The 2016 album titled “Empty Spaces” by Parjam Parsi is a mesmerizing musical journey that is primarily composed on a piano. The album has a dark and enchanting tonality that immerses the listener in a world of melancholy and introspection. Throughout the compositions, Parsi uses a lot of harmonic minor and melodic minor structures, creating a sense of tension and release that adds to the emotional depth of the music.

The album consists of twelve tracks, each of which is slow and soothing and perfectly complements the artistic vision of Parjam Parsi. The pieces are expertly crafted and showcase Parsi’s exceptional talent as a composer and producer. The album is beautifully mixed with subtle compression, giving life to the dynamic range of his pieces. The songs do not have any lyrics, allowing the listener to focus solely on the melodies and emotions conveyed by the music.

Parjam Parsi takes us on a journey in Empty Spaces

One of the most notable tracks on the album is “June Elegy.” The piece begins with a haunting melody played on the piano, which soon picks up the pace. The piece then builds on the lonely piano melody to a powerful climax while settling back into the introspective mood of the opening. Another standout track is “Fractured,” which features a delicate piano melody accompanied by sparse atmospheric pads and a gentle string section. The piece has a dreamlike quality that transports the listener to another world.

“The Grey Melodies I and II” are two pieces that are like two sides of the same coin, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The pieces feature intricate piano melodies that remind you of rain-soaked petrichor on lush green grass. The emotional depth of these pieces is palpable, and they are among the highlights of the album as they truly bring out the genius that is Parjam Parsi.

“The Dreams We Chase” is a beautiful piece that showcases Parsi’s exceptional talent as a pianist. The melody is simple yet powerful, conveying a sense of longing and yearning. It is one of the ‘happier’ tracks from the album that gives the record some respite from its dark and gloomy atmosphere. Finally, “Nothing to Be Said” is the closing track which is a carefully crafted melancholic piece that features a catchy piano melody accompanied by a complementing harmony line underneath. The piece has a poignant quality that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.

A lot more than what meets the eye

Overall, “Empty Spaces” by Parjam Parsi is a stunning album that showcases the musician’s exceptional talent as a composer and producer. The album is a must-listen for fans of piano-based music and those who appreciate music that conveys deep emotions and introspection. The album would fit well in movies that deal with complex and nuanced emotional themes, such as the 1971 film “A Clockwork Orange” or the 1981 film “My Dinner with Andre.” The album’s dark and enchanting tonality would complement the moody and ghastly themes of these films, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience.

In conclusion, Parjam Parsi’s “Empty Spaces” is a must-listen for fans of instrumental music and those who appreciate music that hints at the depths of one’s emotions. The album is a stunning showcase of Parsi’s exceptional talent as a contemporary composer who uses more traditional influences. In addition, its dark and enchanting tonality immerses the listener in a world of melancholy and reminds them of the importance of appreciating the little things in life. Parjam Parsi has released more work after “Empty Spaces” which includes SEASON OF AMNESIA (2018), THE SECRET OF DESPAIR(2020), and the experimental collection of a film OST, DECOMPOSITION (2021).