Sat. August 9, 2003
Chicago, IL -
New Jersey native, Skott Freedman grew up a child piano prodigy, winning statewide competitions by the time he was fifteen.
Soon after graduating from Ithica College, Freedman released his debut album, Swimming After Dark. The young prodigy has since made quite a name for himself. Freedman has managed to garner attention from Billboard Magazine, his second release, Anything Worth Mentioning, won “Outstanding New Recording - Male” in the 2002 OutMusic Awards and he was invited to sing at the 2002 Gay Games in Sydney, Australia.
The 23 year-old Freedman is currently one of the nation's leading bisexual activists and is touring the country with his powerful lecture, "Battling Biphobia and Bringing Bisexuals Back to Both Communities".
Chicago crowds were wowed by Freedman's appearances over Market Days Weekend. Below is a review of Freedman's fourth and latest effort, Some Company, by Len Rogers.
"Some Company" CD Review (buy CD)
Review by: Len Rogers
Skott was winning statewide competitions by the time he was 15. As a child piano prodigy, his talents were naturally amazing. It comes as no surprise, and a very pleasant musical experience, to realize that his talent is still naturally amazing. Freedman shows both masterful artistry with regard to his prowess and power on piano and vocals. Twelve songs complete the "Some Company" CD. Ten of which are original words and music of Skott Freedman. For the two covers, Skott choose excellent material to showcase his strengths and natural emotive abilities.
Opening with "The Wind", a great Cat Stevens tune, Skott warms up the listener with a refreshing yet familiar song by a master. Stevens' playful yet smoldering style are a perfect match for Freedman's vocal interpretation and excellent piano expertise. Skott backs up this powerful opening with what can be described only as pure "Freedman", and that is good. Introspective lyrics which deal with independence, relationships, leaving, and self realization are brought to life by the warm melodious tones of Skott's embracing voice. The meandering melodies and haunting yet warmly familiar phrasing of Freedman's piano add depth and backbone.
"Breathing", the third track is a bountiful song of self realization and independence. This song is an excellent example of Skott Freedman the conductor. For in this song Skott "conducts" the listener as he creates strong visual familiarities in lyrics which ignite the emotional imagination. His music carries and directs your emotional responses and physical interpretations. Skott's second cover is another strong success. "Walking In Memphis" by Marc Cohn is again a totally complementary selection to showcase Freedman's talents. The song is delivered with all the expected and more. A natural in all combinations and as with all good art total compliments around.
A great follow-up to "Anything Worth Mentioning", Freedman has an excellent showcase here of his vocal and piano strengths. For more information about Skott, visitwww.skottfreedman.com.
Review reprinted with permission from StoneWall Society.
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