New Age-World Review: Caro Pampillo-Sindhu

Release Date: September 1, 2018
Label: Independent
Website

Going into my first listen of Caro Pampillo’s Sindhu (her alter ego) , I had predetermined, based on the title and cover art, that this could very well be a meditation album. Well, it is that and a lot more. It is not hard to do that if you have been reviewing new age music for a while and the same would go for the avid listener.

Based on Caro’s website I was given some indication of who she is and what to expect on the new release.

Here is some insight into the artist from her website: As a self-taught musician, she has developed her own unique sound as a composer and a producer, combining her South American roots with many other world influences, live looping her voice and other instruments. Caro’s studies in Buddhist and Zen philosophy and practice of Kung Fu and Meditation led her to the name "SINDHU" (Sanskrit for sea, ocean, river, or water) for her alter ego and this musical project.

I feel this sort of information will enrich the review and make the potential listener’s experience more all-encompassing. That is my vision of the complete listening experience and it also allows me to dig a little deeper and express my feelings on another level that relates to the music.

Just to give you an idea of the world influences on this recording, this is what Caro alone contributed: Her gorgeous vocals, background vocals, acoustic guitar, Venezuelan Cuatro, programming, looping, and Tibetan bowls and chimes. She also had some help from other talented people that contributed keyboards, electric guitar, piano, strings, classic and electric guitar, Moog synth, and Theravox and many more. Well, you get the idea; the list goes on and on. Saying this was “World” music is definitely the genre, or new age world to be more specific.

I found the music to be lush, inviting and very complex. Caro’s vocals blended well with the music. At first, hearing her sing in a different language threw me off a bit, however, I was able to focus on the music at hand and the eclectic approach she took. I sincerely appreciate that kind of special touch and all-around talent one artist can lend to a recording session.

I especially appreciated the tracks “OM” and “Har Hari,” which was like listening to a pop tune in a different language (ancient Sanskrit). At that point it really hit me, this one has more crossover appeal than most recordings I have heard this year. Regardless of the language barrier I could relax (this is where your meditation can take place), and let the music flow. You will then arrive at a different level of consciousness. For this listener that means Sindhu accomplished the mission!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 22, 2018

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Tracks: 
01. Om Namah Shivaya
02. Om Shanti
03. I Shin Den Shin
04. Om Mani Padme Hum
05. Gate Heart Mantra
06. Nai’a Narayanaya
07. Har Hari
08. OM
09. Signos de Amar
10. Signs of Love

The Box Tops To Be Featured On German TV Special

Memphis blue eyed soul legends, THE BOX TOPS, will be a featured act on Gottschalk's “1968” TV special on September 6, in HAMBURG GERMANY. Hosted by well known German presenter Thomas Gottschalk, THE BOX TOPS will perform their worldwide megahit, THE LETTER. Also scheduled for the show, folk rock icon, DONOVAN, and PETER FONDA, star of the ultimate hippie generation culture film, EASY RIDER.

Since re-forming just 2 ½ years ago, THE BOX TOPS have performed to tens of thousands of fans all across America, and have ascended to the top echelon of their genre. They were featured artists on 2017's HAPPY TOGETHER TOUR, and played on the sold out CONCERTS AT SEA in 2018. They are also slated to play two shows on the already sold out FLOWER POWER CRUISE in 2019. In late 2017, the band signed to Paradise Artists, one of America's premier booking agencies, to handle their engagements exclusively.

In late 2015, original founding members BILL CUNNINGHAM and GARY TALLEY teamed with veteran industry musician/manager RICK LEVY and two top professional musician friends to explore live show potential. In 2016, they hit the road, performing at casinos, fairs, clubs, performing arts centers, and festivals. The show, augmented by Cunningham's chart arrangements and a horn section, features hits from THE BOX TOPS' catalogue, including THE LETTER, CRY LIKE A BABY, SOUL DEEP,  NEON RAINBOW,  SWEET CREAM LADIES (forward march) and CHOO CHOO TRAIN, plus album cuts and special tributes to Memphis artists. Historical video footage and personal stories of the '60s Memphis scene make the BOX TOPS show a HIP music history experience. THE BOX TOPS are also part of the AMERICAN POP SHOW, with favorites, The Buckinghams and The Grass Roots.

Upcoming shows:
August 3 - CAFÉ WHA? - New York City
August 4 - DARYL’S HOUSE CLUB - Pawling, NY
August 8 - CAPE MAY CONVENTION HALL - Cape May, NJ
August 25 - KOOL DEADWOOD NIGHTS - Deadwood SD
September 6 - GOTTSCHALK'S “1968” television show. Hamburg, Germany

For more information: 
www.boxtops.com
www.facebook.com/Box-Tops-141531413031/
instagram: theboxtopsband

Booking: Paradise Artists/Bob Birk bob@paradiseartists.com (805) 646-8433
Management: Rick Levy Management/Rick Levy levy17@bellsouth.net (904) 806-0817
Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

New Age Instrumental Review: Peter Calandra-Carpe Noctem

Release Date: August 3, 2018

Label: Pecamusic

Website

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

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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)
 

Instrumental Piano/New Age Review: Michael Bohne-In The Distance

Release Date: July 16, 2018

Label: Independent

Website

Michael Bohne (pronounced Bone) is quite a story. He is, in fact, an inspiration to anyone facing impairment or disability. He has a degenerative eye disease which has left him legally blind. Most of the music he plays he has either created or learned by listening and playing back by memory. So, what I see as one impairment then heightens the senses in other areas of one’s daily existence. 

Interesting enough is the fact that Michael listened to a lot of hardcore and progressive music, he’s stated that My Chemical Romance is the rock band most important to him. What you will hear on In The Distance is a complete paradigm shift, an instrumental piano group of tracks. What I gather from the title is directly related to Michael’s eye site. Things may look off in the distance but his music is as close to him as it can be. His gifts are translated through those beautiful ivory keys on the piano.

Michael’s sound is fluid, purposeful and very classically influenced. I think what we term as “New Age” is very close to being classical however it is flexible enough for other influences to find a home in that foundation. There are many great rock albums over the years that were backed or even interpreted by classical music. After all, that is where all our music is derived from so it does make sense you can either add it to your basic sound or branch off. It is like an ancient oak or sequoia tree with incredibly strong roots and many branches.

Some tracks are in constant change and rhythm, which I really appreciated. Then others with a prolific title like “Fading Memories” tell a story, one that pulls on your heartstrings and has a hint of sadness. Inside that sadness, there is still joy and elation to be found in those memories. It made me look at my own life and gave me so much gratitude to be alive and listening to such beautiful art translated into a musical form. This is the path of one man that serves as an inspiration not only to other musicians but to all of mankind, and living proof that any impairment one may face, it can be overcome with excellence in many other areas of your life.

The talent of one man, Michael Bohne, showed me all of that in one listen without saying a word. That my music loving friends, is the power of music, the kind of music that comes from deep down in the soul. That is music that moves me and I find instant recognition with. I hope those of you that have taken the time to read this review will also listen and find the joy and emotion I did with In The Distance.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 19, 2018

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MuzikMan Productions

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Tracks:
01. When the Time Comes
02. Regarding Stonehenge
03. Solar Flare
04. Never Looking Back
05. Descent
06. Phantoms Along the Shore
07. The Wolves' Den
08. Disconnected
09. Taking the Scenic Route
10. Fading Memories
11. When the Stars Disappeared

Leonard Cohen in Concert 1972 - Unseen Footage and Sound Recordings From Legendary 1972 Tour Rediscovered!

London - Legendary Film Director Tony Palmer was in his archive looking for something completely different when he discovered a box of archive film and sound recordings from Leonard Cohen’s famous 1972 tour, which formed the basis of the highly critically acclaimed, multi-prize winning and best-selling DVD “Bird On A Wire.”

Concert material from the concerts in Stockholm, Paris and the Albert Hall, with Cohen at the height of his powers performing “Marianne,” “Susanne,” “Joan of Arc,” “The Story of Isaac” and many other songs, is now being restored and edited together by Tony Palmer, who shot the original material.

This will be interspersed with more backstage film of the band on tour, and even some fresh interviews with Cohen himself all of which has remained unseen for over 45 years

These amazing audio and visual recordings will be released in a Limited Edition Deluxe and Standard versions exclusively through Pledge Music during the summer 2018

These releases will act as a companion recordings and film and will all add considerably to footage of the early part of Cohen's career. For which there is an increasing need since, apart from the film “Bird On A Wire,” there is comparatively little widely available.

DVD featuring 71 minutes of previously unseen footage of 1972 tour shot by Tony Palmer and not included in Bird on a Wire film & 2CD set

CD1 – Best of Live Recordings by Tony Palmer at various venues.

Track List:

1. So Long, Marianne
2. You Know Who I Am
3. The Butcher
4. Famous Blue Raincoat
5. Story Of Isaac
6. Joan Of Arc
7. Hey, That’s No Way To Say Goodbye
8. The Partisan
9. Suzanne
10. Seems So Long Ago, Nancy

Film Soundtrack CD & DVD Track List:

1: So Long, Marianne
2: Bird on a Wire
3: Hey, That’s No Way to Say Goodbye
4: Famous Blue Raincoat
5: You know who I am
6: Joan of Arc
7: Chelsea Hotel (improvised)
8: Suzanne
9: Avalanche
10: Story of Isaac
11: The Dealer
12: Chelsea Hotel
13: The Butcher
14: We Shall Not be Moved

For more information: www.pledgemusic.com/leonardcohentonypalmer

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com