute enjoyment is left in its wake.
In complete contrast to the previous track, the dreamy Stargazing catches Pena in a romantic mood, as once again, a rich orchestral background blends seamlessly with the notes of the piano. A beautiful piece that is gentle yet robust, offering time to simply be in the moment, to enjoy the beauty of the night sky; to simply dream.
Breakout draws a wonderful album to a close with a rich, sweeping, powerful orchestral body of sound, with a distinctive drum beat and some serious guitar riffs, that create so many different images in the mind. Escape, change, excitement, fresh frontiers and new beginnings. An unusual choice for a final piece but one that is once again full of life and vitality and concludes a wonderful album in a very flamboyant style.
The Journey is a beautiful album that in many ways depicts the life journey we all undertake.
Website https://davidjpena.com/
Distributor David J Pena/ Spotify
Released January 2023
Running Time 41m3secs
Artists David J Pena
Review By Janet Mawdesley March 9, 2023
