Instrumental New Age/Jazz/World Review: Lawrence Blatt-Longitudes & Latitudes

Release Date: August 9, 2016

Label: LMB Music

Website

When I saw that Lawrence Blatt’s latest release Longitudes & Latitudes was produced by Will Ackerman it totally made sense. Ackerman is a great acoustic guitar player that I have enjoyed over the years particularly when he was running his Windham Hill label.

Right from the outset of this album I could hear Ackerman’s influence however now he is more of an influence on the production side of the house. Tom Eaton is the engineer on the album as well, a consistent partner of Ackerman.

As stated on his website Lawrence often plays in an open tuning to create a nice rhythm then adds the other instruments. It is a very effective combination. He plays electric and acoustic guitars and synthesizer (and like any good musician has many to choose from). Many of the guests appearing on the album help to make this journey complete including Ackerman and the marvelous brass of Jeff Oster. Because of the diversity offered on the album it is clearly an instrumental foray into new age, jazz and world.

The percussive elements on the track “Ima” along with various earthy tones, switch the albums path to a worldlier flavor when prior tracks were bubbling over with a definite new age/jazz flavor and inspiration. The beauty of many of the recordings I have heard this year pay tribute to Mother Earth and that is the route Lawrence took as well on several tracks. With 15 tracks there is plenty to process and it’s a beautiful thing.

“Upon Griffy Lake” carries a gorgeous melody with the equally attractive female vocals of Noah Wilding. The lady seems to call out to you from beyond as the music lets you float to your destination via the acoustic and electric guitar lines of Lawrence. He uses a intriguing and impactful combination of acoustic and electric instruments with the young lady’s voice serving as an instrument as well. It is one my favorite tracks. So much beauty and gracefulness packed into one song is hard for the mind, body and spirit to miss.

The other component I recognized on this album is the excellent restraint exercised when needed to accentuate each instrument allowing for the best compliment to each. Each track moves from strength to strength.

“Noches de Barcelona” is full of the embodiment that is Spain and the video with the track is beautiful. It was featured on our Rate The Tracks site and is provided here as well.  We have also included a preview of the album with a video and a Soundcloud stream so you can get a good idea of what this talented artist can offer.

This is 5-star recording session that is both relaxing and exciting at the same time, not an easy task to pull off. It is all done extremely well and the tastes of genres is most appealing including the mixture of them all in one single track.

Add Longitudes & Latitudes to your list one of the very best instrumental recordings of 2016. It’s not hard to do if you appreciate new age, jazz or world or all three combined, the choice is obvious so give it a good listen!

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Ima, Upon Griffy Lake, Noches de Barcelona

Tracks: 
01. Two Shades of Sunshine
02. Longitudes and Latitudes
03. A Place in Your Heart
04. Hyde Park Bench
05. Open Fields and Running Water
06. Two Steps Down the Line
07. I.M.A.
08. Morning in Beerse
09. Upon Griffy Lake
10. The Places Left Behind
11. Park Lane
12. Noches De Barcelona
13. Flying over Ellis Island
14. Slow Walk Past the Bank
15. Over the Rainbow
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 30, 2016

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Instrumental New Age/Classical Review: Kevin Kern-When I Remember

Release Date: September 9, 2016

Label: Kevin Kern Music

Website

People that are given obstacles in life either give in and give up to them or use that as motivation to push forward and become successful in spite of it. Kevin Kern took the positive path and used music as his voice of expression. Kevin has poor eyesight but judging by what this album titled When I Remember sounds like, that is not a disability.

The artist is influenced by Mozart, Chopin and Bach, all the great composers. He gained his tools by learning pieces by these legendary musicians when he was young. This is what and when he remembers as the title suggests (at least that is my interpretation). The tracks mirror that foundation in the most elegant and beautiful way.

I have heard countless standalone piano recordings this year and there is something about the simplicity and peacefulness it can bring to a listener that has intrigued me and given me the desire to accept it with an open heart and mind.

One track seamlessly flows into the next offering a road to renewal. The ivory keys deliver a touch of heaven to your senses. For my listening experience it is a threefold process…sound, color and spirit. All three elements combine to ease my mind and soul and give me the comfort I seek at the end of each day.

Because of the way each song connected to the next with different variations in tempo and approach I found it very difficult to pull out a few tracks that really stood out. This is not to downplay the recording but it is quite the opposite, it is actually complimenting the artist on his consistency and approach from start to finish.

It is music like this that always seems to come to me at the right time day or night, it is a gift from the gifted. Kevin Kern is an enlightened spirit with the gift of music inside and he offers an audience his translation through his talented fingers and energy. 

When I Remember is musical perfection that heals and offers so much if one can focus long enough to stop and listen. I think that practice of stopping and listening could really be helpful in everyone’s daily life in these tumultuous times we live in. Thank god for musicians transporting the universal language of love and joy through music and that is exactly what Mr. Kern does on this recording.

4/5 Stars
 

Key Tracks: ALL

Tracks:
 01. We Should Waltz
02. Once Upon a Time
03. Say You Love Me
04. Chance Encounter
05. Dreaming of Home
06. When I Remember
07. Rise and Shine
08. By My Side
09. Off to the Races (For Grampa Norm)
10. Chopin’s Touch
11. A Walk in the Sun
12. A Lonely Heart

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 19, 2016

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Instrumental New Age/Classical Review: Kevin Kern-When I Remember

Release Date: September 9, 2016

Label: Kevin Kern Music

Website

People that are given obstacles in life either give in and give up to them or use that as motivation to push forward and become successful in spite of it. Kevin Kern took the positive path and used music as his voice of expression. Kevin has poor eyesight but judging by what this album titled When I Remember sounds like, that is not a disability.

The artist is influenced by Mozart, Chopin and Bach, all the great composers. He gained his tools by learning pieces by these legendary musicians when he was young. This is what and when he remembers as the title suggests (at least that is my interpretation). The tracks mirror that foundation in the most elegant and beautiful way.

I have heard countless standalone piano recordings this year and there is something about the simplicity and peacefulness it can bring to a listener that has intrigued me and given me the desire to accept it with an open heart and mind.

One track seamlessly flows into the next offering a road to renewal. The ivory keys deliver a touch of heaven to your senses. For my listening experience it is a threefold process…sound, color and spirit. All three elements combine to ease my mind and soul and give me the comfort I seek at the end of each day.

Because of the way each song connected to the next with different variations in tempo and approach I found it very difficult to pull out a few tracks that really stood out. This is not to downplay the recording but it is quite the opposite, it is actually complimenting the artist on his consistency and approach from start to finish.

It is music like this that always seems to come to me at the right time day or night, it is a gift from the gifted. Kevin Kern is an enlightened spirit with the gift of music inside and he offers an audience his translation through his talented fingers and energy. 

When I Remember is musical perfection that heals and offers so much if one can focus long enough to stop and listen. I think that practice of stopping and listening could really be helpful in everyone’s daily life in these tumultuous times we live in. Thank god for musicians transporting the universal language of love and joy through music and that is exactly what Mr. Kern does on this recording.

4/5 Stars
 

Key Tracks: ALL

Tracks:
 01. We Should Waltz
02. Once Upon a Time
03. Say You Love Me
04. Chance Encounter
05. Dreaming of Home
06. When I Remember
07. Rise and Shine
08. By My Side
09. Off to the Races (For Grampa Norm)
10. Chopin’s Touch
11. A Walk in the Sun
12. A Lonely Heart

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 19, 2016

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Instrumental New Age Review: Genevieve Walker-Walking Home

Release Date: January 2016

Label: Independent

Website

Walking Home is produced by Chris Gartner and features Genevieve Walker on violin, viola, guitar, and piano. It is her debut recording after spending years on the international stage with other acclaimed musicians such as Krishna Das.

The music is referenced as minimalist which I can agree with however the combination of instruments creates beautiful soundscapes. The atmospheres are inviting and bring you a sense of calm and peace within.

The cover of the CD can project many images for the listener. It looks simple enough with the artist on a dirt road holding her instrument (walking home?). The orientation to Walking Home could be your own road in life or home and then it could be a physical or spiritual place held deep within your soul. I think for the most part the human race is so caught up in their daily lives and events happening around them that we tend to forget our place and from whence we came. It gets more difficult to find that place of enlightenment and recharging we so desperately need sometimes. This music brings things back to basics.

I found “Embryonic Voyage” to be very interesting. It is very rhythmic in nature and something as simple as the snapping of fingers changes the entire song. Simplicity rules yet it manages to get your attention while still making the track seem more every day without complexities. These are things we all need to hear after a busy day. The little things in life can make a difference. If you experience the voyage within the song and look at what the word embryonic indicates, it totally makes sense. It is a start, a beginning that leads to something more.


“Falling” offers the beauty of emotion even if there is sadness. The music paints the colors of drama and the aching heart as it falls to the bottom of your stomach. Even so the music certainly carries hope and the awesome beauty of it shows the light shining at the end of a journey, like a beacon brightly leading the way.

The emotion of this music is apparent at every turn. It really could be an effective soundtrack for the right movie or serve as a guide post for your soul to align with your thoughts and bring clarity. It is all instrumental so the absence of words allows for complete focus and reflection hence bringing a renewal to your spirit.

“Mountain Refuge” is the important closing number. As you picture a place where you can go to find your peace it’s not hard to imagine. A place like Tibet where the Dali Lama and his followers learn to become one with their creator came to mind quickly. The beginning and end of the track has the echoing voice of those chanting to find their focus and connection to a higher power. It is a beautiful way to close out the recording but once you think it’s over the laughter of a child comes in to remind you of that innocence we all once had and how it can be easily recalled with the right attitude and music. 

I found all of the musical multitasking of the artist quite impressive. Genevieve Walker has a great start to a solo career with Walking Home there is no doubt about that. Take a walk with her, you never know what you may discover.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Embryonic Voyage, Falling, Mountain Refuge


Tracks:
1. Still Meadow
2. Walking Home
3. Train North
4. Wisdom Lake
5. Embryonic Voyage    
6. Cicadas and Light    
7. Falling
8. Sweep
9. Mountain Refuge 
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 14, 2016

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Instrumental New Age Review: Genevieve Walker-Walking Home

Release Date: January 2016

Label: Independent

Website

Walking Home is produced by Chris Gartner and features Genevieve Walker on violin, viola, guitar, and piano. It is her debut recording after spending years on the international stage with other acclaimed musicians such as Krishna Das.

The music is referenced as minimalist which I can agree with however the combination of instruments creates beautiful soundscapes. The atmospheres are inviting and bring you a sense of calm and peace within.

The cover of the CD can project many images for the listener. It looks simple enough with the artist on a dirt road holding her instrument (walking home?). The orientation to Walking Home could be your own road in life or home and then it could be a physical or spiritual place held deep within your soul. I think for the most part the human race is so caught up in their daily lives and events happening around them that we tend to forget our place and from whence we came. It gets more difficult to find that place of enlightenment and recharging we so desperately need sometimes. This music brings things back to basics.

I found “Embryonic Voyage” to be very interesting. It is very rhythmic in nature and something as simple as the snapping of fingers changes the entire song. Simplicity rules yet it manages to get your attention while still making the track seem more every day without complexities. These are things we all need to hear after a busy day. The little things in life can make a difference. If you experience the voyage within the song and look at what the word embryonic indicates, it totally makes sense. It is a start, a beginning that leads to something more.


“Falling” offers the beauty of emotion even if there is sadness. The music paints the colors of drama and the aching heart as it falls to the bottom of your stomach. Even so the music certainly carries hope and the awesome beauty of it shows the light shining at the end of a journey, like a beacon brightly leading the way.

The emotion of this music is apparent at every turn. It really could be an effective soundtrack for the right movie or serve as a guide post for your soul to align with your thoughts and bring clarity. It is all instrumental so the absence of words allows for complete focus and reflection hence bringing a renewal to your spirit.

“Mountain Refuge” is the important closing number. As you picture a place where you can go to find your peace it’s not hard to imagine. A place like Tibet where the Dali Lama and his followers learn to become one with their creator came to mind quickly. The beginning and end of the track has the echoing voice of those chanting to find their focus and connection to a higher power. It is a beautiful way to close out the recording but once you think it’s over the laughter of a child comes in to remind you of that innocence we all once had and how it can be easily recalled with the right attitude and music. 

I found all of the musical multitasking of the artist quite impressive. Genevieve Walker has a great start to a solo career with Walking Home there is no doubt about that. Take a walk with her, you never know what you may discover.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Embryonic Voyage, Falling, Mountain Refuge


Tracks:
1. Still Meadow
2. Walking Home
3. Train North
4. Wisdom Lake
5. Embryonic Voyage    
6. Cicadas and Light    
7. Falling
8. Sweep
9. Mountain Refuge 
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 14, 2016

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Instrumental New Age/Classical Review: Janice Lacy Project-Sanctuary For The Soul

Release Date: July 20, 2016

Label: Shore Light Records

Website

Listen Now

Sanctuary For The Soul is Janice Lacy’s debut album. First of all, I think the title of the recording is perfect and very inviting if you happen to be looking for music that allows you to relax.

Piano music is a gift from the heavens when presented the way Janice Lacy introduces herself.  Her producer Rob Mullins also played piano on the recording.

The very first track is the title track which is the perfect way to open the curtain on your debut.  It has a longing coming from the cello which provides a resonant introduction. The cello can sound that way even though that may not be the intention however it is an appropriate pace for solitude the track offers the listener. It sets a certain tone for Janice’s piano to come in and change the direction of it all.

Then if you listen to “Lover’s Flight” you can hear an entirely different sound and approach with the cello and the piano flows and strides along taking the lead as the other instruments provide a base to launch the absolute beauty of the ivory keys. It is the intent of the artist to create music that soothes the soul and provides that inner sanctuary we all need to connect to so we can reenergize and refocus. I do not believe sleep is the only thing we need to attain rest and more specifically enlightenment, that is not likely during a busy day. Music such as this stops the pace and invites you to listen to your spirit or that inner voice that calls out and needs recognition.

I once again find myself recognizing the close relationship between instrumental new age and classical music. The influence is very strong on this recording but when you hear a great melody like the one on “Sunrise Dance” you are not thinking about how there are classical influences, you are feeling the warmth and connection to the music and the rhythm and joy it is providing. This is one of the more upbeat and unconventional tracks that really do not seem to fit into any category, it is just wonderful piano instrumental music that makes you feel good and smile.

By the time you are done listening to Sanctuary For The Soul you realize that the Janice Lacy Project have created a superb debut album that can be appreciated by any true music fan. The simplicity and diversity of the music is a beautiful thing and the piano playing of the artist is outstanding. If you are in need of some sanctuary for your soul, this music will find that place rather quickly.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Sanctuary For The Soul, Lover’s Flight, Sunrise Dance

Tracks: 

01. Sanctuary for the Soul
02. Take Care of My Heart
03. Everything's Alright
04. Lovers' Flight
05. Refuge
06. Sunrise Dance
07. Through the Shadows
08. Shimmering Ocean
09. December Goodbye
10. Jim's Waltz
11. Crystal Harbor
12. Full Moon
13. Prayer
14. Tell You That I Love You
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 3, 2016

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Instrumental New Age/Classical Review: Terry Lee Nichols-At Peace Beneath the Shade of My Father’s Tree

Release Date: August 19, 2016

Label: Heart Dance Records

Website

Terry Lee Nichols first release has a very long and descriptive title. At Peace Beneath the Shade of My Father’s Tree is a great title actually, and if you look at that title and the cover of the CD, you can see a story. So without ever hearing the music there is something happening. I would have to say that is a very good start.

Terry said: “I tried to create a soundscape/film score backdrop that reflected specific events throughout my life.” That statement tends to put it all into proper perspective for the listener.

There are 17 tracks that move along at a brisk pace. It seemed like before I knew it I was on track 6. This is because I was really enjoying what I was hearing. Being swept away by the music and hearing the story narrated by all the instruments is a beautiful thing.

The title track opens the door to the great outdoors pictured on the cover of the album. The music ushers in the atmosphere and sets the tone like any good opener should. First impressions are everything when you are listening to an album. I have always believed when you open that curtain to your audience, you better make an impact real soon or you will lose them…Terry Lee gets the job done. He captivates you and captures your spirit and imagination. Personal experiences of joy and emotional pain bring about many things and music can be the universal translator.

“Timekeeper” clocks in, no pun intended, at 3:07 and the pace is like that of a watch keeping good time. The piano rolls along but ever so delicately while bringing the listener to the end of the line in the most intentionally gentle way. The ride goes by much too fast but you are so appreciative. Short and sweet, this track makes a good impression from start to finish much like all of its predecessors.

The musicianship is outstanding on this recording and it definitely is the kind of quality music you would hear on a grade A film. It also provides deep relaxation and a thought process that is more clear and precise than you could have during a busy day at work. It is not easy to empty out what is between your ears, and music such as this gives you carte blanche to do so.

I have heard such gorgeous instrumental music this year, it moves me, makes me reflective, grateful, happy, sad, reminiscent, basically the entire range of human emotion is prompted to rise within me and the music is my escort. That to me is the key to success with any recording.

“On My Way To See The Dancing Sisters Figg” is an upbeat track with Celtic World flavor with a nod to the classical genre however it ends up an amalgamation of them all and then becomes an instrumental new age masterpiece. It is a short jaunt coming in at 2:57 but I felt an injection of joy with a hint of the past smiling at me as it faded away. This was one of my favorites for its sparkling movements and how it changed my melancholy mood into joy in an instant. Once again the power of the music took me away and had a strong influence on my senses and reaction to the vibrations. 

“Sailing” is wonderful melody like a bright sunny day with a clear blue sky and I did just sail away with it. It also gave me the gift of freedom and spirituality. I always loved sailing on the lake with my father, god rest his soul. Joy with a hint of sadness is what I felt but the thoughts of freedom of the wind and waves gave me chills. It was all good so thank you Terry Lee.

At Peace Beneath the Shade of My Father’s Tree is real triumph for the maiden voyage of artist Terry Lee Nichols. Putting out something so inspired and precise for a first album is an amazing accomplishment. The future certainly looks bright for this gentleman.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: At Peace Beneath the Shade of My Father’s Tree, Timekeeper, On My Way To See The Dancing Sisters Figg


Tracks: 
01. At Peace Beneath the Shade of My Father's Tree
02. Only You
03. Follow Me
04. Reflections
05. Appassionato
06. Timekeeper
07. Train to Dachau
08. Pamela's Time
09. On My Way To See The Dancing Sisters Figg
10. A Winter's Tale
11. Sailing
12. Crossroads
13. A Curious Life
14. Last Train Home
15. Autumn
16. Lullaby
17. Requiescat
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

August 23, 2016

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Instrumental New Age/Classical: Samer Fanek-Wishful Thinking

Release Date: July 22, 2016

Label: Independent

Website

Samer Fanek’s first release Wishful Thinking was just released a few weeks ago. It is with great pleasure I introduce this talented young pianist to an audience eager to hear an emerging talent playing instrumental new age music with a definitive classical influence.

Just as his website indicates, Samer's compositions blend the piano and orchestral instruments with the more contemporary, including synthesizers, rock and ethnic instruments. He cites Yanni and others as an influence and you will most certainly hear that panoramic and cinematic sound as the curtain opens on this ambitious recording.

The title track engages you right away providing a marvelous introduction to Samer’s sound. “Freefall” is exciting track filled with keyboards and orchestrations. When you look at the cover of this CD it projects simplicity however this music is far from that. It is definitely a “Freefall” into a wall of sound and oh so beautiful.

If you are “Ready to Go” this track is a whirling dervish of textured keyboards and colorful nuances. It is tastefully done as he presents it with a forcefulness to push the music out but with a determination and grace that only an accomplished keyboard maestro can provide.

To make sure you see all the emotions and a different side of his musical interpretations he creates a touch of divine inspiration with tracks like “Fantasy.” Picture yourself floating up to the heavens as the other spiritual beings come down to greet you and carry you away. The song creates a nice floating sensation that made me feel connected and spiritual thus making it easy for my own interpretation of the track.

You have to be a true visionary to create instrumental music so full of life and emotion. Samer Fanek has recorded a superlative debut and I would expect that he will be recognized in short order. I think the folks in not only in the music industry but in films need to take notice of this young man’s talent. It is a nice relaxing experience to hear this music but I sure can hear it playing as a soundtrack in a movie as well. So the options are endless for music such as this.

The anticipation for more great music already begins once the CD is finished playing. For now you will have to hit play again until he returns with a second installment of instrumental bliss.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Freefall, Ready to Go, Fantasy

Tracks:
01. Wishful Thinking
02. Universe
03. Freefall
04. Fairytale
05. Lost Waltz
06. Ready to Go
07. Left Behind
08. Fantasy
09. Desperation
10. Escape
11. Remember Me
12. Exhibition   
13. Finding Closure
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

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August 5, 2016

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Instrumental New Age Review: Crystalline Dream-Threshold

Release Date: July 10, 2006

Label: Solovey Music

Website

Crystalline Dream is a band with the intent to craft a vision with every album they perform. Threshold is the entryway to a journey of enlightenment, with each album gaining the listener increased wisdom.  The main band members for Crystalline Dream include Richard Ross, Korey Ross and guest artist Peter Phippen.

The first track on the album is "Threshold." Ethereal and drifting with flutes and an electronica based backdrop, the music brought me to a place of introspection far away from the swirling chaos that makes up most of my days. It was as if I were perched on a threshold to another place…a place of peace and tranquility that if I just took another step, it could be mine. The flute urges you forward even as the cosmic wave of the electronica pushes and whispers you to a dwelling where that elusive joy is hiding. Voices break over you and the music funnels you down a new rabbit hole…the journey is just beginning.

"Inner Peace" is another song that captured my attention at the onset. Harp sounds and chirping insects make it seem as if you, the listener, are in the middle of a forest, being lulled forward toward an enchanted paradise. Just one step closer toward the pool…just one more. The ethereal music drifts in the background like a hidden current pushing you along toward your destination. This is what happiness sounds like and if sound could be painted in color, it would be a spiraling ribbon of shimmering blue, wrapping around and around in layers of gossamer silk, one delicate note at a time.

"Borealis" urges you toward the end of your comfort zone. Icy and grinding, you mark your passage with effort and are ever working toward your next destination. The price of enlightenment comes with great perseverance. The sound of flutes and the bitter winter wind skitter along the top of the ice as you reach for the next fork in the road…the next vision of flickering lights to direct your path forward. Beautiful and treacherous, the way ahead will not be an easy one. Growling and grinding electronica and percussive elements mark your progress and the undying urge to find enlightenment at any cost.

Crystalline Dream have begun a journey of sorts with Threshold. Using the ethereal and at times sparse elements of electronic music, it is blended with percussive elements, flute, harp and other sounds such as whispered chants or insects. This instrumental New Age experience focuses on enlightenment and is the beginning of what so far is a five album progression toward grace. It is a pleasant sounding album that any fan of New Age music will vastly enjoy.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Threshold, Borealis, Inner Peace

Tracks: 
01. Threshold
02. Ethereal Gauze
03. Solar Flight
04. Evensong
05. Inner Peace
06. West Wind
07. Crystalline Dream 1
08. Crystalline Dream 2
09. Crystalline Dream 3
10. Borealis
11. Threshold (Reprise)
 

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

July 9, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Instrumental New Age: Jeffrey Seeman-Everything In Between

Release Date: December 1, 2015

Label: Harpeth River Records

Website

Jeffrey Seeman grew up listening to the greats and cut his teeth working at the Ludlow Garage, a literal garage turned performance hall. As part of the Crew, his passion for music became ingrained and he has been playing ever since. A part of the band Wheels, Seeman's desire to play was put to the test as life took him away from his dream, only to bring it back again later in life. Seeman began to make videos of his work and shared them with the legendary Will Ackerman, who suggested they make an album. Everything In Between is the result of that effort.

The first song on the album is "Five Days Old," a strumming piece composed of layers that float over one another. Delicate percussion, multi-instrumentation and a solid guitar base provide a strong foundation for this song as it drifts and glides through every well-crafted note.

"Let's Go" is a buoyant journey filled with jazzy elements, horn, percussion and of course a very spirited guitar. This piece is a crawfish boil in full rapture mode. Joyful gatherings of friends and family captured in a moment frozen in time, filled with all the bumps and dips that make up our lives.    

"Point Well Taken" is a plucky piece with earthy movements, fingers sliding across strings in perfect style. A jazzy horn accompaniment joins the fray, bringing the song to a bit of a climb. Pick after pick and slide after slide, this strident composition is a thought provoking melody. It is the last song on the album and may just influence you to hit the play button one more time.

Jeffrey Seeman has spent most of his life in pursuit of music, either by working in a club or by picking up his own guitar. Working with Will Ackerman of Imaginary Road Studios, this album is a realization of a dream. When the album came out, Ludlow Garage opened back up once more allowing Seeman to trace back the roots of his musical journey. Some places are more than a beginning or and an end. They are an impetus for a life well lived, and each track on Everything In Between gives a little window into the life of a man who finds joy in the simple things. This album is a great listen and I highly recommend it.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Five Days Old, Let's Go, Point Well Taken

Tracks: 
1. 5 Days Old
2. Acadia Walk
3. Michael's Journey
4. Ever Present Always
5. Southern Night In The Woods
6. Let's Go!
7. My Grand Gift
8. Jackie's Grace
9. Point Well Taken
 

DanaWright, Sr. Staff Writer

April 24, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews