Benny Andersson – Piano (2xLP)

»Piano« takes listeners on a 21-track journey through his acclaimed and celebrated career as songs from ABBA, his musicals and other solo-compositions are re-interpreted as you have never heard them before, performed unaccompanied by just Benny himself, on his trusted grand piano. The album was recorded with Linn Fijal, engineer and studio manager at his own RMV Studios, on the island of Skeppsholmen, in the heart of his hometown Stockholm.

These are tender, touching and emotional arrangements, highlighting the theatrical, as well as classical-like qualities, both in writing and performance of music that has touched millions around the world since ABBA first came together in 1972. The music on this album reinforces Benny’s profound gift for melody, a gift shared with many great classical composer-pianists throughout history, that have also inspired him throughout his life and career.

Speaking on the genesis of the album, Benny Andersson said: »In the process of recording this album, I have come to realise that the pieces I have chosen to play are an integral part of me. In endeavouring to reach for some core within them, I have found that the more I strip away the clothing, the closer I feel to the music, regardless of whether it was created last year or 40 years ago. In a strange way, I feel like I am playing my memoirs.«

»It was very different to how I’ve made records in the past, and that was part of the joyfulness of it all«, he adds, »Even without the bass, drums, guitars, strings and vocals on these songs, I think there is still substance in all of them. That was very pleasing to realise.«

Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Group said: »This new collection of solo piano recordings will reinforce Benny’s legacy as one of the finest contemporary composers of our time.«

Frank Briegmann, President & CEO, Universal Music Group Central Europe and Deutsche Grammophon said: »Benny‘s songs have revolutionised pop music. He is an innovator and one of the greatest and most creative minds of his field. With this album, he presents as clear and unobstructed a view of his musical universe as never seen before in his long career. Apart from that, Benny also reveals himself to be an amazing pianist and these new interpretations offer a whole new perspective on his work. Benny has wowed and inspired his fans many times and in many different ways. And now he is doing it again. Together with everyone at Deutsche Grammophon, I am really looking forward to this album and I want to congratulate Benny on this wonderful release.«