I am very excited to discover, and in return introduce you to Stephan Moccio, who has been recently signed to Decca Records. From the biography of this Grammy and Academy Award-nominated composer, it’s easy to get lost in the list of credits and accolades, which include co-writing Celine Dion‘s hit “A New Day Has Come” as well as Miley Cyrus‘ single “Wrecking Ball” and Avil Levigne‘s “Head Above Water”. And yet, Moccio himself doesn’t boast a catalogue of solo releases. And wait a second… Are you reading the same Headphone Commute that mostly talks about instrumental, modern classical and ambient music, or did it just go ‘pop’ all of a sudden? Before you make up your mind, take a listen to this single from Moccio’s upcoming album, Tales of Solace, and hear why his soft, nostalgic, and intimate solo piano pieces are a perfect fit for everything that’s praised. And for that, I’ve got this exclusive trailer for you!
‘Le Temps Qui Passe’ means ‘time passing’ in French. And we are often reminded that time stands still for no man. We should not take for granted our time alive to make a difference in this world… to not hesitate living life to the fullest. If nothing seems to ever change, we only have ourselves to blame.
–Stephan Moccio
Over the course of 16 piano vignettes on the full album, Moccio explores the quiet side of the beloved instrument, tenderly touching the keys which softly brush the strings with hammers. These are the sounds for introspection, stillness and serenity. Each fragile melody is fluttering across the faded space that occupies your memory and landing on a moment lost in time. Suddenly each charming theme becomes familiar as if you’ve always sat by Moccio’s side, and heard him gently play his piano… just for you.
From a human perspective, things were so complicated, so busy. In Los Angeles, things became too big, too fast for me. I’m glad I experienced that life, because that’s how I know that I don’t want it all the time. I just wanted to come back to hear my own heartbeat. Calm. Quiet.
Stay tuned for the official announcement of the full-length release. You will especially love this if you are a fan of Chilly Gonzales, Otto A Totland, Dustin O’Halloran, and Nils Frahm. I’m very happy that Stephan has returned to his roots!