New Age Music Reviews: Contemporary Instrumental Reviews

Showing posts with label Contemporary Instrumental Reviews. Show all posts

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Michele McLaughlin-Luminous

Release Date: November 25th, 2022

Label: ‎Independent

This will be the seventh release I have listened to and covered by Michele McLaughlin. I had not given it any thought, but she must be the most frequent artist I have had the pleasure of hearing since 2015. Luminous, based on the first glance of the album art, gives the impression of something spiritual coming right from the soul. It is a commonplace for this artist, however.

Her solo piano works are portraits of a grounded individual with the innate ability to speak to listeners through music.

Michele said this about the new release:

This is a special edition album written and created using a softer and more delicate playing style by utilizing some of the more expressive features of my piano in order to change the tone and timbre of the sound and to illuminate the more expressive aspects of how it can be played. In doing so, I was able to immerse myself into a softer and quieter style of writing to compliment the changing elements of my beautiful piano. The music on this album is themed around different aspects of light and dark.

And indeed, that does put it all into proper perspective. You will feel the sadness of "When You Hurt, I Hurt," and the ever-changing colors of the bright "Kaleidoscope" will lift your spirits. Thus, the experiential journey through the dark and the light. And masterfully depicted may I add. I am not surprised by this in the least. Michele has been one of the most consistent and on-point artists I have enjoyed.

This year, more than any previous, I have heard more sadness in the music. I am sensitive to what is happening worldwide, which certainly has much to do with my perception. I am not mistaken, however, as many artists have released "pandemic" themed recordings. The many pressing issues we now face on our planet reflect our times. Hence the music that you will hear will envelop your consciousness. Even though there is that element of sadness, we can always find hope and healing in this talented individual's simplistic beauty.

With Luminous, you will find the light inside just like Michele did. She offers you that doorway to where it is and helps you realize that music is just a tool to get there. We all have it inside, and some of our light has been extinguished by life events over the last three years that changed us forever. I feel blessed that I have not got sick, lost anyone, and kept my job. That doesn't mean I don't feel the world's pain daily and realize my mortality with each passing year. It makes me very concerned and sad.

Hearing Michele making her way through these ten tracks of instrumental contemporary grace and beauty puts a different perspective on everything. And honestly, that is the goal of any artist, so mission accomplished once again, Michele!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

November 1, 2022

Tracks:

01. Droplets of Grey 5:06

02. When You Hurt, I Hurt 5:12

03. Kaleidoscope 3:56

04. Shimmer 3:20

05. Moonlit Shadows 2:59

06. The Golden Hour 3:43

07. Luminous 3:09

08. Fireflies 3:37

09. Adrift 2:22

10. Lanterns In The Sky 3:40

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Ed Bazel-The London Sessions – Reflections From Studio 2

Release Date: October 7, 2022

Label: ‎Independent

Website

Ed Bazel's The London Sessions – Reflections From Studio 2 is eleven romantic melodies recorded and mastered in June 2022 at Abbey Road Studio 2.

With November peeking through the doorway and the subsequent winter months ahead in the Northeast, this type of music is comforting, relaxing, and reassuring. The music does warm my soul and heart.

I hold music dear to my heart and with great respect and gratitude. Ed Bazel is a fine pianist. I had the opportunity to enjoy Homecoming nearly three years ago. It was a wonderful experience, and just as the first track, "Morning Glory," began, I knew it would be a similar journey. This is where my reference of reassurance applies once again. Familiar feelings of audio pleasures bring me great joy. The therapy of instrumental piano music with the elegance of strings and some percussion can do wonders for your attitude and well-being.

This music holds the simplicity of one instrument and its effectiveness to significant effect in every track. Although this is considered a romantic collage, the album art would also hint that the culture of England brings it all full circle when looking at the entire project and absorbing all its elements.

One of my favorites was "After The Rain," and of course, the Beatle's classics "In My Life" and "Yesterday," which are emotional tracks for me. If you are older and your children are gone, and many relatives and loved one's have passed, it hits home. I sang the words to myself as Ed's piano played them perfectly.

I heard some sadness in the piano's keys and then a flow and splendor that gave me moments to pause and find the colorful notes filled with pleasure and hence a surrender to its magnificence. It is like the silver lining in the clouds, they are always there, but you must see them and recognize the importance of the entire picture being painted right before you. You don't have to look too far to see this happening; it is rather apparent quite quickly if you feel the music's mellow approach giving hints of sadness and reflection. It is like a quiet "Evening Stroll" through your mind's eye. The music helps you paint the images within and process them all internally and externally.

Ed Bazel has painted a musical masterpiece that is both timeless and memorable. At times the simple things in life are the medicine we so desperately need in this complex, unforgiving world we live in these days. Moments to pause, reflect, and take stock of what to be grateful for can be a positive experience that will affect you and everyone around you.

This is a must-have if you enjoy beautiful instrumental music with exceptional production values! To romanticize in the music framework is commonplace; it is another thing to make it into something extraordinary, and Ed Bazel accomplishes that.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 27, 2022

Tracks:

01. Morning Glory 2:18

02. Mountain Serenity 3:22

03. In My Life 3:48

04. Old Friends 3:02

05. After The Rain 2:39

06. Soaring 3:24

07. Mountain Joy 2:59

08. Daydream 2:41

09. Evening Stroll 2:42

10. Passages 3:21

11. I Will Think Of You 2:38

12. Yesterday 2:39

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Doug Hammer-Melancholia

Release Date: October 28, 2022

Label: ‎Independent

Website

The definition of Melancholia is severe depression characterized especially by profound sadness and despair. This is the title of Doug Hammer's latest release. Don't let that definition give you the wrong idea about what you will hear; there is more to that.

Doug has released many recordings over the years (14), and I have enjoyed my share dating back to the 2015 release Christmas Lights. I have never heard anything like this artist's 13 tracks on Melancholia.

The title is very descriptive, and the cover depiction is interesting. Looking at the lilies bursting out, the two wilted against the backdrop of a clock indicates the message transmitted. Does this suggest that your happiness can fade like a flower without water (as a matter of reference) over time? Or are we subject to reacting to the events that surround us daily, which include our personal lives and the influx of communications from various electronic means, whether you ask for them or not? I like to think all of the above apply, but that is a personal interpretation.

Doug Hammer's thoughts and feelings regarding this subject matter relating to being melancholy come through the keys of his piano. When you look at the track titles, they also tell a story. The opener, "Darkness Falls," is more than the disappearance of light; it purposefully sets the right tone going forward. There are two other tracks concerning the night as well. "Missing You," "Empty Chair," and "Farewell" also have a significant meaning and impact on the perception of a prospective listener. And that is the way this is intended. Although life has its beautiful times and memories that we can relive in our minds, we all fall upon darkness more than once in this life.

I don't think the intent here is not to depress anyone; it is about feelings I am sure we all have felt over the last three years due to the pandemic, inflation, and an ongoing war in Ukraine. Some, I am sure, have been overwhelmed and distraught. We all feel it in different ways.

This music is simplistic yet effective in gently asking you to reflect, look inward at your soul, and be honest with how you feel. Once you take that step forward, the process begins. That process can vary, again, depending on who you are. For me, any of this kind of process is like healing. The music beckons me to listen, letting it take me away. That is as simple as it gets, for me, anyway.

Let me put this into perspective from where I sit. When you are "Winding Down," and it's "Almost Midnight," it is time to say "Farewell." My point here is that words and music, used correctly, can be so powerful and have meaning for so many people. In the case of Doug Hammer and his contemporary instrumental tracks from Melancholia, that very idea and journey are lived through each of us. This is soothing and thoughtful music to listen to at any time. That fact alone should tell you how sound this recording is.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

October 24, 2022

Tracks:

01. Darkness Falls 4:08

02. The Long Night 3:17

03. Long Ago 2:29

04. Just A Memory 3:14

05. Laika 2:29

06. Monsieur Barre’s Carousel 1:58

07. Empty Chair 2:32

08. Missing You 2:53

09. Dancing Alone 3:01

10. Letting Go 4:10

11. Winding Down 2:23

12. Almost Midnight 2:56

13. Farewell 2:41

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Vicente Avella-Physics of Light

Release Date: August 8, 2022

Label: Pandora’s Boombox Records

Website

Physics of Light is about many things besides what the title would indicate. For Vicente Avella, there is a story behind the music; there always is. If you have a curious disposition and want to know the how and why of a recording, then you will love the story behind the music.

Vicente recorded during COVID. For most artists, this was a blessing in disguise if it did not affect them in other ways, like contracting the virus or losing someone because of it. It was an opportunity for this artist to do all the recording himself because everything was closed. So, he went to the Boston GP 163 piano to start his process. The piano he had wanted to play to record on for some time.

It was destiny, and Physics of Light was born. Sixteen tracks of instrumental piano music to calm the nerves and refresh your being are now alive and well for everyone to enjoy.

The recording started with some trepidation from Vicente, but he did a fine job and then sent it off to be mastered. And now he has this beautiful recording, knowing he does not need a studio to get an album done. The world works in mysterious ways; there was a roadblock at the time. After further investigation and taking a chance, another door opened. He just needed the faith to walk through it.

What I found interesting was the thought that went into the entire presentation. The artwork Vicente envisioned was to be something that Da Vinci had created. If you are familiar with that, the attained visual is perfect. It had to be scientifically and mathematically correct, so he had it checked by a composition student and now who is also a Physicist. After that, an artist in Italy (of course) was commissioned to take Vicente’s chicken scratch and make it look like a work of Da Vinci’s. Once again, it hit the mark. It was essential to convey the images and thought process encompassing all aspects of light while listening. Then looking at the track titles and hearing how they came out in the audio spectrum is the next step. It is up to you to delve further to compare the similarities or differences between the two ranges.

So, for me, the listener and reviewer, reading about the story was fascinating and made the music more enjoyable and thoughtful. Yes, it is very scientific, and there was a process; however, once you hear the music and its sheer beauty and simple perfection, you will wholeheartedly agree that this makes sense in all its totality.

Sometimes I wonder what else to say about another solo piano instrumental album. The truth is, I always find enjoyment and something new. My fascination with how this all came together and the thought and care that went into making it a “complete” artistic rendering of audio recordings was the key that unlocked my mind. It all connects and makes sense. And to think one man’s fascination with the Physics of Light could create such beauty and picturesque sounds through one instrument. It was a lonely process, but that is the X factor in creating a successful recording. It would be best if you were alone with your thoughts, the process of creation, and no distractions to take you off the course that brings it all home.

Vicente Avella has triumphed over all the obstacles to release one of the most rewarding albums of his career. And for the listeners and followers, this is to be enjoyed for many years. Physics of Light will be your beacon to some well-deserved musical fulfillment and relaxation.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

July 13, 2022

Track List:

01. LIGHT PARTICLES

02. RADIANCE

03. WHERE LIGHT AND SHADOW MEET

04. ULTRAVIOLET

05. OSCURO

06. RESISTANCE

07. COLOR SPECTRUM

08. CLARO

09. PENUMBRA

10. REFLECTION

11. INTERMEZZO

12. OPAQUE OBJECT

13. UMBRA

14. INFRARED

15. ANTUMBRA

16. VISIBLE LIGHT

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Samer Fanek-Call of the Desert

Release Date: April 30, 2022

Label: Independent

Website

I have witnessed growth and maturation with each release I have had the pleasure to listen to from Samer Fanek. With Call of the Desert, this young and vibrant pianist reaches back to his roots and creates an astonishing array of tracks.

Samer’s music is very cinematic and so vital to the core of his message. He wants to go back to the Middle East and perform this music. His homeland of Jordan inspired this music and longing to go back there. Such inspiration and beauty lie within the heart of every human. It comes from the heart to the fingers through the piano.

I felt the honesty of this music, and the excitement that gave me chills from the start. “Call of the Desert - Part I” brings you to Jordan within seconds. It gets more interesting musically with lovely orchestrations to accentuate the elegant piano playing from that point on.

“Into The Sun” is as picturesque as the cover art. However, the sun is going down to relieve those people from the intense desert heat. At the end of the journey is a piano and palm tree off to the side. Is this a mirage for those weary travelers? I think not. The music is convincing, and you are there right in the middle of that scenery created by Samer’s music.

Call of the Desert is Samer’s most inspired and ambitious work. The equation is simple; home is where the heart is. It will be good for everyone to hear this music. I know here in the U.S. that a different picture is painted of the Middle East thanks to the media and social platforms. Every home and country has its unique beauty to its inhabitants. With this music, perhaps we all can see that more clearly. We can take the first exit down the right road as we cast aside any preconceived ideas or thoughts pushed onto us 24/7. Samer can be our guiding light to a world we can only imagine in our minds. He knows through his past experiences what Jordan is and what it means to his people. With that knowledge and heartfelt expression, he conveys it all beautifully.

Tracks like “The Old Arabic Shop” are reflective and have a sweetness. And indeed, through the eyes of the beholder and his memories, we can envision what he remembers. “Pleading to You” is full of emotion, and the track title could mean many things. I know that the music sounds like it asks you to listen and absorb the sounds and colors of a world far away from where you sit now. Samer brings it all to life instantaneously through his music.

“Desert Rush” is full of movement and drama as you take the arduous journey over the unknown desert landscape. The excitement is a rush of adrenaline you have never experienced before.

The recording ends dramatically with “Call of the Desert - Part II,” as Samer’s gentle touch lends a sublime beauty to some masterful keyboard magic that you just enjoyed. I know this would sound so amazing on vinyl LP. It was so consuming as I listened to it all. I felt like I was in a storybook about a land I did not know. It does not seem so far away after listening to Call of the Desert anymore.

Capturing another country’s atmosphere and a young man’s memories inside the music is an outstanding achievement. In this excellent release, Samer Fanek has recreated everything about Jordan in his heart and mind. It will capture your imagination, I promise.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
April 11, 2022

Tracks:

01. Call of the Desert - Part I
02. Nighttime Celebrations
03. Where Did the Time Go?
04. Into the Sun
05. The Old Arabic Shop
06. Dramatic Encounters
07. Mediterranean Moments
08. Pleading to You
09. Desert Rush
10. Call of the Desert - Part II

Contemporary Instrumental/New Age: Stephen Peppos-Botanical

Release Date: October 18, 2021

Label: ‎Sonic Bear Music

Website

Botanical carries the theme of nature and all its beauty through the music. Based on my experience with Stephen’s music, I expect to find intrigue everywhere throughout my listen. I am glad to report that is what happened.

“Sun Dancer” and the title track “Botanical” were the peak of this musical evolution for my ears. The different sounds, rhythms, and various instrumentations merge into a burst of color and light. With that thought and perception, you can see how the connection to nature and its bounty aligns with this expressive music that brings different shades, colors, and light to you aurally.

This magnificent artistry found through the eleven tracks on this recording offers individual listeners their soundscape to create images that come to mind, hopefully, those suggested through the track titles.

What you will enjoy on Botanical is an eclectic musical diversion that will enrich your soul. From contemporary instrumental, world, and all built from a new age perspective, Stephen Peppos invites you into his magical musical garden of delights. He brings you “Sunshine” to enlighten you and nurture and uplift your spirit. And that track, in particular, has a world flavored ambiance injected with vocals from another country would be Africa. That kind of ability and worldly diversity keeps it all fresh and inviting from start to finish.

I noted all of the fantastic rhythms and bass that run like a tapestry intrinsic to every track. A giant cross-section of listeners will enjoy music like this, and it knows no boundaries, only those that are self-inflicted by a listener. You can find a true sense of joy and hope on Botanical with an open mind and heart. I certainly did, and with an immense amount of respect for its creator.

Stephen Peppos knows how to create exciting music. It is hard to define but delightful to listen from track to track.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 1, 2021

Tracks:
01. MORNING 5:17
02. ABOVE THE TREES 5:01
03. DANCING DAHLIAS 5:39
04. SUN DANCER   6:38
05. BOTANICAL 5:41
06. PEPPERMINT GARDEN 5:15
07. SUNSHINE 5:03
08. JOY IN THE SUMMER 4:56
09. NOCTURNAL 4:11
10. THE FLOWERS WILL BLOOM EARLY THIS YEAR 5:36
11. HOPE A NEW 5:57

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Dave Eggar-Awakening

Release Date: September 10, 2021

Label: ‎Domo Music Group

Website

If fortunate enough in our lifetimes we receive an awakening or several, if the universe allows it, and somehow, we do need it. Dave Eggar had his Awakening during the pandemic when he moved from NYC to the mountains of Tennessee. Getting back to your roots and in touch with the beauty of nature can heal the soul and trigger creative inspiration for many of us. For a multi-talented artist that has mastered the cello and piano like Dave, that is exactly what transpired. Moving from a bustling city to the mountains in Tennessee is what I would call a location paradigm shift. Literally, everything changes and the location is just the beginning.

Awakening features fourteen beautifully composed and performed tracks. This music truly touched me; its pure beauty engaged me in a spiritual journey. When listening I became reflective, grateful, and at times sad. The sadness relates to everything going on in the world and particularly in our country, its leadership, and what has been happening overseas. My heart cries for those in peril, suffering, or fleeing for their lives for poor decisions made by one man. It is at times frightening to see what has happened to our world, our country, and its people. I hope those seeking comfort can find some in this music, which I did with continued listening.

I am deeply moved by music such as this and it brings me back to who I am, what I believe, my history, and where it has brought me today. The track that triggered all these feelings was “Beyond.” And interestingly enough, it is telling me I must get past this, heal, keep the faith, and that God will watch over the children of the earth. I need to get “Beyond” this and move to another point of growth. Without that, I do not have the optimism and faith I need. I am sure many of you out there will not understand this process and my comments, and certainly, there will be those that will. My point here is the power of music and how it can change your train of thought and the outcome of your decision-making after listening. My decision to share what is in my heart was captured by this amazing music. That one track catapulted me to another space where I could feel everything at the moment then be able to communicate it to anyone that wants to listen.

“My Simple Gift” also pulled on my heartstrings. The combination of the cello and piano is always prolific for my listening experience. The cello has that longing sound that pulls you and makes you think. I think of it as a big bass violin. The piano helps the emotions that come up subside and smooth out. This, and I speak for myself, helps me to process everything going through my mind and how it translates to the heart. My oh my this is so powerful and affecting. Instrumental music allows you to open a door without being prompted by words to pull you in a specific direction. The best aspect of this transitioning effect is that you, the listener, get to choose what direction to go while taking all of these sounds in. It is indeed a beautiful thing to listen to this gift of music and the artistry of audio delights.

If you want to experience a true Awakening listen to this music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 26, 2021

Tracks:
01. Awakening
02. Faded Memory
03. Through The Glass
04. Beyond
05. Forest Afternoon
06. Diamonds
07. My Simple Gift
08. Russian Winter
09. Arise
10. Fallen Leaves
11. Bristol Morning
12. Coming Home (featuring Avalona)
13. Earth Story
14. New Dawn (featuring Priya Darshini and Will Calhoun)

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Reviews: Darlene Koldenhoven-The Grand Piano Spa: Legacy

Release Date: October 22, 2021

Pre Order Date: August 22, 2021

Label: TimeArt Recordings

Website

Buy CD for only $5 until Oct 28^th

^{The Grand Piano Spa: Legacy is the sequel to the award-winning release of the Spring this year The Grand Piano Spa. This recording continues the gorgeous piano compositions and unique flow of the music that will appeal to the lovers of contemporary instrumental and easily cross over to new age.}

^{For my tastes, this is the perfect listening experience. Darlene is a brilliant musician that knows how to create perfect beauty with the ivory keys. Your expectations as the perspective listener, should you be familiar with her work, is to expect originality and a genuine extension of her personality.}

^{The Grand Piano Spa: Legacy begins with the grandeur of the cover art which gives you the initial visual of something special and singular. The artwork is the doorway to the music which in a short time you find peace, pleasure, and appreciation for a prolific artisan willing to share her gifts once again.

I have found Darlene to be high-energy and very positive. It does not take very long to appreciate that energy and the presentation of the ten tracks. A natural extension of the previous album is what I anticipated and knew was coming right after the first release.

Cinematic and expressive are good adjectives of what you will experience. “Love Eternal” I found to be one of the more expressive tracks. Of course, with a title like that, you would expect something eloquent and affecting. And it most certainly is. Darlene has that special touch and grace with her style and the way she wants to deliver each track. I say it’s all cinematic because it is natural to see a picture forming in your mind’s eye, like watching a movie play along with the music. I believe that is the intent with most music, to engage each listener in such a way that it pulls them out of one space in time into another. In turn, if the music is powerful and transitional, that essence is what triggers the experience. This artist accomplishes that consistently throughout this release.

“Glaciers” is another pictorial audio experience. The playing is slow, elegant, and purposeful. It moves slowly like the melting of a glacier, or that is the way it was meant to be prior the global warming. If we could only turn back the hands of time when it comes to things so important and change the course of the history we created. This music helps to ignite feelings of hope rather than despair and a sense of giving up, it brings us to higher ground and a more positive mindset.

This music is about us, the human condition, our environment, and the “Lucidity” and “Radiance” we all have within. And most importantly, the command that this one incredible woman has with her instrument. Her lucidness comes through in her piano playing thus creating a magnificent radiance for us all to absorb and enjoy time and time again.}^{Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 21, 2021}

^Tracks:^{01. Radiance 3:31
02. Lucidity 3:58
03. Migration 4:04
04. Sweet Conversations 3:41
05. Love Eternal 3:45
06. Glaciers 4:54
07. Moonlight Minuet 4:41
08. Black Swan 5:58
09. Cumulus 5:36
10. Ancient Forest 5:09}

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Evan Wish-Alone In A Crowd

Release Date: October 1, 2020

Label: ‎ Independent

Website

Have you ever felt like you were Alone In A Crowd? It is an unfortunate feeling however it does happen to some of us. I have learned that it is a psychological thing when one is trapped within their mind without any escape route. When nothing can distract you from the deep-seated feelings and thoughts you are experiencing, then any amount of people around you would not matter. This may be relatable or so farfetched for some. We are different with experiences all our own. The one thing we can all relate to is good music.

As Evan Wish is pictured alone with his piano on a stage, it is the perfect vision of being Alone In A Crowd. This is his latest instrumental piano offering comprising contemporary, classical, and new age, into every track. This music embodies romanticism, joy, sadness, and the flow of life. Without uttering a single word Evan’s fingers take flight on the ivory keys and bring audio magic to your soul. What struck me readily was the sense of rhythm in his music. The piano is an amazing instrument and this artist knows how to manipulate it beautifully befitting each track title.

I found the title track very moving in several ways. It was an emotional journey for me, spurring those old feelings I had described previously, yet the music made it feel different. It was like the healing of that moment in time when I felt that way. Even though it was something so long ago for me, it is easy enough to reach back and revisit. What I learned in this particular timeframe was it is ok to be reminded of the past but to focus on the here and now. In essence, enjoy the music, go with the feelings and the flow of the sounds you are hearing and let it take you where it may.

When I enjoy a musical experience as I have with Alone In A Crowd, it seems to travel so fast. Like a short story with a succinct beginning and end. If you enjoy being swept away by superb piano instrumental music, this recording will become one of your favorites of the year.

Evan Wish…teacher, world traveler, storyteller, and immaculate musician, takes all of his experience and wraps them into a warm blanket called Alone In A Crowd. Having that warmth takes away the loneliness and comforts you. The blanket is the music and Evan provides all the warmth you could ever need as he weaves a tapestry of sound, vibrations, and color to fill you up with the love of life. You never have to feel alone again with these moving 10 tracks.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
August 2, 2021

Tracks:

01. The Hill
02. Alone in a Crowd
03. Fleeting Beauty
04. (Full) August Moon Love
05.(For) Just a Penny
06. Falling into You
07. Silhouette
08. Carousel
09. Sometime Around Midnight
10. I Like Us

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Masako-Wanderlust

Release Date: June 11, 2021 (on artist site)

Label: Independent

Website

Wanderlust will be my fourth recording covering Masako’s music. When the announcement comes through for such an artist you feel instant gratification and anticipation. For my listening experience, this initiates comfort and knowing. Not so much knowing what to expect but to know that what I will hear I will be completely immersed in.

While I enjoyed all of Masako’s releases to this point, I believe Wanderlust exhibits an exceptional advance in maturity. I say this because each track is brilliant and quite different. She has mastered the art of diversity and utilizes the other instruments in the mix to her advantage.

The one track that caught my ear as different than anything she has ever done was “Forestology.” It is like a cool breeze, a lovely mixture of ambient, contemporary, jazz, and electronic. It sounded like something I may have heard on another album from a jazz innovator like Ponty, Corea, or one of those luminaries. I loved it of course, and feel now the sky is the limit for this artist.

Then there is the cello and horns in gorgeous and poignant tracks like “Shades of Memory.” Speaking of “Diversity,” as I mentioned earlier, I did not realize it was a track until it came up. It is quite simple and direct with just Masako and her piano. I think the message here is different than the one I was conveying. I believe what she is saying with the track is that the world is a diverse place of many cultures, religions, and backgrounds. With the beauty and soft invitation of her piano, she extends a worldly handshake to all listeners. Reaching out with music is very powerful and words can be a strong statement in the track title alone. This is all accomplished in a little over three minutes.

To coincide with that thought process, “Year of Love,” perhaps speaks to the virus that invaded our lives last year. The love of each other and the healing powers of music are a very effective combination. My inner being acknowledges music as such, as I am sure it does with many listeners. The music speaks to you in many ways. The connection we have with it is universal and spiritual. This track evokes the tides of the ocean and the sounds pull you out to the sea of sound and sweep you away for some time of relief. Over six minutes of excellent musicianship and emotion is tied into this track. It is a masterful instrumental and one of the best on the album.

Wanderlust is an amazing achievement for a solo piano artist. Masako continues to push the musical envelope with each successive release. As a very particular and hard-to-impress listener, I found it an absolute joy to experience from start to finish.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
May 22, 2021

Tracks:

01. Lily of the Valley (2:10)
02. Ocean and You (7:18)
03. Wintering Birds (4:56)
04. Forestology (5:13)
05. Wanderlust (4:54)
06. Lake Willoughby (3:34)
07. Shades of Memory (5:02)
08. Diversity (3:12)
09. Year of Love (6:04)
10. Aquifer (4:34)
11. Wisdom of The Heart (4:45)

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Darlene Koldenhoven-The Grand Piano Spa

Release Date: May 14, 2020

Label: TimeArt Recordings

Website

Pre-Order Special $5 CD until May 14th

Darlene Koldenhoven is one of those artists that has taken advantage of the virus lock downs. For musicians like her, they take a negative and turn it into a positive by creating music so we all can heal. Of course, everyone has different needs and has been affected by the virus. The one thing we all share in common besides how that event has changed our lives is the reliable source of energy and good vibrations from those who are creative.

Darlene has been on a creative path and an eclectic one at that. This time her release The Grand Piano Spa, will delight those listeners that enjoy the simplicity and directness of solo piano. I think the cover says it all. That makes this release that much more focused and special for the artist and her listeners.

With the two tracks that I have heard so far, I am hearing that classical foundation with a new-age approach and message. This combination has become very popular for piano or a range of keyboard players, in particular. The solitude of one person in front of the ivory keys can be mesmerizing for a listener. I can only speak for myself, however, I am quite sure there are a multitude of individuals all over the planet that find this type of music very enjoyable and a great tool for relaxation or meditation.

For those that need a change or an introduction into this world, The Grand Piano Spa can be the keys to the kingdom. There have been many strong releases over the years that can fall into that category. So, what can make this release any different or special for those of us that hear so much of this type of music? The first thing that comes to mind is your familiarity with the music and the artist presenting it. I know before the first note that 99.9% of the time I am going to love the music before I even hear it. I realize what to expect and many times find gems amongst the tracks that are a nice surprise.

The title itself promotes that feeling or renewing and the light of energy and hope. When one thinks of a spa you can envision how wonderful that can make you feel if you are there and if not, you can use the music to take you there as you relax into that state of mind or meditative focus. Whatever road you choose, the benefits of this music are immediate. A veritable “Spring Dance” will emerge and take you into its arms and give you relief. The relief can take many forms for each person but the reality is that this music is so beautiful and inviting that it’s a process everyone can enjoy on every level of the listening experience.

The Grand Piano Spa and all nine tracks will lift your spirits, provide an opportunity to receive all the positive vibrations of the music provided by this talented woman, Darlene Koldenhoven. I think the singularity of the cover photo provides an immediate sense of peace and an open invitation to what you can find inside the music. That fact alone sets me off on a journey that I am always very grateful for. And if you enjoyed this album there will be a sequel titled The Grand Piano Spa: Legacy.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
February 7, 2021

Tracks:

1. Wisteria
2. Into the Light
3. Delphi’s Dream
4. Quiet Read
5. Spring Dance
6. Reverie
7. Soliloquy
8. Clover Fields
9. Simple Life

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Samer Fanek- Polarized

Release Date: December 2, 2020

Label: Independent

Website

Samer Fanek is one of those solo artists that you are happy to see release another album. The sooner the better as far as I am concerned. This music is a reminder that life is a daily process of learning and the music is here to help us heal and move on to the next phase of that experience called life.

Previously I had the pleasure of covering Guide Me and Wishful Thinking. Knowing how much I enjoyed those two releases gave me plenty of reason to anticipate that Polarized would be equal or better than its predecessors. As I would soon find out, I would have every reason to believe that. The album was created and recorded in Samer’s home studio and mixed and mastered by Miklos Malek.

Samer has once again established himself as a serious solo artist that knows how to put together his music, relying on his talent to play the main instrument, the piano, and other keyboards, to create all the sounds you will hear on this recording. It is amazing all the sounds one keyboard can produce these days, basically an entire range to make your music sound like a full band rather than one talented and clever instrumentalist producing everything.

To give you some insight into the thought process that went into this recording Samer commented: The album is titled Polarized, referring to the sometimes sharp contrast/polarization between our highs and lows as we go through different events in life. You can hopefully hear the ups and downs unfolding with the songs and their titles as the album progresses.

When you listen to this music your top of mind should be the human condition and all the ups and downs, we can feel, sometimes several within one 24-hour period. Samer makes it known that he is just like everyone else except for sending his message and the tide of emotions through his fingers. I can relate in total to this music. It pushes you to feel the music then translate it with an open mind and heart. In other words, be as honest and pure as the music you will be hearing, and then you can take an interesting voyage along with the presenting artist.

“Tides” is a wonderful opening track. Its sweeping and cinematic beauty gives you pause then the wonder and excitement of the music take hold. You can tell Samer was feeling complete joy on the track. Then on the other side of life and its ever-changing emotions and thought patterns, the softer “Starting Over” is reflective and purposeful yet the beauty held within is something to behold and cherish. With those thoughts of a fresh start, the message is quiet but effective, then you are ready to step forward into the future. “Some Days Are Cloudy” gives you a reminder that life is not perfect but there are always the miracles of nature at work to create “Raindrops” that give our land and waterways essential life and growth. Without the clouds, there can be no rain, and once the rain is through the next day can be sunny and bright with hope and positivity. In all of this, if you listen closely to the music and pay attention to the track titles, you will see all of the emotion, learning, and gratitude, and the flow of life found in every track.

When you hear the fantastic symphony of “Life Goes On,” and how it embraces everything then jumps back into this thing called life without hesitation, the melodies of the music will carry you. Hope and inspiration are the intents here, the alternative is to give up and not live at all, not a very good choice!

Polarized is realistic and true to the heart of one artist by the name of Samer Fanek. His message comes through very clear and his musicianship is exquisite and as heartfelt as one artist could convey within a recording of contemporary instrumental songs. Life does not have to be two steps forward and one step back but sometimes that is the path we have to take to get to the other side and see the bright shining light at the end of the tunnel.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews
November 29, 2020

Track List:
01. Tides
02. Do You Remember?
03. Broken Dreams
04. Life Can Be Beautiful
05. Starting Over
06. Some Days Are Cloudy
07. Raindrop
08. Dearest of All
09. Life Goes On
10. Just Like the Wind
11. Wishful Thinking (Piano Solo)

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Andrew Colyer-Mists of Time

Release Date: November 20, 2020

Label: Inner Nova Music

Website

It is a good feeling when you have a relationship with an artist and their music. It feels like the same thing to me, they fit together quite nicely from my perspective. My feelings, emotions, thoughts, and spirituality are all tied into the music I listen to. I think many people find relief and joy in music and have their own special relationship with it as I mentioned.

Andrew Colyer’s music is familiar to me, I covered his 2018 releases Christmas Time-Piano Improvisations and his progressive rock band Circuline on a Circulive::Majestik DVD/CD set. Now two years later he is back off a tour with Robert Berry, busy in the studio creating more keyboard magic on the upcoming Mists of Time.

There are 12 creative and entertaining tracks on the recording, ranging from contemporary classical with hints of new age to ambient soundscapes with many interesting textures and sounds.

“Strings of the Ocean” comes to mind right away with the sound of waves rolling in at the end of the track. And the interesting and sometimes spooky “Rain Notes: Forest.” The tides of the music changes color and atmospheres from track to track, always keeping you interested and focused in on all the sounds.

“A Thoughtful Moment” takes on the title literally as the music becomes more serious, defined, and fixed on a tasteful classical foundation. This is a place Andrew can go to show his audience how precise and on point he can be if he so chooses. It is a step away from any ambient atmospheres or sound effects.

“Ghosts of Aberfan” befits its title, filled with beauty, mystery, and moving in the shadows of the past as all ghosts do whether imagined within one’s mind or something caught out of the corner of your eye. Andrew tells the story with the keys giving the subject matter life and it sounds like it is stepping right into your room to say hello. If you happened to be wondering…The Aberfan disaster was the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip in Wales on 21 October 1966. This may give the track a lot more meaning and better understanding of how the music flows. It is the longest track on the album clocking in at 8:28. That is Andrew’s pinnacle of creativity and to do it prog rock style in regards to length was perfect with all the different moods and parts that tell the entire story from start to finish.

As with many releases this year with instrumental works, you are seeing song titles with references to space and the outer reaches that are beyond our earth-bound comprehension. You have “In Alex’s Orbit” and “Moons of Jupiter.” To end the album with “Serenity” was purposeful, it is something we all desperately are in need of in 2020 at times.

Andrew Colyer has released a jewel with Mists of Time. He makes it easy to get caught up in the music on offer and time then becomes irrelevant, just a mist passing through and one that you most assuredly with return to then relive. For my ears that is just perfect.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 20, 2020

Track List:
01. Rain Notes: Storm
02. Oliver’s Journey
03. In Alex’s Orbit
04. Climb
05. Strings of the Ocean
06. One Thing (Remastered 2020)
07. Rain Notes: Forest
08. A Thoughtful Moment
09. Ghosts of Aberfan
10. Moons of Jupiter
11. Overcoming
12. Serenity

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