George Winston has the unique ability to play bright, uplifting, yet stingingly melancholy piano, and Summer is one of the best examples of his fine work around. Somewhere between the ambient-style tone poems of Winter into Spring and the melodious charm of Autumn, Summer dances brightly, evoking images of relaxing under a tree or children playing in a field. Highlights are many and include Winston's "Lullaby," full of melody and lyrical tension; "Hummingbird," with its whirling repetitive structure, reflecting the vibrant dimension of nature during the summer season; and the fun, rambling "Corrina, Corrina." In short, this is another album of what Winston does best--underscoring the poetic moments of life through poignant, beautiful music. --Karen Karleski
