Michelle Qureshi — Journey By Starlight
Release Date: April 10, 2026
Label: Music as Metaphor
Journey by Starlight is Michelle Qureshi’s 21st album since 2012. Composed, produced, and performed by Michelle featuring Native American flute, guitars, piano, singing bowls, Koshi chimes, synths, and vocals.
One of the leading points of this project is the artwork. If you look at it, there is a sense of how minute we are in the grand scheme of things, but solace is there waiting for us. However, this does not make us insignificant; it is quite the contrary. Our oneness with the universe can be realized when you look at images and listen to music together.
As “The Road Winds with You,” you can unwind. It begins, and an immediate sense of calm washes over you. The synths form layers of textures as the wind chimes tinkle. The video accompanying the track serves as a visual aid to enhance the audio experience. It is like entering another world for nearly seven minutes, full of beauty and exquisite sounds. Watch The Video
As we move into other tracks, Michelle’s acoustic guitar enters the mix, and then, on the following track, the Native American flute. This release is entirely different from Compass of the Heart, which focused on acoustic guitar as the lead instrument. The layers of ambient textures from the synths, combined with the flute’s hypnotic effect, create soundscapes that you naturally ease into. The nature of this music allows that kind of process.
Then, to give you a change, “Bending Light” has a bit of a funky feel, with bass sounds and a rap-like rhythm, which I found quite interesting and unexpected! From a purely listening perspective, it certainly keeps you aware of what is going on with a sudden shift in style and sound. Not to get too far off the main course, “Partial Freeze” reverts to the more ambient layers of relaxing, meditative sounds with some lovely electric guitar notes weaving through it.
One key factor in this presentation is the length of each track. There is not one under 3 minutes; the longest is 7:06, and seven are over 5 minutes. The space is filled eloquently with all the tools at Michelle’s disposal. The point here is to give a listener ample time to settle in, relax, and gradually fall into a meditative state, if that is, in fact, the goal at the outset. However, just listening can also be therapeutic. There does not have to be a particular purpose in mind; beginning your experience in listening mode can lead to healing. That is the beauty of this type of music.
As you journey through each composition on Journey by Starlight, the scope and artistry of Michelle Qureshi’s work become increasingly apparent. Every track provides a unique experience while remaining true to the album’s central vision. This is music crafted for the soul—inviting healing, renewal, reflection, and moments of deep introspection. Whether you seek relaxation, inspiration, or a space for quiet contemplation, this album offers a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
April
6, 2026
Tracks:
01. The Road Winds with You (6:48)
02. Angelic Realms (5:40)
03. Astral Bridges (4:24)
04. Bending Light (3:38)
05. Partial Freeze (5:57)
06. Desert Glass (5:30)
07. Strange Velocity (3:28)
08. Starfield (remastered) (3:56)
09. River in Heaven (5:38)
10. Antares (5:51)
11. The Last Year (5:46)
12. Across the Veil (7:06)
13. The Letter Left Unopened (4:03)
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