Contemporary Acoustic Instrumental Review & Interview: Michelle Qureshi-Compass of the Heart

Release Date:  September 12, 2025

Label: Music As Metaphor

Website

Michelle Qureshi’s instrumental acoustic guitar music, with its unique blend of nature-inspired melodies and emotive storytelling, has captivated the imagination and attention of music fans and industry professionals. I, too, have had the pleasure of experiencing her music and sharing my thoughts through my reviews.

 

Compass of the Heart is her latest achievement. It encompasses 14 tracks and begins with “Carry Me,” a track just under 2 minutes that sets the tone and atmosphere of this journey. Her guitar playing is pleasing and ear-catching, characterized by a lot of melodicism typical of acoustic music.

 

“In the Forest” brings you the quiet and solitude that a place can bring when surrounded by nature alone. Her guitar’s tone is gentle and expressive, taking you to that place.

 

“Lavender Fields” is quiet and persuasive as the notes gently brush across the air. You can smell the pleasant lavender and picture what a field would look like in your mind’s eye.

 

“Sort Your Blessings” reminds us that if we have enough of those blessings to consider and are fortunate, we need to take stock and be grateful. Michelle’s guitar sings a sweet song that resonates with those thoughts.

 

“Lost in a Talking Forest” is the longest track at 3:38, which makes it stand out on this recording because most of the other tracks run around 2 minutes or less. Right away, the tempo is faster than that of all the previous tracks. The melody line is catchy, and the leads effectively punctuate it, bringing the piece together as a multilayered whole. I thought it was an interesting title. As nature speaks, we listen, and it doesn’t sound like a bad thing to get lost for a while amongst nature’s many voices.

 

“Marigolds” continues the walk-through of nature. Flowers are one of the many gifts we can enjoy, and the guitar’s gentle approach and sound reflect the pure beauty we can enjoy.

 

“The In Between” could have many meanings, and I am sure it will find a purpose for each listener. Its pace is methodical and introspective as the artist paints her audio picture for you. It’s a song that will give pause to your day.

 

“Irises” bring back the scent and natural beauty of a flower. The way Michelle picks out the notes is in tribute to one living thing that has made an impression on her—acoustic perfection.

 

“Layla’s Lullaby” is a sweet audio sonnet that may evoke memories for those who have children who have grown and left, as well as for those currently experiencing childhood. It was a poignant reflection on how fleeting life can be. If you have children, enjoy them, love them, and keep them close to your heart.

 

“Subtle Realms” is the guitar creating just that, another realm, albeit gently, but coercive enough to pull you in to experience it. The guitar’s resonance rings accurately and clearly through musical realms of sound and beauty created by a single guitar.

 

“Not Just for Us” but for everyone? That was my initial thought when I saw the track title. Music is for the multitudes; those within range of the notes coming off the strings of the guitar will realize that it is indeed universal.  Beautiful and to the point.

 

“Prince Street Gardens” is in Edinburgh, Scotland. I was previously unaware of its existence. The guitar playing and its atmospheric quality could easily conjure images of a distant, captivating place that will capture the heart of someone. The distance is closed, and the images become clearer through the music.

 

“Simple Blessing” is perfect for Michelle’s music, as it showcases her unique approach to composition and presentation. The sounds are indeed a blessing, simple, straightforward, and uncluttered, allowing them to reach you quickly with feeling.

 

“Sweet and Sunny” is the perfect conclusion to this acoustic music journey, crafted with the fingers of Michelle and her guitars. The track’s tempo and sound perfectly reflect the title.

 

Michelle Qureshi’s music, a true Compass of the Heart, is an inclusive experience that felt that way to me while listening to this album. Her approach is clear and concise, making the music easily accessible and appreciated by all. This contemporary acoustic instrumental, built on a new age foundation and concept, is a welcoming journey for all music enthusiasts.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

August 25, 2025

TRACK LIST:

01. Carry Me – (1:43)

02. In the Forest – (2:02)

03. Lavender Fields – (2:11)

04. Sort Your Blessings – (1:44)

05. Lost in a Talking Forest – (3:38)

06. Marigolds – (2:01)

07. The In Between – (2:47)

08. Irises – (1:36)

09. Layla’s Lullaby – (2:54)

10. Subtle Realms – (2:12)

11. Not Just for Us – (2:16)

12. Prince Street Gardens – (2:51)

13. Simple Blessing – (1:54)

14. Sweet and Sunny – (1:47)