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Bob Dahl was born in International Falls, Minnesota, the coldest place in the United States with an average annual temperature of 36.4 degrees (F). Think about it. That's the AVERAGE annual temperature.

Fortunately for him and for us, Dahl was able to put the frigid weather behind him to tackle a different cool topic--new age music for the holidays. His Star of Night: A Christmas Collection is an intensely shiny and creative point of light in a sky filled with instrumental piano music. Although his album is a bit short (just over 35 minutes), his gentle treatments of ten holiday favorites are sure to please. Dahl's touch is easy and emotive, and the music flows like the mighty Mississippi through Minnesota (oh, I know that Dahl now resides in Oregon, but I live in Minnesota, and I just couldn't resist the analogy).

The songs are ancient carols, including some personal favorites such as "Coventry Carol" and "We Three Kings." The performances are all about Dahl, his piano, and his synthesizer--except for two cuts (1 & 6); for these, he pulls on board some talented friends (Dave Captein, Jason Carter, and Tom Nunes). Everything works well, and "Coventry Carol" is especially impressive.

For those who favor new age stylings on an instrumental piano album for the holidays, Bob Dahl's Star of Night could be a brilliant choice. Shine on, Bob Dahl, shine on.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2005)

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From the liner notes:

Bob Dahl: Piano, Synthesizer
Dave Captein: Upright Bass (1)
Jason Carter: Drums, Percussion (1,6)
Tom Nunes: Electric Bass (6)

Recorded at Dave Lee Electronic Garage Productions Studio
Tracking Engineer: Dave Lee

From the Web site:

Bob was born in International Falls, Minnesota in 1964. His family moved to Oregon in 1966 and he has resided in the area most of his life. He is the youngest of seven siblings.

Bob began composing on the piano as a child. He is self taught and his style bears his own signature. His original compositions are unique, as are his interpretive arrangements of familiar pieces. Whether performing Gershwin, Brubeck, or Elton John, Bob adds his own flair and has truly been well received by his listeners. His first paid performance was in 1987 when he provided background music at a professor's luncheon at Western Oregon State College, also Bob's Alma Mater. His first pursuits as a career in music began in 1994 in Salem Oregon. He has performed concerts on a stage, but has also played coffee houses, restaurants and such venues as these.

Bob Dahl

Star of Night: A Christmas Collection

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Track List