Track Feature: HARGO -From The Rooftops

We all need inspiration and hope. And we most definitely need it now! Every day just a little positive energy coming from some source can help us all. HARGO delivers all of that energy and light on the track "From The Rooftops."

The track is a formulation of a new age foundation with elements of world and pop intermingled to satisfy any music lover.

Yes, it is simple as that. Music transcends all, creating unification of mind, body, and spirit with all living beings.

The bass is prominent, which drives the song along, and the sitar gives it that world feeling.

"From The Rooftops" is a track you will want to hear more than once; I can guarantee that. It is a global track for all walks of life to enjoy and celebrate!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

 

More About HARGO: https://hargomusic.com

Hargo Khalsa – aka Hargo – is a producer & singer/songwriter known for his mind expanding music, soul-centered message. His sound is as diverse as his background… raised a Sikh in a yoga Ashram bordering a Native American reservation in New Mexico.

His 2012 debut Out of Mankind was hailed by Billboard Magazine and American Songwriter as "mesmerizing", "anthemic" and "thinking-man's Rock", catching the attention of Beatles producer Phil Spector who dubbed him "a Young John Lennon" during their 2007 collaboration on Hargo song "Crying for John Lennon”.  READ MORE

Instrumental Classical Review: Christopher Jessup-The First Movements

Release Date: June 12, 2021

Label:  ‎Independent

Website: https://christopherjessup.com

Christopher Jessup is a rising star. After you read his bio on his website, it is obvious why. Also, the release of The First Movements last summer solidified his standing as one of the outstanding piano soloists in the world today.

Christopher offers eight tracks of pure classical instrumental solo piano work to listeners. His many appearances at the iconic Carnegie Hall garnered acclaim from the New York Concert Review, commenting on his "high standard of technique and impeccable phrasing."

I would have to concur on that assessment of his pristine presentations, of each composition on The First Movements. The music is crystal clear, with a poignancy and sense of history on display that would make the original composers proud.

I do not claim to be intimately familiar with all great composers; however, I know when the music is in proper context and presented with grace and accuracy. This young man is very gifted, and I found further appreciation for classical music in its simplistic unembellished form through the piano's keys. The beauty of the instrument raises to another level through the talented fingers of Christopher.

Piano music is unique, and when a motivated and exceptional talent begins with the Jullliard School (like the ultra-talented Jordan Rudess), there can be a long and successful road ahead. I can certainly see that Christopher and this recording is just the beginning of one remarkable and decorated career.

After making his way through this recording with his selections from some of the most prolific artisans of their time, Christopher adds a bonus track of his own making titled "Le Revenant." It clocks in at 7:40, the most extended exercise on the album. With this tribute to the greats faultlessly performed, it remains in the forefront of your mind until the bonus track begins.

"Le Revenant" is a solid curtain closer for The First Movements, and it gives the listener a glimpse of the creativity and pure talent of Christopher Jessup. The composition has many emotions weaving its way through with drama, color, moods, and most of all, a progressive classical approach. His music is a soundtrack to reflective moments in a movie thriller or the anticipation of a significant moment right around the corner. The expressive and changing paces of the music make the piece so intriguing from beginning to end. It leaves you wondering what could be next for this shining star.

Christopher Jessup is off to a fine start in his recording career, and I look forward to much more of his progressive improvisational classical work in the future.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
January 11, 2022
 

Tracks:
1. Haydn - Keyboard Sonata in B Minor, Hob.XVI:32: I. Allegro moderato
2. Grieg - Piano Sonata in E Minor, Op. 7: I. Allegro moderato
3. Mozart - Piano Sonata in D Major, K. 311: I. Allegro con spirito
4. Ravel - Sonatine, M. 40: I. Modéré
5. Bach - Italian Concerto in F Major, BWV 971: I. Allegro
6. Beethoven - Piano Sonata No. 13 in E-Flat Major, Op. 27 No. 1: I. Andante - Allegro - Andante
7. Grieg - Piano Sonata in E Minor, Op. 7: II. Andante molto (Bonus Track)
8. Jessup - Le Revenant (Bonus Track)

 

Ambient Instrumental-New Age: Phillip Wilkerson & Chris Russell-Dark Measure

Release Date: December 10, 2021

Label:  Spotted Peccary

Website

Dark Measures is the release that follows the 2014 recording Vague Traces.

Getting the perspective from one half of Phillip Wilkerson & Chris Russell, Phillip reflects…"All my music comes from a meditative and contemplative place within awareness and presence," reflects Wilkerson. "I don't necessarily feel like I create music, but rather music is created through me by releasing my consciousness and willful direction of the music and just letting it flow through the channel of open awareness. Attempting to put the process into words feels like a disservice to how it actually happens."

So how does one put all of that introspection into each track on Dark Measures? I certainly have no clue; however, I can say that it is similar to my listening experiences. To put into my perspective as the intent listener is what I endeavor to do for a listening audience.

Ambient electronic music is fascinating to me. It is like watching an artist paint on a blank canvas then create a masterpiece of audible colors, textures, atmospheres, and above all, disposition and feelings. It is that very atmospheric mood that can set you at ease. And I would venture to call this project new age meditation music as well. It fits many molds from where I listen and observe. My viewpoint is all-encompassing as a listener. It offers many touch points that come and go with the progress of the tracks. The time slots range from 4:50 ("Faring Forward") to 10:54 ("Unopened Doors").

If you are looking for stimulation of a different kind, you may find it here. You need to know this is very relaxing and reflective music, so this stimulation end of the spectrum is passive. If you are further along the self-awareness and meditation path, you can seek this music out as a guide to get to your plane of existence, where you heal and find enlightenment. I found that place through this music with ease.

Some passages will peak your awareness and tickle your senses to invite new realizations. The result is always good when listening to the music, you will discover on Dark Measures. And don't let the word dark throw you off. The reference to dark shades is where the light may be. It is all upbeat spacey music that is good for the soul. Dark to light, light to dark, and shades of grey encompass this music from start to finish.
 
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
January 9, 2022

Tracks:
1. Unopened Doors        
2. Evening's Embrace        
3. Myriad Visions        
4. Deep Lane
5. Distant Vistas         
6. Unbroken Devotion         
7. Faring Forward

New Age Instrumental Reviews: Trine Opsahl-The Moon Stays Bright

Release Date: January 1, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Trine Opsahl is a pioneer of harp therapy in Denmark and works as a therapeutic harp player in two hospices, playing for the dying and their relatives. She is a Certified Therapeutic Harp Practitioner (CTHP), trained and certified within the International Harp Therapy Program (info from the artist website).

To truly appreciate the all-encompassing artistry of Ms. Opsahl I needed to share that information.

The new year will be ushered in with The Moon Stays Bright. The recording encompasses eleven tracks of solo harp music, with three accompanied by her daughter Josefine on cello (tracks 4,8,11). In 2018 I was introduced to Trine's music with Add Colours To My Sunset Sky.

I find the simplistic beauty of the harp to be the most attractive aspect. It draws me in very quickly and what I hear are the voices of angels. Trine's precise and gentle touch allows you, the listener, to relax and let your soul melt into the sounds. When Josefine joins in on the three tracks, the harp takes on a new meaning; the sound becomes multi-hued with all the definitions you would expect from string instruments.

Most listeners would find this music exceptionally accessible and, more importantly, healing. The exciting aspect of this listen is that the healing I speak of happens unknowingly. Without effort or thought in that direction, things happen inside the audio vibrations and various dimensions on offer.

Most interesting is the trilogy of "Moonscapes" I-III. The moon is significant to mother earth. Its gravitational pull affects the oceans' tides, our weather and brings light into the dead of night. It is like the offspring of the sun giving us the natural light we need. When a full moon rises, it affects people in different ways. This reference has a spiritual meaning, and it stays bright from the first to the last track.

Listen to The Moon Stays Bright, and you are bound to find that "Stars Lie Hidden In You." This is a prolific release that you should not miss. The Celtic Harp is a fantastic instrument and becomes magical instantly in the right hands. Trine Opsahl is one of those rare artists that come along once in a lifetime for a listener. Her music will leave an indelible imprint on your soul.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
January 1, 2022

Tracks:
01. The Moon Stays Bright
02. Moonscapes I
03. Do Not Simply Pass By Like A Dream
04. Rose Of The Eternal Spring (Duo)
05. Return Of The Light
06. Moonscapes II
07. Stars Lie Hidden In You
08. Do Not Simply Pass By Like A Dream (Duo)
09. I May Look Distant But I Am So Close
10. Moonscapes III
11. The Moon Stays Bright (Duo)

New Age World Review: Stewart Copeland and Ricky Kej-Divine Tides

Release Date: July 16, 2021

Label:  ‎Ponderosa Music Records

Website: https://www.rickykej.com

https://www.stewartcopeland.net

 

This year, there was quite a buzz about Divine Tides from the Stewart Copeland and Ricky Kej collaboration. Stewart is a renowned drummer with The Police and many other projects over the years. Ricky Kej has made his impressions in the new age realm with award winning releases. I was about to experience what all the excitement was about…

Divine Tides brings the color of humanity and all its cultures into the album covers artwork. It is one of the more imaginative, eye-catching works of art I have viewed this year.

The nine tracks encompassing this recording is a new age world montage with superb vocals from a range of talented individuals, including Rasika Shekar, Varijashree Venugopal, Sangeeta Kaur, Vidhi Sharma, Salim Merchant, and Charanraj MR. These are the lead vocalist on the tracks.
 
There are several other key contributors on backing vocals, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs on "A Prayer," which is a fantastic track. It is full of uplifting energy and color, much like the artwork depicted on the cover. I have to say, even though I could not understand the language they were singing in, I found it very enjoyable and spiritually moving. The entire album is a masterpiece of new age world, and I would expect it to win a Grammy in the new age or world category for 2021. I have heard some incredible music this year that would be difficult to displace on my top 10 for the year in the new age genre; however, I have to say this one just moved into the #1 spot for me.

The previously mentioned attributes, such as the artwork, is the first aspect then from there are the superb arrangements from Ricky Kej and the incredible percussive elements from Stewart Copeland. Stewart mentioned that he harnessed his aggressive drum playing into a gentle beauty. That was quite a transition for him, and I can imagine a life-changing experience.

The production of each track is outstanding; it is bright, flows well, and gets your attention from start to finish. The musicianship is unparalleled. The CD comes housed in a tri-fold cardboard case with a booklet in the adjacent sleeve to the clear CD tray, which has a picture of the percussion instruments with a kaleidoscope of color emerging from it. That description would express all the music and artwork in this package and how it intersects into a beautiful work of all-encompassing art.

Here is the message from Kej regarding the title: ONE WITH SELF, ONE WITH TIME, ONE WITH OUR PLANET. Is that the reason we are all here? Is it to become one, merge with our fellow humans, and find peace and harmony for all? Imagine a world with no wars, no starvation, or diseases?

It could happen if we listen to these enlightened artists and follow the music to realize a new reality; we all can have it.

The Divine Tides of nature, the planet, humanity, and the innate goodness within our hearts will help us find our way back to oneness. Together with all the elements around us, we can positively influence life now and in the future. This music is awe-inspiring, and it delivers the truth and spirit of us all directly to our ears and then to our souls. Listen to Divine Tides, and I am confident you will agree.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
December 15, 2021

 Tracks:
1. Wonders Of Life
2. Himalayas
3. Our Home
4. Art Of Devotion
5. Pastoral India
6. I Am Change (2021 Remastered)
7. A Prayer
8. Gandhi
9. Mother Earth

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Tim Sadow and Mike Kopp-Out of The Mist

Release Date: December 20, 2021

Label:  ‎Independent

Website: https://timsadow.com/ / http://mikekoppmusic.com

Tim Sadow (violin, viola) and Mike Kopp (guitar, bass) collaborate on a new release titled Out of The Mist.

The duo's music within the nine tracks is a variable montage of colors, textures, vibrations, rhythms, and emotions. All of that is encompassed in every track.

"A Kite's Tale" is a beautiful introduction to what to expect going forward. The energy is contagious and moving in many different directions. I found it quite enjoyable and immediately respected the gentleman creating all of this entertaining music.

One of my favorites was "As The River Runs." I could honestly picture a flowing river in my mind's eye. The first part of the song was fast-moving, like a rushing river after a hard rainfall. Subsequently, the music takes on a slower pace, like a smooth-running stream on a hot summer's day. The music played is so powerfully convincing that you can envision what the track's title is suggesting.

Tim's violin and viola find the perfect bedfellow with Mike's acoustic guitar and bass lines. The viola has a hint of sadness at times, and the violin can reach the range of human emotions. The blend of their artistry is significant. It shines brightly in all of the tracks. Every track takes a different turn with some nice changes as well. The way they all start will get your attention. "Pins and Needles" was another excellent example of their synergy on display. It is an upbeat track with high energy woven into every second. You get some violin, dare I say shredding, during a few moments.

You can't put names and genres on this music because it doesn't fit into any box. If pressed to define it, I would call it contemporary instrumental with some Celtic influences, easy listening with a new age flavor and ambiance; it's all of that. The point is that Out of The Mist is an entirely accessible and enjoyable listen for many types of listeners. That is not always the easiest thing to accomplish, and its success is an outstanding achievement.

Out of The Mist brought me much joy and hit all the sensory areas where I find the most peace and enjoyment, which equals out to spirituality.

Out of The Mist ends most interestingly with "Space Chatter," which was a surprise ending compared to all the other tracks. I did appreciate it; it was very progressive, and actually, I thought of something Jean Luc Ponty would have done during the height of his popularity. Coming from that perspective, I don't think I could get more complimentary! And lord knows there is nothing better than a surprise ending to an album you loved right from the start. They could not have finished it in a better way.


Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
December 7, 2021

Tracks:
1. A Kite's Tale  3:27
2. Song Of The Circle 3:45
3. Desperate Measures   3:02
4. Dance Of The Leaves   3:50
5. As The River Runs  3:54
6. To Speak Of Love    3:28
7. Behind The Waterfall  4:53
8. Pins And Needles    3:56
9. Space Chatter    3:58

Mike Kopp · A Kite's Tale

Instrumental New Age Review: Stephen Wallack-Colors

Release Date: November 12, 2021

Label:  ‎Gale Road Records

Website

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