Peter Salettt: In The Ocean of the Stars

Peter Salett has already proved incredibly deft at writing great music for film. Salett wrote the indelibly charming “Heart of Mine” for pal Edward Norton’s Keeping the Faith and recently contributed several songs to the comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall. On the fifth record which bears his name, it’s as if Salett set out to singlehandedly prove that a pop record can be understated and catchy, quiet yet great. There’s nothing with “Heart of Mine”‘s hit potential here, just thirteen beautiful tracks that, in tandem, create a true gem. Reflected in the construction of each tune is Salett’s apparent appreciation for love and the simple things in life. There is something beautiful and universal. Salett tinges his timeless pop sound with hints of country, folk and jazz that accentuate the sweetness of each melody.In the Ocean of the Stars begs to be absorbed with undivided attention; turn up the volume and listen carefully lest you miss the simple splendor of a single note. Especially to be savored are ballads like “Far, Far Away” and “More than Blue” as well as “True In Time” and “What a Beautiful Dance She Was”, midtempo tunes that, on this album, are the closest Salett gets to rock and roll.