"Always Near: A Romantic Collection" is a collection of fourteen of pianist/composer Kevin Kern’s most beautiful and romantic pieces. Kern began his recording career with Real Music in 1996 and recorded ten albums on the label, not counting the many compilations that incorporate his music. Beloved around the world - and especially in Korea - Kern is one of the best and most expressive pianists on the planet. Some of his music sounds deceptively simple, but it takes a master to say so much with so little. Seeing Kern perform live will leave just about anyone breathless! Selections from eight of Kern’s albums are included on "Always Near," some of which are Kern classics: “Sundial Dreams,” “Through the Arbor,” “Return to Love,” “Le Jardin,” “And the Light is Forever,” etc. It’s a wonderful collection and a joy to listen to, but there is nothing new for those who have all of Kern’s recordings (as I do). Chances are, though, that some of those older albums might have worn out or gotten lost along the way (some of mine are on cassette - does anyone remember those???), so here’s a nice, fresh collection to give your music library a boost! Anyone unfamiliar with Kevin Kern’s distinctively warm and masterful piano touch will find Always Near to be an excellent place to start. So, for wonderful romantic dinner music, music to relax to or to have in the car, or any other activity that can be enhanced by gentle piano music, it doesn’t get better than this. Recommended!