New Age Meditation Track Feature And Interview: Ilka DeGast-Wishing Song

Ilka DeGast is known for her work in sound healing through her music, vocals, and instruction in Qigong and meditation.

The “Wishing Song” was especially made for children all over the world. The music provided supports early development by nurturing childhood innocence when it matters most.  

Along with a strummed acoustic guitar, Ilka’s angelic vocals serve as a guidepost, along with her simple instructions at the beginning of the track.

The sound of the life-giving water is present and strong throughout the recording, and it ends with the drum emulating a heartbeat.

While “Wishing Song” is meant for children, adults can find comfort and healing with all the sounds as well. Hearing Ilka say “You are loved” would reassure and remind us that this is a true statement to carry with us throughout our daily lives.

Ilka DeGast is a messenger sent to humanity, and she has several ways of delivering it. Her many talents are encapsulated within this one track.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder

January 9, 2026

https://globalsacredsounds.com/

Ilka de Gast, originally from the Netherlands, now living in CA, is a psychologist, Qigong and meditation instructor, sound healer, researcher, and singer-songwriter. Ilka leads Sacred Sound tours and retreats internationally.

While Ilka has explored many meaningful career paths, her true passion for the past 25 years has been to work with and teach sacred sound healing modalities from around the world, including the ancient art of overtone singing.

 

 

Contemporary New Age Instrumental (Classical) Review and Interview - Barry DeGroot - Unspoken Conversations

 

Release Date: October 10, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

After years of hearing this kind of music, my interpretation of it has changed into something I can express in words, but not to its fullest extent. You can only express so much with a word; however, feelings, emotions, or passing thoughts cannot always be put into proper context. I like to call it contemporary new age instrumental with a classic underpinning.

Barry DeGroot is one of those rare individuals who has captured everything I have expressed about instrumental piano music on his album Unspoken Conversations. The influence of classical music is more than apparent and a critical foundation from which every composition is born and reaches fruition.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of solo piano music, where each note conjures up a myriad of thoughts, images, colors, and memories. The piano’s notes are not just sounds; they are an entire orchestra within an orchestra, creating a rich listening experience.

 

“Serenity” is the perfect opening track as it moves along slowly, like a gentle stream of water bubbling up from a spring. Its notes float over your consciousness with seamless effort. It feels like the beginning of energy focused on total relaxation or a meditative state.

 

“Reminiscent” is such a prolific title. It holds a lifetime of memories. In one breath, you can say the word; however, there is an entire book to be written inside it. How can one instrument convey that kind of mindset or imagery? That is not an easy task, but Barry’s melody sufficiently captures the sentiment and the whole meaning.

 

“Clever Conversation” is a track that needs to be animated because of its implications. Conversing is what people do all over the world, and being clever is not something everyone can be. It is the longest track at 4:04 and rightly so. In the grand scheme of things, a conversation in under five minutes is short; however, in song, it goes into another category entirely. The piano’s melody and timing make it feel as if it’s speaking to you through the elegance of the musician and the sounds emanating from the keys. Hence, the meaning of the album itself!

 

“Somewhere” has a light-hearted, joyful feeling. You are neither here nor there; you are on your own somewhere where you exist in the moments of listening to this music. In between those places, it is tuneful and consistent, with abbreviated transitions alongside the main melody.

“While You’re Here,” listening to the Unspoken Conversations, there is a lot to be said via the piano’s keys. Thanks to Barry and his talented fingers, we can be reached this way. I heard a call to action in this piece even though its tempo was soft and slow, like a beautiful waltz of the fingers across the keyboard. The dance plays out in your mind’s eye.

 

“The Pendulum” swings back and forth, indicative of consistent change. That factor is present in this music. The shifting tempos add depth to the piano’s ambiance as the artist blends high and low notes, creating a sense of beauty like a ballerina dancing across the inside of your mind. She sways back and forth as the notes echo off each other.  

 

“All That Was” is now behind you in this listening experience. This will be musical expressions that you will not forget. This last track takes a slow walk and briefly picks up the pace to remind you of the power and movement of a single instrument. It is a fitting end to a marvelous exploration of the piano keys.

 

Barry DeGroot takes the singularity of the piano and broadens the scope of every note on Unspoken Conversations. This is a solo piano recording that you must hear to understand and appreciate what has been accomplished.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder

October 27, 2025

Tracks:

1. Serenity (3:38)

2. Reminiscent (3:38)

3. Clever Conversation (4:04)

4. Somewhere (3:02)

5. While You’re Here (2:05)

6. The Pendulum (3:24)

7. All That Was (3:24)

 

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 New Age Instrumental Review & Interview - Wayo Hogan and Aritra C- Flathead Lake: A Montana Album (Interview with Scott Hansen - Producer & Jennifer Ortiz-Immersive Engineer)

Note: Included with this review is a fascinating interview with Producer Scott Hansen and Jennifer Ortiz, the immersive engineer for Dolby Atmos.

Release Date:  August 5, 2025

Label: Bigfork Bay

Website

I had the pleasure of hearing Wayo Hogan’s Montana Stillwater last October.  Almost a year has passed, and Flathead Lake: A Montana Album has been released; this time, Wayo has Aritra C joining him.

Immersing myself in the entire album in Dolby Atmos with the special headphones the producer generously sent me was a unique and thrilling experience. As a first timer, I was eagerly anticipating the depth and richness of the sounds that this format would bring.

 

The engineering and production values must be top-notch to make this format work, and based on what I’ve heard, they’ve done just that.

 

“Whitefish” opened the recording. The sound was clear and crisp. There is a lot of melodicism in this song, particularly with the piano. There is also a synth layer that drives the track along with a strong rhythm section. I felt this was a very colorful and energetic way to kick off this listening experience.

 

“Going-to-the-Sun” begins with a lovely piano introduction, followed by a steady rhythm that features keyboard, drums, and bass. An acoustic guitar lends its ambiance to the mix. An electric guitar arrives to give a new rock edge, sounding very progressive once it’s in place. That segment ends, and there is the quiet of the just the keys doing their work, then it circles back to the original driving rhythms and melody. The composition is excellent, with smooth transitions from soft to more energetic and rocking sections. Once the electric guitar kicked in at various junctures, I thought of Mike Oldfield. Those familiar with his work may recognize it in this track.

 

“Glacier” begins with a rolling piano accompanied by an acoustic guitar, then quickly transitions to a more orchestral sound as layers are formed, and the electric guitar reenters, lending another element of excitement and anticipation for what may come next. Then, the bells chime for a bit, and another transition occurs, with all the sounds merging into a complete composition. I enjoyed how it all came together in the end.

 

“Stillwater” opens with a nice acoustic guitar, setting the stage for another musical journey. And that is precisely what each track is: a dissimilar journey of audio excellence. I really appreciated the different layers of music at work and the insertion of the electric guitar; however, this time, it was accompanied by fuzztone, which was a distinct difference. One moment you are immersed in the magic of the music with a softness, then another elemental force comes in. I heard the influence of Celtic music in this. The music’s keyboards are the foundation upon which they build their sound. Lush layers of ambient atmospheres populate this track.

 

“Bigfork Bay” begins with an acoustic piano, and immediately, a synth is added to provide an additional layer, allowing the keys to float over. The acoustic guitar returns once again, providing a solid backing for each part to take off and grow within the song. If you listen via Spotify, the images in the videos enhance the experience, highlighting the theme of Mother Nature. It is so relaxing and interactive at the same time.

 

“Flathead Lake” is the closer, and it begins with a much different approach and sound. The influence of legends such as Tangerine Dream, Kraftwerk, Vangelis, and others is unmistakable, adding a layer of intrigue to the listening experience. This track is a testament to the album’s eclectic nature, characterized by its well-defined rhythm and predominant keys. Yet, all the layers are distinctly heard, making the separation of the instruments in this format quite extraordinary.

 

Flathead Lake: A Montana Album is a superb follow-up to their previous album, showcasing the artist’s growth and evolution. Listening to it with headphones in Dolby Atmos was a fantastic experience, and it’s clear why this format has gained such popularity.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

August 30, 2025

Tracks:

1. Whitefish

2. Going-to-the-Sun

3. Glacier

4. Stillwater

5. Bigfork Bay

6. Flathead Lake 

Contemporary Instrumental New Age Review & Interview: Peter Kater-Untethered Heart

Release Date:  August 22, 2025

Label: Kater Music

Website

I have had the opportunity to cover Peter Kater’s music on several occasions over the years. As I recall, I always enjoyed the extraordinary instrumentation. Untethered Heart features seven tracks, with two extended versions.

 

My first thought regarding the title was, what would it mean to have an Untethered Heart?

 

It could have multiple meanings depending on the context. My thoughts tell me that my heart would be free (the first track is “Freed”) and unattached to any one person, place, or thing. In which case, I would find it impossible.

 

Listening to all the tracks, I am sure different thoughts and feelings will arise, and the music will take me on an emotional journey, setting me free for the duration it has to offer.

 

“Freed" begins with the piano taking small steps, and the tempo is thoughtful. What is it we need to be free of? Free to think, express, Love, and live. To me, that is freedom. As the piano moves on, there are some significant steps forward with some tempo rises, then some flourishes of notes casting beauty upon your ears and senses. One hand sets the tempo/bass part, while the other is “free” to explore wherever it wants. Emotive and moving, this is a lovely way to start the recording.

 

“Flight” (Extended) is the longest track at 5:47, and I anticipate it will be quite complex. As it begins with piano and synth elements, it rises in conjunction with the orchestration, evoking a symphonic quality that takes “Flight.” It is dramatic and colorful. The imagery of a bird taking off or a person reaching their goals, both personally and professionally, can also be applied here.

 

That one word can be inserted into many different life situations. More than halfway, Peter gives you a little flourish of jazz notes, then as quickly as they come, they go away, and it returns to the uplifting soloing on the piano. It’s energetic and invigorating. Then it slows right down to a gentle closing for more reflection on what you just heard and felt.

 

“Spellbound” has a beautiful flow and flavor. I felt a mix of joy and sadness at the same time—the classical influences are strong here. The piano, with its beauty and grace, continually amazes me. Yes, I was “Spellbound.”

 

“Spirit” (Extended) is a connection that unites all sentient beings. The notes flow with purpose and meaning as the orchestration layer lends itself to the song’s structure and emotional feeling, taking you to a new place. Peter’s playing is rapid and with purpose. Again, the uplifting feelings and elation in the keys of the piano are so evident that you feel the energy and “Spirit” of his artistry. A very tasteful ending closes out the track.

 

“Hinterlight” is the shortest track at 2:14. The flow continues with consistency and strength on this track. Although it is short-lived, its impact is no less significant than that of the previous tracks. Short, sweet, and memorable, a lovely melody.

 

The title track, “Untethered Heart,” now features the wordless vocals of Kristin Hoffman. She sings beautifully, adding substance and a layer to the music that I found moving and so impactful. Your heart is hearing it loud and clear as the music accompanies the singer and nudges the vocalist to higher highs of magnificence. If you were to make a significant impact with the title track, this is how it's done.

 

“Boundless” energy, spirituality, emotion, and Love are all the things that define this music. The piano creates a symphony all its own, and anything added is just extra. Once again, I hear the influences of the classical realm. The music of the piano, with its beauty and intensity, impacts my senses in a way that can only be described as 'Boundless.' The combination of melody, elegance, and aggressive playing forms a perfect blend of sound, making for a fantastic way to close out this album with optimistic energy.

 

Untethered Heart is melodic, engaging, hypnotic, and visually moving, so it integrates with every fiber of your being. Peter, you are amazing. Your magical fingers swept me away to where I needed to go.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

August 22, 2025

Tracks:

1. Freed—3:48

2. Flight (Extended)—5:47

3. Spellbound—3:24

4. Spirit (Extended)—4:51

5. Hinterlight—2:14

6. Untethered Heart—5:08

7. Boundless—4:14

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review & Interview: Kevin Keller-Arcadia

Release Date:  August 22, 2025

Label: City Hall Records

Website

Arcadia is the sequel to 2023’s Evensong. Like its predecessor, Arcadia features plainchant melodies, reverberant keyboards, and live strings, this time taking the listener on a journey through the afterlife.

(text from press materials)

 

Arcadia, a poetic term associated with bountiful natural splendor and harmony, serves as a fitting title for this album. The music indeed embodies these qualities, inviting the listener to embark on a journey of tranquility and introspection.

 

“Et vidi caelum” (And I saw the sky) begins the journey. I am enthralled by the beauty of the vocalizations and the accompanying music. There is a spiritual and angelic feel to the vibe Kevin creates. I am looking forward to what comes next.

 

“Et nox ultra” (And night is over) is repeated multiple times, taking the entire song to get through the whole phrase. This is a medieval technique called Notre Dame organum, developed by the composers Leonin and Perotin in the 13th century. The idea here is to induce a meditative state of consciousness. As I listen, I find it very relaxing and enjoyable. The flow of the music and vocalizations creates a soothing atmosphere, culminating in a transition that is light and filled with a smile.

 

“Me solum me invenio” (I find myself alone) is profoundly ethereal, and the chanting is as well. The sounds layered over the vocalizations are like a mist that gathers around you, transporting you to another dimension. You are alone, but on your way to a different time and place, feeling completely transported by the music.

 

“In tenebris” (In darkness) features a nice keyboard foundation as the voices gather in a choir-style arrangement, radiating and resonating as they cut through the air with ease, making their way to where they need to go. With the hope of leaving the darkness and finding the light, as the music gathers momentum, so does your optimism. The appropriate soundtrack backs the gorgeous vocalizations. The music reminded me of Jean-Michel Jarre.

 

“Mare, littus, flammam” (Sea, shore, flame) begins with a buzzing drone sound accompanied by a whooshing wave sound. Around 1 minute into it, the vocalizations start to add their layer. By this time, you expect that to happen, and it wouldn't sound right without it. A soft cello adds another element to the mysterious atmosphere.

 

“In equo fugit” (She flees on horseback) features a soft synth opening, with vocals entering immediately. The vocals sound like they are inside a church, with the built-in amplifier resonating through the walls. It’s a tremendous effect. There are some transitions with tempo increasing as the sounds of a violin arrive, adding a layer that worked well. A light synth provides a percussive sound for rhythm (like a galloping horse).

 

“Et lux perpetua” (And eternal light) is light and airy musically and with the vocalizations. This is a deliberate effort to slow the pulse of the music, which enables the listener to focus more on the vocals as the layers of synth are strong but can drop to the background to support the vocalist.

 

“Veni intus” (Come inside) is an invitation to enter another world or level of consciousness. Music has that power, and it is displayed to significant effect. A steady church organ line runs consistently, and a cello enters to add its texture and depth to the piece. It is a peaceful way to close out this recording. 

 

Arcadia was a step away from the norm in terms of the listening experience. And that is a good thing, as it challenged me to focus even more to translate what I was hearing accurately. It is a beautiful piece of artistry that I recommend listening to for many reasons. The reasons will be revealed once you explore the music!

Composed and produced by Kevin Keller

Sofía Campoamor – lead vocal.

Katherine Wessinger, Danya Katok, and Wendy Baker – sopranos.

Sarah Zun – violin.

Angela Pickett – viola; Laura Metcalf - cello

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

August 22, 2025

Tracks:

1. Et vidi caelum (And I saw the sky)

2. Et nox ultra (And night is over)

3. Me solum me invenio (I find myself alone)

4. In tenebris (In darkness)

5. Mare, littus, flammam (Sea, shore, flame)

6. In equo fugit (She flees on horseback)

7. Et lux perpetua (And eternal light)

8. Veni intus (Come inside)

 

Contemporary Instrumental Review & Interview: Lisa Swerdlow-Book of Life Concerto

Release Date:  August 15, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Many of the piano-based instrumentals I hear are like a concerto. I have often said it’s the one instrument that can sound like a symphony all by itself.

Lisa Swerdlow is one of those artists whose work I have cherished over the years. The arrival of her latest masterpiece, the Book of Life Concerto, filled me with a profound emotional anticipation.

 

The best way to describe this music is to hear it from the artist. Lisa said, “As a composer, I am tasked with the responsibility of synthesizing grand concepts into sound and the emotions that these musical notes evoke. Everyone has a ‘Book of Life’ to be told. . . This is mine.”

 

“Chapter One: Possibilities” serves as a reminder that life is full of possibilities, even though we do not know the outcome until we reach it. And with that thought, we can view it as an exciting and anticipatory experience.

 

The piano sets the tone for this book, with a slow progression that leads to the addition of other instruments, such as the violin. It is theatrical halfway through, then the tempo goes down a bit to encourage you to reflect more. It returns to apexes repeatedly, leading you through the emotions that are part of looking at life's possibilities.

 

“Chapter Two: Disappointments” is all part of life. During the process of possibilities, this can happen often enough for a person to be discouraged. The beginning is very thought-provoking as the piano pulls you in ever so gently, and the orchestrations and cello give a hint of sadness. Outside the grey areas of life, there lies hope and optimism, and that is a simple decision to make instead of wallowing in the disappointments. How many times was Thomas Edison disappointed before he had success? It’s all in how you paint the picture on life’s canvas. The piano is elegant and moving, capturing the essence of all those feelings.

 

“Chapter Three: Discoveries” rings with excitement and joy as the piano immediately begins in an upbeat tempo, then it quiets down as the cello enters, inducing more reflection on the subject matter at hand. Again, the music reaches a crescendo with orchestration, accompanied by dramatic cymbals that sound off for added effect. The piano is beautiful, leading the listener to a higher plane of consciousness and a more profound realization of that discovery (whatever it may be in your mind's eye).

 

“Track Four: Through It All” transitions you from the book chapter format to a shift in focus with compositions to encapsulate your previous experiences in the prior compositions. Many thoughts encompass “it all,” thus the piano takes on that emotion as it flows like the tides of the ocean, coming in and going out. There is a real talent at work here to imagine all of this happening within the keys of the piano. Lisa’s elegance and precision with her fingers make every note count so beautifully.

 

“Track Five: Dawn Contemplation” is the final step, where you weave all the feelings, thoughts, and images into a single thread and reflect on and reexamine them. As she has this entire recording, the piano serves as a guide, taking you to a place where everything can unfold simply by contemplating. The orchestrations that accompany her lovely notes, which range from many highs to lows, serve as the final trigger to engagement and gently invite you to look forward, process all those feelings, and usher in the dawn of a new day.

 

The Book of Life Concerto resonated with me on a deeply personal level, as if it were the soundtrack of my own life. Lisa Swedlow’s compositions seemed to narrate my story as I listened, evoking raw emotions due to the recent loss of our beloved dog. Those who have experienced the bond with a furry family member will understand, and even if you haven’t, the emotional journey is one that anyone can relate to.

 

Music, mainly instrumental pieces like the Book of Life Concerto, has a unique ability to heal and transform. Each time I immerse myself in piano-based music, I embark on a journey that nourishes my mind, body, and spirit, offering a sense of comfort and hope.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

August 15, 2025

Tracks:

Chapter One: Possibilities (4:38)

Chapter Two: Disappointments (4:34)

Chapter Three: Discoveries (4:25)

Track Four: Through It All (3:24)

Track Five: Dawn Contemplation (4:23)

Ambient Instrumental New Age Review & Interview: Steven Halpern-Music For Microdosing

Release Date:  July 11, 2025

Label: Inner Peace Music

Website

Microdosing involves the administration of sub-therapeutic doses of drugs to study their effects in humans, aiming to gather preliminary data on safety, pharmacokinetics, and potential therapeutic benefits without producing significant physiological effects. In this case, it involves the use of music tuned to 432 Hz for optimal healing potential, as heard in Steven Halpern’s latest release, Music for Microdosing.

Steven Halpern composes his award-winning ambient soundscapes in a deep alpha and theta brainwave-entrained state.

 

Halpern, a pioneer in ambient new age music, has created a unique genre since 1975. His soundscapes, designed to soothe the soul, have a wide-reaching impact, and his name is instantly recognizable. His music, including his latest release, Music for Microdosing, is a testament to his unique approach and the healing potential of his compositions.

 

Music For Microdosing is 75 minutes and 30 seconds of pure ambient layers of sound. These layers, like the different colors in a painting, create a rich and immersive sonic environment. After hearing this recording, I can see how the music can be used for so many good things. Music is a tool, and meditation is an art to be mastered over time, and having any assistance to reach that goal is highly valued.

 

A theta brainwave-entrained state refers to a state of consciousness where brainwave activity shifts to the theta frequency range (typically 4-7 Hz), often induced through techniques like meditation, binaural beats, or specific types of music. This state is characterized by deep relaxation, enhanced creativity, and access to subconscious processes. With that thought in mind, it was evident that the artist required preparation and this state of consciousness to create the music on the recording. I find that fascinating.

 

Most recording artists have a routine they follow to create their recordings, and each is different. This, however, adds another layer to the process, which is quite involved. Steven is the creator, but also the listener and the subject first, before all of this could happen.

 

The soft textures and waves of ambient sounds in Music for Microdosing are not just music; they serve as a guide to a meditative state of consciousness. Each of the fourteen tracks consistently follows this pattern, creating a soothing and relaxing experience for the listener.

 

Music For Microdosing is a masterpiece of ambient music and synth-generated sounds. There have been many studies on the healing effects of sound, and some people are degreed in areas that address that. Steven Halpern, a longtime researcher in the fields of music and consciousness, has made significant contributions to our understanding of how sound can influence our mental and emotional states. This recorded work is a culmination of that experience to date.

 

There is a variety of sounds and textures in every track. “Inner Space Outer Space,” for instance, sounds like something that could be used for a soundtrack of space exploration, which is a step away from the previous track with its melting synth sounds. That is one example of how different one track can be from the next. The variety of sounds, colors, and textures is what makes this journey enjoyable, and its atmospheres are variable.

 

In another change of scenery, “Heart Mind Coherence” has the soothing sound of waves as a steady drone subtly providing a focus as you listen. In meditation, focusing on a single point of reference is beneficial. The lush sounds all around that focus point are what allow you to fall into the necessary state of consciousness.

 

Music for Microdosing is not just a recording; it’s a transformative tool. Highly recommended for stress relief, anxiety management, everyday relaxation, or to achieve deep states of meditation or a higher level of consciousness, this music has the power to change lives. It’s a healer that everyone uses, and at times, unknowingly. It’s a straightforward and effective way to enhance your well-being.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

July 20, 2025

Tracks:

01. Music for Microdosing (432 Hz) 4:06

02. Music is the Bridge (432 Hz) 5:08

03. Timeless Truths (432 Hz) 5:09

04. Whisper on the Wind (432 Hz) 5:32

05. Receiving Insights (432 Hz) 6:41

06. Mindful Microdosing (432 Hz) 4:40

07. Time Being II (432 Hz) 5:23

08. Deeper Journeys (432 Hz) 5:36

09. Inner Space Outer Space (432 Hz) 5:37

10. Root Chakra Resonance (432 Hz) 4:39

11. Transformation (432 Hz) 4:01

12. Heart Mind Coherence (432 Hz) 4:57

13. Sonic Elevation (432 Hz) 8:19

14. At Peace in the Present Moment (432 Hz) 5:05

Total: 75:03

New Age Contemporary Instrumental Review and Interview: Terry Lee Nichols-Love Is…

Release Date: July 3, 2025 

Label: Soundscape Productions

Website

Having had the privilege of covering several releases from Terry Lee Nichols over the years, I've come to appreciate the emotional depth of his compositions. His instrumental stories evoke a range of emotions, thoughts, and perceptions. His most recent release, Love Is…, is more than just a title; it's a journey of profound emotional exploration that unfolds as you delve into the tracks.

 

"Is This All Just a Dream? (Moon River Variations)" starts the album, and it's very atmospheric with beautiful vocals courtesy of Rebekah Eden. The piano and synth are gentle, yet their impact is significant. "Moon River," while a well-known track, can be profoundly moving emotionally, and being compassionate and emotional myself, made it difficult not to pause and reflect on some recent events that have affected my life and will continue to do so. I remember my father crying when he heard this song after my mother died; he was a WW2 veteran as well.

 

"Friendship" begins with an acoustic guitar, followed by the piano. It has a nice rhythm to it, and the percussion sets the pace. Bell sounds and other virtual effects have been added, which have a positive impact on the track.

     

"Lying Next to You" forms a lush soundscape as wordless vocals are added. Rebekah Eden sounds like an angel sent from heaven to soothe and ensure that the person next to you truly loves you.

 

"Morning Glory" and its orchestration, along with beautiful acoustic piano and an additional synth layer, create a spiritual experience that promises a new day. The wordless vocals add an ethereal element, evoking a sense of spiritual awakening or a glimpse into another world.

 

"I Remember Her Smile" is a look back at someone special in your life who may no longer be part of it, or one who already is. The memory is implanted into your consciousness forever. This is a love song, short and sweet with carefully placed notes from the piano and sweeping orchestrations to engage your consciousness.

 

"Finding Annie" has a flute accompanying the piano. This ongoing story of Love continues to build like a storybook romance set to music. It is one of the longer movements and features some rolling piano excursions; the foundation of classical music is evident throughout this piece.

 

"Trinity" starts with what sounds like the ruffling of feathers as a bird takes off. The piano continues to be the focus as the cello comes in (sounding sorrowful as it does a lot of the time), then the orchestration of the synths creates an additional layer of atmosphere. Rebecca joins once again, her wordless vocals sounding like she is performing a scene from an opera. And that was the finishing touch.

 

"Lullaby" sounds like something you might expect, given its tempo and melody. The tinkling sound of bells induces a sense of magical fairy dust in the air, lulling you into a relaxed state of consciousness. The piano is elegant and simply gorgeous, as the synth layer provides its orchestral elements.

 

"We've Had a Good Life" is a look back with gratitude for your life, one that is not only worth living but also sharing with loved ones, making it all complete. The tempo is perfect for those thoughts, and the piano and synth once again partner to formulate the ideal ambiance.

 

"Nella Fantasia" was not a song I was familiar with. John Riesen provides his tenor vocals to the mix. He sounds very commanding and owns the song, pouring every ounce of emotion and energy into it. The piano lays down the path, and he follows it. I do not appreciate opera; however, I can recognize pure talent when I hear it.

 

"The Winds of Time" is a fitting title and a perfect way to close these beautifully constructed compositions. Sometimes we don't have the time we want to be with the people we Love or do the things we've always wanted to do. As the winds blow through our short lives on this planet, the piano's keys remind us of its beauty and the opportunity to appreciate and have gratitude for all the things that enter our lives here, even though it may not be ideal, and there is suffering, the winds of time are still blowing.

 

Love Is…. It is a fine instrumental recording. I was deeply moved spiritually and emotionally, and that is all an artist could hope for. It's the entire purpose of making music like this.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

July 10, 2025

Tracks:

01, Is This All Just a Dream? (Moon River Variations) 3:54

02. Friendship 3:39

03. Lying Next to You 3:19

04. Morning Glory 3:15

05. I Remember Her Smile 2:45

06. Finding Annie 4:06

07. Trinity 4:40

08. Lullaby 3:00

09. We've Had a Good Life 2:55

10. Nella Fantasia 3:43

11. The Winds of Time 3:42