Parjam Parsi “In Decadence and Disarray”

Armenian pianist and composer Parjam Parsi shares his piano work in the album, In Decadence and Disarray. The album tells the story about the composer’s mother, her world, and their relationship. As atmospheric as it is passionate with storytelling, the album draws listeners into a sensitive, impressionistic sonic world with warmth.

Hearing all the sounds while Parjam Parsi plays the piano is such a powerful and intimate experience. You could hear when the paddles are being pressed down, the weight of his fingers on the keys, his breathing, the sound residuals flowing in the air, the resonance of the space, etc. It draws you into the room, the emotional space, the spiritual space, and even the physical space where it’s being recorded. That’s one thing about this record really stands out.

“One October Day” is a haunting ballad with impressive sonic storytelling. The track gives out a clock-clicking sort of pacing rhythm, while it lays out the story. “The Water and The Blood” explores a strong classical influence with arpeggio dominated accompaniments. Instead of creating a separated melody, the right hand seems to join in the telling of a textural, impressionistic scene. The track feels keen to capture a moment in the daily life that seems ordinary at sight but precious at heart. There’s a lot of warmth and sunshine in the track.

“The Entwined Bodies” drops into the lower register of the piano with a strong Debussy vibe. It’s impressionistic with a water symbol in there somewhere. The melodies are sparse and expressive, full of emotions. “May Wear My Silence” feels like a monologue, emotive, nostalgic, reflective. The mind lingers on a melody, not willing to leave. History and memory is being intertwined in there. From Debussy’s impressionistic, fantastic sonics, the last two tracks continue to evolve. “All Souls” concludes the album with broad compassion and a speck of melancholia.