Release Date: July 30, 2025
Label: Independent
As a boy, I was captivated by gems, rocks, and minerals.
Listening to Precious Stones, I found myself transported back to those
fond memories. Each track evoked the image and colors of a specific gem,
creating a personal connection that made me feel more connected and involved in
the music.
“Moonstone” begins with a multitude of instruments merging to
create an atmospheric and textured soundscape. The synth, flute, cello, and
interesting-sounding bass contribute to the track's originality. Additionally,
there is an acoustic and an electric guitar. Many more additions help make the
track unique and complete. It’s a fine way to start the album. The track shines
with a quiet inner light just like the Moonstone.
“Amethyst” is one of my favorite gemstones. The fretless bass is
used this time, and it has a unique sound. The woodwind synth adds a nice
layer, complementing the various percussive elements, synth guitars, and
cymbals, which lend a world sound to the mix. I found it very relaxing, like a
cool drink on a hot summer day (much like we are experiencing lately in the
Northeast).
With “Sapphire,” you will hear the flute cloud, Tibetan bowls,
synth bass, concert harp, and cello. The cello sounds like it's longing for
something (which it typically is); however, it remains an asset and is
beautiful. The bass has a resonating sound to it, and as all the elements come
together, it has a cool blue feel, just like the gem the song is dedicated to.
The way the synth sound is used is brilliant.
The first thought of “Ruby” is red. Red is generally a color
associated with strong emotions, such as anger. This music is on the opposite
end of that spectrum. Native American flutes, Synths, marimba, djembes, frame
drum, talking drum, synth brass, udu, hand percussion, and acoustic guitar all
meld to make a gorgeous layer of atmosphere and color. The eye-catching color
of the gemstone is evident in this image.
“Emerald” has a green and serene color, with depth and
brilliance all its own. Several types of cellos are used in combination with
various instruments, including flutes, electric pianos, synthesizer bass, and
marimbas, among others. I am thinking of the lush greens of Ireland while
listening. The track, as I would expect, flows nicely, and you find solace and
relaxation in it.
“Onyx” is a word that sounds strong. Instruments like
triple-chamber ocarinas and Chilean bombo add to the uniqueness and lovely
atmosphere. The percussive elements are strong here, as the other instruments
sound brighter and cleaner, supporting them. It felt like I was walking
somewhere, like the remote mountains in the Himalayas, searching for a mystical
place. This was one of my favorites.
The “Diamond”
has always been the most sought-after and costly addition to one's gem collection.
Here, the hand percussion is subtly added, complementing the electric guitar's
emphasis. Some lovely piano notes float around as the flutes add their
ambiance. Synth brass and bass are added components and layers. The marimba and
djembe are also essential parts of the puzzle. It all shines brilliantly, like
a diamond with its many facets —the music mirrors that.
“Obsidian” features the Native American flute, singing bowls,
and an e-bow guitar. The colors of the gem are deep and black as night, and the
music has a mysterious quality hovering around it, while the flute echoes and
resonates, drawing you in with its hypnotic effect.
“Opal” evokes the thought of fire and a multitude of colors,
reaching out to you and engaging your imagination as you gaze at its beauty. It
is one of the more unique gems due to its luminescent, multihued colors. The
flute cloud, koto, singing bowls, and the silver flute cloud are a feature. The
synth layers add texture and depth. Listening gives you the incentive to relax
and reflect. The track time is 7:38, allowing the listener not only to relax
but also to use the piece for a meditation session.
The “Topaz” can have many different colors; however, the first
that comes to mind is brown. Indian percussion, including the udu, frame drum,
and drum synths, as well as cello and pizzicato cello, are among the
interesting tools used to create this auditory journey. The cello took the lead
on this track, with the other parts coming in elegantly and effectively. The
woodwind synths are elemental as well, creating those smooth and soft layers
that allow you to join in consciously with purpose.
“Aquamarine” closes out this fascinating album of musical art
and sound. The name represents the colors, as you look at this gemstone, the
thought of the ocean and sky comes to mind immediately. The piano, cello, and
flute establish a firm footing here, as the concept of full relaxation and
meditation still holds precedence in this track and all the others. The beauty
of each gemstone is the primary focus, and the music elevates that perception
to a higher level. I especially appreciate the triple-chamber ocarinas
making their appearance in this last track.
I am genuinely amazed by the diverse range of instruments used
in each track on Precious
Stones. And because of that, they all stand out with their own
unique identity, just like the gems that are being represented.
This was a transformative listening experience, enriched by the subject matter and my familiarity with it. It moved me differently, shifting my focus between the brilliance and color of the gems and how the music beautifully complemented the essence of each gem, inducing profound feelings. The thoughts and feelings that arose were like a third element, enriching the entire experience and leaving me inspired and enlightened.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder
July 18, 2025
Tracks:
01. Moonstone
02. Amethyst
03. Sapphire
04. Ruby
05. Emerald
06. Onyx
07. Diamond
08. Obsidian
09. Opal
10. Topaz
11. Aquamarine
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