Now that we’re over halfway through 2025, I figured it was time to post some sort of update on this site, even if it is merely an “I’m still here and still cracking on” type post. This year has been generally busy (certainly moreso than I was expecting) but I’ve had some time to work on some new solo piano music which I am hoping to share sooner rather than later. There’s a new concept linking the pieces together which I’ve found to be a source of inspiration, energy and creative freedom. Although there are currently other projects to juggle, I’m trying to keep that momentum going with some time at the piano every day.
Jacob De Berker: Songbooks
Back in May I came to the end of a large transcription project which I’ve been working on for just over 18 months. I worked with artist Joy De Berker on a set of piano and guitar transcriptions of songs by her late son Jacob, who tragically died of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death by Epilepsy) in 2021, shortly after turning 37. Jacob was a talented guitarist, singer and songwriter who I once played on the same bill as in an early Sandtimer gig. I was so moved by his performance at the time and, following on from that I periodically kept up to date with his new music, eventually finding out the sad news of his passing via a comment under one of his YouTube videos. Working to consolidate someone’s life work and legacy has been a responsibility and a privilege. Read more about Jacob De Berker via this article or listen to the latest posthumous EP here: https://album.link/gb/i/1812444440. If you are interested in one of the three songbooks that has been privately published, please email me and I will relay the request onto Joy.
Zohran Mamdani – TV advert
I am not a specialist in US politics but- let’s face it- US politics crowds itself into every avenue, every place and it’s hard not to end up knowing most of what’s going on there by osmosis. I make no secret of my intense despair at, and dislike of, Donald Trump and the vituperative, ghoulish movement he spearheads. Perhaps a little punch-drunk, the Democrats have been offering very little beyond platitudes since his victory. So when I saw that a track by me and Giles Thomas (‘Determination Drive’, released via Bibliotheque Music) was being used in a campaign advert on TV by Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City Zohran Mamdani, I was honoured. Mamdani actually talks about bold policies and seems genuinely optimistic and hopeful for the future. Earnest discussion about ‘what politicians can learn from Mamdani’ has centred on his viral TikToks and ‘authenticity’ but give little consideration to the possibility that people actually like his proposals. Additionally, in an era of establishment silence, hand-wringing or, often, outright enthusiasm on the subject of Israel’s ongoing expansionism, bombardment of Gaza and assault on the West Bank, Zohran Mamdani is also speaking out against the despicable, deadly onslaught without convoluted, overwrought caveats. This is brave and commendable.
The below advert ran in his campaign to become Democratic nominee for Mayor. It’s the first time my music’s appeared on a TV advert, and I’m glad this was the one.
There are other things to update and other topics I’m keen to blog about over the summer. I’ll write again soon.