New Age Review: Steven Halpern-Among Friends: 1975-2015-A 40 Year Retrospective

Release Date: May 12, 2015

Label: Inner Peace Music

Website

Steven Halpern is one of the most influential voices in New Age music. This Grammy award nominated artist has had a career spanning more than forty years. His style is comprised of New Age, Jazz, rhythmic world fusion and healing meditation and with each piece, he connects with the listener on an emotive and soul kindling level. The music from this comprehensive album is derived from the following albums: Deep Alpha, Connections, Relaxation Suite, Ancient Echoes, Dawn, Deja-Blues, Afro-Desia and Deep Theta 2.0. All pre-2005 recordings were remastered to match the hi-definition sound of the tracks recorded from 2005 through 2015.

Guest musicians in Among Friends are: Paul Horn, Paul McCandless, Jai Uttal, David Darling, Michael Manring,   Georgia Kelly, Suru Ekeh, Dallas Smith, Marc Van Wageningen, Jorge Alfano, Michael Diamond, David Friesen, Mark Bell, Kat Epple  and George Marsh.

One of the most remarkable things about this artist is his ability to delve into the spiritual nature of the listener and evoke images of calm.  “Shared Secrets” is such a piece and was originally on the Connections album. Golden flute and keyboards combine to give a deeply thoughtful sound experience that takes you into yourself. The essence of tranquility can be heard within the notes of this song. Some days that indeed feels like a secret-to find peace in a hectic world.

“Mello Cello” is a breathless awakening. Electronica, a light ethereal buzz and the seductive sound of string music awakens your senses. This piece is one of my favorites on the album.

“Deja-Blues” is from the album of the same name. Bluesy with flutes, drum beats and vocalizations, this piece wraps around you like smoke. Twisting and turning, it has a flavor of world music about it with a sweet sadness that digs down into the marrow of your being.

“Afro-Desia” is originally from the self-titled album. Evocative with world music beats and a jazzy flair, this piece is full of life. Colorful, it brings to mind the vibrant people from the African Continent. Percussive elements entwine with multi-instrumentation to craft a buoyant tune that floats along the river of life.   

The songs in this retrospective album all come from places in the history of a great composer and performer. Steven Halpern is a founding member of the New Age movement and has paved the way for many artists in his wake. His use of sound for spiritual healing and stress relief is a gift and I highly recommend his work if you need a bit of respite from the outside world.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Shared Secrets, Mello Cello, Deja-Blues, Afro-Desia

Track Listing: 
01. Deep Alpha (pt. 1) 4:49
02. Shared Secrets 5:43
03. Paradigm Shift 7:33
04. Thigh Chi 5:37
05. Mello Cello 6:31
06. Deja-Blues 4:20
07. Afro-Desia 4:07
08. Deep Theta 2.0 (pt.2) 5:02
09. Lifetide 5:18
10. In Another Life 4:31
11. Jonah’s Journey 5:17
12. Apollo’s Lyre 3:52
13. Dawn 4:16
14. Mirage 5:27
15. Deep Peace 5:13

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

May 19, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Progressive Metal Review: At War With Self-Circadian Rhythm Disorder

Release Date: 11^thMarch 2015

Label:  Digital release

Website

At War With Self is a project led/conceived by Glenn Snelwar, a multi-instrumentalist, best known, although not by this reviewer, as one of the guitarists on the Giordian Knot debut which featured members of King Crimson, Cynic, Watchtower and Dream Theater.

At War With Self has previously released three albums, Torn Between Dimensions (2005), Acts of God (2007) and A Familiar Path (2009), and now, album No 4 has landed on The Ancient Ones’ desk for review. The title of the newest release is Circadian Rhythm Disorder.

To quote the press release that accompanies this album release, “Circadian Rhythm Disorderis the culmination of four years of writing, recording, re-writing, analysis, re-analysis, discarding, rebuilding, e-evaluation and final culmination of compositions based on the framework of a 51 minute drum solo performed in a single take by Marco Minneman (drummer, composer, multi-instrumentalist with Steven Wilson Band and Joe Satriani Band).”

I will admit at the outset of this review that the thought of a 51 minute drum solo filled me full of foreboding, but I was interested to hear how Glenn built Circadian Rhythm Disorder around this base point.

The musicians involved on this release are Glenn, who plays guitars, fretless bass, mandolin and keyboards, with Marco Minneman, providing the drumming and percussion.

Circadian Rhythm Disorder is a 24 track album with a total paying time of around 51 minutes. Fifteen of the tracks last for under the 2 minute mark, with “Slate Wiper Pt 2,” the shortest at only 53 seconds and the longest track on offer on Circadian Rhythm Disorderis “Seeds Of Doubt” which plays for 4:19 minutes.

The opening track on Circadian Rhythm Disorder, “Slate Wiper” (3:26) is an interesting piece of music based on the first section of the drum track. There is a fair amount of metal guitar riffing, interspersed with mandolin which draws the listener in, although the sudden change from acoustic to metal guitar can be a little jarring. This is a positive start to the album with a track that certainly hangs together very well.

“Seeds Of Doubt” (4:19) has a very atmospheric build-up to around the 2 minute point before the metal guitar appears in the background and takes over with bursts of machine gun like riffing, which unfortunately isn’t a style that keeps the interest of this listener.

“Seeds Of Love” (3:47) changes tack with piano and acoustic guitar setting the scene before the keyboards fill in the background. A good track, and indeed, I think the best of these early tracks without a doubt.

“Shards Pt 1” (3:21), “Shards Pt 2” (2:17) and “Shards Pt 3” (0:55) are based around the less metallic side of the music, with “Pt 1” using acoustic guitar and keyboards to provide a gentle, almost laid back, flowing piece of music, which does have a few tempo changes, but it is always satisfying. “Pt 2” has a superb piano to start and is again, in the gentler of the musical styles across this release. There are some excellent acoustic guitar themes on offer over the length of this track. “Pt 3” again highlights the piano, but at under a minute in length, is too soon gone.

Having listened to this album several times over the last few weeks, I am still not convinced that I like or dislike it. Overall I’m very happy with the gentler, more atmospheric tracks, but a little put off by the harsh metal thrashing. This is an album I may well dip into from time to time, but only some of the tracks.

As usual, this is a very personal view of Circadian Rhythm Disorder, and I would always advocate that people have a few listens before making their mind up.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Slate Wiper, Seeds of Love, Shards Pt 1-3

Tracks:
Slate Wiper
Seeds of Doubt
Seeds of Love
The Mirror
Mirage
Stumbling To Sleep
Daydream
This Is Not My Reflection
Smash The Mirror
Shards Pt 1
Shards Pt 2
Shards Pt 3
Nightmare
Running From The Dream
N.D.E.
Tunnel Of Light
Re-Birth
First Breath
New Life Pt 1
New Life Pt 2
Slate Wiper Pt 2
A Day’s Death
Completion Of The Cycle
One And All
 

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

May 21, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Progressive Metal Review: At War With Self-Circadian Rhythm Disorder

Release Date: 11^thMarch 2015

Label:  Digital release

Website

At War With Self is a project led/conceived by Glenn Snelwar, a multi-instrumentalist, best known, although not by this reviewer, as one of the guitarists on the Giordian Knot debut which featured members of King Crimson, Cynic, Watchtower and Dream Theater.

At War With Self has previously released three albums, Torn Between Dimensions (2005), Acts of God (2007) and A Familiar Path (2009), and now, album No 4 has landed on The Ancient Ones’ desk for review. The title of the newest release is Circadian Rhythm Disorder.

To quote the press release that accompanies this album release, “Circadian Rhythm Disorderis the culmination of four years of writing, recording, re-writing, analysis, re-analysis, discarding, rebuilding, e-evaluation and final culmination of compositions based on the framework of a 51 minute drum solo performed in a single take by Marco Minneman (drummer, composer, multi-instrumentalist with Steven Wilson Band and Joe Satriani Band).”

I will admit at the outset of this review that the thought of a 51 minute drum solo filled me full of foreboding, but I was interested to hear how Glenn built Circadian Rhythm Disorder around this base point.

The musicians involved on this release are Glenn, who plays guitars, fretless bass, mandolin and keyboards, with Marco Minneman, providing the drumming and percussion.

Circadian Rhythm Disorder is a 24 track album with a total paying time of around 51 minutes. Fifteen of the tracks last for under the 2 minute mark, with “Slate Wiper Pt 2,” the shortest at only 53 seconds and the longest track on offer on Circadian Rhythm Disorderis “Seeds Of Doubt” which plays for 4:19 minutes.

The opening track on Circadian Rhythm Disorder, “Slate Wiper” (3:26) is an interesting piece of music based on the first section of the drum track. There is a fair amount of metal guitar riffing, interspersed with mandolin which draws the listener in, although the sudden change from acoustic to metal guitar can be a little jarring. This is a positive start to the album with a track that certainly hangs together very well.

“Seeds Of Doubt” (4:19) has a very atmospheric build-up to around the 2 minute point before the metal guitar appears in the background and takes over with bursts of machine gun like riffing, which unfortunately isn’t a style that keeps the interest of this listener.

“Seeds Of Love” (3:47) changes tack with piano and acoustic guitar setting the scene before the keyboards fill in the background. A good track, and indeed, I think the best of these early tracks without a doubt.

“Shards Pt 1” (3:21), “Shards Pt 2” (2:17) and “Shards Pt 3” (0:55) are based around the less metallic side of the music, with “Pt 1” using acoustic guitar and keyboards to provide a gentle, almost laid back, flowing piece of music, which does have a few tempo changes, but it is always satisfying. “Pt 2” has a superb piano to start and is again, in the gentler of the musical styles across this release. There are some excellent acoustic guitar themes on offer over the length of this track. “Pt 3” again highlights the piano, but at under a minute in length, is too soon gone.

Having listened to this album several times over the last few weeks, I am still not convinced that I like or dislike it. Overall I’m very happy with the gentler, more atmospheric tracks, but a little put off by the harsh metal thrashing. This is an album I may well dip into from time to time, but only some of the tracks.

As usual, this is a very personal view of Circadian Rhythm Disorder, and I would always advocate that people have a few listens before making their mind up.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Slate Wiper, Seeds of Love, Shards Pt 1-3

Tracks:
Slate Wiper
Seeds of Doubt
Seeds of Love
The Mirror
Mirage
Stumbling To Sleep
Daydream
This Is Not My Reflection
Smash The Mirror
Shards Pt 1
Shards Pt 2
Shards Pt 3
Nightmare
Running From The Dream
N.D.E.
Tunnel Of Light
Re-Birth
First Breath
New Life Pt 1
New Life Pt 2
Slate Wiper Pt 2
A Day’s Death
Completion Of The Cycle
One And All
 

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

May 21, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Instrumental Review: Robin Spielberg-Another Time, Another Place

Release Date: April 28, 2015

Label: playMountain Music

Website

Robin Spielberg is known for her lyrical performances spanning the classical, traditional and pop genres. In this album of original compositions, Robin gives us piano solos that light up any dark spaces that may be in your life. Robin is an accomplished artist with over sixteen recordings in her name and she has been included in over forty compilations. Often on tour, she bonds with her audience through her grace and spiritual connectivity. 

“First Dance” is the introductory piece on the album. Like two ribbons winding up from a ballerina’s slipper this song is a whisper of movement across a dance floor. Steady and methodical, the dancer strives to perfect her form. With each failure comes opportunity and the gift of hope. The rich emotive quality of this piece makes it one of my favorites on the album.

“Cherry Blossom” is a breath of fresh air. Spring has showed its face in the crisp morning hours and the buds on the cherry tree awaken. Sweeping piano movements drift like a branch swaying in the wind. Sunlight settles on your face and the sweet promise of a fresh season beckons.

“Whisper in the Wind” at first reminded me of the “Flower Song” from Delibes’ Lakme. A beautiful song, it is interpretive in only the best way a performer can hurl talent into the wind and bring back something artful and dripping with muse. Textured and thought provoking, the piano sequences invoke images of a windswept cliff with the possibilities of a lifetime just waiting for you to make the first leap.

Robin Spielberg is a force to be reckoned with in this album. Swirling watercolors meet introspection and artfulness as her work captures the listener’s imagination at every turn. Another Time, Another Place is an album I listened to again and again not once losing interest. The precision and melodic quality of the work is one hundred percent. There is nothing better than to sit down after a busy day and feel yourself unwind to music of this caliber. Robin Spielberg is an artist I will be watching out for and I may just have to investigate those sixteen albums…
 

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: First Dance, Cherry Blossom, Whisper in the Wind

Tracks:
01. First Dance
02. Ship to Shore
03. Another Time, Another Place
04. Cherry Blossom
05. The View from Here
06. In My Dreams
07. After All
08. The Time Traveler
09. Candlelight Waltz
10. A Whisper in the Wind
11. O Mio Babbino Caro
 

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

April 29, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Prog Rock Stream: Exovex-Daylight (Radio Silence Part IV)

Exovex Releases Debut Album ‘Radio Silence’

Greenville, SC – The Prog Rock community is buzzing about the new release by progressive rock ensemble Exovex featuring members of Porcupine Tree, NIN, Devo, Sting & Steely Dan!  Radio Silence is the project’s debut album and features Josh Freese (NIN, A Perfect Circle, Devo) and Keith Carlock (Sting, John Meyer, Steely Dan) on drums. The album also showcases two members of Porcupine Tree, Gavin Harrison on drums and Richard Barbieri on keyboards and synthesizers. All songs on the album were written, performed and produced by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Dale Simmons.

Music Industry Veteran Launches New Music Pre-Production Service For Indie Artists

Boston, MA-April 23, 2015-Long time music industry journalist and webmaster Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck has launched a service to help Indie Artists in the early stages of recording their music.

To date Hannaleck has been involved in three projects with more lining up, from beginning to end in helping artists to create their albums. Tracks are evaluated in their most rudimentary form for the artists. The input is invaluable at the beginning stages all the way to the final mastering and sequencing. 

The process goes through four stages and can last anywhere from 1 to 3 months or longer.

Russ Suereth Commented:  Keith was patient during the initial creation process. I must say that the initial drafts were not great, because I was still trying to find my place within this new space. Keith was there to help guide my focus to an area that listeners were expecting to hear, and once I got on track I was able to take off on my own. Keith helped with a few final thoughts at the end, and also provided thoughtful and detailed descriptions of the tracks. They were very helpful in marketing my music to other people in the industry.

Any artist would benefit from Keith’s insights, experience, and deep knowledge of music and the greater music industry.

Hannaleck currently runs 4 different blogs that concentrate on music, Write A Music Review, Prog Rock Music Talk, New Age Music Reviews and Rate The Tracks. He has been in the music industry for over 16 years and is the founder of the website MuzikReviews.com which went offline last year due to an ownership change. That did not deter the man from carrying on and he continued to be a relevant part of the online music industry contributing music reviews with his staff and posting streaming media and news.

Regarding The Pre-Production Service Hannaleck States-The goal is to provide each artist with an honest assessment of each individual track. A further recommendation for additional instruments or removal of the same helps to make the tracks better in sound and overall texture and presentation. After several iterations of evaluations and short reviews of each track the end result should be a complete album ready for final mastering. My knowledge and connections in the music industry will assist the artist in taking their music to the next level and making recommendations for mastering and publicity.

This Pre-Production service is one that is greatly needed in the highly competitive and at times confusing music industry. Experience, honesty and a straightforward approach is something that is an invaluable resource that any artist seeks. Hannaleck hopes to make this service an integral part of the industry for years to come. All of the sites, social networks and services are available to access on one page at www.muzikman.net

Contact:Keith Hannaleck

Email: khannaleck@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.muzikman.net

Music Industry Veteran Launches New Music Pre-Production Service For Indie Artists

Boston, MA-April 23, 2015-Long time music industry journalist and webmaster Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck has launched a service to help Indie Artists in the early stages of recording their music.

To date Hannaleck has been involved in three projects with more lining up, from beginning to end in helping artists to create their albums. Tracks are evaluated in their most rudimentary form for the artists. The input is invaluable at the beginning stages all the way to the final mastering and sequencing. 

The process goes through four stages and can last anywhere from 1 to 3 months or longer.

Russ Suereth Commented:  Keith was patient during the initial creation process. I must say that the initial drafts were not great, because I was still trying to find my place within this new space. Keith was there to help guide my focus to an area that listeners were expecting to hear, and once I got on track I was able to take off on my own. Keith helped with a few final thoughts at the end, and also provided thoughtful and detailed descriptions of the tracks. They were very helpful in marketing my music to other people in the industry.

Any artist would benefit from Keith’s insights, experience, and deep knowledge of music and the greater music industry.

Hannaleck currently runs 4 different blogs that concentrate on music, Write A Music Review, Prog Rock Music Talk, New Age Music Reviews and Rate The Tracks. He has been in the music industry for over 16 years and is the founder of the website MuzikReviews.com which went offline last year due to an ownership change. That did not deter the man from carrying on and he continued to be a relevant part of the online music industry contributing music reviews with his staff and posting streaming media and news.

Regarding The Pre-Production Service Hannaleck States-The goal is to provide each artist with an honest assessment of each individual track. A further recommendation for additional instruments or removal of the same helps to make the tracks better in sound and overall texture and presentation. After several iterations of evaluations and short reviews of each track the end result should be a complete album ready for final mastering. My knowledge and connections in the music industry will assist the artist in taking their music to the next level and making recommendations for mastering and publicity.

This Pre-Production service is one that is greatly needed in the highly competitive and at times confusing music industry. Experience, honesty and a straightforward approach is something that is an invaluable resource that any artist seeks. Hannaleck hopes to make this service an integral part of the industry for years to come. All of the sites, social networks and services are available to access on one page at www.muzikman.net

Contact:Keith Hannaleck

Email: khannaleck@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.muzikman.net

Track Feature: Eric Tingstad-Swamped

Eric Tingstad's "Swamped" is but one example of his excellence at connecting to the roots and blues music that literally influences all music to this day. His guitar playing and production is superb! I instantly felt a connection to his music as soon as it started playing. Words are not necessary because this music will speak to you! Make sure you check out more of Tingstad's music on his new release Mississippi and read the review. 

Rating 5/5-Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

More About Eric:
http://www.erictingstad.com

Eric Tingstad’s solo recording career began in 1982 with the release of On The Links. Capitalizing on his gift for composition, On the Links compiled eleven original songs best described as part of the burgeoning New Age genre. The album appeared on his private label, Cheshire Records, under which he continues to release albums of his own music and others. 

Tingstad won a Grammy Award for Best New Age Album in 2003 as artist, engineer, and producer of Tingstad and Rumbel’s, Acoustic Garden. He continues to tour as part of Tingstad and Rumbel, an acoustic duo that remains a standard among listeners of the instrumental/New Age genres.

Instrumental Americana/Blues Review: Eric Tingstad-Mississippi

Release Date: 2015

Label: Indie

Website

Eric Tingstad is a Grammy Award winning composer, producer, singer and songwriter primarily known for his finger style guitar work. Tingstad has crafted works in the Americana, Bluegrass, Alternative Country, Jazz, Blues and New Age genres. In his newest album Mississippi he indulges in all of them. This album takes a look at the cradle of music where much of the style of music Tingstad is known for originated from.

“Mississippi” is the title track to the album. It takes us on a walk alongside of one of our nation’s greatest rivers. The rambling guitar picking paired with light percussive elements blends together like water and river silt to make that muddy river flow. Jazzy at times with elements of Americana roots, this piece teems with life.

“Swamped” comes to life picking and grinning and reminds me of what it feels like to be hip deep in deadlines and hardly able to come up for air. Stop, start, and plod along all the while trying to keep your head above water with an upbeat attitude and a gallon of coffee. Textured and plucky, “Swamped” should be the song of my life and as soon as I heard it, I smiled. Bouncing, happy with the whirlwind and the myriad of theoretical plates spinning in the air, it says it all. It’s all in the hips and if you dance while life keeps going, you’ll get there.

“Chester” reminded me of a dog. Yep, a floppy eared overeager retriever bounding along at his master’s heels. Happy and alert, this piece encapsulates all that is good in the world. Guitar picking in a smooth roots rock style, Tingstad illustrates life with sound and paints a picture of happy carefree moments that should never be taken for granted. This was one of my favorite pieces on the album.

The care and precision that has gone into this album is quite evident. Mississippi is a tribute to a great river and a place in music’s history that helped to form much of music today as we know it. As a listener, I find the album also speaks to life in general. We all cry tears, feel swamped, miss a loved one and at the end of the day hopefully have a furry four legged friend to go home to. The one thing that drew it all together for me was Tingstad’s style of guitar work, stellar composition and musical imagery. Each bridge and transition was seamless and kept me wanting more. In fact, I haven’t stopped playing the album since I started. It’s good company on an afternoon when a little spring in my step is just what’s needed. I highly recommend this blues album for anyone who wants a taste of instrumental Americana at its best.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Mississippi, Swamped, Chester

Tracks:
 01. Long Boats
02. Shakin' in the Cradle
03. Mississippi
04. Trail of Tears
05. Swamped
06. Tennessee Rain
07. Danny Boy
08. Skamania
09. Highway One
10. Durango
11. Chester
 

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

April 16, 2015

Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Welcome!

Welcome music industry folks, artists and music lovers alike to our home on the web.

The purpose of this site is to create some awareness of our blogs and services.

All the links and information you need to find out more is just a click away so explore! Check out the graphics on each side bar and click on them to visit each site. Look to the navigation bars to find out more about the services.

This site is and will be an ongoing work in progress. Eventually all content from our other blogs will be pulled over.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

Album Preview: OH-Synemotion

New Progressive Rock Metal Album - SynemotionOH. - Progressive Rock and Metal
 
The progressive rock/metal artist OH. released two singles, “Run Away” and “Synemotion” from her upcoming vinyl and digital album Synemotion set to be released on April 24, 2015.

The singles and pre-orders of the digital download and the Limited Edition Double Gatefold vinyl are available now on Bandcamp and iTunes.

The album Synemotion, is a journey through the complex emotional states we experience when we are overwhelmed by concerns and fears – escapist feelings in the song, “Run Away”, anger and frustration in “Rumpus” – wanting to cower and hide in “Subterfuge” – longing and nostaglia in “Elegy” and the experience of disappointment and let-down in the song “Deception”. Finally, letting go and receiving the feeling in the song “Reception” – and the awareness and sensation of irony knowing it will all start over again in the “World of Warcraft”.

The title track, “Synemotion” expresses in words this entire journey from pain and fear to release and hope. But most importantly the song uncovers how we cope with pain, fear, disappointment, depression, embarrassment and futility, it uncovers what actually happens to us, when we are overwhelmed by experience, and with a strange twist of perception, gifts the listener a path out of the darkness and despair, into an even more compelling and complex palette of emotions and sensations. The song gives hope and strength to walk through life even with wounds and disfigurement and have an even greater experience than before.

Album Preview: OH-Synemotion

New Progressive Rock Metal Album - SynemotionOH. - Progressive Rock and Metal
 
The progressive rock/metal artist OH. released two singles, “Run Away” and “Synemotion” from her upcoming vinyl and digital album Synemotion set to be released on April 24, 2015.

The singles and pre-orders of the digital download and the Limited Edition Double Gatefold vinyl are available now on Bandcamp and iTunes.

The album Synemotion, is a journey through the complex emotional states we experience when we are overwhelmed by concerns and fears – escapist feelings in the song, “Run Away”, anger and frustration in “Rumpus” – wanting to cower and hide in “Subterfuge” – longing and nostaglia in “Elegy” and the experience of disappointment and let-down in the song “Deception”. Finally, letting go and receiving the feeling in the song “Reception” – and the awareness and sensation of irony knowing it will all start over again in the “World of Warcraft”.

The title track, “Synemotion” expresses in words this entire journey from pain and fear to release and hope. But most importantly the song uncovers how we cope with pain, fear, disappointment, depression, embarrassment and futility, it uncovers what actually happens to us, when we are overwhelmed by experience, and with a strange twist of perception, gifts the listener a path out of the darkness and despair, into an even more compelling and complex palette of emotions and sensations. The song gives hope and strength to walk through life even with wounds and disfigurement and have an even greater experience than before.

New Age/Jazz Review: Jeff Oster-Next

Release Date: April 14, 2015

Label: Retso Records

Website

Ever think of what it would sound like if Pink Floyd joined forces with Miles Davis? Well that is the sound of Jeff Oster as people described him over the years. Personally I love both of those artists, they were building blocks to our musical legacy and idolized by generations of listeners. Jeff Oster is an acclaimed trumpet and flugelhorn player that has been bestowed many honors over his career. After giving his new release Next a good listen I can understand why. Somehow he has been able to take jazz, funk, ambient and new age and make it a unique and compelling sound all his own.

As the curtain opens with the title track Oster starts things off in the right way giving the music the direction it needs to capture a listener. Nile Rodgers (Chic) adds his smooth and funky guitar lines to the soothing sounds produced by Jeff’s horn. It just could not have started any better.

As the man says-“If you want to know truly who I am, listen to my horn.” I think that sums it up in one statement and trust me it plays out just like that on Next. Jeff’s flugelhorn and trumpet are brought to the forefront of the music by the talented production hands of Will Ackerman from Imaginary Road Studios. It was mixed by the capable hands of Tom Eaton and then mastered by Bob Ludwig.

The combination of smooth jazz and new age is a compatible marriage of sound and without sounding cliché; it’s like chicken soup for the soul, musically speaking. It’s quite beautiful and picturesque. This music allows you to shape and mold the pictures in your mind’s eye and I can guarantee it will be the most pleasant journey.

“Gardens of Varanasi” invokes a spiritual atmosphere, like an invite to heaven this track leads you down the path to enlightenment. With purpose and direction the music sets you at ease and gives you comfort. What I found interesting was the fact that you don’t have to necessarily be a fan of new age or jazz to find enjoyment with this release. I think the overall presentation has something to offer every one. It was a challenge to choose three key standout tracks because each one was impressive in its own right. My personal tastes were a perfect fit for getting into this album; I love jazz, all kinds and new age as well so it was like putting on my pants every day, it fit.

“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a delicate and beautiful outreach to that special someone, an invitation to see the other party as they truly are and decide if choosing to be by their side would feel right. If the music has anything to do with that, I am sure the answer would be yes. Everything about the track, the piano, horn, drums and bass invite you in and make you feel right at home, like you belong. In essence all of Jeff Oster’s music is special like that. He has created a masterpiece of instrumental bliss.

Next slides down into your soul like your favorite ice cream on a hot summer day. You feel satisfaction and complete joy. This is relaxation and satisfaction taken to the next level. I am certain this recording will receive its share of attention before the year is through.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Next, Gardens of Varanasi, I Can’t Make You Love Me

Tracks: 
01. Next (feat. Nile Rodgers)  
02. Night Train to Sofia      
03. Gardens of Varanasi      
04. Turn Left At San Pancho      
05. I Can't Make You Love Me      
06. On Mother's Day      
07. Half a Cookie      
08. Ibiza Sunrise      
09. Avenue D  
10. The Mystery of B      
11. Heroes (feat. Jeff Taboloff)      
12. And We Dance

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music ReviewsFounder

April 13, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

New Age/World Review: Russell Suereth-Spiritual Haven

Release Date: March 14, 2015

Label: Haven Tone Records

Website

Russell Suereth is a keyboardist with a focus on New Age and world music. His new album Spiritual Haven is a combination of classic Western instruments blended with some more exotic instruments such as a duduk, guzheng, grand marimba, koto, oud, krin and ethnic frame drums. These sounds are accentuated by the hang drum and woodwind instruments as well as many others. Original compositions range from spiritual reflection to observation of nature in all of its forms.

“Glitter of Light” is a song based on hope in difficult times. Sometimes I think we are led to things when we need them most and after losing a family pet of fourteen years and dealing with the illness of another pet this past week I believe it. “Glimmer” breathes life via percussive elements, woodwinds, synth and keyboard action that was peaceful and reflective. The rhythms and soft vocalizations were both soothing and uplifting, and a nice trip out of my head for a time.

“Notions Astir” begins with a mellow synth experience blended with clanging that reminded me of banging silverware and frenzied housework on a weekday night. It made me smile and be joyful in the basic things of life.

“Red Moon Rising” compelled me with the title of the song and I was not disappointed. Electronic keyboards and synth bring to mind a large red moon rising over the big night sky. Percussive elements add to the anticipation, along with clanging sounds that reminded me of going sky watching with my husband at the cemetery in Yorktown, Virginia. The big dark sky, picnic laid out (clanging silverware sounds again) and a telescope so you don’t miss a thing.

“The Village Breathes” is the last song on the album. Sounds of water, birds in flight, people speaking and a lovely piano sequence make it one of my favorite tracks on the album. This piece has a more distinct sound that brought to mind the movie The Medicine Man and the villagers working and laughing together as they worked. Exotic world music blends with modern sound to create a visual impression of the South American jungle.

Russell Suereth has captured moments in nature and the human psyche with his album Spiritual Haven. The album moves from one song to the next weaving a spell of modern musical design interspersed with exotic elements and textures. This was an enjoyable album for both its rhythms and sentiment.    

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Glimmer of Light, Notions Astir, Red Moon Rising, The Village Breathes

Tracks: 
01. A Magic Flight
02. Distant Voices
03. Glimmer of Light
04. Night Dances
05. Swirling Spice
06. Nightingale Rushes
07. Notions Astir
08. Sudden Awareness
09. Red Moon Calling
10. Red Moon Rising
11. Realization
12. The Village Breathes

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

April 4, 2015                         

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Art Rock Review: Rhys Marsh-Sentiment

Genre: Art Rock

Release Date: 10^thNovember 2014

Label:   Autumnsong Records (Burning Shed)

Website

This is another of those times when items for review have links. Having recently reviewed the debut release by Kaukasus, I now find that the new release by Rhys Marsh, Sentiment, has landed on the reviewing desk. Rhys is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer based in Trondheim, Norway. Apart from being a solo artist, Rhys is the leader of the band The Autumn Ghost and a member of both Kaukasus and Mandala.

Autumn 2013 saw Rhys debut solo release entitled Suspended in A Weightless Wind, which comprised 5 tracks of cover material including Nick Drake and King Crimson.

Sentiment is the first full length solo release by Rhys and was written and recorded in his own Autumnsongs Recording studio. The artist himself has described the material as “my darkest and noisiest album so far. That encouraged me to step away from my comfort zone and really delve into more personal matters.”

Normally I would now go into a bit of info about the artist /band and who played what etc. but this time it is very short and indeed very easy. The only musician listed on the album is one Rhys Marsh, who plays “everything.”

Sentiment is a 9 track album with a total playing time of around 42 minutes, with the shortest track, “Burn The Brightest Day” lasting 3:19 minutes and the longest track, “The Ghost Ship” running on just beyond the 6 minute mark (6:11).

“Pictures Of Ashes” (3:50) is a very catchy track with a gentle light bass behind a plaintive vocal. The acoustic guitar is excellent and the “flute” (possibly a mellotron?) helps the track build with the increasing intensity of the snare. The chorus occurs through what is normally referred to as a wall of sound and then this drops away around the 2 minute mark and the music becomes very sparse, but so melodic. There is a change just after 2:30 minute point with a blast of sound from the mellotron before a return to the earlier theme. This is a track that very quickly permeates into your head.

Track 4, “The Seventh Face” (4:49) is one of those tracks that is, in a very subtle way, burrowing deep into your mind without you being aware of the situation. This is another example of some superb bass playing together with “strings” (mellotron again?) to create an amazing aural soundscape. Rhys vocals, as on Kaukasus recordings, are so clear and powerful, adding another facet to this track. This is my favorite track of the album thus far.

Up next is the longest track, “The Ghost Ship” (6:11) is a beautiful, melancholic track of stunning simplicity. Herein lies the proof that drums can be subtle as they are so light, and together with more perfectly played bass, they paint an amazing scenario. With the general feeling one of melancholy or sadness, the vocals fit that description like a glove. This is a track that at different times both drifts, and occasionally, drives along forming a superb piece of work. It leaves with a very much upbeat blast including fuzz toned guitars.

The next track in this section, “In The Sand” (3:49) is the opposite in style of expression of the previous track. The feeling of openness, evident earlier in the tracks has been replaced by a tight precision which anchors the track, and although relatively short, is a track that will linger long in the mind.

The general feeling of this album is that Rhys has evolved from previous material, but has, at the same time, maintained the “Rhys ethos” in that he retains the ability to tell amazing stories in his catchy, melodic/moody, vocal led work. Several times he approaches the area that Kaukasus inhabit, but this release, Sentiment, is very definitely a Rhys marsh solo success. Sentiment may require several listens before you realize that each and every track has somehow managed to get inside your head and subsequent listens seem to accentuate the little hooks and themes that you might have previously missed. Sentiment is an album to be savored and should be high on your CD shopping list.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Seventh Face, The Ghost Ship, In The Sand

Tracks:
Calling In The Night
Burn The Brightest Day
Picture Of Ashes
The Seventh Face
The Ghost Ship
In The Sand
Last November
Silver Light And Blackened Eyes
Give Me (What You Need)

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

March 29, 2015

Review Provided By Write A Music Review