Instrumental New Age/Ambient Track Review: Eamonn Karran-The Edge (Summer Song Flight)

Release Date: August 27, 2021

Label:  ‎myndstream

Website

“The Edge” from the Summer Song Flight release on the myndstream label, is Eamonn Karran’s new featured track.

The modus operandi here is diversity. Eamon says in his bio “I like to blend electronic music with flowing piano melodies and create something unique.”  He does exactly that on this gorgeous track.

Eamonn pushes the musical envelope and sounds very progressive on this track. My imagination was captured immediately while listening to the blend of the traditional piano with the electronics
.
Once the track was over, I felt like I needed to hear more, and for the artist, that is a good thing!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 31, 202 

 

World New Age Review: Raphael Groten-Potential

Release Date: September 1, 2021

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Raphael Groten has taken the next step in his evolution as a musical artist with Potential. He is calling this transformation of sound world medicine groove. It is unlike anything I have heard from the talented six-string maestro. Having covered two previous releases, I can honestly say he going in the right direction to reach his full Potential as an all-encompassing artisan.

The title track typifies his groove and it surely is world medicine for the soul. He normally creates instrumental works however “Great Spirit” includes some very affecting vocals and instrumentation. And there are several more tracks with vocals that are quite good as well.

Spirituality and strength are found with one look at the cover art. The wolf is the natural hunter and believes in the pack mentality or teamwork as we would see it as humans. I think the cover says more than meets the eye and for one to explore and discover the multitudes of sounds and meanings, you must absorb the fourteen tracks on offer.

As it is noted on the artist homepage - Potential is broad and dynamic, offering guitar to ukulele, percussion to gong, bamboo flute to kalimba, hand pan to a chorus of voices.

This is a fine encapsulation of what awaits your senses - audibly, spiritually, and physically. They are the equation for a very distinct sound and the journey you will embark upon. Audible is the beginning to engage your sensory perception, which then transforms into a spiritual essence and hence an overall sense of well-being on the physical level. From my own listening perspective, I was able to get in touch with the oneness of the music, in the sense that we are all connected to nature, the animals, the innate spirituality of all of that. This can be a prolific experience for many seeking such things and something fresh and full of amazing original energy that you can associate within and outside of yourself.

Of great significance is that Raphael composed, arranged, performed, produced, and engineered all the music in his newly established Humming Bird Studio. This is a great accomplishment. When you consider the multitude of instruments employed on this recording, it is quite impressive. The end result is superlative music that you will find enchanting and mesmerizing. I am sure many listeners will utilize it for relaxing and meditation as well.

Potential digs down deep into the soul of this artist and you can reach in and feel it, grasp it, hold it for your own, and take every advantage of the peace and joy it brings with one solitary listen. Tracks like “Melt” have a strong tribal feeling with the steady drumbeat and repetitive phrases that felt like they held great significance to anyone in touch with the ancient cultures that depended on the land and its creatures to survive. In the same frame of reference, that type of individual or group held each of those aspects of life with great respect. This is something we have lost over time that we desperately need before we can get started to find our way beyond the healing and renewal stages. It is time for us all to reach our full Potential as sentient beings. Music like this reminds us all of what direction we need to go.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
September 1, 2021

Tracks:
01. Wander         
02. Potential         
03. Great Spirit        
04. Within        
05. Care         
06. Melt         
07. River's Edge     
08. Pause         
09. Percolate         
10. Call         
11. Aft         
12. Bear Cave        
13. Release        
14. Twin Eagle 

Track Review: Chris Haugen-Water to Land (Summer Song Flight)

Release Date: August 27, 2021

Label:  ‎myndstream

Website

"Water to Land” from the Summer Song Flight release on the myndstream label, is Chris Haugen’s new featured track.

Chris plays acoustic guitar quite beautifully. The scenery on the cover of this single release depicts solitude and oneness with nature. The colorful clouds bring the promise of a new day of sunshine and renewal.

Chris’s acoustic guitar soothes and relaxes the listener just as the water below the rocks serve the individual pictured. This music aligns with the artwork perfectly and the track takes you there to that scenery within seconds. 

Sublime guitar playing indeed.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

August 30, 2021

Track Review: Carl Borden-Good Morning Light (Summer Song Flight) Track Review

Release Date: August 27, 2021

Label:  ‎myndstream

Website

“Good Morning Light” from the Summer Song Flight release on the myndstream label, is Carl Borden’s new featured track.

Carl provides a vista of colors and sound through his ambient recordings. This particular single is focused on the sounds of nature in the form of birds chirping.
 
The beam of light going straight down from the moon through the sun-bleached clouds to civilization below is a significant image. If you are listening to the layered sounds of Carl’s synth it fits together nicely.

“Good Morning Light” is 5 minutes and 30 seconds of synthesized bliss from one of the more creative artists in the new age instrumental genre.

This is great music for relaxing and or meditation which is the music of focus in the myndstream label.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 29, 2021

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Dave Eggar-Awakening

Release Date: September 10, 2021

Label:  ‎Domo Music Group

Website

If fortunate enough in our lifetimes we receive an awakening or several, if the universe allows it, and somehow, we do need it. Dave Eggar had his Awakening during the pandemic when he moved from NYC to the mountains of Tennessee. Getting back to your roots and in touch with the beauty of nature can heal the soul and trigger creative inspiration for many of us. For a multi-talented artist that has mastered the cello and piano like Dave, that is exactly what transpired. Moving from a bustling city to the mountains in Tennessee is what I would call a location paradigm shift. Literally, everything changes and the location is just the beginning.

Awakening features fourteen beautifully composed and performed tracks. This music truly touched me; its pure beauty engaged me in a spiritual journey. When listening I became reflective, grateful, and at times sad. The sadness relates to everything going on in the world and particularly in our country, its leadership, and what has been happening overseas. My heart cries for those in peril, suffering, or fleeing for their lives for poor decisions made by one man. It is at times frightening to see what has happened to our world, our country, and its people. I hope those seeking comfort can find some in this music, which I did with continued listening.

I am deeply moved by music such as this and it brings me back to who I am, what I believe, my history, and where it has brought me today. The track that triggered all these feelings was “Beyond.” And interestingly enough, it is telling me I must get past this, heal, keep the faith, and that God will watch over the children of the earth. I need to get “Beyond” this and move to another point of growth. Without that, I do not have the optimism and faith I need. I am sure many of you out there will not understand this process and my comments, and certainly, there will be those that will. My point here is the power of music and how it can change your train of thought and the outcome of your decision-making after listening. My decision to share what is in my heart was captured by this amazing music. That one track catapulted me to another space where I could feel everything at the moment then be able to communicate it to anyone that wants to listen.

“My Simple Gift” also pulled on my heartstrings. The combination of the cello and piano is always prolific for my listening experience. The cello has that longing sound that pulls you and makes you think. I think of it as a big bass violin. The piano helps the emotions that come up subside and smooth out. This, and I speak for myself, helps me to process everything going through my mind and how it translates to the heart. My oh my this is so powerful and affecting. Instrumental music allows you to open a door without being prompted by words to pull you in a specific direction. The best aspect of this transitioning effect is that you, the listener, get to choose what direction to go while taking all of these sounds in. It is indeed a beautiful thing to listen to this gift of music and the artistry of audio delights.

If you want to experience a true Awakening listen to this music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 26, 2021 

Tracks:
01.  Awakening
02. Faded Memory
03. Through The Glass
04. Beyond
05. Forest Afternoon
06. Diamonds
07. My Simple Gift
08. Russian Winter
09. Arise
10. Fallen Leaves
11. Bristol Morning
12. Coming Home (featuring Avalona)
13. Earth Story
14. New Dawn (featuring Priya Darshini and Will Calhoun)

Classical Vocal Review: Danaë Xanthe Vlasse-MYTHOLOGIES

Release Date: August 6, 2021

Label:  ‎ Independent

Website

"MYTHOLOGIES" - Mrs. Vlasse honors her heritage with an album inspired by Ancient Greek myths. Centered on vocal works, MYTHOLOGIES celebrates some of the most lasting legends in history and offers a return to creative collaboration with sopranos Hila Plitmann and Sangeeta Kaur. The album offers several performances of Mrs. Vlasse herself at the piano, along with pianists Robert Thies and Brendan White; the album also includes renowned South-African flutist Wouter Kellerman, and features memorable string performances from violinist Lili Haydn, cellist Eru Matsumoto, and violist Virginie d'Avezac de Castera, along with percussion from Nadeem Majdalany and Emilio D. Miler, Emilio D. Miler and Mrs. Vlasse co-produced the album. MYTHOLOGIES is an immersive Contemporary Classical journey into an ancient fantasy realm that invites listeners to ponder long-standing cultural concepts such as idolized heroism, divine power, crisis of faith and morality, and the junction of fate and free will. (Information provided by the artist)
 
For those listeners that can appreciate classically-based music and vocals that bring Greek Mythology to life, Mythologies will be an unforgettable listening event. The musicality is at another level to compliment the two Sopranos, Hila Plitmann, and Sangeeta Kaur. The aforementioned cast of musical talent is appreciated by this attentive listener.
 
From my perspective, this was a step away from the norm. That is the kind of experience I welcome. This music gave me an appreciation for an art form that started centuries ago. The combination of the voices and instruments is like coming home to your place in heaven. The angelic vocals welcome you as your spirit rises and you start an existence on another plane. This is the picture that my consciousness presented me to observe and absorb, then process.
 
Danaë’s piano playing is superb and with all of the beautiful vocals on display, courtesy of Hila Plitmann and Sangeeta Kaur, this is an opportunity for appreciative listeners of this genre. That combination provides a stunning tribute to the subject matter at hand. Mythological characters are no longer in that framework, you can imagine them as living breathing entities brought to life through the vocals and music.
 
To musically interpret these stories is not an easy task to be sure. The length of these tracks is considerable, raising the difficulty level that much further. “Sirens” opens the recording and clocks in at 11:12 and then takes you out to finalize the album in the “Sirens (Cinematic)” version at 14:12. In between those two tracks “Nepenthe” is a dramatic and moving instrumental showcasing the musical talent that is up to the challenge. The listener will note the tides of passion weaving throughout the song. Instrumentally this is as close to perfection as one could get.
 
I felt “Penelope” was particularly beautiful as Danaë’s remarkable piano playing is joined by her female counterparts with the rising vocal expertise you have previously witnessed. The blend of the music and all of those voices are incredibly moving and visionary. The changes of pace are impressive within the time of 7:19 minutes. I note the time of these tracks as I feel it is important to recognize the effort that went into them by these amazing men and women.

MYTHOLOGIES is a refreshing interpretation of Greek history. Emotion and collective expertise are key in making this album a success. Certainly, this album will be revered worldwide exponentially as time passes. It will be like adding a fine piece of art to your collection to treasure for years to come.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 23, 2021

Tracks:
1. Sirens by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Hila Plitmann, Sangeeta Kaur & Brendan White        
2. Poseidon & Odysseus by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Hila Plitmann, Sangeeta Kaur, Wouter Kellerman & Nadeem Majdalany
3. Penelope by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Hila Plitmann, Sangeeta Kaur & Wouter Kellerman
4. Nepenthe by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Lili Haydn, Eru Matsumoto & Robert Thies
5. Euterpe's Lament by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Hila Plitmann, Sangeeta Kaur, Virginie d'Avezac de Castéra & Eru Matsumoto
6. Metamorphoses by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse        
7. Sirens (Cinematic) by Danaë Xanthe Vlasse, Hila Plitmann, Sangeeta Kaur, Brendan White, Nadeem Majdalany & Emilio D. Miler

New Age Instrumental Meditation Review: Palm Reading-Malibu: Point Mugu

Release Date: August 13, 2021

Label:  ‎ myndstream

Website

Palm Reading is the musical project by Scooby Laposky and Charles Copley, inspired by plant life, the natural environment, and the traditions of ambient and mindfulness music. Malibu: Point Mugu is the first in a series of locations that these recordings will be created.

That introduction to this music was just what I needed to read on the artist's one sheet to get immersed into this spiritual and nature-themed meditative music.

This is an effective combination of synthesized electronic music that is generated by biodata recorded from plants using a biodata sonification device. The device works by measuring microcurrent fluctuations occurring across the surface of a plant’s leaf, which then generates MIDI notes when a change in conductivity is detected, allowing a user to listen to the invisible biological processes occurring within plants.

I find this a fascinating way to make music and connect with nature using hi-tech instruments and electronics. Note the cover of the CD how the electrodes (Tens style sticky pads) are connected to the leaves? What a brilliant idea to where music intersects with mother earth, science, and electronics. The outcome is very relaxing as well as the original acoustic guitar accompaniment. I never thought a tool I have used to relieve pain in my back would be used this way. The Tens unit is an instrument many people use in their homes and are commonly found in a chiropractor’s office. This is not a Tens unit, however; it simply uses the principle of the sticky pads to keep the wires in place to detect the biological processes of the plant.

The tender guitar lines interspersed with the ambient electronics create a very placid and inviting atmosphere. Listeners will find it easy to meld right into and float away with, whether just relaxing or falling into a desired meditative state.

I feel a lot of anticipation for the next volume of recordings and wonder what location will be selected. There would be many to choose from if the duo decides to travel up the California coast on Highway 1. While a gorgeous drive along the coast, it would be interesting to turn off some exits into some smaller towns to see what flora and fauna were on offer.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 13, 2021 

Tracks:
1. White Sage (Salvia Apiana) 5:57
2. White Sage (Salvia Apiana) Interlude 1:30
3. Laurel Sumac (Malosma Laurina) 8:17

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Evan Wish-Alone In A Crowd

Release Date: October 1, 2020

Label:  ‎ Independent

Website

Have you ever felt like you were Alone In A Crowd? It is an unfortunate feeling however it does happen to some of us. I have learned that it is a psychological thing when one is trapped within their mind without any escape route. When nothing can distract you from the deep-seated feelings and thoughts you are experiencing, then any amount of people around you would not matter. This may be relatable or so farfetched for some. We are different with experiences all our own. The one thing we can all relate to is good music.

As Evan Wish is pictured alone with his piano on a stage, it is the perfect vision of being Alone In A Crowd. This is his latest instrumental piano offering comprising contemporary, classical, and new age, into every track. This music embodies romanticism, joy, sadness, and the flow of life. Without uttering a single word Evan’s fingers take flight on the ivory keys and bring audio magic to your soul. What struck me readily was the sense of rhythm in his music. The piano is an amazing instrument and this artist knows how to manipulate it beautifully befitting each track title.

I found the title track very moving in several ways. It was an emotional journey for me, spurring those old feelings I had described previously, yet the music made it feel different. It was like the healing of that moment in time when I felt that way. Even though it was something so long ago for me, it is easy enough to reach back and revisit. What I learned in this particular timeframe was it is ok to be reminded of the past but to focus on the here and now. In essence, enjoy the music, go with the feelings and the flow of the sounds you are hearing and let it take you where it may.

When I enjoy a musical experience as I have with Alone In A Crowd, it seems to travel so fast. Like a short story with a succinct beginning and end. If you enjoy being swept away by superb piano instrumental music, this recording will become one of your favorites of the year.

Evan Wish…teacher, world traveler, storyteller, and immaculate musician, takes all of his experience and wraps them into a warm blanket called Alone In A Crowd. Having that warmth takes away the loneliness and comforts you. The blanket is the music and Evan provides all the warmth you could ever need as he weaves a tapestry of sound, vibrations, and color to fill you up with the love of life. You never have to feel alone again with these moving 10 tracks.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 2, 2021 

Tracks:

01. The Hill
02. Alone in a Crowd
03. Fleeting Beauty
04. (Full) August Moon Love
05.(For) Just a Penny        
06. Falling into You
07. Silhouette    
08. Carousel         
09. Sometime Around Midnight    
10. I Like Us

Kirtan Lounge, Ananta Govinda, Gopi Kallayil-Mystical Awakening

Release Date: July 23, 2021

Label: Independent

Website

Ananta Govinda, Kirtan Lounge, and Gopi Kallayil have released two beautiful tracks for the community of souls seeking peace through meditation or other similar practices.  Mystical Awakening was officially released today.

“Mystical Awakening” and “Gayatri Mantra” are exceptional tracks that mix the ancient Sanskrit text with world music. It comes packaged in striking artwork the brings about thoughts of time and space centuries ago.

This is new age world music modernized with today’s technologies and recording tools combined with saxophone, ambient flowing guitars, drums, and the conch.

In just two tracks you can find inner peace, truth, your higher self, and the rhythms, sounds and, textures that will bring amazing color to your consciousness. This is the color of life, love, and true happiness that resides in us all. The translator of music and ancient traditions is very effective for those who listen and tap into this source of spiritual awareness, mindfulness, and love.

Ananta Govinda and the heavenly vocals of Gopi Kallayi and Paulette Penzvalto will help you to renounce Samsara (Buddhist term for suffering) and find the emptiness for the clearing to focus, then the purity of your being. This is the music that will guide you to that place you desire, and it can be just the beginning of a lifelong journey. For some of you already on it, you will find this music to be an addition to your daily practices of meditation or yoga.

This music encapsulates spiritual enlightenment.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
July 23, 2021

 

Tracks:

1. Mystical Awakening - Musical Exploration of Bhagavad Gita
2. Gayatri Mantra

Instrumental Jazz-New Age-Ambient Review: UMA-Wishing Well

Release Date: July 16, 2021

Label:  ‎ myndstream

Website: https://www.alekseisaks.com/uma/ 

http://robertjyrjendal.com

UMA are the project of two Estonian musician’s guitarist Robert Jürjendal and trumpet/corno da caccia player Aleksei Saks.

The duo came together at the beginning of 2007. The name UMA comes from the South Estonian Seto dialect and it means ‘own.’

The cover of Wishing Well, their latest release, gives a potential listener a soft and pleasing image before the music starts. Imagery is everything, particularly with instrumental music. Even though most listeners will see their own pictures in their mind’s eye, the soft blue color and singularity of the tree on a hill and its shadow on the ground brings you instant solace. The gentle guitar and horn are all these two gentlemen need to create a delectable array of sounds.

Now the idea from this point is to offer a selection of tracks to take that one image to the next step in the process. This is exactly what Robert and Aleksei do with the offering of 10 beautifully done tracks. The music has many elements that intersect including jazz, smooth jazz, new age, ambient, and all of them blended into each individual track. The combination is very effective and quite pleasant.

As you move from track to track the horn and guitar lead the way as well as the unique corno da caccia which is a piccolo horn. If you have any interest or particularly enjoy any of the genres that are part of this music, you will most definitely appreciate what you hear on Wishing Well.

This is duo is very skilled and precise in their presentation and the flow, overall sound, and engineering values of this recording are superb. Sometimes when you put on certain music, it is exactly what you need to hear. In this case that applied 100% for me on this listen. In fact, I would listen any time of day or evening because this is the kind of music I can appreciate. It is warm, inviting, and most of all, the enjoyment you can obtain from beginning to end is notable.

You can have your own private Wishing Well with a click or the push of a button. As all the wonders of modern technology merge with exceptional musicians, the chances of creating something special are always possible. In this case, it became a reality and I am glad I had the opportunity to discover and enjoy all the amazing music on this recording.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
July 19, 2021

Tracks:
01. Wishing Well
02. Old Diaries
03. Pilgrim’s Path
04. Lightness of the Soul 3
05. Petite Ouverture à Danser
06. Lost A Dream
07. Longing
08. My Days
09. Deep Sea
10. Beyond Skylin

Instrumental World-New Age Review: Kelly Andrew- Revelation

Release Date: May 14, 2021

Label: Independent

Website

It has been over four years since I heard the music of Kelly Andrew. 2016’s Rendezvous was my introduction. It was quite an introduction as I recall and the music was very cinematic. Judging by the first track and title track “Revelation,” I was in for another journey to instrumental music nirvana.

 

Kelly creates music that stirs the soul and makes your heart beat faster, in a good way. This music can also invigorate and relax all within the same song. So, if you are the type of listener that is looking for all that moving and emotional music then you will love Revelation.

 

As the music progressed onward to the third track “Spark of Life,” you are engulfed in its awesome energy and sound. It is so picturesque. The track title is spot on. I envisioned a person climbing Mt. Everest and getting to the top to plant their flag. This is a typical journey one can take while listening to this music. For my enjoyment and listening experience, that is perfect and the music plants visions inside my head and gets me excited. This is not a meditative state by any means, it is just too beautiful and exhilarating for you to get to that plane of existence. I would keep in mind that there are elements of the music that can get you focused and relaxed enough to get into the healing phase. That is a different state of mind and a place that exists in our consciousness as well, that is activated right at the start of the music, whether you realize it or not. I am grateful for that awareness and all the power the music holds for me.

 

“Escape” is another very cinematic one that could be used in a particularly exciting action scene in a film. Also, I believe there are certain documentaries where this music would fit, think of Planet Earth or something along those lines, in the same line of thought, films that exhibit the power of mother nature at work is a thought that comes to mind.

 

On the other side of that is the world new age track “Onagar,” with its irresistible tribal beats, sounds, keyboards, synths, and breathy nonword vocals. It is what you would expect and want to hear in a track that fits the world new age genre. The entire album is that genre, it just comes at you from different places, styles, and persuasions. In any case, whatever the way it hits you, you know it and find yourself part of the story very quickly. Now to me, that is very cool, it’s like reading a great story without having to read any words. 

 

“Arrival” is another energy-packed track with some great lead guitar, and I mean rocking. It fits well but only lasts for 2:45 minutes and I could have listened to twice or three times as much with what that track had to offer. It is because I love to hear great guitar lines. That very fleeting disappointment ends with “Manifesto” that comes at your bursting with all the color and energy that life can offer in one song.

 

For some listeners, I think artists like Yanni or Rick Wakeman will come to mind with their fabulous on-stage presentations with full orchestras all around the main instrument, keyboards. Those big productions like Journey To The Center of The Earth were my first thought. I could not help but have those thoughts and images go through my head.

 

I give full credit to Kelly Andrew for a magnificent and exciting instrumental production that brings you all the color, textures, various sounds, and inspirational voices that are tied into all this music to give it that final touch, that push that makes you feel like anything is possible and life is good because we are alive and well to enjoy it. And in the end, it will be a Revelation. 

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

July 18, 2021

Tracks:
01. Revelation (3:39)
02. Times Untold (3:23)
03. Spark of Life (3:34)
04. Humanity (4:38)
05. Escape (3:56)
06. Onagar (4:32)
07. Arrival (2:45)
08. Manifesto (3:11)
09. Rebellion (4:34)
10. Days of Van (2:27)
11. The Garden (3:19)
12. Material Sons (2:37)
13. Regret (5:16)
14. Veil of Tears (3:52)
15. Samaria (2:45)
16. Sage of Salem (5:42)
17. Divine Embrace (3:39)

 

New Age Instrumental Review: Dean And Dudley Evenson-Monet’s Garden

Release Date: April 21, 2021

Label:  ‎ Soundings of Planet

Website

Dean Evenson (Silver & Cedar Flutes, Keyboards, Field Recordings) and Dudley Evenson (Harp, Hand Harp, Singing Bowls, Chimes) released Monet’s Garden in April this year. This duo creates music to match the beautiful scenery of the background on the cover of this recording.

To present what went into this effort...they took their dream trip to Monet’s world to gather footage after a lifetime of admiring and studying his life and paintings. From that lifelong journey, 12 tracks emerged.

By using their chosen instruments, the recordings encompass natural sounds such as birds in all their happiness, and with the harp and flute as the main instruments, and the addition of keyboards, singing bowls, and chimes, a musical garden is created. Some may call it nirvana, it felt that way to me and I believe based on what I garnered from reading about these two profound artists, they successfully created their garden of delights merging art with music.

Every listening experience is something new for me. In this case, this was my introduction to the music of the Evenson’s. And what a way to start. I found this music beautiful and so deeply relaxing and meditative. I find several different pathways to where I need to be through music like this. I found it was all easily assimilated. The reason why was the flow of the entire recording. To my senses, it was like one journey or path, in essence like one song. I find it more difficult to mention any single track as a key because the entire album was a doorway for me. For my interpretation, that is the highest compliment I can give an artist. To command my attention and appreciation in such a way that I was totally focused and listening intently, that is the ultimate for my ears. I would think that is what any recording artist would want and the desired result for many listeners.

I love the sound of birds and there is one singing sparrow in my backyard I hear every day. My life would be incomplete without it. There is a lot of that interlaced in this music, which gave me an immediate level of comfort and acceptance. That is the organic touchpoint that I got from Monet’s Garden.

One of the things mentioned in the information I received was that this album Contains Earth Resonance Frequency for deeper relaxation and a heightened state of peacefulness. It certainly has that effect, and all of the instrumentation is excellent as well as the engineering and sound values.

Monet’s Garden is a storybook music experience, page by page you enter a garden in your mind’s eye with all the colors and beauty that Monet could capture in his paintings, with the light of the day dancing through the trees, the sun shining brightly and the birds showing their appreciation, this is a listening experience you need to have whether you want to meditate or just relax.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
July 12, 2021

Tracks:
01. Water Lily Nymphs         
02. Wisteria Foot Bridge       
03. Golden Tones                   
04. Splendid Irises                  
05. Water Garden                    
06. Spring Impressions           
07. Enchanted Garden Path     
08. Field of Flowers          
09. Pond Reflections              
10. Cascading Willows       
11. Play of Light
12. Evening in Giverny 

New Age Music Review: Chakuna Machi Asa - Auroral Magic

Release Date: June 11, 2021

Label:  Independent

Website

I am always in search of something different and inspiring when it comes to my listening experiences. That is something I do not expect before any listen but when it happens, I am filled with joy and anticipation throughout the entire listen.

I felt blessed once again when Chakuna Machi Asa started singing the first track “Blood of Our Ghost” on her recent release Auroral Magic. I understand the title of that track is not typically new age, but then again this is not your typical new age recording.

There is tremendous creativity and variety on this album. From new age, chill, meditation, piano-based, ambient, and everything else, like sounds of nature, comes together splendidly. It is primarily instrumental for focus although hearing vocals is a nice change at times.

The opening track got my interest and attention right away. That is exactly the way to start an album. As I mentioned earlier, I found the title quite striking and prolific at the same time. Chakuna’s voice is very effective and you will warm right up to it. It is a very catchy tune.

I particularly liked the way “The Wind” was so relaxing and natural and how ethereal and mysterious “Time Womb” was. Now that is another thought-provoking title. Are you in your own “Time Womb” or can you create a new one while listening to this music? I suppose each individual has to find out for themselves. I believe that music is a very personal experience and if it is good enough, it can heal you and become your own story.

Keep in mind what the artist is trying to accomplish with her music. She wants to invite all listeners to take a deep dive into their spirituality and to discover our gifts. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses and music such as this can bring you to more realizations regarding your humanity and capabilities. The key to the kingdom here is to allow the sounds, vibrations, colors, and atmospheres to guide you down the necessary path to your enlightenment. Again, it is an individual thing for each listener as it should be.

This album comes exactly as advertised, magic, Auroral Magic, for all its colors, complexities, simplicity, beauty, and wonderment. For many listeners, including myself, these wonderful sounds will be a journey of discovery and awakenings. I would think that is exactly what the artist would like you to experience once you have enjoyed this powerful musical creation and artistic statement.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
July 14, 2021

Tracks:
01. Blood of Our Ghost (4:03)
02. Elven Magic (3:07)
03. Planet Xeron (6:19)
04. Dancing Reflections (2:41)
05. The Wind (6:40)
06. Time Womb (5:45)
07. Blue Moon (6:20)
08. Space Shift (5:02)
09. Our Escape (7:46)
10. The Whale Song (5:45)
11. John (7:28)
12. Auroral Magic (4:51)

New Age Meditation Review: Yuval Ron-kids sanctuary (Volumes 1, 2 ,3)

Release Date: May 7, 2021

Label: Metta Mindfulness Music

Website

Metta Mindfulness Music and Yuval Ron have joined once again to release kids sanctuary. This set comes in three sections.

These three albums make up this comprehensive group of tracks:

Album 1: Healing Music For Your Child and Your Inner Child
Album 2: Guided Mindful Listening and Sound Remedies
Album 3: Mindfulness Practices With Healing Soundscapes

With Yuval Ron are master musicians Radha Prasad (Bansuri flute,) Adam del Monte (guitar), Marcia Dickstein (harp), and Brien Engel (glass harmonica). The combination of these enlightened spirits is very effective.

This is a brilliant production carefully crafted to engage your youngsters in listening, focusing, and a meditative reflective state of consciousness. For a child certainly, the level of attainment in these areas is quite different with each individual and nothing like an adult experience. And to that point, it is created to reach that demographic.

The point here I believe is to introduce your child to a different experience other than computer games or television. It is a paradigm shift for the parents and the children without a doubt. The age group that I would consider introducing this to would be toddlers to as high as the sixth-grade level.  

To start the journey the music is the focus on Healing Music For Your Child and Your Inner Child. This is a good way to get comfortable and familiarize yourself with all of the sounds, textures, and colors that being created for your own healing process.

The second segment Guided Mindful Listening and Sound Remedies, can be an awakening for the child and adult while listening. The key here is your inner child, which in retrospect can apply to any age as far as I am concerned. This is perceived through my own listening experience and lens if you will. We are unique individuals that respond differently to sounds, vibrations, and colors. This music is full of all three attributes to engage a new audience that finds encouragement from their parents. One of the key components is the child’s voice leading the way with an introduction to what sounds to listen for and then a sample of that particular sound. In other instances, with the third volume, Mindfulness Practices With Healing Soundscapes, the lovely adult voice of Ms. Alicia Goyal of the BBC, provides the same instruction but this time regarding colors to look for.

If you go to the website, you will find many options and opportunities to expand upon this body, mind, and spirit sojourn. There is a 15-day kids sanctuary course, videos, and French, Hebrew, Mandarin, and Spanish versions. So, there you have it, wonderful music and diversity and inclusion a part of the entire presentation.

Listening through this set I found peace, enlightenment, and a great relaxing experience in all the music being offered on the three sets. I could understand how this could work very well with developing children and how it would be an effective method of sparking their neuropathways. The people involved with creating and producing this impressive project know what they’re doing and the musicians are superb. It is a collective partnership that has an amazing result and the people that will benefit from this are all the parents and children looking for an alternative method of learning, relaxation, and the mindful listening experience that can be so important before they go to school and when they are already there.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
June 16, 2021
 

Tracks/Notes From The CD:

1. Kids Sanctuary

Healing, soothing and relaxing music to cultivate inner peace, and help children self-regulate.

Based on the wisdom of Chinese and Ayurvedic traditions and recent advances in modern neuroscience,
this track was crafted for children’s wellbeing.

2. Sleepy Time

Mesmerizing and soothing sounds, perfect for deep relaxation, nap time, or before going to bed.

3. Enchanted Waters

A track to cool down, unwind and be invited to relax with the magical sounds of kalimbas.

Four different kinds of water sound: bubbles, creek, rain, and ocean waves, create a cooling down experience, to wash away stress and anxiety.

You can play it before bedtime or during your child’s cool down routine.

You might even let it play in the background when you feel your child is over activated, to help their body regulate.

4. Bye Bye, Belly Ache

This flowing and bubbly music track is an invitation to relax, let go, and move the blocked air in your body and your life.
It can be especially helpful for children with tummy aches or for colicky infants and toddlers.

The main instrument featured in this track is a glass harmonica, chosen for its flowing qualities, representing the element of air.

5. Focus Pocus

A relaxing track created to nurture the flow of creativity and concentration.

The sweet and flowy sound of the harp promotes the stimulating and sharpening of the senses.
A great track to play in the background while your child is studying or playing.

New Age Review: 2002-Hummingbird

Release Date: June 11, 2021

Label: myndstream

Website

https://myndstream.fanlink.to/Hummingbird-2002 

 

A little over a year ago I covered the 2002 album Celtic Fairy Dream. Now at the beginning of June Hummingbird will be released. There are no coincidences in life and I have always loved to watch birds. And hummingbirds are fascinating little creatures. Friends of mine have a feeder for them and I was thinking about getting one. This was a mere two weeks ago. So now I am sitting here listening to an album dedicated to those very birds. 

2002 is a wonderful family group and immensely talented. They are the mother, father, and daughter team of Randy Copus (guitars, bass, keyboards, vocals), Pamela Copus (flutes, Celtic harp, keyboards, vocals), and Sarah Copus (Celtic harp, vocals). They are totally in sync and their productions bear out that synchronicity time after time on Hummingbird.

”Gathering the Clouds” is a good example of the great music this family can create, engineer, and then produce. The orchestrations and wordless vocals on the track are gorgeous. It swept me away into their cloud of sounds and I just floated away with them. What more could a hardworking, anxiety-ridden, stressed individual ask for at the end of the day? Yes, I can fit that profile some days. I tend to be highly self-motivated, focused, and push too hard at times. This takes a tremendous amount of energy and I need a space to call my own to step outside that realm. Even knowing this, at times I have a hard time leaving my conscious mind behind for a reprieve.

I do need to climb the “Sacred Mountain” for relief. But don’t we all? This track featured some nice ambient keyboard layers and flute. The underlying orchestrations are always the key to this music. They give the tracks a meaningful foundation to build on and you cannot help but feel some elation and the profoundness of this music. This is new-age music at its very best. All the right combinations come into play to set your mind and spirit at ease amidst all of the elevating sounds and textures that create all the colors and visions in your mind’s eye.

Everything about Hummingbird speaks to the sacredness of life and nature and our interdependence and connection. Each track takes you to a different place and it’s all about the beauty and pureness of nature and all its bounty. The music expresses that fully in a very distinct way. On “Through the Rainbow” you can hear the gentle fluttering of the hummingbird’s wings through the sounds of the instruments and the lovely inviting acoustic guitar lines.

These are some examples of the many facets and talents of the Copus family and how many sounds three people can put together. At times it sounds like a choir accompanied by an orchestra. The clean and crisp recordings having some fine production values and this team utilizes all of their talents to great advantage to make Hummingbird one of the best new age releases of 2021. I would count on it receiving a lot of praise and some awards for its efforts and contributions to humanity. This is musical meditation for a new age and universal healing for the world. Welcome to Galactic Playground Music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
June 11, 2021
 

Tracks:

01. Rainbow Cove (5:39)  
02. Walela (4:12)  
03. Gathering the Clouds (5:04)  
04. Sunlight in Rain (4:20)  
05. Sacred Mountain (4:46)  
06. Through the Rainbow (5:02)  
07. Courting the Moon (5:37)  
08. Jasmine Rain (4:09)  
09. Wind Dancer (5:19)  
10. First Day of Spring (4:57)