Paul Cardall"s new release "Hymns II" follows his successful 1997 CD "Hymns". Paul incorporates interpretive elements into his delivery of well-known hymns. Paul utilizes the ideas of "theme" and "variation on the theme". There are moments when Paul"s creativity renders the song uneasily recognized. You may think you are simply listening to a beautiful piano solo, and then suddenly it becomes recognizable again as one of the familiar hymns you sing each Sabbeth. This method of adding creativity while maintaining familiar elements is refreshing. Paul understands the meaning of the name of the instrument he plays - the piano-forte. Musicians and non-musicians alike will appreciate his use of dynamic range, from the soft and sublime to the powerful and profound. The piano was designed to deliver this type of performance, and Paul utilizes this capability to its fullest. Some selections are Paul and his piano alone, while others include additional instruments, such as strings and acoustic guitar. Paul includes one of his original compositions on the CD, entitled "Journey Within".