New Age/World Review: Darlene Koldenhoven-Color Me Home

Release Date: April 21, 2017

Label: TimeArt Recordings

Website

The list of credits for Darlene Koldenhoven on her upcoming release Color Me Home is mind boggling. She is credited with Producer, vocalist, pianist, composer, lyricist, vocal and instrumental arranger, keyboardist and solos, programmer and engineer, Native drums & shaker, album notes and a coloring book.

Yes, that is not a typo, a coloring book. A very interesting and fact filled booklet comes with the CD and many pictures that can be colored in. This package is quite unique. I have seen a lot things over my 19 years of reviewing music but this is something special and a pleasant surprise. The pictures in the book are very intricate and personally I would not attempt to color them in fear of ruining their beauty. I am sure there are people out there that will feel entirely different.

I understand there are adult coloring books now selling like hotcakes now because people use it as an exercise in relaxation. So, you take that and add the music of Ms. Koldenhoven and you have a potent combination of serenity and spirituality all in one package. The artist grew up encouraged in an environment to color while listening to music. So, everyone that purchases this CD has an opportunity to color Darlene home, hence the inviting title.

I must say that I thought there was not much uniqueness left in the music industry but this recording and packaging puts that thought to rest.

Along with all the talents that Darlene brings to the table she had 16 guest artists along for the journey. I will not go through the roll call in case I forget someone so I will leave it to you readers to do your research if you feel compelled to do so. Let’s just say the people involved are prominent musicians in the new age community.

Darlene’s voice is that of an angel and it is operatic at some points. Her range is phenomenal. And the music? It is incredibly beautiful … filled with textures, colors and all sorts of atmospheres that make your mind wander into dreamland. The combination of vocals and instrumentation is superbly placed within each track. It takes true artistry and natural talent to create such a diversified recording and so many worldly new age flavors. I particularly appreciated the native drums and sounds that made me feel one with humanity and mother earth. It always has that effect on me and it feels warm and real. Who wouldn’t want to listen to music that makes you feel that way?

I can say with certainty so early in the year, that Color Me Home should be up for a Grammy. With all things considered and the work and craft that went into this music, I certainly think it deserves all the consideration for awards of recognition. You be the judge and let me know what you think after you stream the player and watch the video provided for your preview.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 16, 2017

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Tracks:

01. First Light
02. The Pleasure of the Mourning Dove
03. Kalahari Calls
04. Song of the Swans
05. Eternal Love's Song
06. Indian Summer
07. Embracing This Moment
08. Ode to Our Orb
09. Until
10. Open Skies
11. Color Me Home 

Instrumental New Age Review: Jennifer DeFrayne-Sisu

Genre: Instrumental New Age

Release Date: March 3, 2017

Label: Palo Isle Music

Website

Jennifer DeFrayne’s new album Sisu is dedicated to her Finnish heritage. So, what is Sisu you may ask? Well I had the same question with immediate thoughts of what the album title meant.

As defined by Wikipedia: Sisu is a Finnish word which loosely means stoic determination, grit, bravery, resilience and hardiness. It is held by Finns themselves to express their national character. It is generally considered to not have a literal translation into English.

Sisu by my own definition is beauty, grace, strength, and the many colors of life intersecting within each song.

So, with great determination Ms. DeFrayne has released her second collection of tracks titled Sisu. She gets some assistance from the brightest and most talented people in the music business including Jeff Haynes, Premik Russell Tubbs, Michael Manring, Jill Haley, Sara Milonovich, Jeff Pearce, and Jeff Oster. 

There is a lot of instrumental piano based music that I cover hence I have concerns that eventually it will start sounding redundant. That is my biggest challenge not only as a listener but the person that needs to conceptualize and or visualize what the artist is projecting in their music. This music never allowed me to wander off course or feel there was not enough variety to keep me interested or demand my attention.

Jennifer’s music uses her talents with the ivory keys as the foundation of every track and then it is accentuated by other sounds and textures to give it a worldlier crossover feel to it. The title is normally the centerpiece of the table that is set and this album is no exception. “Sisu” is bold yet tasteful like a cup of good strong coffee, the music lingers in the air once it is made and the aroma is still there afterwards. This is good way to explain what this music sounds like and how it will affect you.

Jeff Oster’s horn makes the most beautiful sounds and helps to make the track “Beyond” more exceptional with his contributions. I am sure it would be wonderful with just Jennifer’s key strokes but the addition of that soothing and inviting horn gives it another layer of contrast and beauty. That is but one example of what awaits the listener that wishes to explore and experience thought provoking and relaxing music.

In an artistic sense music is much like a painting in that it speaks to everyone in a different way, and everyone feels and sees something different through their own eyes and soul. Every color splashed on the canvas of the painting holds a different meaning and atmosphere. The picture comes shining brightly through the music in a shout or whisper, dependent on your mood and interpretation.

As my love for music becomes more important with each passing day, I become that much more appreciative of music from albums like Sisu. My respect and gratefulness I feel for people like Jennifer DeFrayne goes beyond words. Listen to the spellbinding sounds of this album and I am sure you will agree this is one recording that will be in regular rotation in your stereo this year.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 4, 2017

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Tracks:
01. Fire Island
02. Be Who You Are
03. Sisu
04. Beyond
05. Gathering
06. Palo Santo
07. Roots
08. Stepping Stones
09. Equanimity
10. Internal Light
11. Renew
12. Perseverance

Instrumental Solo Piano Review: Michele McLaughlin-Life

Release Date: February 10, 2017

Label: Michele McLaughlin Music

Website

Michele McLaughlin has been releasing recorded music for 17 years now. Each successive album has reinforced the belief that she is one of the most accomplished solo pianist in world.  The topic of discussion is her latest recording Life. The album is due on February 10, 2017.

Prior to this review we got a sneak peak of what was in store on the Rate The Tracks site streaming  “At Home.” Now it’s time to take a look at the entire offering Life.

Although we put music into a several different classifications and genres, there is some music the defies that thought process. Michele’s music is along those lines. With a combination of new age and classical she lets her fingers glide over the keys with ease. What she produces is significant and stunning. She weaves melodies and progressions of the keyboard like a magician casting a magic spell.

Life is simplistic yet far reaching, crossing over preconceived ideas of what category to put it in. It is contemporary and listenable at any time of day or night. Its ability to reach a listener regardless of tastes is the beauty and perfection of it. I am sure the intent of the artist is to reach a receptive audience and one that allows barriers to disappear knowing the enjoyment and relaxation that awaits.

The therapeutic value of music like this goes beyond just listening. Its straight forward clean production values featuring one instrument, allow a listener or potential listeners, an opportunity to get centered and focus.

The title track is without a doubt, for my ears, the most prolific composition. “Life” does have a certain flow to it- like a raging river, a clear running stream or stagnant pond. Life has its moments and time periods where things are moving at a rapid rate, evolving, changing or slowing down or staying the same. So, the parallel is drawn in the music presented here. Ms. McLaughlin’s soul is mirrored in the music and a listener can view their own truth by listening to it and looking inside. Music is the one thing that has the power to do that for us, it is a gift.

Human Life is complex however everything seems to get more simplified when you hear music like this. I appreciate the artist and the music showing us the way, providing an outlet that brings only peace and joy. I would suggest giving this recording a good listen, your Life will be better because of it.

4.5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

January 28, 2017

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Tracks:
01. The Gift
02. The Storm
03.At Home
04. Life
05. Belonging
06. A Deeper Understanding
07. Drifting Through a Dream
08. Heartbroken
09. Stronger
10. Precious Memories
11. Crossroads
12. Guilty Pleasures
13. Give It Time

Featured Track: Karen Olson and Crispin Barrymore-Inner Wanderings

Karen Olson's latest release is A Hero's Journey created with Crispin Barrymore on the piano and sampled sounds.  A Hero's Journey. It contains 11 tracks of new age/classical influenced instrumentals. We are featuring her choice track  titled "Inner Wanderings."

The track suggests the human condition and what we find when we look inside for the truth. Karen's music is recognized on the world stage because of the expertise she commands with the viola.

It's not any easy task taking one instrument and making it a lead in a track or an entire album. This is a major accomplishment for any artist and particularly those that choose stringed instruments.

Karen's viola leads you down a path to push aside the feelings and emotions that are superficial. Her music will invite you to focus on your own "Inner Wanderings." - Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Karen Olson:
http://karenolson.com 

Karen Olson is an internationally recognized violist, recording artist and composer. She combines her unique background as a musician, Reiki master, and intuitive holistic healer, by providing interactive, fun and inspiring concerts and programs.

Karen’s music has been called “jazzical”: classically oriented jazz fusion that has New Age and World Music influences...READ MORE...

Featured Track: Erik Scott-Seven Veils

Erik Scott is one of the worlds most talented bass players. He has many years of solid experience that has coalesced in his solo work over the last several years.

Scott is a rocker turned new age instrumental artist superb! On the new release In The Company of Clouds he provides listeners with some tasty instrumental treats featuring his fluid and groove filled bass playing.

Our focus track is the beautiful and mesmerizing "Seven Veils." Scott takes the listener on a cosmic journey through the stars and heaven itself with relaxing and superior tones that emanate from his instrument.

Give it a listen now and see if you agree!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck


More About Erik Scott:

http://erikscottbass.com

Best known for his work with Alice Cooper, Sonia Dada, and Flo & Eddie, "Erik "Eski" Scott has a recording career that stretches back to 1969, making albums with Northern Illinois groups "Food" and "Jambalaya". It was in 1974 he met and played bass with Zappa cohorts and Turtles members Flo and Eddie, and would later record and tour with Alice Cooper. He was a founding member and worked fifteen years with Sonia Dada. He also made recordings with Pops and Mavis Staples, Kim Carnes, and many other artists over a forty year career, a love affair and devotion which spans until present day where we find him playing some truly zoned out, interstellar bass on his solo record Other Planets and the latest release In The Company of Clouds.

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

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

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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

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Featured Track: Alexi Musnitsky-Dream Catcher

Alexi Musnitsky's debut album Zia features many memorable piano based tracks. "Dream Catcher" is one track, which is the closer for the album, that runs for over seven minutes.

His grace and flow on the keys are focused and determined on the track. It is a perfect example of how one instrument can pull you into another dimension. 

 I had the pleasure of covering the entire album however it is interesting to zone in on one track to recognize the talent of an artist. Alexi has a bright future ahead. Have a listen to "Dream Catcher" now.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Alexi:

http://www.aleximusnitsky.com 

Alexi was born in New Mexico and spent most of his life in Paris, France. He has been playing piano since the age of 4, trained as a classical pianist in the Russian style by Marina Ravor and won a first prize at the Flame International Piano Competition. Playing for others started as a young child in Paris, Catalonia and Amsterdam. Alexi began composing his own music in 2013.