New Age Meditation Review: Joss Jaffe-Meditation Music

Release Date: October 4, 2019

Label: Be Why Music

Website

The art of meditation goes back for thousands of years. So, what can the modern-day human do to alleviate stress, get centered and refocused on all the important things? Yes, some sort of discipline or meditation that has been proven to work successfully for many people, that is how.

Coming from my perspective, I have heard hundreds of recordings that can be considered and or used for meditation. When one looks at the most recent release from Joss Jaffe, titled quite simple and direct, Meditation Music, that covers an expansive area.

Soothing sounds of nature like waves or birds tweeting are commonalities in this type of musical mixture. There is something about connecting with mother nature that grounds us all, its automatic, and it happens quickly and makes you feel good. I think most folks would agree with that assessment.
What makes the seven tracks on Meditation Music different and special? What sets it apart from all the others available? What I read on the back of the CD cover was telling. The use of proven scientific methods, music and sound waves, can be a very unique and effective combination. Joss proves that to be true on the seven tracks on this CD. The intent is to enhance your life and tap into your spirit to relax the physical states of delta and theta that can be reached by stimulating the brain with sound waves. The technology such as binaural beats (track 4 ”Deep Theta”) and isochronic tones (tracks 1 “Deep Delta and 6 “Aura Massage”) makes fine use of the modern research developed over the years.

I decided to choose “Temple Clouds” to add to my New Age Music Reviews Spotify Playlist. It is a perfect example of having enough time for this kind of exercise to take hold. It lasts for 10:20 minutes and it is very effective. This is coming from not as just the music listener or reviewer of the music, but as a potential student of this type of practice.

Where science meets music and nature and they all converge to formulate medicine for the mind and body is what Meditation Music accomplishes. There are no pills, miracle ointments, mental or physical exercises to excite the adrenalin glands, just pure sound with the right mix of nature, tones, and music. All of it becomes one as you enter the state of being that brings renewal and peace. Who in their right mind would not want that? Or those not in their right mind that need healing and recovery can use this as well. All of us have our moments of panic, distress, or clouded thinking, and at times need a helping hand to refocus.

We are led down different paths in life and have so many doors to open and close. You can trust me when I say that you need to open the door that Joss Jaffe presents with Meditation Music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 28, 2019

Founder of:

The Final on Vinyl

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks: 
1. Deep Delta (432)
2. Dream State
3. Temple Clouds
4. Deep Theta (432)
5. Morning Sun Drops
6. Aura Massage  
7. Zen Forest
 

 

New Age Music Review: Sangeeta Kaur-Compassion

Release Date: August 2, 2019

Label: Sangeeta Kaur Music

Website

This is the third recording I have had the pleasure to enjoy from Sangeeta Kaur. Previous to Compassion, I covered mirrors and Niguma Vol. 2 The Mantra Project.

It is the absolute goal of this artist to have people listen to her music and open the door to everything positive. We all know what a difficult time we are living in with a multitude of issues going on all over the globe.

Recordings like Compassion will help those feelings, attitudes, and situations melt away for a time and give you a different perspective and optimism that things really can change.

“Rise Up” is an excellent example of the prevailing attitude and approach can deliver to a listener. I also added the track to my New Age Music Reviews Spotify Playlist. It drew me in very quickly and I felt the words were prolific and very engaging.

I also took note of the first track “Om Tare Tuttare,” which is a Buddhist Mantra specifically for the blessings of the compassionate female Buddha Green Tara. It is to help those facing mental, physical and emotional blockages as well as relationship blockages. This came at the perfect time for this listener as I have been struggling with some blockages. I will carry this mantra with me and recite it as many times as I can during my day.

What I am trying to illustrate here is that music can do so many things for you. If you take a moment to understand what the track is about, it puts an entirely different light on your listening experience. I always take the time to read about the tracks in the CD notes, particularly with New Age and Meditation music. The purpose of this music is for you to get in touch with your higher self, the vocalist presenting this music is surely locked into this phase of development and quickly taps into her higher state of being.

“Song of Compassion” takes Sangeeta to a different place and her vocals are that of an opera singer. Her range and octave are amazing. She gives new age music a slice of heaven and it translates to warmth and peace within for the astute listener.

Compassion is what the world needs so desperately and recordings like this speak loudly to that need. One listens to this beautiful collection of tracks and you will find a different mindset and a new road will be forged by its prompting. It is a beautiful thing how powerful these ten tracks could change the course of your life. Another incredibly influential classic by a renowned vocalist that continues to contribute to the new age and meditation culture regularly.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

August 30, 2019

Founder of:

The Final on Vinyl

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. Om Tare Tuttare
02. May the Long Time Sun
03. Transcendence
04. Rise Up
05. Song of Compassion
06. Om Vajra Sattva Hum
07. We are One
08. Sa Re Sa Sa
09. Voices and Crystals
10. Voices of Compassion Medley
 

Ambient Instrumental/New Age/Meditation Review: ANAAMALY-Urban Metta, Vol. 2

Release Date: December 8, 2017

Label: Heart Dance Recordings

Website

The new ANNAAMALY (Phil Strickland) release Urban Metta, Vol. 2 is due out on December 8^th.  It gives the perspective listener some great advice. I just had to take this off his site and share it to start of my review Also note the detailed information provided in the track listing.  This validates my belief that every track has meaning and a story to tell. If it is instrumental like this music, you have to listen very carefully. 

For maximum listening pleasure:

Dear Listener –

Please know that Urban Metta, Vol. 2 was specifically designed to be experienced with hi-fidelity stereo headphones and the SUBPAC S2 or M2 Tactile Bass Systems (visit www.SUBPAC.com to learn more). For the true immersive, vibrational full-body experience, I highly recommend that you use both when listening, if possible. Please contact me if you have questions before purchasing a SUBPAC or stereo headphones.

I sincerely hope you enjoy Urban Metta, Vol. 2 and thank you for listening!!

Peace & Blessings,

ANAAMALY

My introduction to this music was in April this year and I was swept away by the grace and vibrations that this one singular artist could create. On Urban Metta Vol. 1 I received further evidence of the healing powers of music. 

So now we continue this ambient, new age and meditation outing on Urban Metta, Vol. 2. At times music comes into a person’s life exactly when they need it. This applies to an awareness of that need or a totally random moment in time. The listening of music is spontaneous, it usually is not a planned event, with the exception of radio stations that do that with a preprogrammed computer.  That is a world that is quickly evaporating with the advent of streaming internet radio stations and phone apps. Uninterrupted bliss is what I call it. The point I am making here is that music such as this, is something everyone needs. For me today, I am just wrapping up working very hard for the last 5 days so I could have some time off to enjoy the Holiday. Here comes the deep breath, a sigh and then another exhale and some of the most beautiful ambient sounds to give me peace and some grounding to mother earth. For this listener this is definitely about decompressing, being around those I love and appreciate and reconnecting with my higher power. It is about being grateful and happy that I am still here.

So, what does all this have to do with this music, or any music for that matter? It is everything for me as I am sure it is for many others. In this new age community, we all seek the same thing. There is the healing power of music, the vibrations that can change our brain patterns and with that, our overall attitudes. It has been proven in scientific studies and there are professionals that administer music to patients requiring music therapy. I think it is our own personal slice of heaven and artist like ANNAAMALY are gracious enough to share their gifts of creativity through the music on Urban Metta, Vol. 2.

Make sure you check out Urban Metta, Vol. 2 for yourself and let the artist know what his music has done for you? Namaste.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

November 25, 2017

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews


Tracks:
 01: I Am Ready to Forgive (4:44) - soft reflective pads slowly drift, blending perfectly with an array of high vibrational sounds. Perfect for day-dreaming and being at peace with all that is. Release…

02: I Am Inspired by Possibility (6:35) - heavy rain, soft round bass merge with warm pads and bell like mallets, providing the perfect backdrop to your moment of full awareness. Imagine…

03: I Am a Co-Creator (5:55) - grounding bass, floating pads, rain, and electric circuitry combine to form a planetary and cosmic experience. Recharge your spiritual batteries. Receive...

04: I Am Light & Love (6:25) - peaceful and playful ambience that heals the spirit each time you hear it. Drift away with ocean waves, soft mallets, and chimes that breathe mindfulness into your present moment. Unwind…

05: I Am a Reflection of You (6:37) - angelic pads and strings sway over grounding bass and healing elements that steadily unfold. With each breath, you rise above the murkiness of your mind and allow your senses to become unaware of your surroundings. Accept...

06: I Am Fully Present (5:55) - peaceful and spacious palette of sounds that leave plenty of room for you to let your thoughts gather or disappear into the ether. Ocean waves and grounding synths create this calm abode. Smile…

07: I Remember My Purpose (6:09) - expansive, refreshing, and light. A heartfelt sonic oasis of soft rain, ocean waves, emotional pads and calls from the wild that communicate a message of truth and spiritual healing. Renew…

08: I Give My Truth (6:35) - an ambience of rain drops, Tibetan bowls, warm pads and bass create a slow healing vibe that anchors you into the energy of the earth, allowing your mind to calm and thoughts to dissipate. Ground…

09: I Affirm All That is Good (6:41) - distant vocals, warm and bright choir and angelic pads create nourishing energy while soft stereo rain and deep bass help to ground and heal you. No anticipation or expectations, just be and enjoy the moment. Awaken…

10: I Radiate Healing Energy (6:41) - a perfect ensemble of pads, grounding bass, chanting, and elements of nature that embody the sound and vibrations of compassion, healing, and love for all beings. Refresh…

11: I Have All That I Need (6:09) - elements of water and ocean life combine with emotive strings, piano, and grounding bass to create a peaceful floating oasis for deep self-introspection. Soar…

New Age-Pop-Neo Classical: Unleashed Dreams-Dare To Dream

Release Date: September 1, 2017

Label: L.Walker International Ltd. Paddisongs Publishing Ltd.

Website

Neoclassicism was born in Rome in the mid-18th century and it is still alive and well today. One look at the cover of the recent Unleashed Dreams recording Dare To Dream brings many different images together. Like the canvas of a great artist, the colors flow and merge to create thoughts and images where modern and times past intersect.

Looking at the art work on the cover of this CD invokes deep thought meditation and as it pulls the thoughts and vibrations from the mind of the subject (as on the cover) ...the words and music tell a story of love and inspiration.

The two anchor artists are Lindsey Gaye Walker (singer/songwriter, lead and background vocals) and Sean Michael Paddison (composer, songwriter, producer, pianist, background vocals and instrumentation). They have a few friends that join in this celebration of life and triumph as well. Every contributor made a difference and put their own stamp on this project.

This was a nice and welcome change from the norm for this listener. 99% of the new age music I listen to is instrumental, which I love, however hearing these amazing vocals and music come together was a special treat. The meaning of it all is so uplifting and spiritual. All I could think of when I looked at the cover was Michelangelo and The Sistine Chapel ceiling. What a miracle all of that artistry was and the miracle of this music and the images took me there. That my good people is a gift that multiplies for those that choose to listen.

Dare To Dream was like a breath of fresh air and a ray of sunshine that put a nice cap to the end of my day. The fact that I had a chance to listen, feel and let the music move me to write these words was yet another miracle. A higher power channeled within can bring change through music.

The mixture of vocal and instrumental tracks keeps it all interesting and thought provoking. Yes indeed, music is defined perfection in motion. With that I leave the rest to each individual listener.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

November 13, 2017

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. Deep
02. Dare to Dream
03. Resonance
04. Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
05. My Sacred Inner Child
06. Riding the Winds of Change (Instrumental)
07. Trust (And Let Go)
08. You Give Me Strength
09. A New Day
10. A Journey Within (Instrumental)
11. Onward to Glory
12. Moonlight Waltz (Instrumental)
 

New Age Instrumental/Meditation Review: Tom Grant-Sipping Beauty

Release Date: April 7, 2017

Label: Nu-Wrinkle

Website

Tom Grant has over 40 years invested in making music. His latest upcoming release is titled Sipping Beauty. If you happen to be in the market for eclectic music, then this can be your ticket to ride. Taking a journey with music is the only way to travel. They key here is to sip the beauty and enjoy it and not take it all in with one swallow.

Those of you that have a propensity for piano based music will find a lot to appreciate on this recording.

“Feathers Falling Up” was one of my favorite tracks. I am sure I heard the distinctive bass playing of Michael Manring. Have you ever seen a feather go up instead of down (when there is no wind of course)? That would be magical just as the track would lead you to believe. Besides, what is music if it doesn’t have some magic and wonder around it to engage a listener and challenge the imagination?

Tom Grant’s pedigree is an impressive one, playing with some of the jazz greats over the years such as trumpeter Woody Shaw and sax players Joe Henderson and Charles Lloyd, are an indication of his abilities. And that just names a few. His experience in the jazz realm can be heard in his music. That is but one element that you will hear. There are touches of ambient, new age, world, well just about everything under the musical sun you could think of for instrumental forays on one album.

“Wrapped In Love” with whispers and steady breathy background vocals reminded me of the 10cc classic “I’m Not In Love.” I am sure it is coincidental the word love is in the title of the track and I happened to relate it to that one song. 10cc happens to be one of my favorites so it was easy for me to find something in common with the track. I do what everyone else does while listening, I relate it my own life experiences and the different music I have enjoyed since arriving on this planet.

“Arms Wide Open” was another one that got my attention and touched me. The piano is so elegant and inviting along with some strumming jazz guitar fills and some carefully placed acoustic guitar picking lines. The sounds are accented with the culture of Spain. The music comes flying off the fingertips of the creator crafting the sounds, lighting up the song like firefly’s in the night sky.

Even though you can classify this music as new age instrumental and meditation music it is far more than that. The different flavors and colors that interweaves into each song gives it a strong crossover appeal. If you’re a musical purist in any sense of the word you will not appreciate Sipping Beauty. However, if you go into this with your eyes and ears opened wide ready to receive a constant flow of change and transition, then you will absolutely love this album as much as I did. And remember if it doesn’t hit you right upon the first listen, try it again and sip it a little at a time, and you will then discover the beauty waiting for you inside the music.

When the student is ready the teacher will show up, just listen.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 28, 2017

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews
 
Tracks:
01. Petrichor Perfume
02. Sun-Kissed Beings
03. Sipping Beauty
04. Feathers Falling UP
05. Wrapped In Love
06. Sighs n' Whispers
07. Arms Wide Open
08. Desire Unspoken
09. Moondrops
10. Where Time Disappears

Instrumental New Age/Meditation Review: Byron Metcalf-Inner Rhythm Meditations

Release Date: September 30, 2016 

Label: Sounds True

Website

For thousands of years people have been using drums and other acoustic instruments to create sounds and rhythms. There were many reasons to create these sounds other than for the pure enjoyment of generating different sounds. They would gather to summon spirits, gods, the dead and go into a trance-like state or vision quest.

Enlightened spiritual individuals like Byron Metcalf take those ancient traditions and use today’s technology to create a canvas to paint a musical picture upon. He brings you into his world with his latest release Inner Rhythm Meditations. The subtitle of the release is “Music for expansive awareness & inspired movement.” All those words certainly put everything into focus, and then when you listen, it all comes to life as you enter an entirely different space or reality, if you will. You get to make the choice how you want to enjoy this music, it is a gift and tool to use for what you request and it’s all positive, or as they say “it’s all good.”

Byron uses several instruments to put together six tracks of considerable length. Peter Phippen and his incredible flutes add to the mix and overall ambiance throughout this release, and the multi-talented Metcalf plays a variety of percussive instruments. He takes the old and new to make meditation easier for anyone seeking to reach that state. Easy rhythms and relaxing sounds will melt your stress away like ice on a warm spring day. Erik Wolllo also brings a multitude of talent to the table, playing all sorts of electric guitars, bass and keyboards.

Every track represents a doorway to your soul. The keys to this kingdom is to unlock each door and walk through to see what you can find. Are you thirsty for inner knowledge? Do you seek wisdom from a higher self? Or are you seeking sanctuary and relief to obtain a calm and peacefulness so that you can re-energize? The answers lie within, and the only way to that path of discovery is through the music that is represented on Inner Rhythm Meditations.
 

We always have the answers; it is our built-in mechanism and ability to either block out the truth or let it in and accept it. I have found this to be true more and more as my life tick tocks away like a clock that never needs rewinding or another battery. To be honest, it’s my mind that has a hard time shutting off.  I need to calm my mind before my body will follow. Music like this is a magnificent healer, it brings us closer to our meaning here and what we truly belief is our own path to real freedom, physically and spiritually.

I think the music of Inner Rhythm Meditations is like a continuing story, your story, and how you write it. It only ends when the music stops, but you can begin again right from the start upon next listen. Simple as that seems, there is more to it than meets the eye or spirit. I cannot break this down into favorite tracks, I find that impossible to do with music like this. Although it is six tracks, it is one story, one journey for you in the music; just hit play. Each one is a space in time and long enough to hold you to explore different textures, tones, ambiances and colors. This demands your focus because there is no one pulling you away with vocals and words to ponder upon. 

Breathe deep, relax and take the magic carpet ride of percussion and its heartbeat to your own special place with Inner Rhythm Meditations. You will get there, be patient and listen, it does work.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: ALL

Tracks:
1. Garden of the Peaceful Warrior
2. As Clouds Dance
3. Patterns of Awarenes
4. A Perfect Place
5. The Awakened Heart
6. Presence of Longing
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

December 16, 2016

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

New Age Instrumental/Meditation Review: White Sun-White Sun II

Release Date: August 26, 2016

Label: Be Why

Website

If you enjoy meditation music or yoga I have the right music for you. White Sun is a collaborative of several talented musicians with lead vocals and harmonium provided by the angelic vocals of Gurujas. The is their second release simply titled White Sun II.

Her soft and mesmerizing vocal style draws you in as the music takes hold and carries you through each separate spiritual journey. The vocals are not in English so if you do not have a preference and are open to another language accompanying your music then it will be just as enjoyable. 

Because the music is so beautiful and with Gurujas providing equally gorgeous vocals, it makes for a completely joyous experience. For this music fan I had to step away from the norm, open my mind to a new discovery and let the music and vocals take me where it wanted to. It was an effective method that reaped many rewards.

“Simro Gobind” carries a lovely melody that was reminiscent of a pop song type of flow but make no mistake this is new age meditation music every step of the way. I felt the catchy track gave me a comfort level I would not have expected on this type of release.

“Suniai” is another gorgeous melodic track with vocals that are heaven sent and music that takes it all one level higher straight to the promised land where all music should take you. I would think using this music for meditation purposes would be most appropriate although just sitting back and listening was a lovely journey as well.

“Dhan Dhan Ram Das Gur” is yet another work of art with many moments of bliss and beauty.  The flow of positive vibrations is endless on this recording. It is like a river of enlightenment set to music and voice meeting in the middle for a spiritual sojourn that you simply cannot forget.

This was an unconventional listen for me but I am glad I gave it my undivided attention. It proved to me that not understanding the words had nothing to do with the way it was perceived or how it made me feel when it was over. White Sun II is a highly recommended listen for those of you looking for solace from a hectic day.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Simro Gobind, Suniai, Dhan Dhan Ram Das Gur

Tracks: 
01. Gobinday Mukunday
02. Alai Alai
03. Chattra Chakkra Varti
04. Simro Gobind
05. Suniai
06. Aap Sahaee Hoa Har Har Har
07. Dhan Dhan Ram Das Gur
08. Akal Instrumental
09. Akal
10. Hummee Hum
11. Ardas Wahe Guru
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

August 30, 2016

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Stream Feature: Agrelia's Castle-Elders and Ancestors

I am one of those people that believe everything happens for a reason. Sometimes we do not know the answer until it is standing right in front of us and in some instances a series of events unfolds to provide the answers we seek. The reason I am relating to all of this is because of the story behind the music presented here.

Paul and April Brown recently released a recording titled Agrelia's Castle Elders and Ancestors. Illness delivered many realizations to April Brown and her husband went on the journey with her. She found the flute and the rest is history or a part of what you are about to hear.

The title track "Elders and Ancestors" is  an atmospheric journey that transports the listener to a peaceful space. The flute, keyboards and April's angelic vocals is heaven on earth.

It is your choice to be guided by the music and in this case it comes naturally from beginning to end. Listen and see what it can do for you.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Paul & April:
http://www.mysteriummusic.com

The songs on ELDERS & ANCESTORS have grown from the artists’ journey together through the cancer landscape. They come from the desire to create peace, joy, and hope.

Combining the sounds of vintage Fender Rhodes, B3, and warm soundbeds with hauntingly beautiful vocals, Native American Style Flutes, guitars, cello, and sitar, set over the soothing sounds of nature, the music is both ethereal and earthy, calming and uplifting, inviting the listener on a heart-filling journey into a healing space for release, relief, and relaxation.

This offering to the world is Paul and April Brown’s way to give back to all of the wonderful teachers they have met along their journey, many of whom are no longer with us, who have shown them how to live, under difficult circumstances, with beauty and grace. This music is dedicated to all of them.