Release Date: March 21, 2025
Label: Independent
Website Stronger Official Video Sheet Music
Doug's keyboard playing has always been very moving to me.
Having covered eight releases before this, I have a good idea of what to
expect. Respecting the artist at the beginning of a new listen is a good way to
kick things off.
"Broken" does not mean it cannot be fixed, but it is
also not a good indication of where things stand regarding whatever subject,
object, or person you may be referring to.
With its dark tones and slow tempo, the piano becomes a vessel
for our shared emotions and disappointments, mirroring the track's title. It
encapsulates a significant feeling in just over three and a half minutes, yet
the light, like the one on the cover, has not yet shone.
"Uncertain" is another word that evokes apprehension,
prompting you to proceed with caution or simply a lack of confidence in moving
forward. In either instance, it is not an easy feeling. It is a learning
process throughout our lives because we don't want to walk away
"Broken." We base our feelings on past experiences, either positive
or negative, and thus create a sense of uncertainty. Once again, the piano approaches
you slowly, mirroring that feeling. While beautiful, it allows you to pause,
reflect, and adjust your attitude.
"Losing" is another powerful, straightforward word.
Now, this justifies the uncertainty! You are validated for your initial
feelings, but we know what it feels like to lose and win, which leaves some
light at the end of the tunnel. Everyone loves a winner, but you don't discuss
how much losing went on before you entered that more positive frame of
reference.
The piano plays a lovely melody with a dark cloud looming behind
you. As you continue to move forward, there is another path to take, fueled by
newfound energy, a sense of possibility, and a different state of mind,
allowing you to change your direction. The keys are emphasized and then fade to
the next phase.
Acceptance of loss is not a defeat, but a decisive step towards
moving forward. It prompts us to reconsider our frames of reference and the
process of losing, offering us another chance to win. Acceptance, with its
beauty, strength, and soul, is always the first step toward the light, and the
piano echoes this sentiment. There's no direction to go but forward now.
"Healing" is another significant step and part two of
the acceptance process. The process of healing the wounds enables you to move
on to a brighter, more optimistic time and space, making success a natural,
everyday occurrence through the lessons you've learned and the steps you've
taken.
The piano is bright and energetic. You can feel the warmth and
spirit of healing in every note. You can picture Doug's hands rolling across
the keys with a big smile on his face. For me, the smile begins on the inside,
from the heart, and then it quickly manifests in my demeanor, body language,
and facial expression. What a gorgeous composition!
After moving through the artist's steps via the piano's keys,
you can look back with a different "Perspective." That word is about
attitude, the lens through which you decide to look at everything. Being
positive and optimistic can make a significant difference, even when the information
presented is complex. The proper perspective means everything to get to the
other side of where you want to go. And now, with all the emotions and
difficulties you went through behind you, you have earned your place here.
The piano returns to a more serious, slower tempo, emphasizing
the reflection on what just passed—the time to consider all the benefits of
what is to come.
Now you are
"Stronger" because you stayed the course after much
difficulty, learning, and reflection. You are the better person in every way.
As we say, going through difficulty, getting to a point of relief, and moving
forward always makes us Stronger.
Doug's piano closes the curtain with certainty and passion. This
is his driving force; you can hear it echoing through the keys as his fingers guide
him through the final step to be Stronger.
Doug Hammer has added another fine work to his vast library of recordings. His music explores the human condition and our enduring spirits, and it will resonate with your soul because it is so genuine and relatable. That is something we all desperately need these days, and Stronger provides it from start to finish.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR
Reviews Founder
March 12, 2025
1. Broken 3:38
2. Uncertain 4:22
3. Losing 4:10
4. Acceptance 4:10
5. Healing 2:52
6. Perspective 4:04
7. Stronger 3:52
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