Electronic-Ambient-New Age-World Review: Michael Whalen-Our April Tigers

Release Date: April 21, 2023

Label: ‎ Sprout/MWM

Website

Emmy Award Winning composed, and internationally renowned recording artist Michael Whalen had an idea about creating a group of composers and players to collaborate on a new instrumental recording that would defy style or genre. He wanted to pick people who had careers in soundtrack global ambient alternative and beyond that, including Bassist Michael Manring, guitarist Michael Brook, trumpeter Jeff Oster, percussionist/remixer Karsh Kale with Whalen starting the tracks collaborated on seven songs with the musicians doing their engineering in their studios in New York City, India, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. So, Our April Tigers was born. (Information from artist press release)

 

Even though I am classifying it as Electronic-Ambient-New Age-World, and it is a refreshing combination of those genres, I think Michael Whalen and his collaborators succeeded in creating something so original and different. Still, it does make it difficult to point to one genre expressly. For my listening pleasure, that makes it inviting and unique. 

 

Working remotely and separated by many miles is common today in putting together a recording, so it is nothing new, so what is going to make this release stand out? Michael started by creating melodic snippets that went from one musician to another, each adding their parts. Listening to it now makes it more unique and quite impressive. Creating the music would be easier if everyone were in a face-to-face studio (although I don’t think it is ever easy). The talent of each artist comes shining through on every track. Michael is the keyboard wizard and music master; every other partner is masterful with their respective instruments.

 

Never was that more apparent than on tracks like “Morning Bell.” Michael Manring’s hypnotic bass and Jeff Oster’s trumpet provide the textures and colors that mix beautifully with Michael’s array of keys. It sings instrumentally and pulls you in with ease, like meditation music. Many types of ambient instrumental music do serve that purpose, and Michael has been one of the more eclectic musicians with each release. As a person fortunate to provide coverage of his music, I wonder what he will come up with subsequently and anticipate an entirely new adventure each time. I am happy to say that he never disappoints.

 

Diversity is the key to the excitement of each next track. After “Morning Bell,” then “Visceral Organ” comes on. It sounds like it could be an entirely different album. It is a funk fest with a colorful atmosphere with the wonder of every second pouring out of it. That is one of the best examples of complete transitions going from one track to another. You better strap yourself in because that is the modus operandi of the release. Don’t expect a steady flow of the same thing; because of that, expect to feel a smile develop from the inside out.

 

Our April Tigers is indeed Michael Whalen and his significant contributors. As spring is happening and the flowers blooming are right around the corner for those in the Northeast, this music will fully bloom, inspiring listeners, and musicians worldwide.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

March  21, 2023

Tracks:

1. Over Water 5:27

2. Disappear 5:09

3. Morning Bell 4:43

4. Visceral Organ 4:29

5. So Fragile 3:59

6. Hope Haunts 4:54

7. Temporality 4:17

New Age Ambient Instrumental Review: Stephen Peppos-Celestial

Release Date: February 20, 2023

Label: ‎ Independent

Website

Celestial will be the fifth release from Stephen Peppos that I have enjoyed listening to. His new-age ambient journeys are the musical chicken soup for the soul we all need.

There are eighteen tracks on Celestial. You get the complete treatment of the new age ambiance he so expertly produces album after album.

Ce·les·tial-Positioned in or relating to the sky or outer space as observed in astronomy: "a celestial body"

That is the primary term and title of this album. And beautifully illustrated on the cover art with a giant bright moon behind a tree. It was likely the stone age when the moon was that close to the earth, and what a sight that must have been!

I had always had a fascination with astronomy going back to when I was a little boy. That interest has never waned. It has become stronger over the years. I always look to the stars to feel a sense of wonderment about what kind of life could be millions and billions of miles away. It makes you feel small in the big picture of the universe.

Music makes a person feel whole, and at times the sounds put you into a trance-like state or in the space of meditation. Whatever your choice, instrumental music filled with synths, color, the tinkling of bells, etc., presented on Celestial, will allow you to move on to a different level of freedom and existence. For my tastes, that is very important to find that release point where the thoughts of the day melt away, and the focus is on the music alone.

If you are looking for calm, serenity, and the magic healing powers of music, it's time to take a trip on the "Celestial Highway." That is how this recording starts with that track, and it is a beautiful introduction to what you will hear and experience along the way. Track by track, you can take the journey with Stephen and listen to (what I call) experiential music. You, the listener, decide how the door opens and closes on this recording.

There are stars and galaxies so far away that we will never discover them, even with the most powerful telescope. Here is your chance to create your universe with the sounds to soothe and penetrate your being. Your mind and body become one with the music, and you can discover new worlds within your mind's eye and realize you could not go during a typical day without the help of this music. That is the point of music such as this, to step away from the norm and experience something out of the ordinary, relax, and recharge those batteries for another day.

Celestial gave me pause to reflect. All the layers of ambient keyboards reminded me of some of my favorite artists, such as Jean-Michel Jarre, Tangerine Dream, and similar groups. 

As all artisans were appreciated thousands of years ago, they are still today. People like Stephen Peppos are an intrinsic part of our lives and help to enhance our world. So, please sit back, listen, and let the chaos of our planet and perhaps your day, disappear with music from Celestial.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

March 16, 2023

Tracks:

01. Celestial Highway

02. Night Sky Revealed

03. The Sun Sphere

04. Ambrosia

05. Celestial Interlude part 1

06. Look To The Quivering Sky

07. Celestial Longing

08. Fields Of Stars

09. The 4th Dimension

10. Celestial Interlude part 2

11. Heavenlies

12. Celestial Joy

13. Wonder

14. Beautiful Cry to the Universe

15. Celestial Interlude part 3

16. Celestial Dawning

17. Celestial Traveller

18. Celestial Dance

Instrumental New Age-Meditation Review: 2002-Clouds Below

Release Date: January 7, 2023

Label: ‎ 2002 Music

Website

 

Introduction from the artist: Clouds Below was inspired by opposites - contrary forces that depend upon each other to exist and evolve. The sun above by day and the moon at night share a magic moment when they briefly mingle before one yields to the other. 

Clouds drift along regardless of day or night, and they appear below when we soar in an airplane, climb above them on a mountain, or a chance to see them reflected in a pond. The songs on this album explore the beauty found all around us, above and below. The music reveals unexpected paths, inviting us to follow.

 

Are you ready to follow? It is another blessing when I can cover a familiar artist. Music is a gift to all humanity, and animals and plants enjoy it. Listening and following can be a spiritual experience; with this family group of Pamela, Randy, and Sarah Copus, that has always been the case for my tastes and needs. I need music daily to inject energy into my body and uplift my spirits. It’s like wearing a watch your entire life, then one day, you forget to put it on, it becomes a part of you, and you feel incomplete. Music soothes our souls and completes the circle of life. 

A family relationship like this is a beautiful thing to develop in music as they (and us) go on an aural journey.

 

I know that sounds prolific, and it can be for everyone. Walk through that door and find your “Soulmate,” whether that is a person, a cat or a dog, or the music itself. It can all be interchangeable. If there is a “Glimmering Hope,” you can find your “Landing.” It is not intentional that I find a connection to tracks like that; it just happens and makes sense as they unfold and dovetails into one message. I hope this makes sense to many of you. It’s not complicated if you just let the music and you become one. 

 

The ethereal layers and colors presented on each track on Clouds Below are meditative examples of new-age ambient instrumental music with an objective. For instance, the interspersing of a saxophone on “City Blue” gives you a glimpse into the eclectic world of the Copus family. The quiet storm of jazz creates an alternate universe and takes a listener elsewhere. However, it does remain relaxing and meditative. Each member’s contributions are significant and in sync from beginning to end. 

 

At the “First Light of Dawn,” the cosmos grants you another day of life on this beautiful planet, and as you take “The Flight Home,” the “Clouds Below” reveal the beauty and awesomeness of our world and the “Everyday Miracles” that we can witness. We must open our eyes, hearts, and minds and let the music in. It’s simple and direct, resulting in healing and a feeling of blessedness we cannot find anywhere else. 

The Copus family are gifted purveyors of magical instrumentations and sounds you will appreciate. Their journey as artisans continues, and I am grateful to join them on their cloud for a short time and rejoin them any time I choose, and so can you!

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder

March 5, 2023

Tracks:

01. Soulmate 4:53

02. Glimmering Hope 5:38

03. Landing 4:16

04. City Blue 5:56

05. First Light of Dawn 4:35

06. The Flight Home 4:12

07. Clouds Below 4:33

08. Air and Light 4:26

09. Riding the Current 4:32

10. Everyday Miracles 4:28

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Orchestra Indigo-Requiem

 Release Date: March 10, 2023

Label: ‎ Independent

Website

Last fall, I had my introduction to Orchestra Indigo-the creation of long-time blues artist Rick Randlett. His first album was titled Farewell To Memories. I was impressed with the musical paradigm shift that Rick successfully made. 

Now Requiem, his sophomore release, is ready for release. 

Rick Comments: Requiem comes from a lifelong fascination with the form, growing out of college performances of both the Verdi and Mozart requiems. In my version, I've tried to create the same flow and emotions without using any Latin text but with piano, synthesizers, and vocal sounds.

 

Those who can appreciate classical music's importance and timelessness undoubtedly appreciate what was accomplished in this release. And in some instances, listeners that enjoy contemporary instrumental, ambient keyboard-based, and new-age music will find appreciation with this listen. I can feel gratitude from all aspects; however, I am unfamiliar with Rick's inspirations that propelled him to a place of creative essence. After listening to his progressive versions, I understand his fascination and passion.  

 

I remained focused and relaxed listening to this fantastic concept and tribute to some great composers without previous knowledge. And therein lies the key for listeners who may be like me. If you can present a thought process or feel about anything and use music to make it come to life and be believable, then you have completed the circle and reached your goal as an artist. That is what Orchestra Indigo achieved on this release.

 

I felt transported from an existential plane to the ether in the eleven tracks. The dreamy synth sequences and wordless vocals felt regal and heavenly, making me think of centuries ago when incredible people created great classical music. Telling a story is very important in most music and challenging in instrumental music.

 

So how does a lifetime of the blues transform into something like Orchestra Indigo? I don't have an answer to that. I know one thing; Rick Randlett is a very talented individual who stepped out of his comfort zone, took a big chance, and created something beautiful that all listeners can enjoy and appreciate any time of day or evening. 

 

Requiem is quite different from Farewell To Memories. I did not know what to expect but was genuinely impressed.

 

The tracks have a nice flow, and I found it easy to get into that rhythm and sense what this means to the artist and realized what it became for me. I felt moved emotionally and spiritually. In essence, I found everything I hoped to see inside the music. That is all anyone can ask.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

February 23, 2023

Tracks:

01. Introit 4:00

02. Kyrie 3:34

03. Dies Irie 4:34

04. Hostias 3:29

05. Lacrimosa 5:12

06. Offertorium 4:09

07. Sanctus 4:00

08. Agnus Dei 3:43

09. Lux Aeterna 3:51

10. In Paradisium 3:27

11. Libra Me 4:46

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Michele McLaughlin-Luminous

Release Date: November 25th, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

This will be the seventh release I have listened to and covered by Michele McLaughlin. I had not given it any thought, but she must be the most frequent artist I have had the pleasure of hearing since 2015. Luminous, based on the first glance of the album art, gives the impression of something spiritual coming right from the soul. It is a commonplace for this artist, however. 

Her solo piano works are portraits of a grounded individual with the innate ability to speak to listeners through music.

 

Michele said this about the new release:

This is a special edition album written and created using a softer and more delicate playing style by utilizing some of the more expressive features of my piano in order to change the tone and timbre of the sound and to illuminate the more expressive aspects of how it can be played. In doing so, I was able to immerse myself into a softer and quieter style of writing to compliment the changing elements of my beautiful piano. The music on this album is themed around different aspects of light and dark.

 

And indeed, that does put it all into proper perspective. You will feel the sadness of "When You Hurt, I Hurt," and the ever-changing colors of the bright "Kaleidoscope" will lift your spirits. Thus, the experiential journey through the dark and the light. And masterfully depicted may I add. I am not surprised by this in the least. Michele has been one of the most consistent and on-point artists I have enjoyed.

 

This year, more than any previous, I have heard more sadness in the music. I am sensitive to what is happening worldwide, which certainly has much to do with my perception. I am not mistaken, however, as many artists have released "pandemic" themed recordings. The many pressing issues we now face on our planet reflect our times. Hence the music that you will hear will envelop your consciousness. Even though there is that element of sadness, we can always find hope and healing in this talented individual's simplistic beauty.

 

With Luminous, you will find the light inside just like Michele did. She offers you that doorway to where it is and helps you realize that music is just a tool to get there. We all have it inside, and some of our light has been extinguished by life events over the last three years that changed us forever. I feel blessed that I have not got sick, lost anyone, and kept my job. That doesn't mean I don't feel the world's pain daily and realize my mortality with each passing year. It makes me very concerned and sad.

 

Hearing Michele making her way through these ten tracks of instrumental contemporary grace and beauty puts a different perspective on everything. And honestly, that is the goal of any artist, so mission accomplished once again, Michele!

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

November 1, 2022

Tracks:

01. Droplets of Grey 5:06

02. When You Hurt, I Hurt 5:12

03. Kaleidoscope 3:56

04. Shimmer 3:20

05. Moonlit Shadows 2:59

06. The Golden Hour 3:43

07. Luminous 3:09

08. Fireflies 3:37

09. Adrift 2:22

10. Lanterns In The Sky 3:40

Contemporary Instrumental Classical Reviews: Dream Cloud Orchestra-Nocturnes

Release Date: November 15, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Dream Cloud Orchestra is the music project of Michael King, a composer and recording artist. Nocturnes is his debut release.

 

Michael found a fascination with the progression of piano and then heard that same music set to a live orchestra. He endeavored to create Nocturnes to emulate that same sort of energy. 

 

Creating the entire album at home with the unique technologies we now have available was a key to accomplishing what he envisioned. When he saw some silent films accompanied by an orchestra, it amazed and inspired him.

 

Every track is complete with beautiful orchestrations, pianos, and synthesizers. Painting music onto a blank canvas and picturing the movie unfolding in his mind, Michael creates ten tracks, which encompass an hour and a half. Tracks like "Summer Night Wonders" and "A Slumber Journey" clock in at 10:57 and 13:33, respectively, while the curtain closer roles in at a substantial 14:55. Those three tracks push this beyond the typical 45 to 60 minutes most recordings are.

 

The strength of the music is well suited to an extended relaxation period, or I can see it used for soundtracks and other media uses. The absolute beauty in this music will give any astute listener satisfaction of time well spent.

 

I began watching silent films at a very young age, found appreciation for their art, and felt compelled to know more. I sought books about these artists, such as Chaplin, Keaton, etc. I can understand Michael's fascination with how the music related to what he was watching and how it added to the story and created another ongoing element of emotion to fit the scenes. Understanding that relationship helped him complete this project and attain the desired results.

 

In "A Slumber Journey," you will hear laughing to ensure the element of humanity is present. The laughing tone creates different moods that, in turn, go with the ever-changing flow of the music. The artist portrays his silent movie in his mind, accompanied by music. With the concept of the nocturnal world encompassing his thought process and the music to match, you have a blended script perfected.

 

At first, I was a bit daunted by the length of the tracks and was concerned I might lose interest too soon. That did not happen. The reason is that the artist created something so accessible and exceptional musically that you find it hard to resist listening to each track to its completion. It is all enjoyable and very relaxing and, at times, thought-provoking. What helped me was understanding the project, what inspired it, and the previous references to my similar interests. To enjoy this music to its fullest (not a necessity, just a recommendation), read the about section on Michael's website. It will give you food for thought before listening.

 

The fact that Nocturnes is a debut release bodes well for the future in music for Michael King and his Dream Cloud Orchestra.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 30, 2022

Tracks:

01. A Twilight Walk

02. Night Clock Waltz

03. The Gates of Dreamland

04. Summer Night Wonders

05. A Slumber Journey

06. Sleepy Dog Lullaby

07. A Mysterious Dream

08. Traversing the Darkness

09. A Handful of Stars

10. Slumber’s Wisdom

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Ed Bazel-The London Sessions – Reflections From Studio 2

Release Date: October 7, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Ed Bazel's The London Sessions – Reflections From Studio 2 is eleven romantic melodies recorded and mastered in June 2022 at Abbey Road Studio 2. 

With November peeking through the doorway and the subsequent winter months ahead in the Northeast, this type of music is comforting, relaxing, and reassuring. The music does warm my soul and heart.

 

I hold music dear to my heart and with great respect and gratitude. Ed Bazel is a fine pianist. I had the opportunity to enjoy Homecoming nearly three years ago. It was a wonderful experience, and just as the first track, "Morning Glory," began, I knew it would be a similar journey. This is where my reference of reassurance applies once again. Familiar feelings of audio pleasures bring me great joy. The therapy of instrumental piano music with the elegance of strings and some percussion can do wonders for your attitude and well-being. 

 

This music holds the simplicity of one instrument and its effectiveness to significant effect in every track. Although this is considered a romantic collage, the album art would also hint that the culture of England brings it all full circle when looking at the entire project and absorbing all its elements.

 

One of my favorites was "After The Rain," and of course, the Beatle's classics "In My Life" and "Yesterday," which are emotional tracks for me. If you are older and your children are gone, and many relatives and loved one's have passed, it hits home. I sang the words to myself as Ed's piano played them perfectly.

 

I heard some sadness in the piano's keys and then a flow and splendor that gave me moments to pause and find the colorful notes filled with pleasure and hence a surrender to its magnificence. It is like the silver lining in the clouds, they are always there, but you must see them and recognize the importance of the entire picture being painted right before you. You don't have to look too far to see this happening; it is rather apparent quite quickly if you feel the music's mellow approach giving hints of sadness and reflection. It is like a quiet "Evening Stroll" through your mind's eye. The music helps you paint the images within and process them all internally and externally.

 

Ed Bazel has painted a musical masterpiece that is both timeless and memorable. At times the simple things in life are the medicine we so desperately need in this complex, unforgiving world we live in these days. Moments to pause, reflect, and take stock of what to be grateful for can be a positive experience that will affect you and everyone around you. 

 

This is a must-have if you enjoy beautiful instrumental music with exceptional production values! To romanticize in the music framework is commonplace; it is another thing to make it into something extraordinary, and Ed Bazel accomplishes that.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 27, 2022

Tracks:

01. Morning Glory 2:18

02. Mountain Serenity 3:22

03. In My Life 3:48

04. Old Friends 3:02

05. After The Rain 2:39

06. Soaring 3:24

07. Mountain Joy 2:59

08. Daydream 2:41

09. Evening Stroll 2:42

10. Passages 3:21

11. I Will Think Of You 2:38

12. Yesterday 2:39

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Doug Hammer-Melancholia

Release Date: October 28, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

The definition of Melancholia is severe depression characterized especially by profound sadness and despair. This is the title of Doug Hammer's latest release. Don't let that definition give you the wrong idea about what you will hear; there is more to that.

 

Doug has released many recordings over the years (14), and I have enjoyed my share dating back to the 2015 release Christmas Lights. I have never heard anything like this artist's 13 tracks on Melancholia.

 

The title is very descriptive, and the cover depiction is interesting. Looking at the lilies bursting out, the two wilted against the backdrop of a clock indicates the message transmitted. Does this suggest that your happiness can fade like a flower without water (as a matter of reference) over time? Or are we subject to reacting to the events that surround us daily, which include our personal lives and the influx of communications from various electronic means, whether you ask for them or not? I like to think all of the above apply, but that is a personal interpretation.

 

Doug Hammer's thoughts and feelings regarding this subject matter relating to being melancholy come through the keys of his piano. When you look at the track titles, they also tell a story. The opener, "Darkness Falls," is more than the disappearance of light; it purposefully sets the right tone going forward. There are two other tracks concerning the night as well. "Missing You," "Empty Chair," and "Farewell" also have a significant meaning and impact on the perception of a prospective listener. And that is the way this is intended. Although life has its beautiful times and memories that we can relive in our minds, we all fall upon darkness more than once in this life.

 

I don't think the intent here is not to depress anyone; it is about feelings I am sure we all have felt over the last three years due to the pandemic, inflation, and an ongoing war in Ukraine. Some, I am sure, have been overwhelmed and distraught. We all feel it in different ways. 

 

This music is simplistic yet effective in gently asking you to reflect, look inward at your soul, and be honest with how you feel. Once you take that step forward, the process begins. That process can vary, again, depending on who you are. For me, any of this kind of process is like healing. The music beckons me to listen, letting it take me away. That is as simple as it gets, for me, anyway.

 

Let me put this into perspective from where I sit. When you are "Winding Down," and it's "Almost Midnight," it is time to say "Farewell." My point here is that words and music, used correctly, can be so powerful and have meaning for so many people. In the case of Doug Hammer and his contemporary instrumental tracks from Melancholia, that very idea and journey are lived through each of us. This is soothing and thoughtful music to listen to at any time. That fact alone should tell you how sound this recording is.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 24, 2022

Tracks:

01. Darkness Falls 4:08 

02. The Long Night 3:17 

03. Long Ago 2:29 

04. Just A Memory 3:14 

05. Laika 2:29 

06. Monsieur Barre’s Carousel 1:58 

07. Empty Chair 2:32 

08. Missing You 2:53 

09. Dancing Alone 3:01 

10. Letting Go 4:10 

11. Winding Down 2:23 

12. Almost Midnight 2:56 

13. Farewell 2:41

Instrumental Classical Review: Christopher Jessup-Self-Titled EP

Release Date: June 29, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

After last year’s The First Movements, Christopher Jessup follows that with a self-titled EP with five tracks. 

 

If you are a fan of the instrumental piano with arrangements from legendary masters such as Debussy, Greig, Haydn, Ravel, and Mozart, then you are in for a treat.

 

Christopher’s artistry stands firm as he makes his way through each composition. His confidence and abilities are evident as you listen to him play each track in the most fluid and natural way possible. These are complex tracks to present. 

This young man is incredibly talented, and while I heard that in every track, never was it more evident than on “Haydn: Sonata in B Minor, Hob. XVI:32 (I. Allegro moderato).” The fact that it is played solo on piano brings out all the subtleties and color with grace and poignancy.

 

If covering the masters was not enough proof of the pure talent in this man’s fingers, he presents his composition live off the floor, “Jessup: Le Revenant (original composition).” It runs for 7:01 and is pensive, transient, and leaves you wondering where you will go within that allotted period. That fact makes it more interesting and exciting. It made me think of an earlier type of movie thriller, like an Alfred Hitchcock classic.

 

By this time, you are convinced you are listening to a seasoned artist on the world circuit performing in symphonies. Christopher closes the curtain on another live performance, clocking in at 7:47, titled “Mozart: Concerto No. 19 in F Major, K. 459 (III. Allegro assai), Ben Rhee (conductor) & Camerata Artists Orchestra.” It is a marvelous display of skill, respect for classical music, and the right way to present in a live setting.

 

Listening to performers like Christopher Jessup gives one pause to reflect on the importance of classical music and its beauty and perfection. It may be an EP; however, it certainly is ample in time for each track, and it will fill your room and soul with the most beautiful sounds created by people hundreds of years ago. How one person is still enchanted with the genre and what can be accomplished is a credit to its ongoing legacy.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 8, 2022

Track List:

1. Debussy: Minstrels, No. 12 from Préludes, Book 1, L. 117

2. Grieg: Sonata in E Minor, op. 7 (II. Andante molto)

3. Haydn: Sonata in B Minor, Hob. XVI:32 (I. Allegro moderato)

4. Ravel: Sonatine, M. 40 (I. Modéré)

5. Jessup: Le Revenant (original composition)

6. Mozart: Concerto No. 19 in F Major, K. 459 (III. Allegro assai), Ben Rhee (conductor) & Camerata Artists Orchestra

New Age Contemporary Instrumental Review: Kurt Reiman-A Glimpse of Grace

Release Date: September 22, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Kurt Reiman’s North Maple Road was released in 2018, and I had the opportunity to hear that debut. For people working full-time in an entirely different profession, it is more difficult to record an entire album, hence the wait for his sophomore release, A Glimpse of Grace.

When world events like the pandemic happen (can you believe we are in the third year of this pandemic?), it closes some doors and opens others, depending on who you are. 

 

Many recording artists over the last few years have used this time to focus and record some prolific releases, of which I have heard many. The result and whatever prompted them to record came about for different reasons. Mainly it was because of healing we all needed, some more desperately than others. And in the process, they found healing in the creation of their music.

 

Kurt Reiman had quite the team assembled for this project. Charlie Bisharat (violin), Tom Eaton (bass), Eugene Friesen (cello), Jill Haley (English horn), Jeff Oster (flugelhorn), Premik Russell Tubbs (saxophone), Noah Wilding (vocals), and produced by Will Ackerman and with executive producer Michael Whalen. All names are well known in the new age community and collaborators on many recordings. This tight-knit community is all on the same page with what and how to present their recorded music. The benefit is the leading artist on piano Kurt Reiman and the many listeners that will find solace, healing, and A Glimpse of Grace.

 

Kurt’s piano playing is fluid and rhythmic. Those two elements are always crucial in presenting sixteen tracks of primarily instrumental music. Instrumental music demands a particular strength and flexibility that other types of music do not. If you are accustomed to listening to this kind of music and how it can be a tool for growth, you will love this album. If this is new to you, expect to be amazed at how beautiful this will sound and affect you. I am continually in awe of these musicians, and I find it natural to listen, absorb, and understand the message without words.

 

Kurt’s piano weaves many colors and textures while the additional instruments complete each pattern unfolding within the compositions. What happens is that a musical patchwork quilt within each track comes alive for you to cover your senses. Sounds lovely. It is, and every time I heard the piano accompanied by the violin or cello, I felt a sense of sadness that the pandemic brought us all. It leaves you feeling melancholy; however, there is a lot of healing. I believe that was the intent of this music. 

 

Whether that can happen for each listener is based on a decision you make before listening for the first time. It is as simple as that, and you will not be disappointed once you let this music take you away from everything for a while. We all need that relief and focus for a short time. After being bombarded daily by all the forms of media, it becomes more challenging to concentrate on any one thing. Our attention spans have disappeared gradually over time. 

 

It is now time for you, each listener, to get A Glimpse of Grace. Trust me, and you need this. You may not know that yet, or it may be painfully obvious; either way, listen and let it heal you. I am sure that you will find this to be a new age-contemporary instrumental gem.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 1, 2022

Tracks:

01. Dawn to Dusk (4:31)

02. Quiet Confidence (3:38)

03. Goodbye for Now (5:06)

04. Blessings (2:55)

05. Dreams of My Return (4:07)

06. Set Free (3:37)

07. Triumph (3:32)

08. The Way Home (3:14)

09. Pathways (4:20)

10. River’s Edge (2:39)

11. Elegy for Justice (3:50)

12. A Glimpse of Grace (4:01)

13. Joyous (3:52)

14. With Every Step (3:20)

15. This Dance (3:06)

16. Dawn to Dusk (Reprise) (4:32)

Instrumental New Age Review: Shambhu-Life Passage

Release Date: September 29, 2022

Label:  ‎Sacred Love Music

Website

Life Passage will be my fifth journey into the world of Shambhu (pronounced 'SHOHM-boo') and his gorgeous acoustic guitar compositions. What strikes me right away is the significance of the recording's title and the cover image. With that already creating an immediate impact, I found it easy, as usual, to melt into this music.

The artist's website states: Shambhu transforms stillness and silence into calming sounds. That statement puts his music in a proper point of view. He is a respected guitarist that emanates magic from those fingers. 

As you find yourself floating on the clouds while listening to Life Passage, it goes by very quickly, as life itself does (total correlation). Five tracks would be considered an EP by industry standards. Although true, it will be irrelevant because of the simple beauty offered throughout these tracks. The timeline of each composition is from 3:47 to 6:24, so what you get is everything that this artist can give. Once the music stops playing, you will realize that it is accurate and find great joy and satisfaction while listening.

"Mars Dawn" has a mesmerizing effect. It is a soundscape you want to hear multiple times, and if there is one track that hits the mark more than any, it's this one. It is beauty and compassion personified that transforms into a spiritual journey.

The title track is a lovely tribute to the late Chick Corea. It is nice to see so many artists remembering him and his importance to music and the legacy he left behind. And I must mention the lead-off track "Because of You," featuring the amazing Michael Manring on bass. His sound is so significant, and you recognize him when he is on any track. He is one of the greats and reminds me fondly of Erik Scott (rest his soul), whom I had the pleasure of knowing and enjoying for many years. 

"Gentle Flower" starts with a nice piano, and then that fantastic acoustic guitar arrives; as the piano continues to accompany the guitar, you feel that musical nirvana has come again. Then his name, "Shambhu," is the title of the track that concludes another exceptional release. It has a definitive world sound featuring Indian percussion and flute. It is the perfect way to end the album.

Life Passage is a superb example of acoustic guitar playing with suitable mixtures of other instruments to support the primary device of joy and light and accentuate how lovely it can be if appropriately presented. As always, Shambhu does not disappoint.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 29, 2022

Tracks:

1. Because of You (featuring Michael Manring) 6:24

2. Gentle Flower 4:02

3. Life Passage (dedicated to Chick Corea) 3:47

4. Mars Dawn 5:33

5. Shambhu 5:51