Track Feature: The Song Gardeners-Harmony of Contrast

"Harmony of Contrast" is the latest musical seed flowering and blooming to perfection for The Song Gardeners.

Their music and positive vibes picks up where the last single track release left off. 

All of the beautiful lead and backing vocals of Mary Gospe and the backing vocals of Corrie Dunn (piano) give their sound a warm invitation to any listener. David Scheibner steps in to provide the guitars on this outing.

The words this group provides are always thought provoking and enlightening. 

They get their point across with impactful lyrics like:
Wouldn't life be dull and gray, if we all looked the same way?
Wouldn't life be dull and gray, if we all thought the same way?
Wouldn't life be dull and gray, if we all lived the same way?

The message does not get any clearer and more concise than that. And with the truth flowing through the music and words, you end the listen with a new perspective. Where would we be without "Harmony and Contrast?"

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

Buy/Streaming Link: https://dashgo.co/debndvb

Harmony of Contrast (Official Lyric Video) - https://vimeo.com/565052884

Visit The Song Gardener's Website: https://www.thesonggardeners.com

The Song Gardeners is a musical duo from the San Francisco Bay Area featuring singer/songwriter Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar), singer/songwriter and Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, percussion).

Their original songs are filled with positive, empowering messages and beautiful harmonies.

Featured Track: Cheryl B. Engelhardt-Ithaca

Cheryl B. Englehardt has been having quite a creative renaissance with the release of her magnificent album Luminary in 2020 and so many other projects going on simultaneously.

 

Now to follow that up to keep the momentum of her creative process flowing, she has released "Ithaca," a special single track.

 

The song features ambient textures layered around a singular acoustic piano and relaxing synths, provided by Cheryl. And to make it all complete her amazing chanting voice. Cheryl creates all of her music by herself and is not afraid to experiment and try something new.

"Ithaca" is a superb new age track meant for deep immersion into our soul and spirit. Healing is here for the taking and in 3:11 minutes you can find yourself at the doorway of enlightenment. Fair warning, you will want more! If so check out here albums her Website. 

 

"Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck 

MORE ABOUT CHERYL:

Press Release: A #1 best selling artist on Amazon and iTunes, Cheryl B. Engelhardt is releasing her latest new age single, ‘"Ithaca" on April 23. A piano/vocal/synth track with no lyrics, Engelhardt explores the healing powers of vocal chant meditation accompanied by light and confident piano patterns, mesmerizing the listener into a deep relaxed state. Hopeful, meditative, and bright, ‘Ithaca’ brings peace and harmony to your day. This is the second single from Engelhardt’s upcoming album A Seeker’s Slumber, her full-length album releasing later this year.

 

Cheryl has recently been featured by Grammy.com, People.com, Harper’s Bazaar, The Hill, and her previous album, Luminary, was named the “Best New Age Album of 2020” by New Age Music Guide. Last week, Muzique Magazine named her a “female artist ready to breakout in 2021.”

 

READ MORE ABOUT CHERYL HERE SCROLL DOWN THE PAGE FOR HER BIO.

World-New Age-Rock Review: Blackmore’s Night-Nature’s Light

Release Date: March 12, 2021

Label: Ear Music

Website

Nature’s Light is Blackmore’s Night 14th album and six years since the release of their last studio album All Our Yesterdays. I can say to those that would ask “Was it worth the wait?” I would say it was. I would also add that this is some of their best work to date. Musically it is mostly what one would expect from the band and lyrically, and with the title, they are coming from a new age and nature premise.

The idea behind the title of the album and what you will find in the tracks will enlighten the spirit. The thoughts of nature being the true queen in all its glory with the changing of the seasons. And all of the natural occurrences around us that should be appreciated every day. For instance, I stepped outside on this rainy day to let our dog out and I was watching a beautiful cardinal chirp and jump from branch to branch, going higher each time, and then over to the next tree. Simple things, but so enjoyable to watch nature at work and all the gifts she presents to us daily. I choose to take it all in with a great appreciation and joy. This is the kind of lyrical content and accompanying music that validates all of those feelings and keeps things in proper perspective. I do not need music to remind me of the wonder and respect I have always had for Mother Nature; however, it certainly is a nice reaffirmation of how important and blessed I am to be alive to enjoy it all.

Ritchie Blackmore and Candice Night are an amazing husband and wife team. To open the CD booklet with all of the lyrics and to see the picture of Ritchie looking up at Candace smiling is a wonderful thing. How many pictures has anyone seen with him smiling? He is one serious man and I get that. It was just nice to see that kind of loving interaction between the couple.

“Once Upon December” kicks things off and gets the proceedings started. There is an entertaining mixture of world-rock-new age that unfolds, and it is something that always makes my heart smile and invigorates my spirit. The following track “Four Winds” is full of the color and energy that only Richie and Candice can coax out of their supporting casts and instruments. And it sure sounded like an upbeat choice for a single release, currently they went with the title track, which is just as good.

“Feather In The Wind” comes at you with a much faster pace with high energy, it is what I would call good mood music. My definition of that in this context would be that it makes my feet tap and puts a smile on my face.

There are two fantastic instrumentals on this album as well. “Darker Shade Of Black” features some fiery leads from Richie, which I always appreciated and some non-verbal vocals that are very high and heavenly. The heavenly part does not go along with the title of the track but that is what my ears heard. The other remarkable instrumental “Der Letzte Musketier” (translated The Last Musketeer), features Richie with an atmospheric bluesy electric guitar run which is supported by a rock-solid rhythm section. This was my favorite track from an overall musical perspective without any vocals. It reminded me of some of the leads Richie would play on all of those great Deep Purple albums, which I still treasure after all these years.

Getting back to nature, “The Twisted Oak” reminds us all of “Finding the peace of mind I have left behind.” If you stop and think for a minute how true that is, don’t we all leave behind any peace of mind we may have gained once we are back to the daily grind of work and stress? These are well thought out lyrics with a magnificent blend of music to drive home the answer with a resounding yes! This leaves no doubt in my mind as Candice sings - all in the glory of “Nature’s Light.” So, check out that light that is brought out in everything that surrounds you.

“Wish You Were Here (2021)” is another bluesy track with Richie setting the music afire with some fine six-string work to support the beautiful vocals. “Going To The Faire” is light and airy like a renaissance fair where you can step into a portal of time and let the worries of life melt away for a day. In that timespan you can enjoy the fact that “spring as sprung,” as Candice sings in only the special way that she can delivering the message in a song.

“Second Element” closes out the recording with some beautifully played acoustic guitar and yet another electric guitar run to remind us all that Richie Blackmore is one of the greats and that still has the mojo to deliver when needed.

Nature’s Light is a welcome return for Blackmore’s Night and will surely be enjoyed by fans all over the world. They have over a quarter of a million followers on the Spotify platform alone so far. This is one album you simply cannot miss this year. For a variety of music and uplifting lyrics, this is one of the best of 2021 and will remain a favorite for me throughout the year.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
February 25, 2021

Track List:

01. Once Upon December
02. Four Winds
03. Feather In The Wind
04. Darker Shade Of Black (instrumental)
05. The Twisted Oak
06. Nature's Light
07. Der Letzte Musketier (instrumental)
08. Wish You Were Here (2021)
09. Going To The Faire
10. Second Element

Featured Track:-The Song Gardeners - Love Is The Magic of Change

The Song Gardeners are back with a new single from the fertile grounds where they plant a seed with their enchanting sounds on "Love Is The Magic of Change."

The seed grows and blossoms inside you while listening to their music. It is a can't miss proposition with lyrics that will touch your soul.

Here is an example of some of the lyrics: 

And we are one with the universe sparks of light, connecting the people and places in our lives, and we are here for a moment in space and time, inspiring each other to better humankind.

It is so beautiful and meaningful and the music brings the lyrics down the path that makes the most impact. The voice of Ms. Corrie Dunn is excellent, her inner beauty and tenderness come shining through as she plays the keys. 

Chris Day's bass is in perfect step as Mary Gospe provides the backing vocals. It is a trio from heaven here to grace our presence with their magic of change, their music.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

Visit The Song Gardener's Website: https://www.thesonggardeners.com

The Song Gardeners is a musical trio from the San Francisco Bay Area featuring singer/songwriter Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar), singer/songwriter Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, percussion), and Chris Day (bass). 

Their original songs are filled with positive, empowering messages and beautiful harmonies.

Featured Track: Dan Palladino-Leaving Cygnus

 

Dan Palladino has released several albums over his career and most recently in 2019 Pastoral Memory.

Dan Commented: With the single track "Leaving Cygnus," I wanted to continue the experiments which began on "Counting Stars" from Pastoral Memory. I find the electric sitar uniquely suited for ambient music, and I think featuring it on this track gives it the middle eastern/southern Asian vibe I was trying to create.  

 I would agree with that statement after listening to the track. I think the combination of the ambient music and all its sounds and textures are enhanced in a very positive way.  In fact, it actually highlights the other instruments in an entirely different light.  

"Leaving Cignus" continues the path of solar exploration in a most significant way with music and eye catching art like what Dan presents on the cover of this single track.

My hope as a listener is that Dan Palladino continues to experiment with different instruments to put on top of the ambient layers he creates. 

So sit back and listen to the stream now and enjoy this interstellar creation of music!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

More About Dan Palladino: http://danpalladinomusic.com

Dan Palladino is a guitarist, vocalist, composer, and music instructor based in Central New Jersey. He began his journey on guitar at the age of seven, played his first gig at the age of 12, and has continually performed in public for the past 45 years...READ MORE...

Featured Track: Dyan Garris-Every Time You Breathe

The word breathe has taken on a significantly different meaning this year for anyone that has a pulse and knows what is going on in the U.S. I cannot help but think of one thing.  

Keeping those thoughts in mind, Dyan Garris has released a beautiful track titled "Every Time You Breath." The lovely rhythm filled ivory keys that she commands take center stage along with some decidedly heavenly vocalizations.

"Every Time You Breath" is a reminder of our humanity and how important it is to have good breathing and how you should be able to control it and modulate it as needed. The track is in fact a great encapsulation of the essence of life however the artwork of the cover lets you know we only have so much time before our breathing stops so cherish every second you have on the earth and enjoy the music!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck 

More About Dyan Garris: DyanGarrisMusic.com

Dyan Garris is a multiple award-winning New Age recording artist, an award-winning author, and an official music reviewer for Zone Music Reporter (ZMR), New Age CD, and Spirit Seeker Magazine. Garris has recorded and produced 13 albums. Garris’ recordings include a series of independently tested music and meditation CDs that earned The National Health & Wellness Stamp of Approval.

Her latest CD, Mystic’s Nine, was released 11/1/2016 and won a Global Music Award. The song Mystic Sea from the same album won the 16th Annual IMA (Independent Music Awards) VOX POP WINNER award, New Age Song category. Her music is available on Pandora, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Sirius XM, MoodMusic, Muzak, Music Choice, and more.

Dyan Garris started playing the piano when she was four years old. Her mother bought a baby grand piano and soon thereafter brought in a piano teacher. The piano teacher was an interesting choice because he was totally blind. 
At the first lesson Dyan asked him how he was going to teach her to play the piano since he could not see, and she asked him to take off his glasses so she could see his eyes. He obliged. They were beautiful blue and they were definitely blind. But even then through those obscured windows, she saw his soul. He was brilliant.

And he said to her, “Child, we do not need to be able to ‘see’ to play this instrument. We only need to be able to feel the music. Music is not about seeing. It’s about feeling.” With that, he took her hands and placed them atop of his and they played the most wonderful music.
Garris is a classically trained pianist and violinist. She became and maintained first chair, first violin throughout high school orchestra and still loves the way the two instruments blend together in perfect harmony. 

Her interest in meditation and music for relaxation goes back to early 1993 which is when she first began creating guided meditations. Music itself, of course, has been a way of life.

Featured Track: Dyan Garris-Forest Whispers

Dyan Garris is an award winning new age artist and author. She is multi-talented and touches upon all of the arts within the new age genre and is a classical trained on the piano and violin.

"Forest Whispers" is a recent single track that is the feature I speak of.  It is a new age journey as beautiful, natural, and inviting as the cover indicates.

The birds are chirping with delight as the sounds of new age combined with world music fill in the space around you.

It takes you there immediately. That my friends is exactly what any recording artist wants!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

 

More About Dyan Garris: DyanGarrisMusic.com

Dyan Garris is a multiple award-winning New Age recording artist, an award-winning author, and an official music reviewer for Zone Music Reporter (ZMR), New Age CD, and Spirit Seeker Magazine. Garris has recorded and produced 13 albums. Garris’ recordings include a series of independently tested music and meditation CDs that earned The National Health & Wellness Stamp of Approval.

Her latest CD, Mystic’s Nine, was released 11/1/2016 and won a Global Music Award. The song Mystic Sea from the same album won the 16th Annual IMA (Independent Music Awards) VOX POP WINNER award, New Age Song category. Her music is available on Pandora, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Sirius XM, MoodMusic, Muzak, Music Choice, and more.

Dyan Garris started playing the piano when she was four years old. Her mother bought a baby grand piano and soon thereafter brought in a piano teacher. The piano teacher was an interesting choice because he was totally blind. 
At the first lesson Dyan asked him how he was going to teach her to play the piano since he could not see, and she asked him to take off his glasses so she could see his eyes. He obliged. They were beautiful blue and they were definitely blind. But even then through those obscured windows, she saw his soul. He was brilliant.

And he said to her, “Child, we do not need to be able to ‘see’ to play this instrument. We only need to be able to feel the music. Music is not about seeing. It’s about feeling.” With that, he took her hands and placed them atop of his and they played the most wonderful music.
Garris is a classically trained pianist and violinist. She became and maintained first chair, first violin throughout high school orchestra and still loves the way the two instruments blend together in perfect harmony. 

Her interest in meditation and music for relaxation goes back to early 1993 which is when she first began creating guided meditations. Music itself, of course, has been a way of life.

Featured Track: The Song Gardeners - Sabbe Satta Sukhi Hontu (May all beings be well)

The Song Gardener's return to Rate The Tracks with another single titled "Sabbe Satta Sukhi Hontu," translated it means "may all beings be well."

After hearing the words and music you cannot help feeling empowered with all the positive spiritual energy this fantastic trio puts out into the universe.

Once again Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar), singer/songwriter Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, flute), and Chris Day (bass), make their mark in the world of new age music with a classic mantra.

May all of you beings be well and listen to the music to help the healing along the way. Give it a listen now, the good vibes will relax you and and put a positive spin on your day!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck 

http://www.TheSongGardeners.com

https://www.facebook.com/thesonggardeners

Featured Track: The Song Gardners-Love Flows

The Song Gardeners is a musical trio from the San Francisco Bay Area featuring singer/songwriter Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar), singer/songwriter Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, flute), and Chris Day (bass).

This song is titled "Love Flows." As the love flows, so does the gorgeous vocal harmonies as I am certain you will agree when you listen to the stream provided.

This is new age themed music with a clear and concise message of positiveness, spirituality and above all, love.  Listen now and get ready to be transported to another dimension of total relaxation with "Love Flows."

Keith"MuzikMan" Hannaleck


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http://www.TheSongGardeners.com

https://www.facebook.com/thesonggardeners

Celtic-Acoustic-New Age Review: 2002- Celtic Fairy Dream

Release Date: April 24, 2020

Label: Real Music

Website

When you go to the 2002 website the new release Celtic Fairy Dream is introduced as a relaxing, soothing, nurturing music for peaceful rest and sleep. Celtic Fairy Dream is a collection of timeless songs from ancient lands. Harps, flutes, piano, and subtle orchestration accompany delightful lyrics in Gaelic, Welsh and English. That puts it all into proper perspective for any potential listeners.

There is much more to this family’s music, however, Pamela, Randy, and Sarah Copus are the contributors to this lush soundscape. As the saying goes, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. In this case, what you hold within your mind’s eye may be different for all us, but what you hear is musical perfection with vocals that sound like they are coming straight from heaven.

The one thing that remains consistent throughout is Sarah’s incredible vocal talent. She is growing into the music with each release and mother and father have let her walk the path as they provide all the gorgeous layers of sounds for her silky sweet vocals to gloss over the top. She shines like a bright star on the verge of bursting into a supernova. I am hoping I have the opportunity to witness that event as time goes on, as each passing year will lend the experience and maturity to her vocal expertise and approach.

Sarah’s angelic vocals are the focal point of this album but she has the best support possible with her veteran musician parents. It is a beautiful thing, this amazing family and all their talents coming together as one musical energy. I am sure that there will be the third generation of musicians and vocalists someday but I am sure mom and dad are in no rush for that!

All ten tracks offer the listener a real music experience coming from three spiritual beings wishing to pass it on to humanity. They have been doing this for so long, I could not imagine another result than absolute bliss perfected in the studio.

Besides all of the excellent vocal tracks, there is an instrumental titled “Genevieve's Waltz” that puts the spotlight on the excellence of their musicianship. I am so glad that they did this track so listeners can realize the immense talent that these folks have, then to have a daughter with a voice like an angel, it completes the partnership.

Celtic Fairy Dream takes their music to yet another level that so many people will most certainly appreciate. I would love to hear this album on vinyl someday, it would be amazing, not that it isn’t already. I am a firm believer that LPs give music a different dimension. This recording is well suited to be spinning on a turntable.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
April 10, 2020

 

Track List: 
01. Castle of Dromore 5:00
02. The Green Fields of Autumn (Coinleach Glas an Fhomhair) 5:43
03. Dream(Suantrai) 5:07
04. South Wind 5:06
05. David of the White Rock (Dafydd y Garreg Wen) 4:41
06. Close Your Eyes (Dun do Shuil) 6:12
07. She Moved Through the Fair 5:59
08. Genevieve's Waltz 5:16
09. Little Bird (Einini) 5:41
10. Across the Waves (Trasna na d'Tonnta) 5:15

Track Feature: Joanne Lazzaro and Susan Surftone: Lava Walker - Live at Kulak's Woodshed

Joanne Lazzaro is a renowned flutist and her partner on guitar, Susan Surftone, has made her mark over the years with the six-string. 

Their recently released single is titled "Lava Walker."  The combination of Joanne's amazing mastery of the flute and the acoustic guitar of Susan serves as an excellent marriage of two instruments.

The flute is used in many genres of music however I believe when it comes to world-new age music, it just feels like its right where it is supposed to be.

"Lava Walker" was caught live at Kulak's Woodshed and the video gives you the pleasure of being there. After hearing this track it makes you want more. I hope to hear an entire album along these lines soon!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannleck




More About Joanne:

Joanne Lazzaro is a classically trained flutist who “accidentally released a New Age solo Native American flute album.” Under The Stars (2015) went on to win multiple awards both in the USA and globally, establishing her as an independent world flutes recording artist. In 2018 she started her own record label JoRazzal Music, releasing a World Premiere recording of Canyon Shadows by renowned classical flutist & composer Katherine Hoover, featuring her trio “Dreamcatcher”. Recognizing her first effort as a Producer,  “Searching – Desert Dawn Mix”  from that album was nominated for a 2018 Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best World Recording ...READ MORE...

Featured Track: Children of Aleppo-By James Alexander Featuring Úyanga Bold

"Children of Aleppo" was developed for the Original Soundtrack, Alternative, World and New Age genres according the artist James Alexander.

The song is dedicated to those that cannot speak for themselves. It is a message to man from the heavens.

The music is texutred with many colors and a beautiful atmosphere that reaches your soul instantaneously. It is prolific instrumental music meant to have an impact on the listener. Once you understand what the track is about then it really hits home.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About James Alexander
http://childrenofaleppo.org/

My Music Tells My Story 

James Alexander is an American composer, singer-songwriter, music producer, musician & poet of Indian origin. He considers A.R Rahman as his musical guru. At an early age, he was deeply influenced by the music of ARR in films like Roja, Bombay, Duet, Rangeela and Taal...READ MORE...

Featured Track: Erik Scott-Wings

Erik Scott is getting ready to release another solo album titled A Trick of the Wind.  This is following his critically acclaimed In The Company of Clouds, which I had the distinct pleasure of reviewing.

To give you a taste of what is to come we are presenting the track sampling of "Wings," the opening track on the album.

Erik takes his bass and makes it a lead instrument on every track and "Wings" is a fantastic curtain opener.

Erik knows how to make his bass sing and it takes the listener off the ground, seemingly allowing you to spread your "Wings" and fly away.

Erik Scott is a gifted musician delivering the goods once again through tracks like "Wings."

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck


More About Erik Scott:

http://erikscottbass.com

Best known for his work with Alice Cooper, Sonia Dada, and Flo & Eddie, "Erik "Eski" Scott has a recording career that stretches back to 1969, making albums with Northern Illinois groups "Food" and "Jambalaya". It was in 1974 he met and played bass with Zappa cohorts and Turtles members Flo and Eddie, and would later record and tour with Alice Cooper. He was a founding member and worked fifteen years with Sonia Dada...READ MORE

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

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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)
 

Merrill Collins-Ethereal Escapes-Echappées Ethériques II

Release Date: July 21, 2017

Label: Spiraling Music

Website

Ethereal Escapes-Echappées Ethériques II is a sequel album. I did not hear the first installment of this beautiful and healing music but I am sure it was a great experience. The recording features Pianist Merrill Collins with Laura Halladay (flute) and Maksim Velichkin (cello).

There are 16 tracks to take in and enjoy on this release. If you read all the tracks in sequence it is a poem and the first volume was set up the same way. I think it is a very clever way for artists to express themselves besides making the music. There is a very spiritual message delivered through Merrill’s poem. So, words are part of the overall presentation however you must take the time to listen, read the tracks like you were reading a story, in this case a poem. As the artist expressed to me, the words get lost in translation due to the digital age not allowing the font formatting (lower case letters and punctuation). It would be more obvious to the individuals looking at the back of the CD that it was a part of the presentation and a piece of artistic expression to accompany the music.

It is all a healing experience as I believe much of the music I hear is, even if it isn’t new age instrumental. This is very contemporary and strongly influenced by classical. This aspect of what I have heard over the years however prevalent, is the difference maker. The classical base takes the music and approach to another level that simply cannot be reached by adding some layers of synthesizer and some babbling brooks. Those elements are good however the foundation of classical music are the keys to the kingdom.

Merrill Collins holds the keys on Ethereal Escapes II and unlocks the door to your inhibitions and they just melt away with the sounds. The musicianship is superb from start to finish. Subtle yet powerful, this music works on you one note at a time with tenderness, energy and the true spirit of our human nature. The mystical flute is always a nice touch and the cello and piano set it up perfectly, it is reciprocal with all the instrumentation. Although Merrill is the featured artist she gives equal time to her partners so they all complement each other. It is like listening to a musical language that can only be interpreted by you the listener and it comes from the inside, there is nothing superficial about it. For my ears that is the pure beauty and focus of music like this.

The title of the tracks say a lot and the music is always right there in the forefront displaying the suggested images. This is music to contemplate, relax to, focus upon and just listen without a thought. Whatever your purpose happens to be now, Ethereal Escapes II is therapeutic in every way. It comes as no surprise that Merrill has a Master’s Degree in Music.  She is a master and knows how to make the music to allow all the therapeutic values of it to take hold.  Much like the label she created Spiraling Music, her recordings are like a spiraling staircase of sound with each step taking you into a different space and time effortlessly.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June 3, 2017

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

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Tracks: 
01. The fountain of jewels activated!      
02. Our ears tingled                                
03. with every heartbeat,                        
04. listening with our ancestors.             
05. Our peaceful uprising continues    
06. flowing directly to love.                     
07. We heard Earth weeping,                 
08. remembering the emerald.              
09. In the bigger picture                         
10. with our timeless elders,                 
11. we are whole together,                    
12. living in harmonious worlds.          
13. Particles in space                           
14. returning home,                             
15. riding on waves of gold,                 
16. triumphant upon arrival!       
 

New Age/Contemporary Instrumental Review: Richard Dillon-The Land of Nod Lullabies for the Listless

Release Date: March 17, 2014

Label: Independent

Website

Richard Dillon is a firmly established artist with 8 previous recordings behind him. The Land of Nod Lullabies for the Listless was my introduction to his solo piano journeys.

Piano music is one of the most relaxing and mind emptying music I know of. I am the type of listener that is open to hearing just about anything. A lot of what I enjoy is very complex however on the other end of the spectrum I have a tremendous love for simplicity and pure beauty.

What I discovered on The Land of Nod Lullabies for the Listless is everything I enjoy about an instrumental new age/contemporary listening experience. The pace and approach is gentle yet inviting. It kind of feels like you are in slow motion falling into a bed of feathers or floating on a cloud. You can visualize these things just as you start listening and it’s not hard to make it all real with the help of this beautiful guide we call music. This can be your own “Chicken Soup for The Soul,” or your “Chop wood, gather water” kind of outdoor spiritual connection that the people who founded this great land of ours had.

As the title indicates this can be directed at children and adults alike. Regardless of age, we all do respond to colors, aromas and sounds. I think music has the power to create different experiences for the senses and it can be used for meditating or just to have on for some nice background music because it does not demand your attention or sound intrusive, it puts you at ease and relieves tensions. There are all sorts of therapies and drugs out there for relief of many problems and ailments but the one thing that remains more powerful than them all is music.

When I listen to music like The Land of Nod Lullabies for the Listless I am inspired to write about all these thoughts and feelings that the music helps me to realize. It is engaging as a lively conversation, although it is best to have it on an internal and spiritual level if you need healing. I am far from being listless but if you are this music will remove that condition in relatively short period.

One track seamlessly flows into the next like water from the roots of a tree to the leaves, bringing life and color to them all. Unequivocally music can have the same effects and meaning to a listener ready to receive it.

The Land of Nod Lullabies for the Listless is unencumbered art in motion, it is one man and a piano bringing these beautiful sounds to life with keystrokes that are channeled through him. I am continually amazed at these gifted individuals that bring me such peace and joy. This is musical perfection; a once empty canvas is now full for all to enjoy.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 11, 2017

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. The Land Above the Sky
02. No More Tears
03. Jouet Triste (Sad Toy)
04. Rocking Chair
05. Kainehe (Whispering Sea, Rumbling Sea)
06. Marmalade Skies
07. Sea of Forgetfulness
08. La Luna (The Moon)
09. Looking Glass River
10. My Bed is a Boat
11. Shadows on the Wall
12. Papillon (Butterfly)
13. The Land of Nod
14. Moonrise
15. Sleepyhead