New Age Music Reviews: New Age Instrumental Reviews

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New Age Instrumental Review: Michael Stribling-One World

Release Date: September 20, 2019

Label: Leela Music

Michael Stribling sent me his last album almost two years ago. I was fortunate to have the pleasure of covering Union-Music For Lovers.

Now with the arrival of One World, I get another opportunity to explore his diversity and explorations of world and new age music.

I was a bit in awe of the talent this man has at his command. I was looking for this long list of credits and what I saw was all tunes, tracks, and tinkering by Michael Stribling. I certainly did not expect to see that when I heard the first and title track as it filled the room and enter my consciousness.

Tom Eaton did the final master of this recording and as with so many others, he did an excellent job. And so, it is, as many that have traveled that road before him, Michael made the right choices. Because of that series of events and choices he has created an absolute masterpiece of eclectic world new age music.

The lead-off track “One World” is one such track that is the perfect introduction and pacesetter for what will follow. There is something mystical and alluring with the wind chimes these artists use in their music, and that was one of the finishing touches for that track.

The one thing you can count on with One World is an amazing cross-section of music utilizing traditional world music instruments and the new technology for the finishing touches, so everything comes through crystal clear and the kind of gentle and impactive persuasion that you would expect from a recording like this.

The lighthearted “African Marketplace” puts you right there walking down the street and visiting with all the vendors. I imagine it is quite different than what you would witness in the U.S. I would expect the goods being offered would be interesting as well. I have a feeling Michael is speaking from his own special experience. If not, he sure knows how to paint a picture with his music. It gave me a sense of being there. That is what any recording artist would want his or her audience to experience while listening to music. So, from my perspective, it was mission accomplished!

Michael takes you to a “Shaolin Garden” then to an “Aboriginal Campfire” and then back to the rat race with “Marching Through Manhattan” (although that term may be out of context when it comes to this music). The point is that you become an instant world traveler through the music and colors brought forth on every track of One World.

The whole point is that we are One World, one community, one people, and that is not only obvious with the track titles, but the music also speaks for itself. This is all done very with a very impressive recording with a panoramic view of the world that is conveyed through one man’s music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 12, 2019

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Tracks:
01. One World
02. A Gathering of the Elders
03. Shaolin Garden
04. Aboriginal Campfire
05. Buddhist Nursery
06. Barcelona Nights
07. Persian Night Caravan
08. African Marketplace
09. Asian Dawn Maneuvers
10. Marching through Manhattan
11. Across the Moor
12. Black Forest Cuckoo Shop
13. Gaia Weep
14. One Planet, One People
15. Benediction (Prayer for World Peace)

Instrumental Piano/New Age Review: Michael Whalen-Cupid Blindfolded

Release Date: July 12, 2019

Label: Real Music

Website

There is nothing better than an instrumental piano recording when you need to relax. I hear a lot of this music all year long and never tire of it because of the multitude of value it provides. It can offer total relaxation during a quiet time you have every day or evening, or provide beneficial focus and help you clear a cluttered mind, or simply invite you into a meditative state.

My introduction to Michael’s music was the 2018 release Kiss The Quiet. I thought that was an ingenious title for the recording and it fit the music like well-worn jeans. I think we have the same instance with the newest edition to his catalog, Cupid Blindfolded.

An artist like Michael Whalen is at the forefront of the Instrumental New Age/Piano genre. You have to be on top of your game to compete with similar artists and capture the imagination of the listeners.

For me, the first thing I take a good look at is the album cover. With the title being Cupid Blindfolded, that is the first thing you see. It is nothing that makes you think too hard or plays tricks on your eyes. Sometimes that is appropriate and is just right for the music, in this case, that is a perfect match.

Cupid may be blindfolded but if she opens her eyes, she can see through the thin red veil that is wrapped around her head. That is a clue as far as I am concerned. People, in general, may have a “veil” of some sort over their eyes but all it takes is for them to open their eyes to see right through it, right? This is a conceptual frame of mind I am coming from. Music and images tell a story and I have found that if there are no words set to the music, it can still relay a powerful message. As I always say, it is up to each listener to decide what the music means to them or could mean to them at first glance of the image.

Cupid Blindfolded is 10 tracks of exceptional solo instrumental piano music. The album has a steady flow to it, like a river after it rains, it moves right along with that sort of momentum. Each melody intrinsically connects to the next one, like mother nature at work in a musical sense of the word.

Talented ivory ticklers like Michael Whalen should have ample opportunities to license their music for a multitude of areas including soundtracks for commercials, documentaries, etc. I do want to stress that this music is first and foremost for a listener to enjoy any time of day or evening, and course the previously mentioned uses it can afford.

Cupid Blindfolded is an excellent group of tracks and it went by much too fast for me. When an album is really good and it catches my ear, it has a strong meaning for me personally. And that is the way it works and that’s a good thing!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 5, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Cupid Blindfolded
02. All of My Heart All of My Soul
03. Reflection of My Affection
04. Sunrise in the Desert
05. The Muse06. At the Touch of a Lover
07. Standing in the Rain
08. Serendipity
09. Isle of Skye
10. City of Lights

New Age Instrumental Review: Kathryn Kaye-Solace of Mountains and Clouds

Release Date: June 1, 2019

Label: Indie

Website

Solace of Mountains and Clouds is the fifth release I am covering by the exquisite piano player Kathryn Kaye. It was like visiting an old friend when I gave this new recording my first listen. I received everything I have come to expect from an album created by this exceptional artist, top-notch musicianship, production, and sound.

If those three factors are in place consistently on your recordings there is a very good chance you will garner the praise you deserve and all the respect from your peers in the industry. You can tick off all the boxes in that category for Kathryn as well.

Solace of Mountains and Clouds is a direct reflection of the surroundings of the artist where she lives and creates all of her compositions. The inspiration of mother nature can be found in many different segments of the artistic communities. I must say after several years of listening to instrumental piano and new age music, that the images and music presented most definitely go hand in hand. The production elements are superb thanks to the Imaginary Road Studios and the fine stable of artists that contribute to this and many other recordings. The partnerships created are absolute bliss, with Kathryn’s recording being no exception.

A few of my favorites are “Slow Waltz at Summer's End” and “While The Mountain Sleeps.” The track titles are as moving as the music. The images created by the titles and music are all at once prolific, calming, spiritual and rhythmic. There is an innate sense of musicality and tones emanating from those talented fingers that touch the ivory keys.

Solace of Mountains and Clouds is the soul of nature mirrored in the music and the colors, atmospheres, and vibrations of this wonderful music. It starts by touching all of your senses then it finds a way to your heart and soul. Any good instrumental music holds that magic but to do it so well and for so long is an incredible achievement and a gift to all that have the pleasure of hearing it.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June 2, 2019

Founder of:

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Tracks:
01. Luna's Dream 3:57
02. For Love of Earth and Sky 5:12
03. We'll Be Home Tomorrow 4:13
04. Slow Waltz at Summer's End 4:24
05. Solace of Mountains and Clouds 6:06
06. Mountains Touching Sky 4:10
07. Finally Spring 5:16
08. Warm Sun, Gentle Rain 4:00
09. While the Mountain Sleeps 4:27
10. Stories Told by Trees 4:55

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

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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 Instrumental-Chamber: Nathan Speir-Searching for Nepsis

Release Date: February 1, 2019

Label: Neptic Music

Website

Nathan Speir is a working man’s artist. He works during the day as an Electrician and makes music when he is not on that job. I personally can relate to that as I have been in the same type of lifestyle for over twenty years now. It is a choice and one that I have found to reap many benefits that I would otherwise never had.

I am talking about the music of course. So, besides the respect I have for indie artists, I can appreciate the whole picture. In other words, I get it. I understand how difficult it is to get balance with two livelihoods and also pay attention to your loved ones.

Nathan has a lot of music out there and Searching for Nepsis will be released in less than a month. The information I received put the entire project in proper perspective: Searching for Nepsis is an acoustic-electric album of ambient chamber music filled with cellos, violin, piano, singing bowls, electric bass, acoustic guitar, some synthesizers, a duduk, and cajon.

The music is considered to be new age chamber. So, you definitely will hear the strong classical influence that is made up of many small instruments accompanied by the piano. I would not hesitate to add world to the overall genre of this recording, considering the array instruments like singing bowls, duduk, and cajon.

There is a steady drone that is created by the cello on this album in many of the tracks. I think that was brilliantly executed throughout. I actually thought it may be the duduk (which is on one track), which is an ancient double-reed woodwind instrument made of apricot wood. It reminded me of a recent album I heard that had Indian music. The drone sound is a point of concentration, like when you meditate, however you are able to hear all the other instrumentation.

If you enjoy a lot of different instrumentation and some beautiful piano that leads the way then Searching for Nepsis will be a very satisfying listen. “Song Cycle for Creators” is a wonderful example of Nathan’s artistry. It is flourishing with emotions, colors and the grace of the heavens. It comes together in one track like the movement of the planets around the sun, it is a meeting of time and space with a specific reason.

Nepsis is the art of being watchful, and that can come in many forms. As with any frame of reference, it all depends on you, the one listening to this music. As always, each individual has their own interpretation of what they hear, the artist that presents the music does have a goal in mind. I would think the main function of this relaxing and contemplative set of tracks would be for you to focus, relax, center yourself and find peace within This can be a significant space in time that pertains to the title of the recording.

Nathan Speir is an incredibly talented individual that creates amazing music for hungry souls to ingest and assimilate. For this listener, the end result is always positive and energizing. Get your ticket now for the journey.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

January 5, 2019

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
1. As the Sun Set
2. Into the Night
3. Forest Lights
4. Warming Up the Heart
5. Searching for Nepsis
6. Stars Float in Shadows of Glory
7. Song Cycle for Creators
8. Morning Twilight

New Age Instrumental-World Review: Peter Sterling- Magic Kingdom

Release Date: October 1, 2018

Label: Harp Magic Music

Website

It has been two years since I covered Peter Sterling’s superb Sacred Visions. I am more than ready to go on another magical musical journey, on to the Magic Kingdom. Or as I like to refer to it as “Peter Magic.”

Magic Kingdom is the following musicians: Peter playing keyboards, harp, recorder, Freenote chime, Peruvian wooden flute, and percussion. Richard Hardy is on Irish Pennywhistle and Soprano Sax and Anthony Mazzella on Guitar. The album was recorded in Sedona from 2017-2018.

I have concluded after several years of listening to various incarnations and fusions of new age music that the combination of world and new age is the most interesting and colorful listen I could hope for. It is always different and just about any instrument can serve as the lead if the mix is right. Peter’s main instrument is the heavenly harp. It is so precise and delicate, and it easily mixes with the other music and sounds provided on Magic Kingdom.

Peter defines the term indie musician and the do it yourself attitude that is so strong amongst the folks that make up that culture and work ethic. It takes tremendous dedication, commitment and talent to produce a recording such as Magic Kingdom.

The blend of instruments is simply sublime and the few tracks where you hear some vocals it is impressive as well. The vocals are an instrument as far as I am concerned and it is quite evident when listening to the tracks that provide that. The closer and title track “Magic Kingdom” and “Tomorrow’s Child” are two fine examples of world-instrumental new age with just enough vocal styles to make it a meditative piece that you want to hear more than once. “Over the Bridge” features a sweet child’s voice, contributing to the purity and innocence of this listening experience.

“Everlasting Love” starts off with Peter’s harp inviting the rest of the instruments into the mix then a jazzy tone comes alive with some soprano sax. I love that combination absolutely, it always works for me. I do love jazz so that makes the transition that much more delightful for my ears.

So, in the end, what I got to enjoy was another musical stew brought to a simmer by many talented artists. Make sure you listen to Magic Kingdom and let it bring you joy and good vibrations, it is there waiting for you now.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

October 5, 2018

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New Age Instrumental Review: Alan Matthews-The Ineffable

Release Date: October 9, 2017

Label: Independent

Website

Ineffable is a word that means too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words. In my world I have not heard it used, in fact, this is the first time I have ever heard of this word. I am not ashamed to admit it and I always have an open door to learning every day.

This is the name that describes the music of musician Alan Matthews, whose first release came out last October, The Ineffable. I have to say, after reading his bio, that he is one of the more interesting and complex characters I have had the pleasure to cover in a music review.

As Will Ackerman so astutely makes us aware of in the CD liner notes, “Alan Matthews lives in a very cerebral world as a physician.” His transformation as a musician enters him into an entirely different realm.

It is important to note that Alan was influenced by his father who was also a doctor and jazz enthusiast and a player as well. As I have always said, you are a product of your environment. And lucky for us that he was influenced by his father as now we can enjoy his inspired and beautiful music all interpreted from the ivory keys. I acknowledge him for having the ability to separate himself from his daily work and stepping into a completely different world and fitting in so nicely.

So, we have music that is so powerful and meaningful to this man that it cannot be described in words. I can appreciate a thought like that and with all sincerity, can think of feeling that way many times throughout my life.

Alan Matthews plays his instrument with great skill and rhythm. I always find it amazing how an individual can have a feeling or thought process, play out a tune then name it, and sometimes very appropriately. I think that in and of itself is a tremendous gift to have along with being able to present music with form and substance without uttering a word.

The Ineffable is an incredibly successful and impactful debut for an artist that has now made himself available on a world level. I am certain that this is just the beginning of many amazing recordings that Alan Matthews is going to produce in the coming years. Right out of the gate he has a great start with this release. The bar is now set high but I have a feeling that will not phase him and he will just get behind the piano and let it go and let it flow, just like he did on the eleven tracks on this album.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

August 22, 2018

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Moiras Song
02. No Words Remain
03. The Resigned
04. The Conversation
05. The Second Goodbye
06. Strange to Me
07. Wistful
08. The Empty House
09. What She Knows
10. You Don’t Know What Day It Is
11. Moiras Song Reprise

New Age Instrumental Review: Peter Calandra-Carpe Noctem

Release Date: August 3, 2018

Label: Pecamusic

Website

Peter Calandra has been one of the more productive artists for several years. It seems like I finish one review than in a short span of time I am writing another one for him. That works for me as I believe he has been one of the most creative and eclectic artisans I have had the pleasure to work with.

I went into this listen of Carpe Noctem (translation Seize the Night) with a lot of anticipation based on the input Peter provided prior to my first experience listening to the recording.

Peter informed me of the following: Carpe Noctem is an album of ambient-sacred-orchestral music. When I was in undergrad school singing in the choir, we performed quite a bit of sacred music with the text in Latin. Music by Mozart, Bach, Beethoven etc. It was always inspirational to learn and perform this music and it's always been in my mind to write and record orchestral music with the choir.

This is some of the most moving music I have heard this year in the new age genre and or sub-genres. Peter is the composer and author of all the orchestrations, digital sequencing, synthesizer and the cover artwork. I think it is safe to say that he is a multi-talented artist that brings a lot to the table regarding entertainment value.

What made this Carpe Noctem so special was not only the privilege of hearing it before so many listeners, it was the added bonus of all the Latin interpretations of each track. The cover art is another addition that makes this a complete experience of art, culture, and music. For my tastes that is the ultimate trifecta that makes any listen like a freshly brewed cup of aromatic coffee topped off with creamer and a spot of sugar. If you are a coffee drinker you will be able to relate better to that statement.

Carpe Noctem you could say is religious or spiritual experience, whatever fits your comfort zone or terminologies. Personally, I felt it was both, it negated any voids of my day with exceptional grace and beauty. Peter’s exceptional talents allow him to touch your soul significantly, with a brilliant use of the tools he brings to bear in each track. The use of synthesizers, orchestrations, and a choir creates a gorgeous and powerful combination that will embrace you in so many ways.

From the opening of “Agnus Dei (Lamb Of God)” to the closing “Spiritus Mundi (World Spirit),” Peter takes you the listener, to a heavenly level of existence that transcends daily life. For this listener, that is all I could ask for is a transitory experience that is pleasant and memorable.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 23, 2018

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New Age Music Reviews

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Tracks:
01. Agnus Dei (Lamb Of God)
02. Carpe Noctem (Seize The Night)
03. Aurora Scanderé (Dawn Rising)
04. Crucifixus (Crucfixion)
05. Ars Vitae (Art Is Life)
06. Illuminare (Illumination)
07. Invictus Bellator (Unconquered Warrior)
08. Mane Pacificae (Peaceful Morning)
09. Luna Benedictus (Moon Prayer)
10. Sacrum Spera (Sacred Trust)
11. Spiritus Mundi (World Spirit)

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