Tree of Light

RIOPY’s brilliant second album turns its attention to humanity’s transience and future fight for survival in the face of climate change. The French pianist begins with a note of defiance: The gently rippling textures of the opening track, “Tree of Light – A Call to Arms,” grow to a powerful climax. Perfumed, meanwhile, with beautiful Asian influences, “Ukiyo” laments the fleeting nature of our material existence. But it’s “Peace of Mind” that forms the album’s emotional heart, its mournfulness giving way to a melody that soars free before RIOPY brings Tree of Light full circle with the symphonic “New World,” a breathtaking musical vista that calls for action and, ultimately, allows hope to shine through.