New Age-Ambient Meditation Review and Interview: Ellen Johnson- Elemental Essence-A Neurosonic Journey

 Release Date: June 12, 2026

Label: Vocal Visions

Website

A Sonic Map for Healing: How Ellen Johnson Blends Nature, Voice, and Neuroscience.

With four decades of work at the intersection of music, the human voice, and therapeutic arts, Ellen Johnson’s Elemental Essence: A Neurosonic Journey comes together with her many talents, including vocals, synthesizer, bowls, and tuning forks.

The album takes the listener through five elemental states, each calibrated to a specific brainwave frequency: theta-delta for deep grounding, mid-theta for emotional flow and creativity, theta-gamma for transformation and whole-brain activation, alpha for presence and clarity, and gamma for expanded awareness and integration.

“Roots Beneath the Horizon” brings together many different elements. You will hear birds chirping, the sound of a horse, a rhythmic beat of percussive elements, synths, and a lion roaring. It felt like a walk through a deep jungle or rainforest, with nothing but the natural sounds of wildlife and a tribal beat to keep your gait true as you moved silently through that space, taking in the colors and tapestry of lifeforms abounding around you. This was an organic space to be in touch with nature and who you are. At 6:27, it is a good length of time to get immersed in what the artist is trying to convey.

“Amphitrite’s Longing” begins with the sound of waves and Ellen’s beautiful vocals. I could hear a whale, a dolphin, and a seagull, all sounds made through her voice, as the ocean waves washed over me. Getting in touch with nature through music is like a comfy chair you just melt into, letting the worries of life or the day melt away like they were never there. Here, the vocals become layered over time, carrying a lovely melody without lyrics. The voice is the main instrument, and she uses it beautifully. The synths also continue to offer their layer of color and soothing frequencies, serving as a worthy companion to her voice.

“Sirius Spirit” continues this amazing journey of sound as the synths gently arrive, with a nice breeze-like effect. It felt like a walk on the beach at sunset, with a warm summer breeze gently brushing your skin. It is the shortest track at 3:29, but just right before moving on to the next one.

“Where the Wind Dreams” reminded me of the wonderful voice of Flora Purim, who is from an entirely different genre; her sense of rhythms and voicings just triggered that fond memory and connection. The background sounds and softly layered synth notes felt in total sync with her vocals, traversing the fabric of the music; she sounds like a bird in flight, moving magnificently across the sky.

“Threads Between the Stars” starts with a tinkling wind chime as the bowls and synth enter, adding an additional layer. There is a steady bass drone as well, serving as a heartbeat or focal point for your meditation, if you wish. The synth starts with the chirping, melting sound for another effect, giving it a spacey feel that emulates the track title. Whether you are in space, floating in your mind’s eye, or completely present physically, the audio tones from several points help you move from that and transition to a higher level of existence within you, engaged by the thought process. The music and sounds are inviting you to join.

There is nothing more profound than traversing a painful chapter of life, embracing the journey, and ultimately transforming that experience into a new beginning. Through Elemental Essence: A Neurosonic Journey, Ellen Johnson harnesses her own life experiences and creative process to craft music that is not just heard but deeply felt. Each track serves as a sonic guide, inviting listeners to process, release, and heal. The album’s immersive soundscapes and intentional frequencies resonate on both emotional and physiological levels, offering a path through transition toward renewal and self-discovery. Johnson’s work is a testament to the power of music as a vehicle for healing, transformation, and finding one’s way home.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

June 17, 2026

Contemporary Ambient-Jazz-New Age Instrumental Review and Interview: NTHNL (Jacob Rudin)-What Kind of World Is This (COSMIS FLUTE MUSIC)

 Release Date: February 4, 2026

Label: Youngbloods

Website

NTHNL (Jacob Rudin) has created a fantastic musical omnibus of sound, color, and thoughts on What Kind of World Is This. He jumps around the musical map, covering new age, ambient, progressive, and jazz, among others. Get ready for a musical coloring book, and you hold the crayons; the artist provides the book.

“Awakenings pt 1” is an ambient piece running nearly five minutes, and it’s a beautiful way to start off this musical journey. Layers of synths and flourishes of gorgeous flute playing permeate the ambient atmospheres created.

“Awakenings pt 2” continues this spiritual awakening through sounds. The tempo is decidedly more upbeat, with percussion driving the synths as they flutter in rhythmic bursts. As the energy shifts, it brings light into your consciousness; however, this time it’s a bit over two minutes.

“Tiresias Rock” has a funky intro, then the flute comes in in a ’70s jazz style. Then a saxophone enters the mix, giving it a more defined jazz texture as the synth continues in the background, adding more essential elements. When the flute and sax meld, it gets even better, sounding like a cool modern-day jazz ensemble. This track is a full step ahead of the previous tracks. It reminded me of some of the great jazz fusion I discovered back in the ’80s.

“(re)possession” starts off spacey, gradually adding a beat and transitions, moving the sound toward a more fluid direction as the instrumentation builds. Behind an upfront beat and heavy synth, the flute is there, making its mark but subtly.

“Descent” sounds exactly as it should. Picture some sort of aircraft landing gradually on the surface of an unknown planet in an older sci-fi movie.

“Realization” sounds like a logical follow-up to the previous track, with its tempo and synth use. Now that you have landed, all the realizations have hit home.

“Hate Creator” has the most aggressive title so far, and you would expect the music to reflect that. It eventually gathers some momentum, sounding like a prog rocker with the heavy keyboards. The steady backbeat adds a sense of balance, but the point is made.

“Torture Temptation” is the magnum opus, clocking in at 6:36. The more aggressive concept flows with the implications of the title. There is a lot of time to work on transitions, and it works. The flute tempers the instrumentation and massages the tempos with mellow bursts of energy, while the keys add their ambiance, and the steady backbeat sounds almost tribal as the energy continually shifts. This is a very complex track with a lot going on simultaneously, but it works well.

“Coverting the infidels” is an interesting title. When I first looked at it, I thought it was “Converting,” an optical illusion, and if you are dyslexic, well, enough said. So, right off the bat, I have many thoughts. Then the music begins with an air of mystery, and as the composition builds, it sounds like a soundtrack to a Middle Eastern espionage movie. What a great song with some very cool atmospheres and effects. One of my favorites.

“Destruction of the institutes” makes me think this is turning into a dystopian novel. Or is the artist suggesting that this is what is currently going on? There is a logical progression of the track titles, and it’s coming together and starting to make sense, which happens further back in the tracks. The tempo picks up, with another great backbeat, as the synths, with their various sounds, emerge and propel the music like a musical train of thought.

“face up, twilight (feat Nakama)” brings things full circle back to the mellow, spiritual sounds of the flute, with jazz overtones floating through the air. Your senses are taking an immediate off-ramp to the tranquil place. And for the first time, you get vocals, and it’s a rap. This is a total paradigm shift in song structure with the addition of the lyrics, but the music holds true. Then, for yet another change, the vocals change in timbre to be less rap-like. Wow, what a masterful display of virtuosity.

“A Tyrant’s Mercy” features a narrative in which a futuristic deep-enhanced voice tells a person they have been cured of the demons that possessed them. Which you might think is the end of the story, but…

“Return to Earth” makes sense as you have the bowels of some hell and are sent on your way, cured of the demons, as you set foot back onto earth once again. The music has an upbeat, positive feeling with a very different sound. The flute is there; however, the rhythms are ever changing, and the cool breeze of that instrument adds a nice ambiance, as do the synths. A bluesy harmonica runs throughout, making this one of the most distinctive tracks yet, while the birds chirping at the end give a sense of balance and peace.

The title track, “What kind of world is this,” finishes out the novel set to music. The funky backbeat is the driving force as the flute, synths, and strings come together for a lovely ending. You feel relaxed and renewed now after taking one of the most diverse and interesting musical trips you have had in some time.

What Kind of World Is This gives many moments to pause and reflect on how to answer that question. This is a world created by music, and the track titles give you a good lead into what each may be about. Your job as the listener is to put it all together, like a puzzle. Like any music, you are the interpreter. What you hear and how it translates is your choice; however, I certainly can see a message in this music: an artist letting you know that he sees many things wrong in this world, and it gives a proper frame of reference as you move through the story.

NTHNL (Jacob Rudin) has crafted an audaciously eclectic, predominantly instrumental album that weaves together new age serenity, ambient atmospheres, jazz sophistication, and progressive complexity. This sonic tapestry captivates listeners from first note to last, inviting contemplation while refusing to settle into predictable patterns.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

February 2, 2026

Tracks:

01. Awakenings pt 1  4:46

02. Awakenings pt 2  2:22

03. Tiresias Rock 3:48

04. (re)possession 3:01

05. Descent 1:27

06. Realization 1:55

07. Hate Creator 3:20

08. Torture Temptation 6:36

09. Coverting the infidels 4:11

10. Destruction of the institutes 4:00

11. face up, twilight (feat Nakama)

12. A Tyrant's Mercy 2:11

13. Return to Earth 4:57

14. What kind of world is this 2:47

 

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review: Masako-Dreaming Northern

Release Date:  July 31, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Dreaming Northern is Masako's ninth proper recording. Once again, the team of Will Ackerman and Tom Eaton, renowned for their expertise in instrumental new age and contemporary instrumental music, was part of the process. Their contribution ensures that the recording is top-notch, creating an environment at Imaginary Road Studios in Vermont that will enable instrumental music artists to thrive.

Like Masako, I find solace in the North. The distinct seasons, the absence of relentless heat, and the region's unique beauty resonate with me on a personal level.

 

"Mamabear Dreams" begins things. The piano sings its song. And it is warm, and a feeling of joy comes across through the keys. The rhythm and tempo are just right. As her fingers glide across the keys, I feel closer to nature as I look at the beautiful artwork on the album cover.

 

"One by One" starts slower and more methodically than the previous track, as if it has another purpose to convey through the music. The keys echo and reverberate as layers of synth are added for texture. Taking each task one by one or multitasking are two different things. This is what the artist wanted to communicate through her music.

 

"Our Bluebird Day" made me think of birds, of course, and how I love to watch them. I get songs about birds in these instrumental albums, and get the feeling that there are a lot of people who feel the same as I do. It starts with a slower pace, then picks up as you imagine the bluebird taking flight. It is the longest track at 5:37 and gorgeous. The cello is added for accompaniment, and then a flute.  After losing our 16-year-old toy poodle just a few days ago, it doesn't take much to trigger my sadness. And I was feeling it with this song. Music is the universal healer, so I will continue to listen as the emotional pain of loss can be overwhelming.

 

"But It is Life" makes me think about how life unfolds, encompassing joy, sadness, heartbreak, elation, and all kinds of feelings and phases that one can experience during life. I feel it all and will continue to do so; it means I am alive. There is a beautiful acoustic guitar that complements the piano, and the blend is sublime. Then, more elements come into play, the flugelhorn rings out in its elegance and gracefulness. The way everything comes together in this sounds so beautiful, with some hints of jazz around the edges and wedged in between. It's a blend of instrumental new age and jazz, all rolled into one package—the quiet storm.

 

"Love Beyond" is a title that made me think more about how much I loved my little friend and how much I miss him, the waves of sadness I cannot control. My love goes beyond any explanation for him. The unconditional love he had for me. Even in pain and dying, he found it in himself to lick my hand to say once again I love you. This is quite beautiful, with the piano, acoustic guitar, and flugelhorn coming together to evoke such a sense.

 

Instrumental music is a personal experience, and it doesn't get any closer to home than that.

"Stairs in the Sky" starts with a nicely paced piano, and the cello arrives with its longing call. The cello has a definite sadness about it; however, this time it sounded more optimistic and uplifting, carrying you up those stars in the sky. It sounded like their own little concerto as the keys played off the resonance of the cello's strings. Thoughts of the natural beauty all around us, which we can enjoy and appreciate, came to mind.

 

"My Old Abbey" begins with a measured tempo, which to me evokes a thoughtfulness that resonates throughout the music. The endearing melody offers insight into a fondness of the heart related to something of significance to the artist. Towards the end, the tempo shifts to higher places then back down to close it out.

 

"Shape of the Clouds" has you looking above again in wonder at the magnificence of Mother Earth and all her splendor. The piano is soft and invites you to lie down in the grass like you did when you were a child, to see what you could see in the clouds in all the different shapes and sizes. It was a magical time being a child doing those simple things, and it brought me back. Now I wonder why I stopped doing those things that got me such joy.

 

"October Children" is one I can relate to, having lived in the Northeast. As the temperature starts to drop, the leaves reach their peak in color, then begin to turn brown, preparing to fall to the ground, awaiting the snow to cover them once again. The piano and cello combine to form a beautiful composition that touched my heart and soul as the sound of children playing came in and out. Some wordless vocals fit their way in to make it all more real and happening right in the moment I was listening. The piano sounds so rhythmic and wonderful.

 

"Dancing in the Snow" is a perfect segue as my thought of leaves getting covered by the snow in the previous track. The transition of nature taking its course is depicted in the piano's keys. As the keys dance, you can picture yourself or another person dancing amongst the flakes with the joy of freedom of movement all around. Celebrating the seasons is vital to us Northerners, and we can find the beauty and gifts in every season. This was a gentle reminder.

 

"Between the Two Trees" continues the reverence we have for nature. The piano's resonance and pure beauty shine in this track. Taking it slow to appreciate what is right in front of you, that's what I hear in this music, whether it's between two trees or a simple walk down the street and back. There is always something to enjoy and take in.

 

"Agiochook" pulls you out of nature into something ethereal. Then a synth sounds more atmospheric and wandering as your thoughts follow it, with other elements coming in, such as movements or a whooshing sound. The word Agiochook means "The Place of the Great Spirit" for Native Americans. The difference in this track compared to all the others was significant and had to be due to the message being conveyed through the music.

 

Dreaming Northern brought me to many different times and places in my life. And most recently, because of the loss, I was often moved to tears while listening to this music. I keep asking myself why this feels so painful, but I know it was just because I loved that little dog so much, I cannot imagine life without him. I had to share this and how I related to this music at this point in my journey. While the music was so beautiful, it felt like a conduit to my soul, and having that kind of connection and release was a powerful experience.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

July 18, 2025

Tracks:

01. Mamabear Dreams (03:36)

02. One by One (04:10)

03. Our Bluebird Day (05:37)

04. But It is Life (05:02)

05. Love Beyond (04:00)

06. Stairs in the Sky (04:50)

07. My Old Abbey (03:59)

08. Shape of the Clouds (03:04)

09. October Children (04:10)

10. Dancing in the Snow (04:12)

11. Between the Two Trees (02:03)

12. Agiochook (04:51)

New Age-World Contemporary Review: Murray Grant-first… listen

Release Date: January 2, 2025

Label: Rooftop Recordings

Website

Murray Grant, a Canadian Contemporary Instrumental/New Age-World artist, has self-produced an album titled first…  listen. This album is a collection of his own instrumental compositions that uniquely combine acoustic ethnic instruments from around the world with contemporary Western instruments. The title first… listen suggests that this album is meant to be experienced with fresh ears, inviting the listener to embark on a new musical journey.

“temple” begins with an ambient backdrop as the flute, bass, drums, and erhu (a Chinese instrument that sounds like a violin in a lower key) come in. You have thoughts initially that it was going to be an ethereal, spacey track; however, all those elements enter the mix and make it a new-age world cornucopia of sounds and colors for an intriguing opening track. The bass is quite prominent around three-quarters through, the flute takes the lead, and the keys sprinkle more taste into the whole platter of gorgeous sounds. What an energetic way to start things off, superb music!

“water and stone” starts calmly with a rhythmic piano and shakers as the flute arrives again sounding mysterious and echoing like a bird flying away to a distant mountain peak. An erhu begins to mesmerize, and that thumping bass serves as a tribal drum of sorts calling all the other instruments to the meeting. The keys form a lovely layer of sound the draws you in further as it fades out.

“tempus fugit” is a song that I was just listening to a man play on electric guitar yesterday and it was phenomenal. This is entirely different with an amalgam of instruments joining at once for an irresistible rhythm formed by the drums and bass as the flute and keys flow like a clear running stream into one another. The track, like a story being told through the music, reflects the fleeting nature of time and the beauty found in each passing moment. The guitar, with its steady progression, repeats and lays the groundwork for all the other instruments, creating a sense of continuity and progression.

“in that moment” immediately sounds Middle Eastern and or Asian with the instruments being used. The percussion is hypnotic as the erhu provides more focus to center yourself on the sounds emanating from the speakers. It makes you feel like you are in an ancient land far away from home as you witness the tribal elders in a circle around a fire chanting. That is the picture created in my mind’s eye with this powerful combination of instruments and how they are being played. Be in the moment, live in the moment, and just be. The flute and percussion lead you out the door to another one as it fades away…

“darkness” as a title can fit many scenarios, physically, mentally, or simply the opposite of light. It begins as you may suspect, very thoughtfully, slower, although the flute is so beautiful, maybe the darkness is not such negative connotation after all. It is a place of rest and thoughts and a wind down from the day of light. The drums are well placed and strong as the flute rises to the top with the violin. It ends with an echoing flute and the sound of a heartbeat (percussion).

“awakening” comes after the “darkness” subsides and the sun shines on the new day. There is a definite progression of the tracks related to the music and track titles as I am sure you have noticed early on, and this one that makes sense. The piano and flute combine their strengths as the erhu and piano come together as well to form a mystical and magical partnership as the bass holds down the bottom line nicely as it has the entire recording. A very picturesque soundscape is formed at its peak giving the listener exciting colors and tones to interact with. 

“echoes” starts slowly and changes pace rapidly with the drums and bass driving it along as the keys invite the flute in then the drum cuts away on a spotlight solo sounding amazing. The piano carries the rhythm to stay with the bottom end as things move along nicely with some sprinkling of keyboard and synth sounds for extra magic injected into the composition. Halfway through an echoing sound is made as the track continues, it builds into a lovely combination of instrumentation and layers and finishing at 7:28 minutes, it is the longest and most complex composition on the recording. It could easily be a wonderful soundtrack to a movie scene or other media. It is very progressive but not too long, just right actually and the most prolific and beautiful song on the album.

“dania” starts with percussion and shakers for a nice rhythm as the flute comes in with the piano to begin a nice path to visualization and or meditation. You will find a good place to be centered and whole as the music fills you up and the day melts away as you reach complete relaxation and a comfort level attainable only with this music. The track is one of the easier going presentations with the excitement minimized and the focus on the tones and colors more for a spiritual journey. The flute leads the way out with a gorgeous segment.

“shades of grey” starts with a floating synth sound as the flute comes in to say hello then the piano enters carefully stepping into the walk into musical paradise. And there is that heartbeat of a bass to keep the musical clock ticking in sync and the mysterious and beautiful erhu adds to the mix. Grey may indicate parts of something in the middle or neither black or white, so you really cannot pinpoint something or give a definitive answer. However, in this case the music answers the question clearly with its pure beauty and earthy tones that can excite and relax all at the same time. Maybe that is why there is a shade of grey?

“hellos and goodbyes” has a title that is all about human emotions, the meeting and the leaving of a person, place, or thing perhaps. It is about where you are at with the frame of reference while listening. What are you thinking about as the music draws you into its storyline? The bass, piano, and percussion are magnetic as usual and then the erhu creates an esoteric element that creates wonders and thoughts and pictures of many things. This music is magnificent, are we saying hello and goodbye in every track as it merges into your soul and makes an impact? It feels that way to me and it happened near the beginning of this recording, but this track just continued to reaffirm those feelings.

“an ending (is not the end)” it is another opportunity to close one door and open another. The music starts significantly differently this time then changes with the addition of the piano, then as we have become accustomed, the flute is introduced, with a layer of synth and a strong bass line leading everything along with the drums to a fruition of sound and color. It is like starting with a blank canvas and painting a scene so quickly and precisely you must listen closely, or you will miss the meaning. The erhu feels like a like stroll into a Chinese garden or the place of retreat where the master imparts knowledge on to his students. Its sheer beauty and magnificence are awe inspiring and a gives your spirit a supercharged feeling of love and energy.

Murray Grant's first…  listen is a musical and spiritual message to the world. The new age and world elements that make up this music with old and new instruments and today’s technology form a masterful recording that is unforgettable for this listener. It held meaning and brought so much joy as I listened. Highly recommended for those that enjoy world and new age music combined.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

January 1, 2025

Tracks:

01. temple

02. water and stone

03. tempus fugit

04. in that moment

05. darkness

06. awakening

07. echoes

08. dania

09. shades of grey

10. hellos and goodbyes

11. an ending (is not the end)

New Age Contemporary Instrumental Review: Doug Hammer-November

Release Date: November 1, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Main Link

Official Trailer

When I saw November, the first person I was reminded of was the late great George Winston. I couldn't help but remember all those excellent piano solo albums on Windham Hill named after the seasons.

 

Doug Hammer is one of my favorite piano players, and I always look forward to his recordings, so that is my tribute to him.

 

The album starts with the title track, "November." Coincidentally, we just finished our Indian Summer here in New England, so getting in the mindset for the oncoming Winter for the next month is what we do. It's time to put away all the summer lawn decorations and lights, batten down the hatches, get some bags of salt, and turn off the water for the hoses. All that needs to be ready.

 

The song is straightforward and gentle, like how the leaves quietly fall to the ground in splendor and color as the trees prepare for hibernation. The second longest track on the album, at 4:29, sets the atmosphere for the rest of the story.

 

"Colder" is perfect in sequence for the meaning of the previous track and the different things I alluded to. It's my favorite time of year, and I don't mind the Winter so much when it's mild, like the last one. A bit of sadness is attached to this feeling every year, seeing the Summer fade away for good for this year. The piano playing reflects my feelings about that "cold" wave coming in. Doug's contemporary approach to new age instrumental compositions is absorbing and always relates so well to the track title.

 

"The Setting Sun" is again in sequence with the previous track, as it does from beginning to end on this recording. It doesn't just cool down like the Summer; it gets colder in the subsequent months, heading into old man Winter. Winter can be harsh, but somehow, the way the piano compositions come across gives you a sense of peace and tranquility not generally associated with this time of year, yet here we have it.  

 

"Glimmer of Light" is the last hope on the horizon as the morning breaks, and you can see the frost on the grass. The mood and vibe are uplifting as the piano takes its solo flight like a bird cruising through the air just because it can. The pace picks up, and the melody is strong and impactful.

 

"Dancing Leaves," as I mentioned previously, falling off the trees, seem to dance from side to side until they meet the ground before dissolving into the earth again. In other instances, you can be driving by a pile of them on the side of the road, and in the wake of the wind from your vehicle, it makes the pile a whirling dervish of color. The piano notes feel like a ride in the fall, emulating all those feelings and pictures in your mind. And if you have not experienced it yet, you can envision it in this song.

 

"Bare Trees" is the logical progression of everything you heard before they reached this place of change. We all know the rebirth and the green buds will start popping in the spring, and that is something to anticipate with joy and wonder every year. It's about enjoying and appreciating the transformations nature and its miracles offer. The piano is purposeful, and the notes are placed well for the reflective thought process of what just passed and what is to come next; it's perfect.

 

"A Cold Wind Blows" finally comes as the trees and wildlife are ready to face and survive. Doug's piano has a holiday flavor with Christmas approaching. Will the wind be blowing in those beautiful white flakes to decorate the barren trees and make the evergreens even more beautiful? This song is as powerful as Mother Nature and sounds classical, with that hint of holiday spirit weaving through it.

 

"First Snowfall" begins now, and the change is set for the next 4 months. Snow can fall gently and dance in the light wind or blow viciously, creating whiteouts and treacherous conditions. I think what is captured in the notes coming from Doug's fingers is a little of both scenarios to think of, one to enjoy and appreciate and one to beware and prepare.

 

"So Bright" is our life here on earth, but appreciating everything in it can sometimes be challenging, always seeing the positive or silver lining in the clouds. The music is bright, like the sun's rays, warm and welcoming. Like some of the other tracks, there is an underlying bass tone that gives it that power of persuasion, and you say to yourself, I get it; there is brightness every day. Whether it's obvious or you need to find it, it's always there.

 

I mentioned "Indian Summer" early on. Once again, the piano has this innate energy and color bursting from it, like the palette of colors all around us in the mountains and all the trees. It is a warm and happy track. We all feel it here in New England, and that time comes in one short week, usually in late September or early to mid-October, as it did most recently.

 

"Radiance" is a lovely spiritual word. Doug is in a nonstop groove of momentum and high energy, one track after another. Once he gets through the softer, slower-paced tracks and hits his stride, he keeps that motion up, and this track is an example of those happy, talented fingers at work. He radiates joy and love, which you can feel in the music. A new age track of elegance and beauty with classical influences.  Another superb track!

 

"Thanksgiving" is an excellent day for us in the U.S., celebrated by millions in many ways and traditions. It is the predecessor to Christmas. These two holidays are beautiful times to be thankful for everything you have today and spend time with family and friends.

 

"Frozen Ground" is the appropriate end for this journey through two seasons that shape our lives here in New England. I spent 8 years in California in the 80s; this time of year was never the same until I returned home. This is where I was born and where I will die, just like my parents before me. The frozen ground indicates the death of many things that will be reborn once it thaws, and the sun's warmth sprouts the first grass blades. I feel sad now; the music helped me realize the definitive end of the fall and this recording.

 

Doug's piano continues to ring true to the heart and spirit, and his music hits home uniquely for me (and I hope it will for you). The piano is like an orchestra and sounds as such when the right person is playing it.

 

I am grateful for all the feelings I went through listening to Doug Hammer's album November. It was easy for me to relate to all of this because of my location; however, if I were still in California now, I would still feel the same. Once you grow up here, you never forget. Thanks for all the fantastic music and memories, Doug.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 24, 2024

Tracks:

01. November 4:29

02. Colder 4:06

03. The Setting Sun 4:38

04. Glimmer of Light 3:06

05. Dancing Leaves 3:15

06. Bare Trees 3:19

07. A Cold Wind Blows 2:27

08. First Snowfall 3:28

09. So Bright 3:23

10. Indian Summer 3:00

11. Radiance 4:08

12. Thanksgiving 3:47

13. Frozen Ground 3:38

New Age Vocal Review: The Song Gardners-Sonic Landscape

Release Date: July 19, 2024

Label: ‎Honey Spun Records

Website

Album Link

The Song Gardeners, singer/songwriter Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar), and singer/songwriter Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, percussion), are all set to release their second album Sonic Landscape. As I recall from their first album and covering many track releases, they are talented individuals who can play instruments and sing very well. For me, that sets the stage for another enjoyable listen.

 

“Present” starts things with some very funky bass lines. Corrie sings, “Feel the energy be present with me.” The ladies have lovely voices and are solid musicians. After one track, I am already feeling energized and refreshed.

 

“Send Love to Everyone (Heal the Divide)” is a great message to the world; as Mary sings, “We heal the divide when we stop taking sides.” The guitar is excellent, with a layer of keys for more color and texture. The vocals are clear, inviting, and believable. Great music and important lyrics. When they harmonize at the end of the track, it’s a thing of beauty.

 

“Talking to Trees” will get you to tune in and tune out. It’s an earthy Mother Nature meets music in the middle, so our humanity realizes our intrinsic connection to the earth we walk on. One line goes, “Talking to trees, I feel your roots reverberating under me.”  The music is soft and flowing; as you absorb the words and their meanings, they should hold some meaning for us all. It is one of my favorites for all the reasons I just mentioned.

 

“More of This” begins with congas and a funky bass line. The bass leads the way as the other instruments and some good percussion join the party. One prolific line struck me: “The future is ours to create.” There is something pure and true about the way they present these songs, and the rhythms are irresistible. Yes, I want some “More of This” as they sing “happiness, joy, and bliss.”

 

“Future Lives” begins again with that strong bass line leading the way. I am thinking how different it is to hear people singing to new age-based music and how much I enjoy it because of what the ladies convey in every song. The flow continues one track after another, going from strength to strength.

 

“April Sky” is a song about our vast universe and how you can look at the sky day or night and think about all the wonders there to amaze and delight your heart and soul. It gives you gratitude to be alive, and you feel safe and protected under the “April Sky,” where constellations align. It is about hope and vision right before us for the taking. The music continues to feel right, accompanying the vocals, a perfect match so you can focus on all of it at once.

 

“The Little Things” matter the most and make the world a better place; the words ring true as a solid percussion gets behind the beautiful harmonizing that makes it feel authentic to the heart. A simple and direct message set to a jazz-inflected backdrop. It has a perfect melody and is very catchy.

 

“Within” closes out this consistent and beautiful recording. They remind you it all begins within for you to speak your truth as the music flows nicely and purposefully, and the lyrics hit home with words like gratitude, imagination, and curiosity, bringing your spirit and who you are to the surface. Nothing is hypothetical; it is just music to soothe your soul and words of validation. It’s simply perfect, just like all the other tracks. The music always seems to fit just right to complement all the vocals. Smooth and precise, the music gives the lyrics room to breathe and take shape.

 

It could be your Sonic Landscape. After absorbing all the sounds and messages, it makes sense to think about that momentarily. Give it a try; You will find enjoyment in many ways. I sure did.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

July 11, 2024

Tracks:

01. Present

02. Send Love to Everyone (Heal the Divide) 

03. Talking to Trees 

04. More of This

05. Future Lives 

06. April Sky 

07. The Little Things 

08. Within

New Age Review: Raphael Groten and Rebecca Kodis-Unity

Release Date: July 1, 2024

Label: ‎Independent

Website

The cover art depicts a red-tailed hawk flying with other birds, symbolizing potential human Unity. Music inspired by a vivid dream led Raphael Groten and Rebecca Kodis to collaborate on Unity, their latest release.

 

It was not just any dream but a profound vision that resonated deeply with Raphael. The artist felt compelled to act upon this vital message and create this beautiful recording.

 

The central theme of this music is Unity, a message that resonates throughout the album. This music has the power to transform and inspire us to choose Unity. It is a guiding light and a powerful messenger, potentially uniting us all.

 

Raphael Groten and Rebecca Kodis' alignment is a testament to their musical ability and creativity. Rebecca's violin and vocals add a new dimension to the music, enriching the overall sound. Will Ackerman at Imaginary Road Studios' contributions, including Eugene Friesen on cello and Michael Manring on fretless bass, further enhance the album's depth and complexity. Tom Eaton's consistent presence in production ties it all together, making this album a true masterpiece.

 

The violin's introduction in this album adds a unique texture and color to Raphael's music, distinguishing it from his previous works. This beautiful element enhances Raphael's acoustic guitar, creating a harmonious blend. In the track “Rainbow Tribe,” their performance is seamless, as if it was all predestined. Each track vividly captures the essence of this album, making it a must-listen for new-age enthusiasts.

 

In this specific track, I found it significant that there was an American Indian reference, and the vocals were a tribal chant. It always brings me back to how the Native Americans lived and respected the earth and all living things, providing equal existence and respect for each other and taking only what they needed. This is the right way to live for all living things. Unfortunately, we have been on a path of self-destruction for so long with no regard for these important values and beliefs.

 

"Good Medicine" follows along that same path, with Raphael's guitar resonating from beginning to end with extraordinary picking that sounds very timely. It is so relaxing and calming that you cannot resist its pull to let it melt away any stress you may be feeling. It can relax the mind and clear the thoughts that make you anxious. As with meditation, the goal is to be in the emptiness and just be. Healing of the body, mind, and spirit can occur in that space. In fact, as usual, all of the tracks provide that kind of atmosphere one would seek for renewal.

 

I found "Sleeping Lion" fascinating, a step away from the norm. Michael Manring's bass leads off the track, and the acoustic guitar comes in. The sound Manring gets is very different from a typical bass sound. It is very recognizable to my ears, as I have heard it many times. It can be a lead instrument with the sounds he coaxes out of it.  

 

There is so much beauty and peace to behold in this music. Watching Raphael develop over the years has been a true honor. Every release brings more maturity and gorgeous guitar playing that can be enjoyed.

 

Unity is one more step that cements Raphael's growing legacy as a new-age artist who has made his mark and will continue to do so. The collaboration with Rebecca Kodis showcased his willingness to explore new avenues. I suggest that he continue on this path, developing his music with more intricacies and complexities to gather more interest from an ever-widening and eclectic base of listeners.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

June 23, 2024

Tracks:

01. Feathers 3:16

02. Ease 6:25

03. Rainbow Tribe 5:40

04. Open Hands 5:41

05. Good Medicine 4:37

06. Union 4:07

07. Old Home 3:53

08. Eternal Blossom 5:33

09. Sleeping Lion 4:13

10. Unity 5:37

New Age Instrumental Review: David Wahler-Blue Rose

Release Date: December 1, 2023

Label: ‎Independent

Website 

David Wahler's story of recovery from near-death cancer of the lungs is a miracle. I experienced the same last year at this time when I got sepsis and recovered in time to be home on Christmas with my family. David and I could have died, and many do. Yet here we are celebrating the man's music on Blue Rose. 

 

What I found different and interesting was how each track had its cover art, and it broke down one by one on iTunes. So, in addition to the thought of what you were hearing, you could look at the message of each cover.

 

The significance of blue roses holds many meanings; however, in the Japanese language of flowers, blue roses mean "a dream come true," which is appropriate for David.

 

"Once Upon Another Time" starts the recording with a delicate dream-like atmosphere. Its soft, entrancing entrance into your consciousness is a welcome 4:33 minutes. The artwork is a person walking on a barren landscape with the time to tell the story or create one in the loneliness or serenity of the moment, whichever may apply.

 

"Bernadette's Dream" continues the lovely patterns of unearthly flow; it is a touch of grace knocking at heaven's door, so beautiful. The artwork is mystical and universal in a thought process.

 

"II Addio (The Farewell)" shows a heart-shaped sunset with several birds flying over the water towards the light. In this track, after fighting for four years for his life, the artist was getting ready to accept his flight to a new life, and then he received his once-in-a-lifetime miracle that changed everything. The sadness of the music draws you in and makes you reflective and thoughtful.

 

"Just A Thought" is soft and warm, gently inviting you into the space and time of an artist expressing his emotions through his talented fingers on the keyboard and following his muse. Will you follow, too?

 

"Blue Rose," the title track, is the most significant. A steady back rhythm has the keys floating over the top like a cloud floats by on a beautiful bright day in the summer. Wordless vocals accompany the notes, giving it all a nice touch.

" Red," with its simplistic yet striking artwork for the track, shows a lighter image behind the text, the heart. The heart is a magnificent organ in the body that interconnects everything we are inside and out. The pace of the music is like a heartbeat going slowly, then faster, then smoothing out for a more regular flow. The music emulates the most critical organ in the body and paints the necessary picture.

 

"Dark Eyes" is a stark black-and-white photo of a person from India. The eyes are black and deep as the music digs down into your soul with the tinkling of a bell, the harp sounds, and echoing synths to capture the importance and feeling of the image and a track title. Will the darkness of the eyes find the light it seeks?

 

"Come" shows a vast cement wall with an extensive yet thin opening in the middle of the structure with intense light in the door. The light beckons you, and the walls will disappear as you walk through the space. The artist may have acknowledged it was okay to reach for the light. A woman's voice says, "Don't be scared." The music is very deliberate, with the sound of a violin and the lovely keys with different textures, and towards the end, the voice enters again and says, "Come." 

 

"Soliloquy" is a picture of a person on cracked and weathered marble, as seen in an ancient Roman temple. The music holds sadness and unmatched beauty, like that temple still standing after thousands of years. The meaning of the word is an act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when by oneself or regardless of any hearers, especially by a character in a play. Is life a play, and we are the actors? In this case, it's the reality of life spoken through gorgeous music. Is the music speaking to you?

 

"Little Sparrow" finalizes this incredible journey of a man facing death and finding a way to deal with it day and year by year and finally getting his wings to fly again to continue life. What a blessing and the lessons that he learned on his travels. The piano sounds like it's calling to you and letting you know it's time to move on. The synths enhance the layers of color and energy as you joyously fly away with the music.

 

Blue Rose was unexpectedly presented to me differently than usual and was a pleasant surprise. The invitation to look at each track as a separate entity and the corresponding artwork flowed like a storybook, creating a complete experience.

 

If you enjoy keyboards with various other instruments intermingled amongst the keys, this will be one you will want to take advantage of.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

December 22, 2023

 Tracks:

01. Once Upon Another Time (4:33)

02. Bernadette’s Dream (3:04)

03. II Addio (The Farewell) (4:52)

04. Just A Thought (3:16)

05. Blue Rose (3:53)

06. Red (3:18)

07. Dark Eyes (3:26)

08. Come (3:46)

09. Soliloquy (5:44)

10. Little Sparrow (4:07)