New Age Music Reviews

New Age-Meditation-Chill Review: Valerie Romanoff-Healing Music Volume 2

Release Date: October 10, 2017

Label: Valrock Music

There is a lot to know about Valerie Romanoff. The multi-instrumentalist has been involved in music since she was a child. Valerie was also the co-founder of the group Starlight Orchestras in 1998. Her resume is impressive and as I was soon to find out, so is her recorded music.

This is what Valerie has to say about music:

“Music has the power to heal, transform, evoke emotion, underscore and enhance our lives. By consciously aligning with elements of music, we can affect deep changes in our world.” -Valerie Romanoff

I completely agree with her and have been advocating the healing abilities of music for many years in my reviews.

After playing several different instruments, Valerie fell in love with the guitar. On Healing Music Volume 2 she plays the guitars, piano, synth and provides the chanting. Stevin McNamara adds a most beautiful sitar to give the music a distinct worldly feel. Tom Rossi adds the flute, kora, percussion and chanting as well. The entire album was produced and composed by Valerie.

I fell right into this album like it was a natural thing to do. All the instruments that are intermingled into each track give it a nice rhythm and vibe. I found it very relaxing and pleasing, so much so, it felt like I was smiling from the inside out. Now that feels really good!

I found this recording an instrumental wonder, the combination of instruments is very complex. It is mixed to perfection and the production is top notch from start to finish. Keep in mind this is two-disc set so there is a lot of music offered. With 17 tracks in total and only a few under 5 minutes in length. With that thought in mind, it raises the bar for keeping you focused on the music, all of it. This is why I found it amazing how appealing all of it was. The main reason is that it was done in the most diverse way possible. The entertainment factor is in place, then comes all the other pleasantries available while listening.

Most notably, the guitar gives it all a modern chill feel to it and the other instruments support that with layers of percussion, sitar, flute and at times chanting. For my listening tastes it is the guitar lines that give it that extra soft but effective edge and energy that takes my interest to another level entirely. One of the best examples is track 4 “Dawn of Tao.” It runs for 17 minutes and 42 seconds. It is like a magnum opus of instrumental, new age, meditation, chill, and rock all brought together into one tight package. It held my interest all the way through and when it ended, I knew that I wanted to hear more. I also need to hear Volume 1 now. Nobody wants to start with 2 but in this case, I am glad that I had the opportunity and became aware of this fantastic music.

If there is such a thing as meditation that knows how to rock (softly) then this is it. If you were in search of that sort of diversity then look no further than Healing Music Volume 2.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 20, 2018

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Tracks:
01. Pink Skies Over Still Water
02. Pink Skies Over Waves
03. Beyond the Bend
04. Dawn of Tao
05. Backdrop
06. Moving Glass
07. OM Shanti Shalom
08. Prelude Went Beyond The Bend
09. Pink Skies Over Still Water
10. Pink Skies Over Waves
11. Beyond The Bend
12. Dawn of Tao
13. The Bend
14. Backdrop
15. Moving Glass
16. OM Shanti Shalom
17. Prelude Went Beyond

Instrumental New Age Reviews: Robin Spielberg-On the Edge of a Dream - Music for Dreaming, Relaxation, Contemplation, Meditation, Medical

Release Date: March 2, 2018

Label: playMountain Music

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On the Edge of a Dream - Music for Dreaming, Relaxation, Contemplation, Meditation, Medical Therapies is Robin Spielberg’s 18th album. That is a lot of recorded music! Piano-based music requires an imaginative mindset in order to give a potential listener some variety. A lot of this type of music seamlessly flows into each other making it sound like one piece of music. I find in most cases I feel that way because of my own tastes and interpretations, this could be entirely different for each listener.

Sometimes things come to you in your life at just the right time. For me it always comes with purpose, a good reason whether it is positive or negative. That is the way life is, however, it is all how you look at what is happening. This is where dreams come into it for me. This album is all about the dream state. Most recently I have had some amazing clear dreams and last year I started keeping a journal. This is exactly what Robin does and she wanted to share her dreams through the music of the piano. The other purpose in my estimation is that this music could help you to not only relax but get to a point where you are ready to enter the dream state or possibly all the way to REM stage. All of this I have found fascinating. I also believe that dreams are a window into your soul and we can learn lessons or be warned through them. It clarifies things and opens the door to change.

There is no doubt that science has a fascination with the different stages of dreaming. What I have learned through my own research has opened the door to an entirely different attitude about the subject. So how does music, particularly Robin’s new release, come in to play? I think this music is perfect for the dreaming experience before, during and after. So, during those three stages, you can utilize this beautiful music. Of course, there are more useful ways to use the music as a tool - for simple relaxation, contemplation or meditation. As I mentioned earlier, certainly the music can guide you beyond the meditative state into dreaming, particularly if you are listening with a good pair of headphones or earbuds (Bose makes a terrific set of earbuds that are reasonably priced on eBay).

On the Edge of a Dream is another example of how music can integrate with your daily life. The workspace I am in daily allows us at times to put on music like this recording. It can help you to de-stress as you continue with your multitude of tasks. If you are in an office setting you should try it, it really helps!

Another bonus offered for your experiences with this music is a dream journal, which can be purchased separately or as a companion item with the CD. I highly recommend getting both. It starts with the 14 tracks on the CD, then writing down what happened in your dreams. This process will allow a lot of insight you previously did not have. It is all part of a spiritual growth you can initiate if you choose.

I am grateful that artists like Robin Spielberg are willing to share their blessings with us, and shed some light on a human process that many folks are not looking at enough. On the Edge of a Dream could be the start of a new beginning. You can begin as a casual listener then evolve to meditation then dream interpretation. A tremendous wealth of information about your life and the future days ahead is at your disposal (there is a lot of info out there). And who would have thought one recording could lead to so much personal development? I highly recommend this path for those who are already aware and for those seeking more awareness.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 18, 2018

Founder of:

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Tracks:
01. On the Edge of A Dream
02. We Meet Again
03. Drifting
04. Spellbound
05. Nightfall
06. The Secret Path
07. Stargazing
09. Illusion
10. Into The Night
11. Safe and Sound
12. Meeting Monet
1. We Meet Again (Recurring Dream)
14. Blue Moon Rising

New Age Instrumental/Contemporary/Jazz Review:Deborah Offenhauser-Soundscapes

Release Date: October 2, 2017

Label: Independent

Website

Soundscapes is Deborah Offenhauser’s eighth proper album. I was duly impressed regarding her solid resume. Deborah has a history as a musician back to when she first started taking lessons at 5 years old. She has been a teacher along the way as well, and a highly sought after and respected one. Her music has appeared in movies and several hit TV shows. She also plays the classical organ, mandolin, 5-string banjo, guitar, and violin. She is a totally accomplished musician and brings a lot to the world of music and media.

After listening to Soundscapes, I can understand why her music is so brilliant. The title is perfect for the music she presents in 13 tracks. For my ears, diversity is the main reason I would give kudos to any recording, particularly when it is all well done. In this case that applies to this very vibrant and diverse recording. The many Soundscapes you will touch upon include mixtures of jazz, new age, contemporary classical and world. To put it in proper terms, there are not too many areas the artist does not touch upon for this marvelous instrumental presentation.

“Irrational Exuberance” starts off with the sound of a horse running by and it ends the same way. This is all part of the music that Deborah presents. The sounds of life, people, nature, atmospheres and every day sounds that lead to her music and honestly, mix in equally well. You will hear water babbling and birds chirping. This is all works within each track and makes it more realistic and personal for a listener. It creates a feeling, mood and or atmosphere that makes you feel you are right there, taking part of all the interactions within the music.

“Tanz" is a worldly track that introduces a blend of sounds you would hear in the far east. Again, the music transports you to the place you see in your mind's eye. It is powerful enough to make you realize where you are. Many possibilities can arise for anyone with an imagination. If you have been fortunate enough to be a world traveler the music becomes even more lifelike and relatable. It is an instant kind of recognition you can experience if you have journeyed outside the U.S. I can personally attest to that as I have been in many countries and experienced the sounds, smells, and atmospheres, all unique to that particular place on the globe.

Those are just two examples of what is available in this fine recording. You get one track after another with beauty, textures, colors, and ambiance. They are all different standalone tracks that are ready to become your own private soundtrack.

Deborah Offenshauser has magic at her fingertips and what she is able to translate through her music is a god given talent. Where do you want to go today? Just put the Soundscapes CD, sit back, and take a trip courtesy of the artist. There are no long lines, wait times or cancellations, and the price is right!

4.5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 13, 2018

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Tracks:
01. Decidedly Joyful
02. Free Radical
03. Nothing Can Touch You Now
04. Irrational Exuberance
05. Tanz
06. Spacial Palace
07. Through a Glass Darkly
08. Rosemont Theme
09. Air
10. The Gloaming
11. It is Written
12. Tanninim
13. The Wonderful Unfoldment of Blue

Contemporary Instrumental/ New Age Review: Christopher Boscole-Soul Dreams

Release Date: January, 1, 2018

Label: Independent

Website

Christopher Boscole’s recent release titled Soul Dreams provides a thought provoking introduction with the colorful artwork on the CD cover.

If you look closely you will discover the many symbols relating to humanity and our soul’s travels. If you believe in reincarnation this would apply as well. I do have a belief that kind of experience is very possible. I think we all have Soul Dreams regardless if we hold a belief system that does not support more than one life in a physical existence. I try to look into and beyond the music when I see a title, artwork and listen to see if the music falls in line with the suggested theme on the cover (similar to a book). I want to see if it can transport me with the suggestions in front of me, in the form of pictures and colors and then of course the music, the most important element of all.

I have to say that Soul Dreams was a transporting experience and it really made me realize how many vivid dreams I have. I have experienced different periods of time in history or have been another person in my dreams. When I see myself as another person, there is my clarification and personification of a past life. Call it what you like, I think everything happens for a reason, similar to the science of cause and effect. To me all things are interrelated.

Christopher’s music is heartfelt and appealing. It prompts you to discover your soul and all its experiences. And why not? There is a lot we just brush off as every day occurrences or happenstance. Should we all look a bit harder at the images that come to mind in our awake and beta sleep? I think so. Music is the keeper of the gate and the one thing that can open it up. It can put a new perspective on our existence here on this planet. I know this is heavy food for thought but this is what the music sparked inside me.

Christopher’s music is simply piano, nothing more. And that my friends can be a wonderful offering and quite enough to engage any potential listener in my estimation. At times I think I will run out of things to say about instrumental piano music but somehow the magic happens and the words just flow. I think my evaluation will line up with the creative relationships between music, nature, and photography through multimedia videos that the artist has explored in the past and presently.

Is it time for you to look into the mirror of life - your Soul Dreams? I hope the music inspires you all to do so and that you will find the peace and contentment that this music can provide.

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 8, 2018

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. New Hope
02. Polyana
03. Heart Traveler
04. Happy Day
05. To See You Again
06. Empathy
07. The Question
08. Souls Journey
09. Soul Dreams
10. Peace of the Soul
11. Mistery
12. Suite Sunshine

New Age Review: Trine Opsahl-Add Colours To My Sunset Sky

Trine Opsahl’s latest release is Add Colours To My Sunset Sky. The 13 tracks on this CD encompass some of the most beautiful harp playing you will ever hear. She is an expert at playing the Celtic Harp. The album is primarily instrumental.

I think of two people when it comes to harp music, Harpo Marx and Andreas Vollenweider. I know you may find it funny that I mention the famous comedian Marx Brother but if you ever saw him play the harp you would understand. His face got real serious and he was excellent. Andreas of course broke new ground many years ago for the instrument. I believe it is time to add another name to list.

Thinking about the gates of heaven and angels naturally come to mind when you hear harp music or picture someone playing. I say that at the risk of being cliché. One thing for certain, music that is so delicate and gorgeous will you bring closer to the heavens above. Perhaps you will be able to totally relax or even meditate with the help of this music. It certainly engages your spirit and makes your physical existence seem nonessential. The soul cages we live in can be set free with a little help from our friends like Trine. For people that are cerebral, there is release available as well.

Another addition to this album is an instrument that may remind you of the Indian Tamboura called the monochord. I was actually reminded of the sitar myself and along with Trine’s haunting vocals, the combination proved to be striking. The use of the two different instruments projects different sides of the artist. When she plays the harp, it is inviting and peaceful but then there are other shades of light and emotion that come through when she sings and plays the monochord. The visions that came to my mind were Vikings traveling the seas or dying in battle with the promise of honor in Valhalla. I know that may sound a bit dramatic for a new age recording, however those are the images that came to me, for anyone else I am sure it would be entirely different.

As simplistic and straightforward as Add Colours To My Sunset Sky is at times, it remains a very interesting and entertaining work of art. I think Trine’s mixture of tempos and moods is brilliant and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with on the next album. She will add colors to your sky, day, evening and world, whatever the case may be, this another great example of the power of music

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 3, 2018

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

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Tracks:
01. Songs from a Mountain I
02. Sunshine on a Stony Path
03. Rosebed Garden
04. In a Grain of Sand
05. Eternity in a Song
06. Lightly Dance into the Morning
07. Songs from a Mountain II
08. Rose of the Eternal Spring
09. Add Colours to My Sunset Sky
10. Diving into an Ocean of Love
11. Today Will Be Forever
12. Leaving on a Thursday Morning
13. Graceful Like a River

Instrumental New Age Review: Dan Kennedy-Mountains Made of Shadow Anthems Made of Light

Release Date: March 2, 2018

Label: Mt. Pollux Music

Website

The forthcoming Dan Kennedy album carries with it a very descriptive title. That is one of the many factors that attracts me to this kind of music. A thought provoking title is a good way to start things off.

Mountains Made of Shadow Anthems Made of Light is very reflective title for a recording. It is Dan’s fourth proper album. And it is a solo album, you get nothing but the artist and his piano.

Simplicity rules the day on any occasion for my ears. I don’t have to be in a certain mood to enjoy this music, it always soothes me and comforts me regardless of when I am listening.

Speaking of simplicity, just look at the album cover. It does not get more explanatory than what you see here. The title is in sync with the colors and picturesque mountain range and orange skyline. Dan’s piano helps to paint that picture in your mind’s eye and perhaps a bit more. That of course is all dependent on each individual listener, and that my music loving friends is a beautiful thing. The silence of a singular instrument invites a serenity and peacefulness.

As Dan’s piano leads you through his journey full of nature and its colors, you become enthralled within the 12 tracks offered. Nearly every track gives you time to absorb the emotion and atmospheres, all within a 4 to 5-minute time span. That is just right for my attention span and purposes of a thought process. It is like I am being plugged into a socket in the heavens where I can focus on what is really important in life.

I am to the point with my take on this type music, that I would rather not take out the reviewer’s scissors (which is applicable most of the time) and slice it up and piece it together in various ways. By doing that I usually choose 3 or 4 tracks to focus on as high points during the listen. I prefer to look at the instrumental albums as a complete work of art. Although each track is dissimilar, I find it more fully realized for someone that has not heard the music yet. This way they can get an understanding of how it all made me feel. It is more personal that way.

Mountains Made of Shadow Anthems Made of Light is an entity, a projection of another person’s soul to reflect off yours. The artist has a mirror to look into which is the instrument they are playing. The music is our mirror as we are the recipients of those sounds and vibrations created with that musical brush. This is my process and you as the potential listener, will find yours waiting inside the music. Open it up like it was your birthday or Christmas and enjoy!

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

January 31, 2018

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Chilly Morning
02. Give It All Away
03. Wintergreen
04. Backstory
05. Souvenirs
06. After The Heartache Is Gone
07. California
08. Ennio
09. Wildflower
10. Implying Flying
11. Allelu
12. The Fire Within

Instrumental New Age Review: Kathryn Kaye-Songs of Changing Light (A Compilation of Piano Solos)

Genre: Instrumental New Age

Release Date: January 1, 2018

Label: Independent

Website

Kathryn Kaye is one of those artists in the New Age genre that is instantly recognizable. If you have any familiarity at all with this type of music you will understand where I am coming from.

I have covered several of her releases and I always anticipate a wonderful listening experience. Over the years she has obliged.

With Songs of Changing Light (A Compilation of Piano Solos) she selects fourteen of her favorite tracks covering the time span from 2011 to 2017.

The natural world that surrounds her gives her divine inspiration to create beautiful music. With this compilation she has stripped away any additional instruments that were on the tracks originally. This will give each individual listener the opportunity to hear the stand-alone beauty of the ivory keys in all their glory. With the silky touch of Kathryn, you get some of the best examples of her artistry on this CD.

When I hear this music, it sounds to me like it is an extension of the individual delivering the music. Only an enlightened and spiritual person can create such beautiful sounds with one instrument. This woman is one of those with the gift. It flows through her soul to her fingertips, then the magic begins with the manipulation of the piano keys.

Each track is a separate testament to the natural talent of an inspirational artist. This music is very elegant, and ultimately it relaxes your entire body, then the mind will follow. It is a simple recipe for wellness of the body, mind and spirit.

Songs of Changing Light is a must have collection of tracks that any music lover could appreciate. If you do enjoy instrumental piano music, this is a real gem.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

January 28, 2018

Founder of:

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Tracks:

01. Winter's Deepest Sleep
02. Summer Afternoon
03. Taos Song
04. Heavy as a Feather
05. A Rose in Winter
06. Distances
07. Dreaming Still
08. A Lark in the Last Light of Day
09. Willow Waltz
10. Adrift in Fading Light
11. So Much Sky
12. There Was a Time
13. Frost
14. Arctic Night

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