Steve Markoff, Patricia Lazzara, Allison Brewster Franzetti release “Liama”

After recording their debut album in 2019, the flutist duo Steve Markoff and Patricia Lazzara have released the first single, “Liama from their anticipated sophomore album, Romances in Blue. The album will be from the pair’s own label, Lazzarkoff Productions. “Liama” is a soothing, emotional instrumental journey perfect for listener’s seeking solace and comfort during uncertain times.

“Liama” is equally important during stable times, joyous times.

Joining Markoff and Lazzara on the sojourn is Grammy-nominated pianist Allison Brewster Franzetti. The piano work – unlike Franzetti’s Latin Grammy nods – in “Liam” is not Latin-fused. I didn’t get that sense. When the trio collaborate on “Liama” the mood is light, nearly feathery. Broad stroke, the piano is a calming music bed. The flute hovers over the piano. The pairing of these sounds creates a natural rhythm.

URL: https://www.lazzarkoff.com/

So much of this song reminds me of spring time – new beginnings and new possibilities. In the beginning of the song, there’s this humble feeling. The piano and the flute are modest, not boastful. Just over halfway, the flute speeds up, as does the piano. It’s a five-minute song, and this moment feels like the point where if it were a time lapse video, it would be the part where the tulip bulb starts to bloom. Closing my eyes, the shapes and colors emitting from “Liama” are natural. Pastels, rainbows, lots of greens and blues collide all-at-once. It’s not the same mesmerizing sound as The Beatles’ “Across The Universe”, but it’s just as awe inspiring.

The flute doesn’t sound like a forceful wind in this naturalistic setting. It sounds more encouraging and it’s singing its way through a beautiful flower bed that is the piano. It’s like they are flirting with each other…each smiling and smirking their way through a lovely outing. I could see this song as the score to a Shakespearian play.

As aforementioned, it would have been nice to hear some of the Latin-influenced piano in this piece, but I do understand why. I was so ready to embrace the cha-cha-cha or the bossa nova.

The tempo and the mood didn’t call for that flavorful sound. After a few listens I began to realize that the real spice to this song really is the grouping of Markoff’s alto flute and Lazzara’s concert flute. Franzetti’s piano is the icing the cake in this multi-layer dessert. “Liama” is a graceful song with a satisfying feeling. At its end, it feels like the listen has nourished any unsettled feelings – one can’t help but be in a great mood.

AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Liama/dp/B0842XHD5W

Fans of Jim Brickman, John Tesh, Enya and of course classical music will find “Liama” a welcomed addition to their Spotify playlists or musical library. This isn’t a song to just put on the background – it’s highly engaging and well worth the five minute listen. New fans of Markoff and Lazzara will have to wait just a bit longer for Romances in Blue to be released. Until then the duo’s 2019 Timeless—Hits Of Love And Hope From Pop, Rock & Soft Rock is available.

Michael Rand

The music of STEVE MARKOFF and PATRICIA LAZZARA has been heard all over the world in partnership with the radio plugging services offered by Musik and Film Radio Promotions Division.  Learn more https://musikandfilm.com