Release Date: November 12, 2021
Label: Gale Road Records
Before I hear the music and it touches me somehow, I must find out a bit about the artist. In addition to that, knowing how the artist found the energy and inspiration to create the music is a crucial component before I go on my audio journey.
I was moved when I read about the process of Stephen Wallack on his recent release titled, simply and appropriately, Colors. This beautiful solo piano music is about an artist's journey through these trying times of ours. Also, his nephew Marlon, who suffered a brain injury as a baby, cannot move or communicate. This great spirit used his fingers to create the album art. Just speaking those words and hearing the music gave me a chill. The feeling is when an angel touches you. Marlon, then Stephen, two angels communicate through his contemporary instrumental piano solo music with a new age foundation. Listen to "Marlon," and you will understand what this music means.
Most importantly is understanding the new age foundation. It is something that has developed over time through my own listening experiences. This singularly beautiful picture taken via the keys of a piano will bring many realizations to light. Knowing intuitively that the premise of the music comes from the heart and soul of an individual with a higher purpose, allows for that strong foundation for the story to be built upon.
For my senses, the sound of one piano is perfection. Stephen recorded this stunning and picturesque music on a Steinway S Grand Piano. It does create images in one's consciousness; some are flowing and rhythmic, while others have those intrinsic elements weaved in with moments of sadness and joy. In other words, the feelings and emotions of the artist are translated through his very talented fingers.
"Brave" was one of my favorites. The title says it all, and I think he may be referring to his sister and nephew and how they have handled what life gave them. There is gratefulness and peace in moments of the track and then some high points and energetic bursts filled with the "Hope" (another moving track) and faith of another day. These are the moments in life to be cherished and never forgotten and what "Dreams" are all about.
Everyone has a purpose on this planet, and if you are fortunate enough to realize it in your lifetime, you are blessed. The prerequisite to reaching that goal is time, patience, faith, and a lot of energy. At times we find our purpose through another person's misfortune or a life-changing event. Stephen Wallack found his way to creating this music with the help of his sister and nephew. And with the many thoughts this music kindles within, we all should find gratefulness for what we have and not a yearning for what we don't have.
I can say with conviction that Colors will be enjoyed and give you many different feelings. And, above all, a spiritual connection to an artist you just met. Now that is the universal power of music.
Take some time out of your day today, with no strings attached or expectations, and listen to the Colors of one person's life. It will be like opening a present you never expected.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
December 1, 2021
Tracks:
01. Birch Lake - 7:08
02. Josh - 4:00
03. Colors - 5:41
04. Stunning - 4:36
05. Brave - 4:49
06. Dreams - 5:29
07. Earth - 3:44
08. Hope - 4:39
09. Marlon - 4:28
10. Midnight- 3:33