Release Date: August 22, 2025
Label: City Hall Records
(text from press materials)
Arcadia, a poetic term associated with bountiful
natural splendor and harmony, serves as a fitting title for this album. The
music indeed embodies these qualities, inviting the listener to embark on a
journey of tranquility and introspection.
“Et vidi caelum” (And I saw the sky) begins the journey. I am enthralled
by the beauty of the vocalizations and the accompanying music. There is a
spiritual and angelic feel to the vibe Kevin creates. I am looking forward to
what comes next.
“Et nox ultra” (And night is over) is repeated multiple times, taking the entire song to get
through the whole phrase.
This is a medieval technique called Notre Dame organum,
developed by the composers Leonin and Perotin in the 13th century. The idea
here is to induce a meditative state of consciousness. As I listen, I find it
very relaxing and enjoyable. The flow of the music and vocalizations creates a
soothing atmosphere, culminating in a transition that is light and filled with
a smile.
“Me solum me invenio” (I find myself alone) is profoundly
ethereal, and the chanting is as well. The sounds layered over the
vocalizations are like a mist that gathers around you, transporting you to
another dimension. You are alone, but on your way to a different time and
place, feeling completely transported by the music.
“In tenebris” (In darkness) features a nice keyboard foundation
as the voices gather in a choir-style arrangement, radiating and resonating as
they cut through the air with ease, making their way to where they need to go.
With the hope of leaving the darkness and finding the light, as the music
gathers momentum, so does your optimism. The appropriate soundtrack backs the
gorgeous vocalizations. The music reminded me of Jean-Michel Jarre.
“Mare, littus, flammam” (Sea, shore, flame) begins with a
buzzing drone sound accompanied by a whooshing wave sound. Around 1 minute into
it, the vocalizations start to add their layer. By this time, you expect that
to happen, and it wouldn't sound right without it. A soft cello adds another
element to the mysterious atmosphere.
“In equo fugit” (She flees on horseback) features a soft synth
opening, with vocals entering immediately. The vocals sound like they are
inside a church, with the built-in amplifier resonating through the walls. It’s
a tremendous effect. There are some transitions with tempo increasing as the
sounds of a violin arrive, adding a layer that worked well. A light synth
provides a percussive sound for rhythm (like a galloping horse).
“Et lux perpetua” (And eternal light) is light and airy
musically and with the vocalizations. This is a deliberate effort to slow the
pulse of the music, which enables the listener to focus more on the vocals as
the layers of synth are strong but can drop to the background to support the
vocalist.
“Veni intus” (Come inside) is an invitation to enter another
world or level of consciousness. Music has that power, and it is displayed to
significant effect. A steady church organ line runs consistently, and a cello
enters to add its texture and depth to the piece. It is a peaceful way to close
out this recording.
Arcadia was a step away from the norm in terms of the listening experience. And that is a good thing, as it challenged me to focus even more to translate what I was hearing accurately. It is a beautiful piece of artistry that I recommend listening to for many reasons. The reasons will be revealed once you explore the music!
Composed and produced by Kevin
Keller
Sofía Campoamor – lead vocal.
Katherine Wessinger, Danya Katok,
and Wendy Baker – sopranos.
Sarah Zun – violin.
Angela Pickett – viola; Laura Metcalf - cello
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder
August 22,
2025
Tracks:
1. Et vidi caelum (And I saw the sky)
2. Et nox ultra (And night is over)
3. Me solum me invenio (I find myself alone)
4. In tenebris (In darkness)
5. Mare, littus, flammam (Sea, shore, flame)
6. In equo fugit (She flees on horseback)
7. Et lux perpetua (And eternal light)
8. Veni intus (Come inside)
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