by Ted MillsA more energetic collection of Mertens pieces, Motives for Writing is closer to the driving rhythm work of Michael Nyman. Piano is not the central instrument here -- most of Mertens' compositions are for a small ensemble of strings and winds. "No Testament" and "The Personell Changes" are urgent, strident works, whereas "Words on the Page" is restless, seeking resolution to the tale it is telling. "The Whole" ends the album on a note that is victorious and slightly bitter. It's an intriguing, though slightly icy, album.