‘Phraxia’ is the third album by Nick Pike, and the follow up to ‘Norastoria’ and ‘Evergreen’. It continues the style of classical piano mixed with light, almost ambient electronic flourishes to create a soothing and expressive sound. Compared to these earlier releases, ‘Phraxia’ takes things a step further into new emotional territory with Pike’s solo piano work, and light synth-led instrumental arrangements. The opening track sets the tone immediately, offering a poised and chilled album for those who like their music with a little bit of feeling. Warm, focused and deeply personal, this is a collection of music that doesn’t ask to be deconstructed to be enjoyed.
“Whispertide”, one of the pre-released singles, opens the album on a smooth and dreamy note. Piano leads, but the track is slowly built around billowing synth lines that weave in and out and ebb and swell. A light, floating quality without any sense of urgency, it evokes motion while never hurrying along. “Für Beethoven” follows and is a playful rearrangement and reimagining of Für Elise. There are familiar melodies and ideas at play here, but they have been completely reworked into something new. Pike plays with the motifs here in a way that is in dialogue with the original material, but the expression is distinct and more modern. “Abaluna”, the other pre-released single, returns things to a calmer place, and perhaps even more into the atmosphere than the previous tracks. It’s low key and steady and commands a subtle attention with a gentle presence and slow-moving changes.
The remaining tracks on ‘Phraxia’ follow a similar current, continuing the interesting fusion of classical and contemporary. The songs tend to drift from more bombastic to more sparse and introspective, and the moods vary across the collection, but all feel connected by Pike’s expressive and direct voice on the piano. The album flows beautifully, and there’s never any sense that this might spiral out of control. A beautiful collection that you can work to, or read to, or just float away on. This is music that won’t scream to be heard, but will earn that attention over time.
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