Showing posts with label New Age Instrumental Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Age Instrumental Reviews. Show all posts

1/05/2019

New Age Instrumental-Chamber: Nathan Speir-Searching for Nepsis

Release Date: February 1, 2019
Label: Neptic Music

Nathan Speir is a working man’s artist. He works during the day as an Electrician and makes music when he is not on that job. I personally can relate to that as I have been in the same type of lifestyle for over twenty years now. It is a choice and one that I have found to reap many benefits that I would otherwise never had.

I am talking about the music of course. So, besides the respect I have for indie artists, I can appreciate the whole picture. In other words, I get it. I understand how difficult it is to get balance with two livelihoods and also pay attention to your loved ones.

Nathan has a lot of music out there and Searching for Nepsis will be released in less than a month. The information I received put the entire project in proper perspective: Searching for Nepsis is an acoustic-electric album of ambient chamber music filled with cellos, violin, piano, singing bowls, electric bass, acoustic guitar, some synthesizers, a duduk, and cajon. 

The music is considered to be new age chamber. So, you definitely will hear the strong classical influence that is made up of many small instruments accompanied by the piano. I would not hesitate to add world to the overall genre of this recording, considering the array instruments like singing bowls, duduk, and cajon.

There is a steady drone that is created by the cello on this album in many of the tracks. I think that was brilliantly executed throughout. I actually thought it may be the duduk (which is on one track), which is an ancient double-reed woodwind instrument made of apricot wood. It reminded me of a recent album I heard that had Indian music. The drone sound is a point of concentration, like when you meditate, however you are able to hear all the other instrumentation. 

If you enjoy a lot of different instrumentation and some beautiful piano that leads the way then Searching for Nepsis will be a very satisfying listen. “Song Cycle for Creators” is a wonderful example of Nathan’s artistry. It is flourishing with emotions, colors and the grace of the heavens. It comes together in one track like the movement of the planets around the sun, it is a meeting of time and space with a specific reason.

Nepsis is the art of being watchful, and that can come in many forms.  As with any frame of reference, it all depends on you, the one listening to this music. As always, each individual has their own interpretation of what they hear, the artist that presents the music does have a goal in mind.  I would think the main function of this relaxing and contemplative set of tracks would be for you to focus, relax, center yourself and find peace within This can be a significant space in time that pertains to the title of the recording. 

Nathan Speir is an incredibly talented individual that creates amazing music for hungry souls to ingest and assimilate. For this listener, the end result is always positive and energizing. Get your ticket now for the journey.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
January 5, 2019

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
1. As the Sun Set 
2. Into the Night 
3. Forest Lights 
4. Warming Up the Heart 
5. Searching for Nepsis 
6. Stars Float in Shadows of Glory 
7. Song Cycle for Creators 
8. Morning Twilight

 

10/05/2018

New Age Instrumental-World Review: Peter Sterling- Magic Kingdom

Release Date: October 1, 2018
Label: Harp Magic Music

It has been two years since I covered Peter Sterling’s superb Sacred Visions. I am more than ready to go on another magical musical journey, on to the Magic Kingdom. Or as I like to refer to it as “Peter Magic.”

Magic Kingdom is the following musicians:  Peter playing keyboards, harp, recorder, Freenote chime, Peruvian wooden flute, and percussion. Richard Hardy is on Irish Pennywhistle and Soprano Sax and Anthony Mazzella on Guitar. The album was recorded in Sedona from 2017-2018.

I have concluded after several years of listening to various incarnations and fusions of new age music that the combination of world and new age is the most interesting and colorful listen I could hope for. It is always different and just about any instrument can serve as the lead if the mix is right. Peter’s main instrument is the heavenly harp. It is so precise and delicate, and it easily mixes with the other music and sounds provided on Magic Kingdom

Peter defines the term indie musician and the do it yourself attitude that is so strong amongst the folks that make up that culture and work ethic. It takes tremendous dedication, commitment and talent to produce a recording such as Magic Kingdom.

The blend of instruments is simply sublime and the few tracks where you hear some vocals it is impressive as well. The vocals are an instrument as far as I am concerned and it is quite evident when listening to the tracks that provide that. The closer and title track “Magic Kingdom” and “Tomorrow’s Child” are two fine examples of world-instrumental new age with just enough vocal styles to make it a meditative piece that you want to hear more than once. “Over the Bridge” features a sweet child’s voice, contributing to the purity and innocence of this listening experience.

“Everlasting Love” starts off with Peter’s harp inviting the rest of the instruments into the mix then a jazzy tone comes alive with some soprano sax. I love that combination absolutely, it always works for me. I do love jazz so that makes the transition that much more delightful for my ears. 

So, in the end, what I got to enjoy was another musical stew brought to a simmer by many talented artists. Make sure you listen to Magic Kingdom and let it bring you joy and good vibrations, it is there waiting for you now.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 5, 2018

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

8/22/2018

New Age Instrumental Review: Alan Matthews-The Ineffable

Release Date: October 9, 2017
Label: Independent

Ineffable is a word that means too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words. In my world I have not heard it used, in fact, this is the first time I have ever heard of this word. I am not ashamed to admit it and I always have an open door to learning every day.

This is the name that describes the music of musician Alan Matthews, whose first release came out last October, The Ineffable. I have to say, after reading his bio, that he is one of the more interesting and complex characters I have had the pleasure to cover in a music review.

As Will Ackerman so astutely makes us aware of in the CD liner notes, “Alan Matthews lives in a very cerebral world as a physician.” His transformation as a musician enters him into an entirely different realm.

It is important to note that Alan was influenced by his father who was also a doctor and jazz enthusiast and a player as well. As I have always said, you are a product of your environment. And lucky for us that he was influenced by his father as now we can enjoy his inspired and beautiful music all interpreted from the ivory keys. I acknowledge him for having the ability to separate himself from his daily work and stepping into a completely different world and fitting in so nicely.

So, we have music that is so powerful and meaningful to this man that it cannot be described in words. I can appreciate a thought like that and with all sincerity, can think of feeling that way many times throughout my life.
Alan Matthews plays his instrument with great skill and rhythm. I always find it amazing how an individual can have a feeling or thought process, play out a tune then name it, and sometimes very appropriately. I think that in and of itself is a tremendous gift to have along with being able to present music with form and substance without uttering a word.

The Ineffable is an incredibly successful and impactful debut for an artist that has now made himself available on a world level. I am certain that this is just the beginning of many amazing recordings that Alan Matthews is going to produce in the coming years. Right out of the gate he has a great start with this release. The bar is now set high but I have a feeling that will not phase him and he will just get behind the piano and let it go and let it flow, just like he did on the eleven tracks on this album.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
August 22, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews


Tracks:
01. Moiras Song
02. No Words Remain
03. The Resigned
04. The Conversation   
05. The Second Goodbye
06. Strange to Me
07. Wistful
08. The Empty House
09. What She Knows
10. You Don’t Know What Day It Is
11. Moiras Song Reprise
 

7/23/2018

New Age Instrumental Review: Peter Calandra-Carpe Noctem

Release Date: August 3, 2018
Label: Pecamusic

Peter Calandra has been one of the more productive artists for several years. It seems like I finish one review than in a short span of time I am writing another one for him. That works for me as I believe he has been one of the most creative and eclectic artisans I have had the pleasure to work with.

I went into this listen of Carpe Noctem (translation Seize the Night) with a lot of anticipation based on the input Peter provided prior to my first experience listening to the recording.

Peter informed me of the following: Carpe Noctem is an album of ambient-sacred-orchestral music. When I was in undergrad school singing in the choir, we performed quite a bit of sacred music with the text in Latin. Music by Mozart, Bach, Beethoven etc. It was always inspirational to learn and perform this music and it's always been in my mind to write and record orchestral music with the choir. 

This is some of the most moving music I have heard this year in the new age genre and or sub-genres. Peter is the composer and author of all the orchestrations, digital sequencing, synthesizer and the cover artwork. I think it is safe to say that he is a multi-talented artist that brings a lot to the table regarding entertainment value.

What made this Carpe Noctem so special was not only the privilege of hearing it before so many listeners, it was the added bonus of all the Latin interpretations of each track. The cover art is another addition that makes this a complete experience of art, culture, and music. For my tastes that is the ultimate trifecta that makes any listen like a freshly brewed cup of aromatic coffee topped off with creamer and a spot of sugar. If you are a coffee drinker you will be able to relate better to that statement.

Carpe Noctem you could say is religious or spiritual experience, whatever fits your comfort zone or terminologies. Personally, I felt it was both, it negated any voids of my day with exceptional grace and beauty. Peter’s exceptional talents allow him to touch your soul significantly, with a brilliant use of the tools he brings to bear in each track. The use of synthesizers, orchestrations, and a choir creates a gorgeous and powerful combination that will embrace you in so many ways. 

From the opening of “Agnus Dei (Lamb Of God)” to the closing “Spiritus Mundi (World Spirit),” Peter takes you the listener, to a heavenly level of existence that transcends daily life. For this listener, that is all I could ask for is a transitory experience that is pleasant and memorable.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
July 23, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks: 
01. Agnus Dei  (Lamb Of God)
02. Carpe Noctem  (Seize The Night)
03. Aurora Scanderé (Dawn Rising)
04. Crucifixus  (Crucfixion)
05. Ars Vitae (Art Is Life)
06. Illuminare  (Illumination)
07. Invictus Bellator  (Unconquered Warrior)
08. Mane Pacificae  (Peaceful Morning)
09. Luna Benedictus  (Moon Prayer)
10. Sacrum Spera  (Sacred Trust)
11. Spiritus Mundi  (World Spirit)

 

4/02/2018

New Age World Review: Darlene Koldenhoven-Chromatones

Release Date: June 1, 2018
Label: TimeArt Recordings

It is a pleasure once again to have the opportunity to cover the musical journeys of Ms. Darlene Koldenhoven. It was nearly a year ago that I was introduced to her fascinating Color Me Home CD.

Now Chromatones has arrived. I figured it would be hard to top the previous release, however after 3 tracks I got the feeling that she has set the bar even higher. The new age and world elements come together in an explosion of sound and bright colors, painting your consciousness into the music effortlessly.

There are a number of important contributors from the New Age community that help to make this a great listen. Steve Shepherd (engineer, mixer, sound effects), Joanne Lazzaro (flute, alto flute, piccolo), Jeff Oster (flugelhorn), Al Jewer (English Horn), Tom Scott (clarinet), Wouter Kellerman (flute, bass flute), and there are many more. This is like having an all-star musical team to back her on this recording. And of course, the shining star of the show, Darlene, who not only composes, produces, arranges and engineers the tracks, she provides piano, keyboards, synths, and the Native drums and shaker.

The first track that really moved me was “Red Savannah.”  Its complexities and textures are like an intricately woven patchwork quilt.  The selection of instruments and the mix of them makes for an outstanding listen from the very first note to the last. 

“Native Bloom” with its earthy tones, rhythms and select instruments like the Native Flute make you feel like you stepped into a time capsule back to the time when our first Americans inhabited the land. It’s a strong yet beautiful reminder of how important these gifted people were and how their influence and heritage shaped our nation. I would advise putting your headphones or earbuds in and sitting back and letting the music form the thoughts and images in your mind’s eye. It is so healing to hear this music and it is presented exceptionally well.

There is so much to offer on Chromatones and I only scratched the surface of what is in store if you get this music (you can pre-order it April 25th). I think Darlene Koldenhoven has hit a high watermark with this recording. As I said about Color Me Home, I think this will be in the running for a Grammy. This is music for the heart, soul, and mind of any listener. 

For my ears, this kind of music and the quality of the production serves many areas in the world of media including soundtracks for nature specials, movies or sound bites for commercials, or for the most important audience, for those looking for solace and healing.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
April 2, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews


Tracks: 
01.Golden Dawn
02. Morning Dew
03. Red Savannah
04. Swans on the Seine
05. Terra
06. Native Bloom
07. Vibrant Worlds
08. Chromatones
09. Prism
10. Painted In Time
11. Waltzing in Planetary Time

3/29/2018

New Age Instrumental Review: Emilee Hartley- Illuminate

Release Date: December 8, 2017
Label: Independent

Emilee Hartley started playing piano at 4 years old. She soon realized as time passed and her love for it, became an expression of thought, forms, and sounds. Not unlike a painter, a musician has an idea in their mind before music is created.

Emilee has a fascination with light and nature and its effects on the surrounding areas. She has some favorite places and decided to create music to match those fond memories and how each one was dominated by light.

That kind of observation is very astute and interesting at the same time. With all of those thoughts, feelings and different shades of light, Illuminate was born. So, the title befits the artist and the one who painted those images through the ivory keys is surely illuminated. To notice the distinctness of different shades of light in such a manner I find not only observant but spiritual and blessed to do so.

There is something about stand-alone piano music that allows more focus and serenity to take hold quicker than music that is more complex. That is not to say the complex music does not have great value. Simplicity rules with new age music, influenced by classical as a foundation to work from. Although there is plenty of classical music that is complex and intense that was created by some of the great composers. With that thought, you can hear that in music from people like Ms. Hartley. She and many others like her tip their caps to the composers of days gone by and shape and mold their compositions into something new and refreshing.

Emilee’s music is like “Raindrops on the Lake,” or in your mind if you will.  Either way, it is a song that goes to the heart and spirit that will engage you and keep you until it stops. That is a relational experience when you take a deep dive into the music. You first learn a bit about the artist and what compels them to make this music in the first place, then you have a jumping off point that you did not have before you started. It all makes perfect sense to me.

I have to say that not only do I love Emilee’s music, I think the choice of titles is perfectly matched with each track. Take “Serene Sailing” for instance, I imagined feeling a warm summer breeze hitting my face as I sailed along the waters. For me personally, anything to do with water - a brook, pond, lake or ocean, equal serenity and a oneness with mother nature. That was easy for me to assimilate those feelings and atmospheres while listening to that track. 

If you enjoy piano music, particularly solo instrumental, this is a gem of an album. Have a listen and let it Illuminate your life!

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 29, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks: 
01. Raindrops on the Lake
02. Prelude to Dusk
03. Shimmers
04. The Unicorn (Enchanted Forest)
05. Lunae
06. Path of Shining Lights (Enchanted Forest)
07. The Abandoned Castle
08. Chasing Sunbeams
09. Morning Twilight
10. Amare
11. Serene Sailing
12. Turning of Time
13. A Night of Winter
14. Journey

 

3/12/2018

New Age Instrumental Review: Lynn Evers Yew-Sunset Breeze

Release Date: March 1, 2018
Label: Independent

Lynn Evers Yew has just released her newest offering titled Sunset Breeze. The recording’s production values are outstanding, making it a listen beyond reproach.

My immediate thought was how a Sunset Breeze feels against your face. I think it becomes even more eventful when you are at the ocean watching the sun go down on another day.

The one factor that I can relate to the most with a recording like this is the intentional simplicity. I think the focus is prevalent while listening to music with just one instrument. The piano is the key to opening the door to any avenue one wishes to take. To be more specific, it is a tool to either relax, meditate or have played in the background while you are doing something else. You could say any music serves that purpose however that would be a generic outlook on what you can actually discover “inside” the music.

I also can feel the profoundness of Lynn’s music and how relates to life itself, in an all-encompassing way. The rhythm of the compositions is akin to the heartbeat of a human, an animal, all life that abounds through Mother Nature.  That is quite prolific in terms of how music can be perceived and or interpreted.

Music such as this is a universal language. It has no boundaries or preconceived lines in the sand per say. That does not imply that it is homogenized, however. Piano music can take many different forms and create atmospheres depending on the listener's mood, temperament or expectations. So many different factors come into play prior when listening to any new age instrumental track, particularly piano based.

Sunset Breeze is designed and created for the soul seeker, the contemplator, the lovers of life. Whatever applies to you, there is something that you can picture in your mind while listening to the music of Lynn Yew Evers. The beauty of the CD cover becomes evident once you hear the music. 

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 12, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks: 
01. The Dancing Doll
02. Ocean Wind
03. Sunset Breeze
04. Oriental Moon
05. Soaring
06. Sunset Breeze
07. Where Do I Go From Here
08. Without Words
09. You Are The Promise, You Are My Home
10. Reminisce
11. Khai Qin's Song
12. Heim Angelus
13. A Walk In A Chinese Garden
14. Prelude in D Minor

 

3/09/2018

New Age Instrumental-Classical Review: Heidi Breyer-Moonlight In Empty Rooms

Release Date: January 23, 2018
Label: Independent
Moonlight In Empty Rooms is Heidi Breyer’s fifth proper album. She worked exclusively with Charlie Bisharat, a superb violinist. The combination of piano and violins are not strange bedfellows. They both complement each other exquisitely, just like it was meant to be. It most certainly sounds that way to me when I hear that combination, which is often in the new age genre. 

The album is a musical tribute to her husband Alexander Volkav’s artwork. I saw a few of the pictures of his work and they are absolutely stunning. They are so lifelike and crystal clear, that you will find it hard to believe that a human being actually painted them.

Moonlight In Empty Rooms is like a river of songs moving along as nature would have it. When you see the water from far away it does not look like its moving too fast, as you get closer you can see what is really happening. This music is comparative to that. It is calm and engaging as it gently invites you in. Once you step through that door of complete envelopment in the tracks, you are now moving right along with it, up close and personal.

Like the art that Alexander creates, it is placed on a canvas of different shades and colors. Each track is a separate work of art just like her husband’s paintings. I often describe music in this fashion and honestly think the comparison is relative. Art comes in all forms and colors and so does music. You, the listener, are the open canvas ready for the music to create something within your heart, mind, and soul. I think Heidi accomplishes that with this gorgeous music. It comes presented with strong musicianship and accomplished production values.

Moonlight In Empty Rooms sets the standard at a high level for instrumental new age and classical recordings. This is as good as it gets.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 9, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. Unfinished Conversation
02. Autumn Snowfall
03. Autumn in Bruges
04. Christian's Workshop
05. Moonlight in Empty Rooms
06. Eastertide
07. Rainy Day
08. The Sound and the Fury
09. Winter Rose
10. Half Hour Before Spring
11. Faith
12. End of Summer
 

3/03/2018

New Age Instrumental-Ambient Review:David Wahler-MOSAIC

Release Date: Feb 15, 2018
Label: Independent
Mosaic is the art of creating images with an assemblage of small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials. It is a technique of decorative art or interior decoration. That is how that word is defined. So how is it defined in a regard to music? You can think of it in the same way except this artist took pieces of music and put it all together to create his own work of art or musical painting if you will.

MOSAIC is the title of David Wahler’s latest release. The 11 tracks encompassing this record gives the potential listener a slice of utopia. This is a place one can go and forget about their troubles and live in peace and harmony with their surroundings.

I can see how it can take some time to write, produce and record an album. The new release is filled with piano, synthesizer, and various electronic textures, colors, and sounds of nature. The effort that went into this solo voyage incorporates all the tools an artist like David needs to record the music he intended. I would say that this recording turned out to be everything he could have wished for.

When I hear music that reminds me of artists like Tangerine Dream, Kraftwerk and even some of the instrumentals on David Bowie’s Low, it gives me a pause to reflect. Brian Eno’s work was also influential in the ambient and synth-oriented genres. He partnered with Bowie on that release and others. When “Fou d'amour” started playing, it sparked all of those feelings and thoughts in me. Inside I was smiling. This was recognition for David and all the others that came before him to lay the groundwork for him to forge his own path.

The music that you will find on MOSAIC will endure the passing of time because it is transcendental. It crosses over and blurs the self-imposed lines in the sand some listeners may have. For my ears, it immediately lets my guard down, relaxes me and helps me to remember where this music originated in the first place. From where I sit that is very important and makes my experience that much more richer and enlightening.

Thank you, David, for the beautiful music that touched me in ways so many other genres simple cannot.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
March 3, 2018

Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
 

01. Mosaic
02. Afterain
03. A Promise to Keep
04. Child of the Universe
05. August Cloud
06. Elysian Dawn
07. Heading Home
08. Sakura
09. Lone Sky Night
10. Fou d'amour
11. Why?

 



2/27/2018

New Age Instrumental Review: Anne Trenning and Friends-Beautiful Song

Release Date: February 19, 2018
Label: Shadetree Records

Beautiful Song  is Anne Trenning’s fifth proper album. The “and friends” includes James Todd, Bill Leslie, David Meyer, Rick Dior, Jane Brendle, Ciro Hurtado, Jeff Oster, John Magnie (The Subdudes), Brandon Bush, Josh Daniel and Mark Schimick. That is a very impressive and talented group of friends!

Beautiful Song is a collection that includes five original compositions and six cover selections from a multitude of genres. The best part is that it is all done in Anne’s special way. Her talented fingers flow with a gracefulness and purpose throughout these eclectic offerings.

Anne’s talent is obvious from the very beginning and as she moves from strength to strength so does all of her guest musicians. Every contributing artist adds their distinct touch and own layer of instrumentation to make Anne’s piano playing deeper and brighter. It fits together so well.

I liked the Celtic flavored tracks such as the opener and title track. And with even more distinct Celtic influences, “Miller Gap“ caught my ear.  Moving from one country to next, “El Farol” has a definitive Spanish flair to it. Every song has the ability to transport you somewhere. If you have familiarity with the parts of the world that each track brings to mind, it will certainly get you there a lot quicker. And hopefully, sweet memories will fill your thoughts and spirit. And if you have not traveled to these lands it will inspire you to do so! Only powerful and convincing music can accomplish painting those pictures so clearly in your mind’s eye.

Anne Trenning and her talented guest musicians build a monument of music on the 11 tracks. The charm, colors and the multiflavored musical journeys are like going to your favorite sweet shop and enjoying some tasty delights. Each one has its own characteristics and ambiance, and I think that is why I appreciated it so much. 

Beautiful Song will hold you mesmerized from beginning to end.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
February 27, 2018
Founder of:

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
 

01. Beautiful Song
02. Helpless (N. Young)
03. You Will Know My Love
04. El Farol (C. Santana)
05. Do I Hear Christmas?
06. Miller Gap
07. It’s A Great Day To Be Alive (D. Scott)
08. Hard Times Come No More
09. Building The Barn (M. Jarre)
10. If I Could Be With You
11. Go Light Your World (C. Rice)