New Age Music Reviews: MuzikMan Productions

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New Age World Instrumental Review: Jonny Lipford-Migration

Release Date: May 1, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

If you look up Jonny Lipford on Spotify you will see quite a collection of album releases. In fact, I was quite amazed at how much music this man has out there.

On May 1st Migration will be available. Those who appreciate new age and world music with the flute or a genuine combination of both will appreciate the nine tracks for your listening pleasure.

You will hear Native American flute, Mojave flute, Mayan harmony flute, Irish flute, Persian flute, and Bansuri. That is quite an array of flutes giving each track an identity, sound, and texture that distinguishes itself as a standalone artistic achievement. I do not know any other way to put it.

For Jonny, this is a Migration of sights and sounds from track to track. As the birds fly in their patterns it shows nature taking its yearly course. In this instance, this artist follows his instincts and creates something truly beautiful. I really enjoyed the entire album but with the way it ended was what really just swept me away. There is 9:13 minutes of amazing enchantment that awaits a prospective audience. A nice touch is appropriately adding the chirping birds with about 2 minutes to go before it closes out. Poetry in motion through music, what a wonderful artistic expression.

The purity and earthy tones are what bring me into each track and hold me. I am touched by the sincerity of the recordings and the heart and soul that went into making such an impressive group of tracks. It was like opening a book with an interesting cover then turning each page (or track) and reading another story. That, my music loving friends is a great example of the power of music, tones, vibrations and the honesty of an artist painting and picture we can all step into and make our own.

For these ears Migration was a journey to complete peace and happiness. Now only if I could hold that feeling 24/7, now wouldn’t that be amazing to reach a level of spiritual attainment like that? This music and other similar recordings could help us all on our way to that level of existence.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 20, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Fly in Beauty
02. Hunt of the Nighthawk
03. Emerging Vision
04. Migration
05. Masked Ibis
06. At First Light
07. Wisdom in the Wing
08. Poet's Awakening
09. Peace Within

New Age World Vocal Review: Juliet Lyons-The Light Within

Release Date: May 10, 2019

Label: Mystic Voyager Music

Website

Juliet Lyons looks like quite the diverse performer based on the discography listed on her website. I did not need to see that to be impressed with her music and vocals. As soon as the first track started, I was spellbound.

The Light Within is a collection of ten tracks with Ms. Lyons’ gorgeous vocalizations accompanying all the music, which ranges from New Age and Meditation to World and a mixture of all three. The combinations are very effective and soothing and her angelic voice leads the way as the various instruments are introduced throughout each track.

The songs come as advertised on the album cover songs for Yoga, Healing and Inner Peace. Juliet wrote all the songs and performed on the Native Flute and Piano. Ricky Kej contributed keyboards and programming on the opening track “Lokah Samastah” and Ron Korb made a guest appearance on the recording as well, playing flute on “Eternal Now.” Both of those tracks are excellent. The opening track is fantastic, full of positive energy and light. It serves as the perfect introduction to a very consistent listen. “Eternal Now” is also exceptional, I found it inspiring and uplifting.

Juliet has a very flexible vocal style that could probably fit into any genre actually. The music is quite amazing throughout the run of this album, in fact it serves as the perfect complement to that gifted voice from the heavens that you will learn to love very quickly. You just can’t have one without the other, its kismet, a marriage of sound and voice that will give you happiness deep within your soul.

Let The Light Within shine brightly with a little help from the recordings of Juliet Lyons. I found it a natural course of events listening to this music and all the wonderful feelings and peace I felt. Music is a powerful tool, and it’s refreshing to see it being used in such a positive manner. The tools and gifts of god were put in good hands when Juliet Lyons found her path. Once you hear this music you will be thankful as well.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 13, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Lokah Samastah (ft. Rupesh Menon)
02. Om Shanti
03. Flow
04. Calm
05. Dawning Equilibrium (instrumental)
06. Stillness (ft. Judy Kang)
07. Eternal Now (ft. Ron Korb)
08. Heal You
09. The Light Within (ft. Judy Kang)(instrumental)
10. Shine

Instrumental New Age Review: Robert Linton-Adrift in Wonder

Release Date: April 5, 2019

Label: October Moon Records

Website

My introduction to Robert Linton’s acoustic guitar music was three years ago on Beyond The Clearing. Adrift In Wonder is the newest offering from the talented guitarist.

The recording was mixed and mastered by Corin Nelsen of SycroSonic Productions. If you are familiar with the new age genre you will recognize some of the people that contributed to Adrift In Wonder and come to an understanding of why it is such a pleasing listen.

The violin (Sara Milonovich), English Horn (Jill Haley), Cello (Eugene Friesen), Electronic Wind Instrument and Alto Flute (Premik Russell Tubbs) add an exceptional layer of sounds to Robert’s acoustic six-string journeys.

The collaborative spirit they have in the new age culture is very effective for all involved. These are busy musicians contributing to so many of the releases that come out, with responsibilities of their own recordings as well. It is an “everyone gets a slice of the pie” mentality that anyone in a business should be taking a good look at.

Listening to this music really does have the Adrift In Wonder effect on you. It is the perfect music for simple relaxation or meditation. Robert’s approach is consistent and he sustains the warmth of his guitar throughout the recording, which I naturally appreciated. I work in a highly stressful day job and this music takes the edge off and sets my soul at ease, and gives me a renewed sense of hope and strength I cannot find anywhere else.

The importance of music to our world goes beyond words and music without the words most certainly can say a lot and have an impact. It is artists like Robert Linton taking one instrument then bringing in other equally talented artists that know how to present their music. This is a spiritual path for the artist creating the music and very special listening experience for his audience.

I really appreciate guitar-based albums and in particular acoustic undertakings that have to work harder to get your attention. Adrift In Wonder opens a pathway to a “Gentle Descent” as you are “Weaving Through the Waves” of sound and beauty presented. I highly recommend this album to those seeking tranquility and regeneration of energy and spirit. Synchronicity with the music can be accomplished quite quickly, all you have to do is pay attention to what you are hearing.

A+ musicianship and production set Robert Linton apart from those aspirant folks looking to complete the same experience with the gratifying results that all listeners and he will surely enjoy.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 10, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
1. Gliding the Current
Robert Linton(Guitar), Sara Milonovich (Violin), Jill Haley(English Horn)

2. Weaving Through the Waves
Robert Linton(Guitar), Premik Russell Tubbs(EWI.. (Electronic Wind Instrument)

3. Traces of Reflection
Robert Linton(Guitar), Eugene Friesen(Cello)

4. Gentle Descent
Robert Linton(Guitar), Sara Milonovich(Violin)

5. Sifting Through Daydreams
Robert Linton(Guitar), Premik Russell Tubbs( Alto Flute), (EWI.. (Electronic Wind Instrument)

6. Casting in the Afterglow
Robert Linton(Guitar), Eugene Friesen(Cello), Jill Haley (English Horn)

7. Murmur of Chimes
Robert Linton(Guitar), Premik Russell Tubbs (EWI.. (Electronic Wind Instrument)

8. Adrift in Wonder
Robert Linton(Guitar), Eugene Friesen(Cello)

9. Hovering in the Sun Rays
Robert Linton(Guitar), Sara Milonovich(Violin)

Instrumental Piano Review: Stephen Wallack-Chapters

Release Date: April 1, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

A debut album can make you or break you in many ways. On the other side of that black and white outlook, it can change your entire life path regardless of what direction it takes you, change will prevail. Any way you look at it your music effects each and every individual.

For Stephen Wallack April 1, 2019, was a pivotal moment in his life. He released his first recording Chapters. He looks at his life as a story that has unfolded in different Chapters, and now his music reflects that outlook. Stephen, I can tell you the right person is hearing everything you are saying in your biography and in your music.

The spontaneity of a first listen launches my inspiration to talk about music and with Stephen’s music, it was an easy task, a natural flow of feelings. For this music fan, that is the very process that keeps the blood pumping and my fingers moving to type these words you read. Music keeps me alive 24/7 and at times makes me feel like I have already reached heaven.

For instance, “Cooper’s Song” is about the passing of a friend and you can feel the pain and sadness in the voice of the music. I also got a chill knowing that person’s spirit lives on through Stephen’s music, what a blessing to feel that and really hear the emotion of a song without words. It is indeed a beautiful thing that anyone can experience with the right mindset before you decide to hit “play.” There are many uplifting tracks on this release, however I thought mentioning the pure emotion of “Coppers Song” was a very good example of how powerful this music can be.

A lot of this instrumental piano-based music is thriving as a sub-genre of new age. This is for a good reason; it is very spiritually based music that touches the very soul of the listener. The individuality and on purpose simplicity are the strengths from which each story is composed then played through the fingers of an artist. In this case, it is Stephen Wallack that brings us all to that place we love to go, another dimension, space, feeling, emotion, or whatever you want to call it. This is what changes our view of our surroundings and the people in our lives.

Stephen mentions hearing George Winston’s classic piano instrumental album December when he was 12. I happen to love that album and after hearing it sought out more of the same. So right at the start of listening to Stephen’s music, I felt a connection that helped me to instantly bond to the sounds, vibrations, and colors he offered within the 10 tracks of Chapters.

Let Chapters into your life and write your own story to the music. This is a great tool for clearing the mind and to focus while de-stressing every second of the way.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 8, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Virginia 6:51
02. Oceans 6:29
03. Cooper’s Song 4:46
04. Trains 5:19
05. Dad 5:23
06. Chicago 4:26
07. The Traveler 5:33
08. Wedding Song 4:52
09. Holiday 4:55
10. Archer 5:45

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Christopher James-Grace From Persistence

Release Date: April 5, 2019

Label: Val Gardena Music

Website

I heard The Sad Waltz in 2017 and was very impressed with the talents and musical output of Christopher James. Two years on and my anticipation is mounting to hear the next offering titled Grace From Persistence.

From my perspective, it always helps to know the meaning and messages in the music. It makes my listening experience richer and fuller. Christopher took the title track and gave it some thought. The Native Americans’ belief about the Saguaro cactus came to mind. That album title is a perspective that each of these sacred Saguaros is considered to be a unique individual, surviving on its own despite nature’s extremes. This relates directly to mankind and how resilient we can be as well. It also makes you think about living things like trees and how important they are to our survival.

Christopher set out to continue his explorations into the more complex compositions and that is what he accomplishes on Grace From Persistence. I had to call it contemporary instrumental because of the diverse instruments that accompany the piano of the main artist. I got lost in this music so much that before I realized it, track 7 was playing and it was getting near the end of this musical excursion.

Christopher definitely achieves his own Grace From Persistence by continuing down the path of musical intricacies. Music like this you simply cannot pigeonhole. If the entire album was like “Cul-De-Sac” for instance, then you could classify it as jazz. Which by the way is a big step away from the previous tracks, and it is that kind of change done so well that makes this recording a special and an important contribution in 2019.

I am consistently in awe of musicians that can take one main instrument, like the piano, and build these incredible musical stories. As I always say, music without words presents more of a challenge to convey a mood, atmosphere, ambiance, or message if you will. When I feel the impact of the music strongly like I did with Grace From Persistence it sets the bar higher for the next artist that is attempting to accomplish the same thing with their music.

All of these thoughts point in a positive direction because we need each other for inspiration and to set goals. Your interpretation of this music will be based on your own life situation and overall feelings and thoughts the moment you listen. I think it’s important to keep one thing in mind, and that is to listen to this music at different points in the day to see what it can do for you. It’s a wonderful listening experience that heals and brings joy. The musicianship is beyond reproach and every track will get and keep your attention.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 31, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Awakening
02. Get on with It
03. Mother Russia (Fantasy Based on a Theme from Scriabin)
04. Where's Frederick?
05. Beyond the Stars
06. Grace from Persistence
07. Yes and No
08. Weimar Blues (1929)
09. Cul-De-Sac
10. Neitherworld

New Age Instrumental Review: Timothy Wenzel-Running Away

Release Date: January 25, 2019

Label: Coyote Floe Music LLC

Website

What We Hold Dear is the first time I heard Timothy Wenzel’s music in 2017. What seems like a blink of an eye, 2 years have passed and now Timothy has released Running Away.

I have to say that I was enchanted right from the beginning with the new album. The 12 tracks kept me consistently interested and fascinated. That pretty much says it all for any type of listener I would think.

Running Away is very cinematic and it intends to be. Every track moves along at a good pace and offers a little something different and many times several different changes take place. It is mentioned on the artist site that some folks have said Timothy’s music is good for traveling, it changes so much it can fit the different scenes one sees on a trip. His music is like an ongoing journey and each song is like watching it through your own private looking glass.

I really appreciate the mixture of genres and even though I tag it as new age instrumental, there is so much more. New age is a generic term these days, with so much talent recording in the genre and mixing and creating their own sub-genres, makes it all quite fascinating from where I sit. Timothy does a phenomenal job with a combination of keyboards, synthesizers, compositions, and production. Friends Josie Quick (violin), Jeff Haynes (percussion) and Jill Haley (English horn and oboe) make their mark on the compositions as well. As Timothy lays down the foundation to build the musical castle the others join in to complete the construction, then the drawbridge opens up and all the wonderful sounds come flowing and rushing at your senses, making you feel alive and energized.

I would find it difficult to criticize anything about Running Away. At times it can be spectacular, colorful, relaxing, and down to earth. And then again, all those elements can come into play within one track. It was a great recording with a lot to offer a listener in one sitting. I think this is the kind of music you will reach for more than once, there is just too much going on within each track to get it all in one listen. I am sure it would be a challenge. I know I heard enough that I would highly recommend the recording to anyone interested in any sort of instrumental music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 28, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Dream of Summer 4:11
02. Dancing in Darkness 3:20
03. A Bit About You 4:20
04. Running Away 4:13
05. Makes You Wonder 4:25
06. Traveling Light 3:59
07. Magical Pageant 5:52
08. A Friend of Mine 4:09
09. Breaking Free 5:45
10. Gazelle Dance 4:02
11. Past Presence 4:29
12. Coronal Rain 5:38

New Age Instrumental Review: John Otott-Unspoken

Release Date: March 1, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

Colors was my introduction to John Otott in 2014. So, 4 plus years have flown by since I had the pleasure of hearing the rhythm of this man’s soul via the ivory keys. Now we have Unspoken.

Sometimes words are not necessary and, in this case, it definitely applies to the music of John Otott. Unspoken is a collection of nine tracks that were recorded at Will Ackerman’s Imaginary Road Studios. You know if that happens you get an all-star cast contributing to your album.

The piano is the core instrument that drives the music and all the other instruments add a certain tasteful ambiance. The violin can be a prolific piece when added to the piano. “Meraki” is a great example of that marriage and how wonderful it can be. It is quite simply, sublime.

My favorite track is “Unbreakable.” The mixture of John’s piano, the violin, fluegelhorn, trumpet, bass, and percussion simmers then an overflow with magic and pure musical emotion engages you further. Who needs vocals when instrumental music can be so prolific and moving? Not an artist as talented as John and his accompaniment that is for certain.

For my ears, the mark of a great recording is how fast it goes by while I am enjoying every second. In the end, I am disappointed that it had to stop. That is a good sign as far as I am concerned, and it means I will be spinning it again real soon.

Unspoken is an excellent recording that creates a wall of sound that will grace your body, mind, and soul. The compositions are strong a quite diverse making this a very attention-getting listen. It will help you to relax, smile inside and then the weight of your world will just melt away. That is the perfect scenario for any hard-working man or woman at the end of the day, it is the Unspoken that says it all.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 15, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
1. A Beautiful Night
2. Sunrise In Avalon
3. The Dance
4. Pieces of Eight
5. Soliloquy
6. Unbreakable
7. Emerald Bay
8. As Now, As Then
9. Meraki

New Age World Review: Larisa Stow & Shakti Tribe-There Is A Light That Will Remain

Release Date: March 12, 2019

Label: Prema Shakti Music

Website

This is my introduction to Larisa Stow & Shakti Tribe. After a seven-year wait, we have There Is A Light That Will Remain. I am not familiar with the back catalog of this artist but judging from this album, it is likely I would enjoy exploring it.

This may be one of the few new age albums I have ever heard that rocks. It is very rare but it does happen on occasion. It is not an album for rockers though, the term in this light has an entirely different meaning. Let me say it is unique and nothing like I have ever heard before. When you listen to “Maha Mantra” you will come to understand what I am trying to say.

Larisa Stow has a very powerful voice, one that would be well suited for a rock band actually. But I do not want to misguide all the readers, this is definitely a new age world recording that is very spiritual and uplifting. It is actually what I love about music and a recording in the new age genre. There is an entire list of all the positives I could go through.

There are many tracks that stood out. “Aham Prema” is a highly energetic and colorful track that typifies what you will hear on this album. The track that just lifted me right out my chair was “There Is A Field,” which is the poetry of Rumi. It is like hearing all the best of the new age, world and rock weaved into one track.

I know it is early in the year but There Is A Light That Will Remain is one of the most exciting releases I have heard this year and honestly, do not expect to hear anything like it again. It is that unique and exceptional. A recording like this I would hesitate to put into any category per se, it is like they create their own genre, which is quite impressive.

Fair warning, you will have waves of complete joy and satisfaction while listening to There Is A Light That Will Remain. Not only will the light remain, but the music will also leave an indelible mark upon your soul. I do think that is the intention of the artist, it is about being whole, spiritual and evolving into the being you were meant to be. We all cannot do that without being true to ourselves, pure and spiritual in our hearts. This music is a guiding tool to help you get there or enhance where you are or where you are going. If that makes any sense to those of you on any kind of spiritual journey, then great, I have made my point.

I can imagine there are several tracks that would be a great kick off songs on playlists and radios shows around the world. If you have a beating heart and a soul you will love There Is A Light That Will Remain.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 5, 2019

Founder of:

TheFinalonVinyl

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Ong Namo Guru Dev
02. Aham Prema
03. Broken Temple
04. There Is A Field
05. Interlude: Longing For Light
06. Adonai
07. Jeanie’s Song (I Am Everything)
08. Maha Mantra
09. Waves Of Yemaya
10. Soliloquy Of R.H.

Acoustic Instrumental Guitar Review: Shambhu-Lilac Skies

Release Date: April 12, 2019

Label: Acoustic Shine

Website

Shambhu is a word that has many different meanings. In this case, we have to lean towards the spiritual essence of things. This Shambhu is a musician that creates some incredibly good music.

On April 12, 2019, he will release Lilac Skies. The title also holds meaning for the artist, which is infinite love. One look at the cover and you can feel the warmth, beauty, and the lovely smell of that flower when it blooms. It actually has always been one of my favorites, especially the purple ones!

You can call this music new age if you like but for me, it is much too eclectic to put it into just one category. Lilac Skies is acoustic six-string bliss and much more. All the music was composed, arranged and produced by Shambhu. This is a credit to his multitude of talents. And the final touch, mastered by Tom Eaton at Imaginary Road Studios. That is the icing on the proverbial new age cake.

You will hear new age, yes, but also some jazz and blues. “Open Your Heart Sky” was one of my favorites. It has many different elements and instruments intersecting to give it that “Quiet Storm” jazz vibe. “Inspired by The Night” has a similar feel to it with a great backbeat and rhythm and some nice electric guitar lines followed by a beautiful keyboard section, then if that wasn’t enough some excellent bass (think Jaco). The total run is 7:35 of excellence and every second is used with purpose. I think that is one crossover jazz track they will be streaming everywhere.

Honestly, I loved this entire recording. Lilac Skies offered everything I enjoy in one nice package, seriously good musicianship, some cool jazz, blues, and just enough new age for a kick back and relaxing time, with a definitive groove though. So, get ready for a special treat when you spin this one, it was a complete joy to listen to and it will be again

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 28, 2019

Founder of:

TheFinalonVinyl

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Lilac Skies
02. Unspoken Words
03. Blue Whispers
04. Dochas
05. Pondering When
06. Open Your Heart Sky
07. Dream Walk
08. Basis of It All
09. Inspired by the Night
10. Seeing You Again

New Age-World Review: Grayhawk-Voice of the Ancestors

Release Date: February 1, 2019

Label: Deep Space Music

Website

Grayhawk (David Gibney) recently released Voice of the Ancestors, the third and final album in a Shamanic Trilogy.

He is a man that has been healing from the tragedy of losing his toddler son. He has transitioned from that pain and loss and transformed his life with more purpose to help those that have special needs. Also created is a foundation in honor of his son to help those with neuroblastoma, a catastrophic pediatric cancer of the sympathetic nervous system that took his life.

Obviously, his music holds many meanings but the primary goal is to ascend to a higher place, heal the soul, and in essence become reborn with new life and purpose.

Voice of the Ancestors features the usual lineup of stars from the New Age genre that find their way on to most of the releases I have the honor of hearing. Grayhawk plays the synthesizers as a base instrument then there is so much more that contributes to the overall sound and textures of this release. To say it is World music is correct but with a New Age concept and approach. The ancients held many traditions and ceremonies all over the world. What this recording captures is the very spirit and color of that diversity and beauty.

There are native flutes, worldbeat percussions, viola, ambient guitar lines, and gorgeous vocalizations, particularly on “Peace Prayer.” The track runs over 10 minutes and takes 160 tracks of invocation of English, Hebrew, Farsi, and Arabic. There is also the shorter version, a little over 5 minutes for the internet streaming stations to play. Honestly, I have heard similar tracks but nothing like this before. The blend of all the languages balances with the English word, which is still heard so you can listen to the translations at the same time, amazing. This is the kind of track that deserves worldwide attention and should be heard on every inch of the globe.

Grayhawk has created a work of genius that encompasses music, words and a powerful spiritual message. This is a brilliant example of a man taking his personal tragedy and using it to give back to the universe his love and healing. I can hear this playing in the background of a cinematic tribute to the different peoples of the world and how they worship and provide music for their people.

Voice of the Ancestors is an incredible gift for all to enjoy. Listen closely, you may hear the whispers of your own ancestors in this music.

February 8, 2019

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
1. Transcendent Soul 3:12
2. The Banteay Srei Temple 4:57
3. Guardians of Goddess Thien Hau 6:08
4. Voice of the Ancestors 8:40
5. Peace Prayer A’ Cappella 1:50
6. Peace Prayer 10:11
7. Ambient Meditation 8:08
8. Peace Prayer (short version) 5:06

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