TANGERINE DREAM – 50 YEARS OF PHAEDRA: AT THE BARBICAN – A COMMEMORATIVE PERFORMANCE AT LONDON’S BARBICAN TO HONOUR 50 YEARS OF THE GROUNDBREAKING ALBUM

3 STUNNING EDITIONS SET FOR RELEASE ON 30^TH JANUARY 2026

In 1974, Phaedra redefined the landscape of electronic music. What began as an experimental session at Richard Branson’s Manor Studios in Oxfordshire became a seismic event in modern sound. Using the Moog sequencer for the first time, Tangerine Dream - then comprised of Edgar Froese, Christopher Franke, and Peter Baumann - crafted Phaedra, an album that shimmered with innovation, mystery and a palpable sense of discovery.

Half a century later, Tangerine Dream returned to London’s Barbican to honour that landmark work - reimagining it for a new era. Across its three vinyl LPs, 50 Years of Phaedra: At the Barbican captures this transcendent live performance, in which the current line-up - Thorsten Quaeschning, Hoshiko Yamane, and Paul Frick - revisit the spirit of Phaedra with the very tools that Froese and his collaborators helped pioneer.

“the best synth band in the world”
THE NEW YORK TIMES

WATCH THE TRAILER FOR 50 YEARS OF PHAEDRA: AT THE BARBICAN

DISC 1
Phaedra Suite Initial Applause – 00:28
Sequent C, 2024 – 04:25
Movements Of A Visionary, 2024 – 09:01
Mysterious Semblance at the Strand of Nightmares, 2024 – 07:39
Hippolytos Session pt. 01 – 02:51
Hippolytos Session pt. 02 – 03:29
Hippolytos Session pt. 03 – 03:35
Hippolytos Session pt. 04 – 06:09
Hippolytos Session pt. 05 – 05:08

DISC 2
Hippolytos Session pt. 06 – 05:15
Hippolytos Session pt. 07 – 07:03
Phaedra 2024 – 05:56
Hippolytos Session pt. 08 – 03:20
Happy Ending – 05:22
Sorcerer Theme – 05:04
You Are Always On Time – 07:31
Dolphin Dance – 05:04

DISC 3
Rare Bird – 05:13
Continuum – 07:11
Los Santos City Map – 07:20
Logos (Velvet) – 05:43
Portico – 06:45
White Eagle – 06:06
Raum – 07:29
Phaedra 2022 – 07:27

3LP GATEFOLD EDITION WITH 8-PAGE BOOKLET, PRESSED ON COKE BOTTLE GREEN VINYL

3LP GATEFOLD EDITION WITH 8-PAGE BOOKLET, PRESSED ON CLASSIC BLACK VINYL

2CD DIGIPACK EDITION WITH 12-PAGE BOOKLET, INCLUDES LINER NOTES BY THORSTEN QUAESCHNING

PRE-ORDER NOW (RELEASED: 30^TH JANUARY 2026)

Part of Phaedra’s magic lay in its imperfections: the original sequences were never truly quantised, their timing drifting unpredictably through the Moog’s analogue circuitry. That subtle instability became part of its charm – a human pulse within the machine - yet it long left current bandleader Thorsten Quaeschning intrigued by what a fully realised version might reveal. Now, fifty years later, Tangerine Dream have revisited the work with the precision that technology once denied them. 50 Years of Phaedra: At the Barbican is the first time Phaedra has been performed fully quantised, each motif beautifully aligned with a crystalline precision previously unheard.

Tangerine Dream live at The Barbican, London

For over five decades, Tangerine Dream have stood as pioneers of electronic sound, shaping the evolution of ambient, film, and synthesiser music. Founded in Berlin in 1967 by Edgar Froese, the group became synonymous with the “Berlin School” of electronic composition, influencing generations of artists from Jean-Michel Jarre and Depeche Mode to Radiohead and M83. Their vast catalogue spans over a hundred albums, including acclaimed film scores for Sorcerer, Risky Business, and Firestarter, and countless live performances that redefined what electronic music could be on stage. Universally recognised for their visionary approach to texture, atmosphere and technology, Tangerine Dream remain one of the most innovative and iconic forces in modern music.

Follow Tangerine Dream
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For more hi-res images please see: https://kscopemusic.com/media/tangerinedream/

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Instrumental Contemporary-Jazz-New Age-Classical Review: Javier Marquez-Momentum

Release Date: March 8, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Before listening to Javier Marquez's third album, Momentum, I read some information he provided: Momentum could be the perfect showcase of Márquez's universe. Its soundscapes are an excellent place to surrender. And there, Javier surrenders to his feelings and daydreams, often using various wind instruments.

I found the cover art compelling, and it reminded me of the Mott The Hoople album The Hoople. It's a different genre, but there are some similarities and good memories for this music fan.

 

Javier plays the Armenian Duduk, bansuri, oboe, soprano sax, piano, guitars, pan drum, marimba, EWI, synthesizers, and sequencer.

 

"Resilience" starts the recording with atmospheric music and superb vocals from Julie Elven. The Armenian Duduk provides some delicate acoustic picking; the dreamy vocals will have you floating away in no time. Give yourself up to the music, as the artist offers all the sounds to allow you to open that window of opportunity to let go.

 

"Duermevela" begins with a soft and light piano, and a Bansuri (Bamboo flute) induces atmospheric sounds of tones and colors. As the track moves on for over two minutes, it takes on a jazz-world feel, most definitely with the fretless bass lines.

 

"Quietude" fits the title perfectly, with its opening Armenian Duduk taking the lead as the piano stays in the background and then goes to the front with the background of strings to accompany it for an orchestral direction. The track sounds sad around the three-minute mark, and you can feel that emotion in the music's quiet. Relaxing and contemplative, we move on to something different to follow.

 

The title track, "Momentum," begins with operatic vocals. The Armenian Duduk is the lead here again, and Clara Sorace lends her angelic voice to give the track a decidedly heavenly touch of class. At 3:25, it is one of the shortest tracks on the album but leaves an indelible mark on your consciousness. Interestingly, this approach was taken with a strong title for the track.

 

"Balada Das Ondas," which translates to "Ballad of the Waves," is another short-lived track and the shortest at 2:33. The piano and guitar are lovely, with a soft touch that gently and convincingly brings you into the music. Because of the song's length, it must move you instantly, which it did to me. It melts the stress away from your day.

 

"Pulsar" starts very differently than all the other tracks. It is upbeat and free from any expectations from hearing all the previous tracks. In other words, it is as eclectic as the entire album has been; however, the difference between this is that the energy and level of instrumentation go in an entirely different direction. It is hard to define any categorization. However, jazz has influenced it more than any other track, and it is the only track featuring the soprano sax.

 

"When We Leaving Home," as it indicates, would have some strong feelings attached depending on the circumstances of your leaving. Whether for an hour, a day, or permanently, each feeling would have a range of intensity. The Duduk and nylon guitar playing is very laid-back and reflective, and there is a hint of sadness as well. A nice flow and softness invite a listener into the music without a care.

 

“Ephémère,” translated, is ephemeral, fleeting, faddish, and short-lived. It starts with an exciting sound, the pan drum (Javier), with its ringing echoing tones similar to steel drums but much higher and more resonant. It is a stimulating track that picks up in pace with varying degrees of sounds and tones. It almost sounds like two instruments playing at once. It was the most intriguing track on the recording because it was so different, an outlier, compared to all the previous compositions.

 

"Under no Flag" could have many meanings depending on your identity and the possibilities. I will look at it as the artist is under his influence, and no country or flag controls what he creates for his audience to listen to. It ends up being one of the more beautifully constructed tracks with three main instruments converging: the piano, oboe, and acoustic guitar. It was the quiet storm of jazz for my ears and a superb way to close the curtain on this mixture of sounds and textures to engage your consciousness.

 

Momentum is a strong release that showcases diversity and musicianship. The mixture of contemporary, classical, new age, and jazz is a musical patchwork quilt that any discerning music lover can understand and appreciate.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

September 3, 2024

Tracks:

01. Resilience

02. Duermevela

03. Quietude

04. Momentum

05. Balada Das Ondas

06. Pulsar

07. When We Leaving Home

08. Ephémère

09. Under no Flag

New Age Music Legend David Young To Release New Album “Love Wins” Feat. Prog Luminaries Tony Levin & Jerry Marotta

The past couple of years have been intense and unlike any other in most of our lifetimes! For David Young, those years have been a time of inspiration and enlightenment, which is evident upon first listen to his new album, “Love Wins.”

The album was recorded and produced at Dreamland Recording Studios in Woodstock, NY, and by Jeff Moleski and Moletrax Recording Studios, and features Tony Levin on bass and Jerry Marotta on drums and percussion. Tony is known for his work recording and touring with Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, Paul Simon and John Lennon. Jerry is known for his work with Peter Gabriel, Krishna Das, Sarah McLachlan and the Indigo Girls.

“David Young has a wonderful way of making people feel good through his music, art and soulfulness.” - Jerry Marotta

The eclectic, Americana-Inspired “Love Wins” incorporates heartfelt, inspiring lyrics with new age vocals and instrumentals, such as the soothing strains of the mandolin and mesmerizing, unique sounds emanating from crystal bowls.

Says David, “Together, we create a harmonic soundscape, alchemized with meditation and meaningful songs that will bring peace and joy to your body, mind and soul.”

“Love Wins” will be available on CD, download, streaming and thumb drive on October 28th.

Join us for an experience that will transform your mind, body and soul, empowering you with the wisdom that this is still a beautiful world.

Subscribe to DavidYoungMusic.com and stay current with News and Events!

photo by Richard Crawford

About David Young

David Young is an award-winning artist, author and musician well known for playing two renaissance flutes in harmony. He has recorded numerous hit albums and sold over one million copies. David's music, revered for its soothing sounds and healing properties, is a staple in hospitals, healing centers and spas throughout the country.    

David travels throughout the country hosting his signature workshops, A Portal Between Heaven and Earth, which blends his healing music with his enlightening guided meditations, and where countless attendees report remarkable experiences. These experiences are the inspiration for many of David’s songs and paintings, and chronicled in his book, “The True Story of Jesus and his Wife Mary Magdalena.”  

In addition to David’s many talents, he is also a gifted channeler. Through his music and art, David channels messages from the heavenly realms bringing healing messages and hope.  David’s abstract art reflects stories of ancient wisdom and actual events through brilliant colors and impressions.

His music and personal readings have brought healing and revelations to people for decades, serving as a bridge to the ethereal realms of goodness and light.  

Through his many talents and gifts, David Young offers the world hope, vision and self-empowerment.

To pre-order David Young’s “Love Wins”: https://checkout.square.site/buy/PP3HHGNJLEXPVC3WEX364CED

For more information:
www.DavidYoungMusic.com
www.facebook.com/DavidYoungMusic2018/
www.instagram.com/davidyoungsoulascension/
www.youtube.com/DavidYoungMusicVideos

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Award Winning New Age Artists Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer Release New Album “Sanctuary”

In recent years upheaval and uncertainty has become normal for many of us. Our careers, possessions, health, even relationships are more fragile than we realized. More than ever we need that sanctuary, the safe blissful place that can only be found within.

Following on from their previous successful collaborations including “Imaginings” (Winner, ZMR's Instrumental Album of the year) and “Deeper Imaginings” (nominated for both Zone and Independent Music Awards), Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer now bring us “Sanctuary,” nine new pieces borne out of their own - and our global collective need - to heal and re-anchor to our soul's true home in uncertain times. Included is an art insert of poetry focusing on peace, self - acceptance and songs within.

Solo artists each in their own right - multi award winner Adams has 120 million Pandora streams alone and Geyer's singer/songwriter albums have drawn high praise from industry heavyweights including EMI/ Blue Note's Bruce Lundvall, Jim Moginie (Midnight Oil) and multiple Grammy winner Bill Champlin (Chicago, The Sons of Champlin). It was one windy morning in Illinois two years ago which sparked the idea for “Sanctuary.”

“In my view this has to be one of the best New Age music releases I have heard for many years… an award winning album of true majesty…. and a multi-instrumental delight!” - Steve Sheppard, One World Music, UK

Elizabeth was meditating in a dark room to stave off a blinding migraine while Paul practiced the breathy Anasazi and Native American flute downstairs. Something about the combination of the wind and the low gentle phrases Paul was playing was curiously grounding and she began to feel better. Wondering what was different about these sounds from other gentle music they'd created and explored, it was the comforting reassurance of a constant low anchor that seemed to be holding the dreamy, soaring, floating textures. Put simply, music that flies without ever flying away.  Music is an incredible medium; it can excite, confront, take us to the edge; equally other music can nurture, comfort and heal. “Sanctuary” is both a powerful grounding meditation soundtrack while equally artistically rich. Adam's sultry electric sitar and other worldly touches and Geyer's distinctive jazz sensibilities on piano and vocal make “Sanctuary” both indulgence for the soul and a perfect healing backdrop for these troubled times.

Here’s what the press has said about “Sanctuary”:

“With ‘Sanctuary,’ Adams and Geyer once again prove that they are among this genre's finest artists... the soundscape is everything... beautiful beyond words.” - B T Fasmer, New Age Music Guide, Belgium 

“The addition of various other textured layers of sounds like electric sitar, chimes, etc... Elizabeth's wordless background vocalizations. make for a completely immersive experience. I suggest putting this on a loop.” - Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck, New Age Music Reviews, USA

“… soundscapes that draw you in and keep you comforted and relaxed are outstanding... both a salve  for the soul and peace for the mind.” - Clouzine Magazine, United Kingdom   

“Using flute, piano and voice, the duo have created nine rich, earthy tracks of ambient and world music that seem to have a life of their own… It is like immersing in waters made of music... Highly recommended.” - RJ Lannan, Artisan Music Reviews, USA

To purchase:
(Apple, Spotify, Pandora etc) https://pauladams.hearnow.com/sanctuary
BANDCAMP https://pauladams.bandcamp.com/album/sanctuary

For more information:
www.pauladams.org  
www.elizabethgeyer.com
https://twitter.com/ppaul3      
https://www.facebook.com/paul.adams.754/
https://www.instagram.com/ppaul3/?hl=en  

Videos:
SANCTUARY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyAVinhhYaE
GRACEFUL WATERS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iJLoJD0tsA
AN EVENING’S CARESS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqAlulE42yA

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Instrumental Jazz-New Age-Ambient Review: UMA-Wishing Well

Release Date: July 16, 2021

Label:  ‎ myndstream

Website: https://www.alekseisaks.com/uma/ 

http://robertjyrjendal.com

UMA are the project of two Estonian musician’s guitarist Robert Jürjendal and trumpet/corno da caccia player Aleksei Saks.

The duo came together at the beginning of 2007. The name UMA comes from the South Estonian Seto dialect and it means ‘own.’

The cover of Wishing Well, their latest release, gives a potential listener a soft and pleasing image before the music starts. Imagery is everything, particularly with instrumental music. Even though most listeners will see their own pictures in their mind’s eye, the soft blue color and singularity of the tree on a hill and its shadow on the ground brings you instant solace. The gentle guitar and horn are all these two gentlemen need to create a delectable array of sounds.

Now the idea from this point is to offer a selection of tracks to take that one image to the next step in the process. This is exactly what Robert and Aleksei do with the offering of 10 beautifully done tracks. The music has many elements that intersect including jazz, smooth jazz, new age, ambient, and all of them blended into each individual track. The combination is very effective and quite pleasant.

As you move from track to track the horn and guitar lead the way as well as the unique corno da caccia which is a piccolo horn. If you have any interest or particularly enjoy any of the genres that are part of this music, you will most definitely appreciate what you hear on Wishing Well.

This is duo is very skilled and precise in their presentation and the flow, overall sound, and engineering values of this recording are superb. Sometimes when you put on certain music, it is exactly what you need to hear. In this case that applied 100% for me on this listen. In fact, I would listen any time of day or evening because this is the kind of music I can appreciate. It is warm, inviting, and most of all, the enjoyment you can obtain from beginning to end is notable.

You can have your own private Wishing Well with a click or the push of a button. As all the wonders of modern technology merge with exceptional musicians, the chances of creating something special are always possible. In this case, it became a reality and I am glad I had the opportunity to discover and enjoy all the amazing music on this recording.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
July 19, 2021

Tracks:
01. Wishing Well
02. Old Diaries
03. Pilgrim’s Path
04. Lightness of the Soul 3
05. Petite Ouverture à Danser
06. Lost A Dream
07. Longing
08. My Days
09. Deep Sea
10. Beyond Skylin

Acoustic Instrumental-New Age-Meditation Review: Ryan Judd-Soaring Together

Release Date: February 26,2021

Label: The Rhythm Tree

Website

Ryan Judd returns in 2021 with Soaring Together. My introduction to Ryan and his music was the 2018 release An Open Sky.  I was very impressed by how beautifully matched his acoustic guitar playing was with Kristen Miller’s cello. Once again that duo presents ten tracks of absolute blissfulness.

Judd’s delicate touch on his guitar and the sound of the nylon strings produce a very pleasing sound. The way his sound melds with Kristen’s cello is a match made in musical heaven. And the end result is like you are actually in another dimension or your own personal heaven, that suddenly became your reality thanks to the music.

I love the cover art and how the title shows you how we all can start Soaring Together. This is the kind of message that hits home rather readily when you look at the layers of colors in that picture. This is interpreted through the music in layers as well. As I always say, it is all in how you perceive the image and music being presented. What I hear in this instrumental acoustic new age meditation are all three of those elements joining hands to create this amazing soundscape for each listener to get some relief from stress, worry, exhaustion, all of those negative aspects of many lives these days. When you are weary of fighting those battles during the course of a 24-hour period you need something to pull you out of that void of negativity. This is music to soothe the savage beast of energy stealing emotions.

It is indicated in the artist's one sheet that he felt deep love and loss which is translated in the music. This can be heard in the tracks if you listen intently. On the other side of that is the joy and a child’s wonder to reflect upon. How often does an adult look through the lens of a child? I would think very rarely. For me it is being with furry friends or watching the simplicity of nature in front of you, like the wind in the trees, a bird singing, any number of things bring about that sense of wonderment I felt as a child. It really is not that hard to find, you just have to uncloud those emotions and flip that internal switch from being a serious adult to a care free innocent child. Everything becomes clear, focused, and unencumbered by the responsibilities of your life weighing on your shoulders.

This album was so seamless and flowing it was like one track as an entity in lieu of going from one track to another and singling any out. This is why I did not mention any particular track. Every track was beautiful music perfection as far as I am concerned. It all fell together for my listening experience. As the music led me down that path to feeling whole, I listened to it as one because it made me feel clear and uninfluenced by outside forces (noises of car doors slamming, a TV on etc.). I am not sure if that makes any sense to some folks but it sure did to me and that is how I could explain it.

Yes, music can get you to that place and it takes music from people like Ryan Judd and recordings like Soaring Together. So, come along for the ride with Ryan and Kristen because Soaring Together is better than going it alone.

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

Track List:
01. Innocence Lost
02. A Child's Wonder
03. Sharing the Joy
04. Hearts Entwined
05. On Her Wings
06. Never to Return
07. A Waltz with Jena Lynn
08. Alone Inside
09. Soaring Together
10. A Look in the Mirror

Classical/World/ New Age Instrumental Review: Kim Angelis-Passages

Release Date: January 15, 2020

Label: Cantocielo Music

Website

Kim Angelis has recorded a lot of music over the years. Her most recent effort is Passages. As indicated in her bio on her website, her foundation in classical music is readily apparent. What comes after that foundation is amazing!

Passages has some incredible virtuoso violin playing. What you will witness is an aural explosion of colors and sound. This a woman taking that classical foundation to new heights of progressive improvisation and turning into a fascinating gypsy-inspired sound with all kinds of elements mixed in for an original sound.

The recording has nine tracks that come at you one after another, full speed ahead. If you have enjoyed other violin artists such as Jean Luc-Ponty and David Ragsdale etc., you will find great joy in this album. I know that great players go back to the days of Bach, so perhaps that is where this talented lady first received the gift of inspiration and creativity that brought her to this place she is in now.

The very first track just blew me away to be perfectly honest. “Lavender Farm” sounds like it should be a soft and gentle introduction to this music that unfolds before you. Well, do not read into that title, this track has plenty of high-level energy and cultural magnificence driving it along. The farm she dedicated the track to is a real place in IIwaco Washington, which is a garden of delights according to track notes included with the fold-out CD cover. I did add it to my New Age Music Reviews Spotify Playlist without a second thought. It is the second-longest track clocking in at 7:51. “The Promise,” another full-fledged classic instrumental track, finishes at 9:19.

How many instrumental violin tracks have you heard that had consistency and grabbed your attention for that long? There are not many that can do that, the previously mentioned Ponty, could do it for me, but then again, I am far from being a violin expert or one that listens to a lot of this type of music presented this way. I do believe I am missing out on an awful lot, and I am sure there is more out there that is similar but will it be this good?

“Lost and Found” illustrates that moving and danceable gypsy sound that I find alluring. It is more than just a casual listen. There are other players involved in all this music that help to heighten the lead violin sound. There is the quintessential percussion, bass, classical harp, flute, clarinet, and kalimba (which is a thumb piano) that populate the various textures and sounds in every track. It all comes together stunningly, like the magic of a gypsy spell, it sweeps you away like a warm wave of heat coming off a campfire blazing long into the night. The warmth permeates your senses, you feel it, smell it, and breathe it in, the music comes alive, and fills you up with all of its vibrations and sounds.

These Passages of time wrapped up in these nine fantastic tracks will convince you that the violin can indeed be a lead instrument if played with as much robustness and talent as one Kim Angelis.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
February 6, 2020
 

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Tracks:
1. Lavender Farm
2. Sweet Botswana
3. Wait Until Summer
4. The Promise
5. Eagles
6. Lost and Found
7. Longing
8. Tango de Paco
9. Sequoias (Resurrected)
 

 

THE FINAL ON VINYL PODCAST: Interview With Todd Mosby - New Age, Jazz, Instrumental Artist

New Age-World-Electronic-Meditation Review: Rigzin-PROTECTION ~ A Ceremony of Protector Prayers

Release Date: November 9, 2018

Label: Rigzin Music

Website

I had strong feelings that I was about to embark on a music spiritual that I would never forget before listening to the recent Rigzin release PROTECTION ~ A Ceremony of Protector Prayers.

I received a gift last Christmas, a book titled 365 Dali Lama Daily Advice From The Heart. I have faithfully read these passages every day and it most certainly has piqued my interest and changed my outlook on life. This is the path I have been on seeking spiritual enlightenment through New Age music. I have had some amazing music to listen to over the last three years and it just got more interesting when I received the third release in a sacred trilogy from Rigzin. If anything, it has increased my knowledge and curiosity about the practice of Buddhism.

Rigzin has dedicated her life to the practices of Tibetan Buddhism. She had trained intensively to sing the prayers of elaborate ceremonies, during her traditional 3-year retreat, which now stands at more than 30 years ago.

So where do I begin with such a unique artist and the messages she is imparting upon the human race? This is not a simple task but then again what good is a listen if it does not present a challenge and time to reflect?

This work of musical art can be described as new age, world, meditation and electronic. Each track delivers all of those elements in a most prolific and thought-provoking way. One of the lines I heard loud and clear was “Love will defeat hate.” I like that line and I believe it holds true and will be the world’s saving grace if we only take heed. 

There is so much going on with this recording, at times you just cannot put it into words. There is chanting and worldly sounds and electronic textures and above all, a rhythm flowing through this music that is inherently spiritual and pure. That is something I find very appealing and can find some guidance from within. This music will speak to your soul. If you are a spiritual individual you will find great value in this music. I really enjoyed the complexity and all of the tools used to make something ancient and trusted into a more relatable, listenable, and then freshly interpreted, for a person of today. You could call it a spiritual morphing.

The tracks that had the most impact on my mind, body, and soul (through the ears) were “Bodhicitta,” “Prophecy” and “Wrathful Guru.” These tracks are epic translations of spirituality driven by the tenets of Tibetan Buddhism. The messages are clear and concise and they will make you rethink everything, I can promise you that. You may already agree and be aligned with these thoughts and beliefs and came to a realization long ago about where you stand spiritually. Even so, this will still call out to you to reaffirm and possibly bring to light more of what you need. 

The music of PROTECTION ~ A Ceremony of Protector Prayers drives and steers the words and feelings straight to your heart, even if you do not understand the language of chants, somehow it all it works and very well at that.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

November 21, 2018

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MuzikMan Productions

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks: 
01. Call to Awaken 01:16  
02. Buddha 00:53  
03. Red Lotus Dakini 03:46
04. Prophecy 03:12
05. Wrathful Guru 03:30
06. Protection 06:11  
07. Vajrasattva 08:15  
08. Kilaya 06:42
09. Protectors of the Land 10:40
10. Heart of the Lotus 07:28  
11. Bodhicitta 04:58
 

Instrumental Ambient/Electronic/New Age Review: Stephanie Sante-Clear Light

Release Date: July 20, 2018
Label:Sante Music
Website

According to Stephanie Sante’s website her newest offering, Clear Light is as follows:

Clear Light, a tribute to the beauty, mystery and power of earth’s oceans, from ancient times to the present. The music ranges from buoyant, jubilant and energetic to softer, gentler, floating pieces. Clear Light takes the listener on an underwater journey of exploration and fascination.

After hearing the first few tracks of this album it was sounding more ambient and electronica than new age. It is more like Jean-Michel Jarre than say Kitaro for instance. Here is a point is well taken, music such as this borders on being new age or very close to it. I think if I were to put any kind of label on it I would choose ambient/new age instrumental. The ambient for its obvious textures and layers of synths and keyboards, and the new age in slices that line up with the image on the cover of the album, the title, and the relaxing elements that would allow a listener to sink into a chair a float away inside their mind or meditate. I think that is a fair enough assessment of what I heard on Clear Light.

I am not saying all this in a negative context at all, it is quite the opposite. I love music like this and the two artists I mentioned are favorites of mine along with others such as the work Bowie and Eno did on Low. When I was younger and first heard that I thought Bowie had gone off the deep end. Now I absolutely love it and can see the genius in what the man created. Music that is explorative and reaching out to find different realms of consciousness, can be found on Clear Light. It becomes an extension of that beginning process every listener goes through. For me now it through the ears of a more mature and advanced listener, not to mention a more spiritual and wise man (which took me many years to arrive at and many mistakes and obstacles).

It truly is amazing how music triggers so many emotions, thoughts, and good feelings. It stimulates every part of me, my brain, body, soul, and breathing. It is only music with different tones, colors, and rhythms that can make that happen. If there is repetitiveness in the background for rhythm and many other things coming in to keep it interesting and attention-getting, then I am good to go. Stephanie does an excellent job of keeping it all fresh and interesting. I think it can be difficult to do that as a solo artist working with various synths, computer-generated sounds, and keyboards.

Clear Light carries on the tradition of thoughtful and creative music as it the busyness of the day melts away. All of those thoughts and tasks of the day just flow away, then are replaced by joy, warmth, love, and clarity. Stephanie takes you there with her music. In 9 tracks of an enchanted journey through time, space and nature, you are delivered to another world, perfect for those of you seeking simple solace or an opportunity to meditate.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

August 29, 2018

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Tracks: 
1. Clear Light
2. Deep Impression
3. Salacia's Dream
4. Jade Resonance
5. Melt Like Snow
6. The Color Of Coral
7. Fractured Echoes
8. Moonlit Starfish
9. Mariana

New Age-Meditation-Chill Review: Valerie Romanoff-Healing Music Volume 2

Release Date: October 10, 2017

Label: Valrock Music

Website

There is a lot to know about Valerie Romanoff. The multi-instrumentalist has been involved in music since she was a child. Valerie was also the co-founder of the group Starlight Orchestras in 1998. Her resume is impressive and as I was soon to find out, so is her recorded music.

This is what Valerie has to say about music:

“Music has the power to heal, transform, evoke emotion, underscore and enhance our lives. By consciously aligning with elements of music, we can affect deep changes in our world.” -Valerie Romanoff

I completely agree with her and have been advocating the healing abilities of music for many years in my reviews. 

After playing several different instruments, Valerie fell in love with the guitar. On Healing Music Volume 2 she plays the guitars, piano, synth and provides the chanting. Stevin McNamara adds a most beautiful sitar to give the music a distinct worldly feel. Tom Rossi adds the flute, kora, percussion and chanting as well. The entire album was produced and composed by Valerie.

I fell right into this album like it was a natural thing to do. All the instruments that are intermingled into each track give it a nice rhythm and vibe. I found it very relaxing and pleasing, so much so, it felt like I was smiling from the inside out. Now that feels really good! 

I found this recording an instrumental wonder, the combination of instruments is very complex. It is mixed to perfection and the production is top notch from start to finish.  Keep in mind this is two-disc set so there is a lot of music offered. With 17 tracks in total and only a few under 5 minutes in length. With that thought in mind, it raises the bar for keeping you focused on the music, all of it. This is why I found it amazing how appealing all of it was. The main reason is that it was done in the most diverse way possible. The entertainment factor is in place, then comes all the other pleasantries available while listening.

Most notably, the guitar gives it all a modern chill feel to it and the other instruments support that with layers of percussion, sitar, flute and at times chanting. For my listening tastes it is the guitar lines that give it that extra soft but effective edge and energy that takes my interest to another level entirely. One of the best examples is track 4 “Dawn of Tao.” It runs for 17 minutes and 42 seconds. It is like a magnum opus of instrumental, new age, meditation, chill, and rock all brought together into one tight package. It held my interest all the way through and when it ended, I knew that I wanted to hear more. I also need to hear Volume 1 now. Nobody wants to start with 2 but in this case, I am glad that I had the opportunity and became aware of this fantastic music.

If there is such a thing as meditation that knows how to rock (softly) then this is it. If you were in search of that sort of diversity then look no further than Healing Music Volume 2.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 20, 2018

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Tracks: 
01. Pink Skies Over Still Water
02. Pink Skies Over Waves
03. Beyond the Bend
04. Dawn of Tao
05. Backdrop
06. Moving Glass    
07. OM Shanti Shalom
08.  Prelude Went Beyond The Bend
09. Pink Skies Over Still Water
10. Pink Skies Over Waves    
11. Beyond The Bend
12. Dawn of Tao
13. The Bend
14. Backdrop
15. Moving Glass 
16. OM Shanti Shalom
17. Prelude Went Beyond
 

New Age/Contemporary Instrumental Review: Timothy Crane-The Fall of a Sparrow

Genre: New Age/Contemporary Instrumental

Release Date: 2017

Label: Independent

Website

This is my first exposure to Timothy Crane’s music. The Fall of a Sparrow is as prolific as it may sound. It can be a cross reference to many instances in life if you think about it for a moment. Leonard Cohen came to mind when I looked at the title. I am fond of his poetic music and was saddened by his passing. In this case that was a fallen sparrow for me.

Timothy is an expert with the ivory keys and the additional instruments added to the mix play an important role as well. The viola for instance is like the violin. It provides a certain melancholy and atmosphere that accentuates the pace of the piano and the mood that is being projected onto the listener.

The orchestration of the tracks is a good mix and the opening track “Albion” is an electrifying way to get a listener’s attention. I felt uplifted by the richness and images of the track. It truly was an epic beginning to a very strong recording.

I look for the flow and consistency in an album and The Fall of a Sparrow certainly provided me with what I was looking for. The music swept away any possible mood I was in and put me in a different space.  I simply fell naturally into it without a thought. The flow of rain, snow, or a river is a natural occurrence and my belief is that instrumental music such as this should be the same. I believe it fits that description.

In the 15 tracks on The Fall of a Sparrow Timothy proves to be a virtuoso leader. While his piano takes charge it also allows the other aspects of the music to blend in nicely. Like a musical blender each ingredient is added to formulate the final product.

This is a beautiful soundtrack to relax and take your personal inventory to. It allows an individual to focus entirely on the sounds being absorbed and yet it leads you to introspection and reflection through your soul. As dreams are the window to the soul, so is music if you can let happen, it is as right as rain.                             
      

The Fall of a Sparrow is the closest thing to musical perfection one could hope for.

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

May 8, 2017

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Tracks:

01. Albion
02. Come Holy Spirit
03. The Sound of Snow
04. To Rise and Go
05. Father and Son
06. Alone
07. Star Cross Moon
08. The First Day
09. Festival De Musique
10. Slowly Awaken the Dawn
11. The Fall of a Sparrow
12. Promise
13. Daniel's Dream
14. Chansonnette
15. At Home in the Garden