Contemporary Instrumental (Solo Piano/Classical-New Age) Review & Interview: Soul Improvisations-From the Depths

Release Date:  August 24, 2025

Label: Mystics Music

Website

This woman is quite a story! She is Devorah, a composer and pianist; however, her album, From the Depths, is released under Soul Improvisations. The title From the Depths reflects the depth of her personal journey, from the depths of her medical condition to the depths of her soul, which she poured into this album.

 

Devorah is not just a talented pianist and composer, but also an athlete, lawyer, and single mother of three. Her journey is one of resilience and determination. In 2023, after seventeen years as a lawyer, she stepped down due to her declining health. Over the next two years, she underwent five surgeries, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Focusing on her childhood love of the piano and composing, she found a new way to express herself. The artist’s website provides this information, and it’s a testament to her strength and perseverance.

 

This contemporary instrumental solo piano music has a solid classical framework as a springboard for the many improvisations you will hear, and no track is under 5 minutes.

 

A listener needs to keep in mind that the length of the tracks is for a reason. This is a person pouring their heart out in their music. The expressions of a lifetime are built into these tracks. It’s a journey filled with hope, faith, and belief that whatever can happen to you in your time here on the planet, you can live a whole life and overcome any obstacles.

 

“Keep Hope” sounds like the appropriate title to begin an album about all the trials by fire a person can go through. The hope is what keeps a person resilient and able to get to the other side. The flow and essence of the composition convey a sense of hope with a steady tempo, variations, and transitions that are bright and beautiful.

 

The opening track is always so important. It lays down the foundation for the musical story being told. In this case, through the keys of the piano. There is so much to be said through a piano. I have often referred to it as the built-in orchestra. Its versatility and ability to partner with other instruments are unmatched, and alone, it creates a symphony of sound unlike any other instrument. If the music is presented in the form of contemporary instrumental, as it is here, the results can be stunning and prolific. And that is how I would explain the opening track, which runs for 11:26, but not the lengthiest track yet. Everything I love about instrumental solo piano music is found in this one track.

 

I loved the second track title “Be Still in Divine Power.” This title is inspired by a phrase that the artist found particularly comforting during her recovery period. That sentence holds a lot of meaning, and I am certain this artist lived it, can discuss it, and expresses it through her music. She does exactly that, and quite beautifully, may I add. The flow is so consistent and stays with the atmosphere and moods of the first track.

 

So, by now, as the listener, you have settled in, have an understanding of who this person is, and how expertly she can bring forth all the emotion, love, and experiences that are in her heart and soul.

 

The sense of melodicism, rhythm, and tone that Soul Improvisations produces from her piano is exceptional. Three tracks in, and that is more than evident; it is the essence of her style, approach, and synchronicity with the piano keys through her soul that creates these gorgeous compositions.

 

What I found interesting is that, knowing all the hardships that this individual has gone through, I have not heard any sadness in the music. What I am hearing is upbeat and bright with the promise of a new day. We all need to hear that in the music we listen to. Indeed, that is one of the anchors of this presentation. This is literally From the Depths of a woman’s very soul, consciousness, and I believe inspired from not of this earth. She taps into something spiritual, filled with light.

 

As I move through these compositions, another quintessential element is the relaxing and renewing core from which this all originates. One cannot persevere, have faith, and hope without positively directing energy. Once again, I hear that all over this music, and it gives the listener that opportunity to do so. The healing powers of this artist came through with conviction in every track; she IS Soul Improvisations.

 

The second group of tracks begins with “Waking Up to Wonders, Modeh Ani,” which starts with an adaptation of “You Are My Sunshine,” then takes an entirely different direction and melody, and ultimately comes full circle.

 

"Modeh ani" (Hebrew: מוֹדֶה אֲנִי) is a short Jewish prayer recited upon waking in the morning, expressing gratitude to God for the return of the soul and the gift of a new day—a most beautiful musical prayer set to the keys and all their infinite expressiveness.

 

“Spring Rebirth” lasts an impressive 14:07. That is quite a lengthy duration for a solo piano piece. Anyone who can accomplish that and has the confidence to do so must be acknowledged with respect. The title is significant in this story, as the artist allows us, at this point in her journey, to see that all the hardships have been set aside, and in their place is her renewed spirit; life itself has changed, and the rebirth has begun. This is the magnum opus of this recording and the most important one for so many reasons.

 

I have said a lot, but then never enough to relate all the emotions and life experiences woven into this magnificent music. Besides the experiential aspects of life, I believe the artist healed again through the creation of this music. If you are a listener and need healing, this music will allow you to go down that path to a new beginning, just like Soul Improvisations did.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

September 16, 2025

Tracks:

CD 1:

1, Keep Hope (11.26)

2. Be Still in Divine Power (5:01)

3. Just a Little Light (6:49)

4. Love from the Heights (5:56)

5. In Quietness and Confidence (6:31)

CD 2:

6. Waking Up to Wonders, Modeh Ani (8:07)

7. Spring Rebirth (14:07)

8. Variations in Loving Memory (8:40)

9. Reflections on 39 Years (8:30)

10. The Liberation (7:58)

Total Time: 1 hr. 21 min.

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review and Interview: David Franklin-Music for Ketamine

Release Date:  June 20, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Music for Ketamine is a collection of 13 songs, soundscapes, and a complete sonic journey designed for therapeutic ketamine sessions. Each track, with its unique blend of instruments and sounds, is a testament to the therapeutic potential of music. Created by David Franklin, this album is a memorable auditory trip that offers hope and healing to its listeners.

 

So, what is Ketamine? Ketamine is a medication that comes from a chemical called cyclohexanone. It's mainly used as an anesthetic to make people unconscious during surgeries, but it also has effects that can help with depression and pain relief. Ketamine can create feelings of hallucination, which means it can alter a person's perception of reality. There are two forms of Ketamine, known as S-ketamine and R-ketamine, and both can help treat depression in ways that go beyond just blocking a specific receptor in the brain. Essentially, it’s a versatile drug that can help with different medical issues, including anesthesia and mood disorders.

 

Armed with this knowledge, listening to Music for Ketamine should be enjoyable and self-healing, making it a compelling choice for those seeking therapeutic music.

 

“When Silence Learns to Speak” starts the journey and is the longest track, at 6:12. The piano begins methodically and softly before adding other elements that make up the track. The track sets up the potential listener with a soft bed of sound to fall into a completely relaxed state of consciousness.

 

“Mycelium Highway” is an interesting track title. Knowing what mycelium is will help. Mycelium is a root-like structure of a fungus consisting of a mass of branching, thread-like hyphae. It is the root system of the fungi. Its standard form is branched, slender, entangled, anastomosing, hyaline threads.

 

The track begins with chanting and a slow tempo that builds into a cool groove. Some constant percussion and synth sounds change the entire fabric of the track. It is an ambient meditative music that reminded me of artists like Tangerine Dream or Vangelis. Those comparisons should create enough curiosity to get you to listen.

 

“Everything and Nothing” immediately creates some thoughts—opposites in meaning, yet living in the same universe. Some people have everything and then lose everything; some start with nothing and then have everything. It depends on your own beliefs about what is essential in life. The track has a constant drone-like sound, however pleasant, to focus on, and then birds chirping are added. That combination is hypnotic; if that is the goal, it was accomplished. Swirling sounds like wind and water moving through the synths give it a spacey feel.

 

“Figure Painting” is finger painting taken to another level? Possibly, I suppose. Words can have dual meanings, and it just hit me as a take on finger painting. The piano sounds serious and focused, like an artist creating a painting on a blank canvas. The bass part is played with one hand as the other picks out the delicate patterns (figures) and rhythms (painting) that unite the song. You visualize this in the composition as the piano keys or the imaginary paintbrush create all the music.

 

“Sylver’s Theme” begins with a guitar and flute sound, completely departing from the previous tracks. Its beauty and ambiance immediately strike you. As one of the shorter tracks, it must make that kind of impact and hold you until it closes out. Then it does with the birds chirping, a nice touch.

 

“Carry Wood, Chop Water” segues from the previous track with the birds chirping. This eclectic music continues with the sound of a hand drum and bell tinkling. The inference of the track title is that simplicity and movement equal spirituality and connection. Piano shifts in and out and resonates with the other elements as it builds into a fuller sound. As it nears the end, the percussion strengthens, fades, the piano takes over, and the curtain closes.

 

Ironically, “The Longest Night” is one of the shorter tracks. The sounds differ significantly from what you heard previously, keeping you focused and expecting change. The synths weave in and out, echoing emotion and thoughts. Even though it is night, it is like watching a billowing cloud move across a clear blue sky, then suddenly ending. There is light in the darkness; you need to find it.

 

“FireCat” reaches back to the more synth-driven spacey sounds. The sounds created are like hundreds of crickets together, as the layers of synths provide the vehicle for them to carry their sounds further. Another track with over six minutes of music opens the door to many things. Then you hear frogs. The sounds of nature make that organic connection for you, keeping it real. A clock ticking sound brings us to the end.

 

“Silver Spirit Dancers” begins with a tribal rhythm on percussion and the flute. It calls out to you in a mesmerizing way. The spirit of the music brings out the dancers as they elegantly go in circles around the ceremonial fire. This is another shorter but impactful track.

 

“The Foggiest Idea” is the longest track at 6:30, giving ample space and time for layers of sounds to unfold. As the synth builds, so does the tempo, and there is the sound of a howling wolf. That is what I envisioned and was my first thought when I heard it. Maybe that was my own foggiest idea. The synths create a whooshing, calming sound. Many different sounds and textures populate this track. A significant change happens nearing the end as the electronic synth sounds start with chanting and percussion finish it.

 

I never expected a track named “Finger Painting.” I did not look at the track titles before listening, so it was a pleasant surprise as a follow-up to “Figure Painting.” Figuratively speaking, David’s finger painting is done using the keys he uses for all the sounds. It is 3:26 of perfect piano beauty.

 

“TheLongTale” is spelled that way for a purpose. To simplify, three shorter words are combined; the combination immediately becomes longer, merged into one. He tells the tale at a lower and softer tempo, giving the listener space for thought and reflection. The gentleness and eloquence of the keys bring you peace and enlightenment.

 

“Song for Living” closes the book on this story within the thirteen tracks. It begins with the chirping birds, a sound I know and love once Spring arrives after a long, cold winter. That makes the connection between going out of hibernation and going into a full wake-up mode (winter to spring).

 

Experiencing all the seasons brings more appreciation for the gifts of Mother Nature. David’s piano strokes are measured and beautifully placed. This part of the keyboard reminds you of its versatility as an instrument within an instrument. It sounds like a symphony for my ears, and tracks like this bring that to mind regardless of the tempo. It is a nice way to end this recording. And it ends appropriately with the birds singing their song.

 

Music for Ketamine takes the beauty of the keyboards and integrates it into a healing session of science and helpful chemicals, the suggested path, a process that many people need. That combination of tools is very effective. This is a soundtrack to that process.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

June 23, 2025

Tracks:

01. When Silence Learns to Speak (6:12)

02. Mycelium Highway (5:30)

03. Everything and Nothing (6:10)

04. Figure Painting (4:56)

05. Sylver’s Theme (2:25)

06. Carry Wood, Chop Water (5:41)

07. The Longest Night (2:49)

08. FireCat (6:10)

09. Silver Spirit Dancers (2:20)

10. The Foggiest Idea (6:30)

11. Finger Painting (3:26)

12. TheLongTale (6:15)

13. Song for Living (6:09)

Ambient New Age Instrumental Reviews: Deuter-Mångata

Release Date: January 24, 2025

Label: Curve Blue

Website:  https://lnk.to/Deuter_Mangata

https://cgdeuter.com/

In Sweden, Mångata describes how moonlight hits the water and creates the illusion of a road or a path. The album artwork, picturing the serenity of our life-giving force, reflects Deuter’s music and his ambition to create a peaceful place for listeners to dwell, inspiring a spiritual connection.

“Mångata” begins our audible journey of ambient new-age sounds, setting a meditative tone. With nine minutes and two seconds, it is a strong lead-off track that would be excellent for meditation. If not, then it is a chance for a listener to begin unwinding and breathing differently. The sound of the bell goes off as the piano steadily plays, and then the flute joins in with its soft invitation. Orchestral synths are layered and sound like an angelic choir as you look to the sky for enlightenment. Some piano notes have nice rhythms, and the flute uses them as a platform to continue its entrancing sounds. Another flute joins in with a higher pitch to echo the lower-pitched one that came before it. The music is like a beautiful butterfly coming out of the cocoon as the flutes continue to enhance the composition. Every layer added becomes more relaxing. It is an excellent way to start things off.

 

“Horizon Light” begins lightly with an acoustic guitar, synth layer, and gentle percussive elements. The flute offers its elegance in different composition parts. The synth makes a lovely, gentle bell-ringing sound. The acoustic guitar picking has a world flavor, as the layer is like a warm blanket with which all the sounds cover themselves. This beautiful track keeps the flow consistent with the first offering.

 

After two extended tracks, “Echo de la Lune” is brief. It is like an instrumental New Age intermission before the most protracted effort begins, lasting 12:55. Just under two minutes, its perfect beauty transcends time.

 

“Mondklang mit Perlen” is translated as Moon sound with Perdin. It is a book of music that considers new-age instrumental and worldly sounds. Lovely synths and a whooshing sound begin as the flute arrives, reclaiming its importance to this music's textures and enhancements. The sound of tinkling bells surrounds you as the flute continues to embrace you. The whirling synth sound mimics a soft wind as the track builds with more placements of various synth-generated sounds. The higher-pitched flute appears again, sounding like a guiding light among many in the composition. The whooshing sounds remind you of waves hitting the beach, as the sun soothes your skin as you breathe in the salty air. Music is meant to transport you, and it does so efficiently and effectively. Angel-like wordless vocals come into the picture as it beckons you to the heavens. The flute comes back as a natural course of events in this music. You are familiar with its alluring and soothing sound. Then something different begins: a stringed instrument, a cello, briefly adds its substance as both flutes call and answer each other. A masterful arrangement that keeps your interest until the end.

 

“Northern Lights” starts with a floating synth and piano as the whooshing sound is in the background. You can imagine the beauty of the aurora borealis as you let yourself and consciousness meld with the music. The key here is total surrender to the sounds; the lightness and healing of the music are incredible. Some sounds reminded me of my favorite bands like Tangerine Dream and Kraftwerk. I have referenced these bands many times because I love their music and always seem to find that connection and relation to it, which enriches my listening experience. The sounds of a violin are sprinkled about in this track as the flute sounds lower audibly, this time letting the layers of synth carry you away.

 

“Fjallastelpa” is an Icelandic term meaning Mountain Girl. It starts with the flute alone, echoing through the mountain’s peaks and valleys. Before I looked up the translated meaning, I did picture a flute echoing through the wonders of nature. The sounds of the synths add a layer that comforts you as the sound of air moving is apparent once again (perhaps to emulate your breathing while meditating?). The sound of bells chimes to give you awareness of where you are and your current state. A lovely acoustic guitar adds to the mix, and the flute consistently leads. It sounded Celtic or Norse, which fits the intention of the colorful rhythms nicely. It ends with birds chirping.

 

“Moonlight Rêverie” has a nice ring when you voice it. Another substantial amount of music is clocking in at 7:06. When Deuter creates his music, he makes it count and last so the person listening can fully take in all the different colors and textures. The sound of the cello comes back once again, giving the track a longing as it does so beautifully, and then the woodwind flute adds a sound quickly here and there, sounding breathy and alive. The higher-pitched flute sounds like a songbird asking you to follow it, and you oblige with joy. The whooshing synth layer is added for more relaxation. The moon's light fills your soul, and the music gets you there in spirit.

 

“Resonance of Silence” starts with a violin, giving you instant pause and gratification for its astonishing beauty. It sounds like it's singing its song as the synth finds its way into the background. The violin seemingly floats along the top of that layer of sound, making it a perfect partner for another musical journey to soothe one’s soul. The music finds its grounding in classical, with new age intersecting in a modern yet spiritual way.

 

“Sunset Gratitude” closes out this immense work of musical fullness and grace. As the sunset goes down on this recording, I feel grateful for its pureness, beauty, and spirituality. Its healing powers are extraordinary. The synths sound like a symphony from heaven as they resonate throughout my physical space, in my head, body, and soul, bringing me to a better place to have the healing powers work.

 

Mångata shines its light upon you like the church of music that Deuter so beautifully presents here.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

February 2, 2025

Tracks:

1. Mångata (9:02) 

2. Horizon Light (7:27) 

3. Echo de la Lune (1:55) 

4. Mondklang mit Perlen(12:55) 

5. Northern Lights (5:49) 

6. Fjallastelpa (6:39)

7. Moonlight Rêverie (7:06)

8. Resonance of Silence (5:08) 

9. Sunset Gratitude (4:47)

Celtic New Age Review: Electric Neural Network-Fàirean (Horizons)

Release Date: August 16, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

The Electric Neural Network is a collective of artists that havereleased their first album, Fàirean (Gaelic for “Horizons”). They wish to remain anonymous and be looked at as a group or collective, as it were, that they are.

As you delve into the album, you'll be treated to a unique fusion of traditional Celtic music and contemporary New Age elements. The blend is elegant and fascinating, with flutes, percussion, and voices creating a deep, rich sound. This captivating and immersive listening experience reflects the intended Celtic influences, with a solid foundation of New Age as their springboard to the eventual sound on each track.

 

Despite its solid Celtic accent, the music remains profoundly relaxing and spiritual, making it perfect for meditation. This unique blend, called Celtic New Age and elements of the World genre, takes New Age's tenets and implements an entirely different genre to meld styles and sounds. The result is music that is not only beautiful but also consistent and believable in its tone, atmosphere, tradition, and spirituality.

My personal favorites from the album are “Air a Rathad a-Rithist (On the Road Again)” and “Aonar Le Mo Smaointe (Alone With My Thoughts).” The blends, textures, eclecticism, tones, andcolors touched my soul. I believe that was the intent of their music, which is typicalwith this type of presentation.

 

The production values of Fàirean are excellent, and the instrumentation is of superior quality. For a first release, it is undeniably impressive, and I cansee a bright future ahead if they choose to continue on this path. I must also mention that this music would be a perfect fit as a soundtrack for movies and series on Netflix and other streaming platforms. 

 

I recommend that listeners of new age and world music seek out and listen to this recording. The relaxation and stress relief, which could benefit those in the health field seeking healing and therapeutic sounds.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

September 20, 2024

Tracks:

1. Bruadar a' Bhuachaille (Shepherd's Dream)

2. Madainn Ur (A New Morning)

3. Sreabhadh nah-Abhann (River Flow)

4. Seachad Air Faire (Beyond the Horizon)

5. Air an Rathad a-Rithist (On the Road Again)

6. Galatai

7. Féileacán (Butterfly)

8. Croí Grainne (Grainne's Heart)

9. Aonar Le Mo Smaointe (Alone With My Thoughts)

Instrumental New Age Reviews: Genevieve Walker-Home Songs

Release Date: June 21, 2022

Label: Blue Yarn Records

Website

Genevieve Walker’s debut was Walking Home. Six years ago, I discovered her music. With her babies grown into little people, she is back with Home Songs. It is appropriately titled because the melodies you will hear were what she hummed to her children while sitting with her. 

Music lovers can listen to lullabies set to music via the main instrument, the violin (she does play the viola and piano as well). That is the best way I could describe it. Genevieve’s instrumentations can fill up a room. “Fathers,” for instance, starts very strong, and the realization of the power of classically-based music rings true. It then mellows out and lulls your consciousness to a state of calm. The sweetness and purity of the place it comes from make it very special, so knowing what inspired this project before listening is beneficial to potential listeners. It gives you an immediate appreciation for her presentation, its purpose, and foremost, the talent to be able to translate it all to each listener.

The songs about family are in proper order as well, the birth with “Mothers,” the support and strength of “Fathers,” then the most critical piece, “Sons,” which in the case of some people may be “Daughters,” however the meaning and intent are the same. Parenthood is a life changer, and your world becomes anew with another life to care for. That responsibility never ends, and we are always there when needed, regardless of their age. There are many lessons in parenthood, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn with my children. From their first breath to our last, we love them and support them. That is the job of a parent.

Music is the ultimate expression of emotions; the projection of the feelings of Genevieve comes through in the music beautifully. Rafe Pearlman complements her violin, viola, piano, vocals, and Noah Hoffeld on cello, Chris Seligman on French horn, Steve Gorn on Bansuri flute, Nin Rao on vocals kartals, and the producer of the album, Chris Garter on bass, complete the significant backing throughout.

The sound and production values are solid and clean. The tracks are divergent but hold the same qualities and crisp production as you progress through each offering to the end with “Shadows,” which has many intersections of change and sound. It is a beautiful way to close out the recording. It leaves you wondering what could be coming next for this artist as it is very exploratory, and I enjoyed that aspect. 

Home Songs portray the gifts of life for one family through the eyes of a wife and mother. Someday her children will be grown and come to appreciate the beauty their mother created in their honor. I know I could not have related to this music and its meaning unless I was a father myself. For those of you who are not parents yet, it will give you something to think about; for those who never will be, an appreciation of what they may have missed comes to mind or newfound respect for parenthood and the sweetness it brings so many of us. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

June 21, 2022

Track list:

1. Constellations (5:51)

2. Saints (5:08)

3. Mothers (5:22)

4. Fathers (4:19)

5. Sons (5:16)

6. Beloveds (4:01)

07. Moons (3:11)

08. Shadows (5:23)

New Age Review: Sangeeta Kaur- Illuminance

Release Date: August 28, 2020

Label: Domo

Website

This will be the fourth album I have had the opportunity to hear from new age artist Sangeeta Kaur. Illuminance is her first official label release with Domo. What is significant about that it is on legendary performer Kitaro’s label. I remember the first time I heard Kitaro and I loved it. Since that time a lot has happened and changed however the one thing that never changes for me is the incredible healing power of music. In fact, it is music like the kind that Sangeeta has been releasing for many years now that leaves a lasting impression.

Peter Kater is on the piano making the album very special for her and the listeners who are familiar with Peter’s work. They both have been fans of each other’s work and it was kismet that they finally met and collaborated. Peter’s piano is quite the compliment to her gorgeous vocals and vocalizations (singing without words).

Sangeeta said: So, for me, these songs are meant to remind us of our strength and of our pure bright light within. It is this light that can help us overcome anything.

That statement is from the heart and soul of a true artisan following her path straight and true. I can hope that the world will begin to change and see the inner light that is in all of us and transcend from these hard times and evolve into a strong and resilient world community. Music that you hear on Illuminance will resonate with those seeking the light, those that have it, and then finally those that want to share it, like Sangeeta.

Sangeeta’s classical opera experience is her greatest asset on this recording particularly when she is vocalizing without words. Honestly, I found it all so soothing and her tone and delivery were simply angelic. “Light of Love” is one of the examples that shows the immense talent she commands with the most important instrument on the album, her vocals. She dubs this kind of music as Mantra Opera however it stretches even further into other areas of sounds, theatrical elements, and even a bit of jazz at times. It is a diverse array of sound, color, and an overall musical kaleidoscope led by an amazing voice that floats over the music so effortlessly.
 
Illuminance glides the listener on a cloud of hope, inspiration, beauty, and a touch of heaven and spirituality that will touch you with a firm but gentle purpose. So as Sangeeta sings “Come Find Me,” it sounds like an invitation and it instantly pulls you in to listen to something you will never forget.

When new age artists collaborate, it is always a memorable experience because they are coming from the same place with the same goal in mind. Whoever you are and whatever you are looking for, this music will clear a busy mind, relax a tense body, and calm a troubled soul. The healing powers become evident immediately as you begin your journey of Illuminance with Sangeeta Kaur.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
August 24, 2020 

Track List:
01. All My Love
02. Illuminance
03. Worlds Collide
04. Light of Love
05. Path of Light
06. Come and Find Me
07. Supernova
08. Stardust
09. Dedication

Instrumental New Age Review: Ann Sweeten-Before Today, Beyond Tomorrow

 Artist: Ann Sweeten
Title: Before Today, Beyond Tomorrow
Label: Orange Band Records
Website

Ann Sweeten has a story to tell. This incredible woman and musician has suffered through 3 bouts of cancer. I found her words inspirational. She does not want anyone to feel sorry for her, she wants positive support and for people to stop and smell the roses of life that abound all around us. 

I covered the 2016 release Where Butterflies Dance and in 2014 Tapestries of Time So now I am ready for the latest offering Before Today, Beyond Tomorrow.

Before Today, Beyond Tomorrow is her story set to music. Words are not necessary with such talent at the keys. The eloquence and beauty of piano instrumental music reach new heights for the artist on this release. With everything going on in her personal life she has found the energy and inner spirit to push herself beyond any physical limitations and turn into something positive and wonderful.

The title track is a gorgeous heartfelt melody flowing like a stream of rhythmic in-sync spirituality. In other words, Ann becomes one with the music and the end result is extraordinary. “Philadelphia 22” is so emotional and full of the grace of the heavens. The power of her rolling piano passages finds its foundation in classical but the soul of the track is all Ann. The addition of the cello, English Horn, and violin give the tracks another layer that brings an additional emotive element and that classical sensibility.

There is sadness in the music however her piano brings out the joy and positive vibes that are within her and it will heal not only the artist but everyone that hears it. That is the beauty of this music. The story behind it all is incredibly real and it will touch many lives.

Before Today, Beyond Tomorrow will leave an indelible mark upon your soul. After reading about her tribulations, the music took on a stronger significance. Just knowing what Ann has been through, her great attitude and the messages she delivers in the music, it would give anyone pause. I heard the birds chirping last night and looked at my wife and said “Hear them chirping? They sound so happy.” That is the purity of nature and all the sounds, smells, and colors that are all around us. I am so grateful for that kind of awareness and the gift of this music, all music, that heals and takes me to another level of reality. 

This kind of instrumental music envelops you in a cocoon of tranquility that cannot be retrieved during a normal busy day. This surely is music made for those seeking healing that goes beyond words.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

May 27, 2019

Founder of:

TheFinalonVinyl

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. Across the Midnight Sky          
02. Before Today, Beyond Tomorrow      
03. Beyond the Clouds          
04. The Empty Swing          
05. Saying Goodbye              
06. Philadelphia 22          
07. Vanish                  
08. Lullaby for Blackie Boo          
09. Through Winter Panes          
10. Like Smoke Through a Keyhole      
 

Ambient-New Age Review: Dan Palladino-Pastoral Memory

Release Date: February 2, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

Dan Palladino is no stranger to recording music. His debut in the new age/ambient genre just arrived in February this year. Pastoral Memory is seven tracks born out of the art of improvisation.

 

Dan uses a blend of acoustic and electric guitars over the top of synth harmonies that breath in and out to create a fluctuating and soothing effect. Music like this is like an animate object taking form in your mind’s eye. One of the best examples is the lead-off track “Rising.” It is the ultimate musical exercise clocking in at a plentiful 10:15.

Some of this music can be used for focus and meditation. You will hear a steady tone throughout parts of songs like “Thankful,” which is another generous portion of Dan’s art at 5:13 then it nicely segues into “Joyful Cleansing” yet another space in time that allows for focus and relaxation, giving the listener 8:48 minutes. Dan uses the guitar for consistency with a steady picking while you hear the movement of water. Then another seamless segue goes right into “Passing Storm,” with rain and thunder, as the synths add an additional layer of texture and ambiance. As the storm passes the birds are happy again tweeting away and it blends right into “Aftermath.” So now you are seeing the logical progression of the music in the titles and the purposeful transition from one track to another.

The addition of the synths is essential in making this an ambient treat for the ears, mind, and body, which for this listener, equates to a happy soul. I for one really appreciated how all of this was arranged and titled. It all made sense to me and did arouse my internal receptors to all the sounds and vibrations.

Six out of the seven songs are given plenty of time and space for the creator of the music and the appreciative listener. For a debut in this genre, this a stunning group of tracks brilliantly composed and exercised by Dan Palladino. One other point is the cover, the cool color of blue water and the white clouds set you at ease and set you up nicely for what you are about to hear on Pastoral Memory.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 24, 2019

Founder of:

TheFinalonVinyl

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
1. Rising
2. Thankful
3. Joyful Cleansing
4. Passing Storm
5. Aftermath
6. Yesterday’s Dream
7. Counting Stars
 

Instrumental Piano/New Age Review: Kurt Reiman-North Maple Road

Release Date: September 23, 2018

Label: Independent

Website

Kurt Reiman is a self-made artist. He never had the patience to practice and read music so he listened to his favorite piano composers such as Frédéric Chopin, Billy Joel, Lyle Mays, George Winston, and Dave Brubeck. That is how he learned his craft. That kind of story really makes me think and wonder how someone can pick up how to play a song just by listening. It is a God-given gift that I simply cannot fathom but I sincerely appreciate it.

North Maple Road is the first recording released by Kurt. He is a working man just as are most indie recording artists. Not making enough money to sustain life, the indies are forced to work a day job so they can do what gives them passion. That daytime gig actually sustains the second career (in most cases). The dream, of course, is to remain working in that passion driven art form, whatever that may be. Alas, most of us do not find a way to that path but what keeps it all going is the hunger, the belief that you are actually contributing to the music-loving public and to the greater good of mankind.

Solo piano is beautiful, something that anyone can listen to at their leisure or for meditation or simply focus on one thing that needs more time and clarity. The music is the tool that carves out what we want, a time and place like North Maple Road, a fond memory, a reflection of life, or thoughts that make us smile from the inside out. It is all there waiting for us like an empty canvas waiting for those first strokes from our own personal paintbrush.

I am a New Englander and appreciate the mountains, the four seasons and the beauty that surrounds us. Just look at the cover of this CD, doesn’t it look pure and crystal clear? Don’t you wish you could think that way 24/7? That would be amazing but not realistic. Thankfully we have talented musicians like Kurt Reiman to help us down that path where we can see the light of day and feel hope. Music is so powerful and the simplicity of a piano and how Kurt makes it an extension of his soul and the physical body is a beautiful thing.

North Maple Road is twelve tracks with very meaningful titles. Kurt is a family man and you see it with the track names and feel the love and warmth in the music. He is grateful for everyone in his life and gives credit to his mentors. He knows he would not be at this point in life without all the people that have helped him. We are all the same, we just have a tendency to forget about all that and get on with our busy lives. This music creates a pause and pushes you gently to get in another space, look at the artwork on the cover of the album and think about the title of each song.

So, thank you, Kurt, for pushing me in the right direction and giving me the awareness of everything that your music means and stands for. There is so much inside this music and it is a fulfilling experience to know more about the person that created this work of art and appreciate where it all came from.

 

North Maple Road is an experience, not just another album to “listen” to.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

December 19, 2018

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

Write A Music Review

Prog Rock Music Talk

New Age Music Reviews

Rate The Tracks

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. Sunrise over Narragansett Bay
02. You’re My Friend
03. Push Me Higher Daddy
04. Walk with Me
05. Together and Alone
06. North Maple Road
07. Live Your Dreams My Son
08. I Need to Say This
09. Evening Snowfall
10. By Your Side
11. Stars and Constellations
12. You’ll Always be Here with Me