Photos: Ludovico Einaudi Live on KCRW

KCRW DJ Chris Douridas introduced Ludovico Einaudi as one of the few composers in the jazz/classical world pushing those genres forward, saying he is an incredibly creative artist at the top if his form.

The Italian pianist brought a fantastic ensemble of musicians to Apogee Studio to perform songs from his latest album “In a Time Lapse” in front of a live audience.

This kind of music may not be my specialty but it was notable to me that the piano wasn’t always the central focus of these compositions. On some of the early songs in the set, the acoustic guitar seemed to drive the sound. But throughout the entire set Ludovico led the group through waves of playing that was, at times, delicate and others intense, always beautiful.

Ludovico was inspired by Henry David Thoreau in the making of this new album, as well as the idea that we all have such busy lives, we rarely take a moment to appreciate our surroundings. His track “Life” had a furious pace that echoed that sentiment, one I personally feel all the time.

What was so wonderful is that everyone in the room united to enjoy THIS moment of music together. His manager walked by towards the end of his set and joked “is everyone zen-ed out yet?” But we all were. Everyone was glowing as they walked out of the room.

As I was listening, I started reflecting on my day, then memories would flood in, and then I found myself daydreaming — for from worrying about my everyday existence and responsibilities.

Bob Clearmountain engineered the session and you’ll be able to hear it on Morning Becomes Eclecticon June 14.If you can’t wait, he plays tonight, May 31, at the John Anson Ford theater.

Ludovico Einaudi Live on KCRW Set List

Experience

Underwood

Brothers

Orbits

Newton’s Cradle

Fly

Tower

by Larry Hirshowitz