New Age Music Reviews: 2016-06-26New Age Music Reviews

July 1, 2016

Instrumental World Fusion/New Age Review: David Clavijo-From the Depths

Release Date: May 13, 2016

Label: Independent

When I look at a fascinating cover on any recording it makes me feel like we are getting off to a good start. But almost as soon as that thought goes through my mind it leaves and the questions pops in “Will the music be representative of the art or anywhere as compelling as the cover art?” The answer to that question lies in the 11 tracks on the latest David Clavijo recording titled From the Depths. The final answer to the equation is a resounding yes! This is a fine recording with a lot of different colors and textures for all the senses to absorb and process.

Anyone seeking a listening challenge would welcome the prospect of an eclectic listen such as this.

I think “Fragile World (feat. Laura Powers)” is a prolific track. First and foremost is the meaning of the song. It has the power to compel a listener to think outside the box. That is the best circumstance for any artist trying to get your attention. And with that it gives us impetus to pay more attention to the world we live in. It also is very different from all the preceding instrumental tracks.

The title track is critical to any recording, it sets the tone for the entire album actually and either opens or closes the door on many listeners. I look at every album as an open book ready to flip through the pages and some I go back to again for another chance in the event there was any doubt. This is my process however that thought of doubt never occurred to me on this listen. The opening title track was different enough to grab my attention. I heard world, rock, new age and a tone that distinctly was coming from inspirations of our Native Americans. A lot of New Age music features the earthy tones and this album is full of them.

“Sitting On The Sea Wall” is another step away from the norm. Clavijo is from Spain and this track is the sound of his land peppered with smooth saxophone to open things up then a very distinct flavoring of guitar picking that puts you right in that beautiful country. I also took note of the tremendously infectious percussion that was quite appropriate for finishing the picturesque tune. It sounds like it would be the perfect accompaniment to a scene in a movie. It ends with sounds of seagulls on the shoreline, a perfect closing for a beautiful picture painted with a broad musical brush.

As the saying goes variety is the spice of life and From the Depths is as spicy as it gets from a musical standpoint. From a multitude of instruments to angelic vocalizations, this recording will please your ear, satisfy your soul and leave you hungry for more. That is the whole idea so mission accomplished for Mr.Clavijo (Viva!).

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: From the Depths , Fragile World (feat. Laura Powers), Sitting On The Sea Wall

Tracks:
01. From the Depths
02. When We Were Together
03. Fly With Me
04. The Song of Wisdom
05. Fragile World (feat. Laura Powers)
06. Sanctus Dominus
07. Sitting on the Seawall (feat. Premik Russell Tubbs)
08. The Journey (feat. Charlee Brooks)
09. Où Est Mon Bonheur? (feat. Chad Lawson)
10 Out of the Depths (feat. Charlee Brooks)
Fragile World (Bonus Track) [feat. Rosa Cedrón & Chad Lawson]

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck” Hannaleck

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New Age Music Reviews

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July 1, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Review

June 30, 2016

New Age Instrumental Review: Crystalline Dream-Journeyman

Release Date: 2013

Label: Solovey Music

Website

The Crystalline Dream project started in 2006. It is a series of 5 albums telling a musical story of a personal journey, discovery and growth. Crystalline Dream takes you on a spiritual journey of music, emotion, and sonic soundscapes with Journeyman and the other releases available. This is how it’s explained (abbreviated) on their website and I would have to say that is quite accurate.

Richard Ross (keyboards, flutes, recorders, percussion and voice), Korey Ross (acoustic & electric guitar) and Peter Phippen (Shakuhachi and Native American Flute) come together to create beautiful relaxing sounds.

I can listen to music like this on any day or evening and feel it move me is some way. I enjoy the relaxing sounds of the flute… it is enchanting, and it calls to you. The masterful touch of Peter Phippen and the multitude of talents from Richard Ross come into play on each track.

Journeyman was released in 2013 and three years later it still sounds relevant. It resonates with textures, atmospheres, mysticism and earthy tones. The 10 tracks flow into each other with great ease. The title track leads the way.

Tracks like the atmospheric “Lady of the Meadows” is soft but enduring the you find yourself “Drifting” into another time and space with this fine music. That is the purpose from what I can determine, at least that is the effect it had on me. Once you make your way to when the curtain closes a subtle reminder closes out with a reprise of the title track.

Journeyman is a fine instrumental recording. It is by design made for those who wish to center themselves, relax and get in tune with what is around them. All of that and more can be accomplished through this music.