Holiday/New Age Review: Steven C.-Christmas Beyond

Release Date: November 26, 2014

Label: Steven C Music

Website

It never seems too early for Holiday music when artists like Steven C. (Anderson) release a set of recordings that combine elements of classical and new age to formulate something beyond what one would normally hear this time of year. In fact, the best way to describe it is Christmas Beyond. So forget about everything you know that is associated with this type of music, open your mind and heart and listen intently to what this talented man has to offer. It was very appropriate that the artist recorded this album in the majestic Cathedral of St. Paul, MN featuring his Bosendorfer Grand Piano.

My glimpse of the new vision of the traditional Holiday season was on our Rate The Tracks site when the focus was “Still,Still, Still.”  This track is a perfect blend of Holiday, New Age and Classical music. It gives the listener a crossover appeal and opens the door to some opportunity for a larger audience than what the genre would normally command. This is not clearly defined music as it stands alone and allows each listener’s own personal interpretations, which any good instrumental music will do. The difference is this release is special because of what it stands for. When I first heard “Still, Still, Still”  it initiated a sequence of feelings internally, first sadness that summer had past, then the joy and beauty of the annual foliage…as if God had a huge paint brush and carefully designed each tree with its own color. Now with those two seasons behind me my thoughts turned to Christmas, the most special and sacred time of year. This is when one wants to be surrounded by loved ones, friends, and thoughts of all those that have passed that built those yearly traditions long ago.

Music engages you and brings forth many feelings and visions, if it accomplishes that it has completed its mission, Christmas Beyond does that and so much more. 
 

“The Angel Gabriel” draws the curtain open to a story and it unfolds before you. The significance of Gabriel is documented in the Bible and in the story of Christmas. I think it was a great choice to start the recording. I like the way Steven intersects the winter season with the Holiday and how it is forever linked, particularly for those not living in year round warm climates. He also makes sure the importance of Thanksgiving is not forgotten and how it segues into the birth of Jesus. There is a lot to think about in this music and what actually makes it more contemplative is the fact that it is all instrumental. Without words there is one less thing to be distracted with or focus on, this way the music is completely absorbed and you reflect back on your own life and personal experiences of the Holiday.

“Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Winds” is an invitation to the elements of earth to work freely and perhaps is an indication of something on a spiritual level that says “Let the winds of change come through, we welcome them and the season and the beauty it offers us all.” This can be looked upon as a change in life or the effects it has on an individual. It is all in the way you perceive things happening in front of you. I thought the pace of the song was gentle and inviting even though winter winds can be brutally cold and wreak havoc, this gave me a different perspective on what it can mean.

As with anything in life it is all in your attitude, and what you believe is your truth or can be. Steven C. has created a masterful interpretation of the winter season and the most cherished Holiday of them all through beautiful piano based music. It is spiritual, relaxing and in sync with the upcoming Holidays right around the corner. I highly recommend you give it a listen; you may step away with some different ideas of what this time of year means. There is nothing like great music to reveal the truth and put a different spin on things. Christmas Beyond can be your North Star to follow to enlightenment this year.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Still, Still, Still, The Angel Gabriel, Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Winds         

Tracks:
01. The Angel Gabriel   
02. Sing We Now of Christmas   
03. Still, Still, Still    0
04. Ah, Bleak and Chill the Wintry Winds
05. In the Bleak Midwinter
06. Blow, Blow Thou Winter Winds
07. Infant Holy, Infant Lowly   
08. Carol of the Birds and Bells   
09. Little Drummer Boy   
10. Beyond a Midnight Clear   
11. Ave Thanksgiving   
12. Angels Heard: Do You Hear? I Heard!   
13. The Road Home
 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck- New Age Music Reviews Founder

November 11, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Lynn Tredeau-Many Branches

Release Date: October 6, 2023

Label: ‎ Independent

Website

Lynn Tredeau's latest release, Many Branches, serves as a reflection of herself through the music. It is her ninth proper studio album.

If you happen to be looking for "Sunshine Tomorrow," you will likely find the orchestration of the keys on Lynn's piano. That track is one of twelve that will set you at ease and let the day slip away into the night.

 

For some of us, it isn't easy to clear our minds, put the day behind us, and find complete enjoyment after punching the clock. Because we can be so busy with work, we may have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep to get needed rest. What is there to turn to find that release point and re-energize?

 

As you get into a comfortable space in your home and position yourself for optimal relaxation, the music encourages you to do what you need to absorb it fully. An artist's stream of consciousness is entirely different from everyday folks. As they follow their hearts and spirits, the music is created and performed, and then, after many months in the recording studio, comes the addition of other instruments; however, in this case, that was unnecessary. It is Lynn and her piano alone. Then, the final mastering. A process I cannot comprehend. I do appreciate what each artist goes through to bring such grace and beauty. Lynn has done that consistently over the years.

 

I did notice a particular atmosphere running through each track. Every track has a purposeful pace and mood. I heard a sadness that was hard to define (it was a mirror of my soul at the time). The tracks sound like love songs to me, but they come filled with color and ambiance that radiate hope, which, in the end, removes that feeling of sadness I felt while listening. While all that was true, I felt everything I heard was beautiful.

 

The one thing a listener needs to remember is that music is perceived differently by everyone. Also, their current life situation might feel like a "Carousel" of emotions and as if something emerged from the "Shadows." Still, there is always "Morning's Promise" right around the corner when the sun rises again.

 

When "Technicolor Blanket" started, I noticed an immediate change in the energy of the music and how my senses perceived it. The track has a more upbeat pace and shade to it. It's like a smile that begins on the inside and then shows on the outside. 

 

The best way to express my feelings regarding this music was to use the track titles interspersed with words and emotions. And, after all, isn't that what this is all about? Music is emotion in its absolute and honest form. If you listen closely enough, you feel the heart and soul of the artist in every note. And that my music-loving friends are our gifts to treasure.

 

Stop and listen to the Many Branches on Lynn Tredeau's music tree. It will take root and grow as soon as you start listening.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

September 19, 2023

Tracks:

01. Room with a View 2:51

02. Sunshine Tomorrow 2:52

03. On a Distant Hill 3:38

04. Sail Away 3:10

05. Moon Jellies 2:59

06. Desert Rain 4:25

07. Envisaging 3:47

08 .Ilunabarra 2:46

09. Carousel 3:14

10. Shadows 2:57

11. Technicolor Blanket 3:06

12. Morning's Promise 4:19

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Vicente Avella-Physics of Light

Release Date: August 8, 2022

Label:  Pandora’s Boombox Records

Website

Physics of Light is about many things besides what the title would indicate. For Vicente Avella, there is a story behind the music; there always is. If you have a curious disposition and want to know the how and why of a recording, then you will love the story behind the music. 

Vicente recorded during COVID. For most artists, this was a blessing in disguise if it did not affect them in other ways, like contracting the virus or losing someone because of it. It was an opportunity for this artist to do all the recording himself because everything was closed. So, he went to the Boston GP 163 piano to start his process. The piano he had wanted to play to record on for some time.

It was destiny, and Physics of Light was born. Sixteen tracks of instrumental piano music to calm the nerves and refresh your being are now alive and well for everyone to enjoy.

The recording started with some trepidation from Vicente, but he did a fine job and then sent it off to be mastered. And now he has this beautiful recording, knowing he does not need a studio to get an album done. The world works in mysterious ways; there was a roadblock at the time. After further investigation and taking a chance, another door opened. He just needed the faith to walk through it.

What I found interesting was the thought that went into the entire presentation. The artwork Vicente envisioned was to be something that Da Vinci had created. If you are familiar with that, the attained visual is perfect. It had to be scientifically and mathematically correct, so he had it checked by a composition student and now who is also a Physicist. After that, an artist in Italy (of course) was commissioned to take Vicente’s chicken scratch and make it look like a work of Da Vinci’s. Once again, it hit the mark. It was essential to convey the images and thought process encompassing all aspects of light while listening. Then looking at the track titles and hearing how they came out in the audio spectrum is the next step. It is up to you to delve further to compare the similarities or differences between the two ranges.

So, for me, the listener and reviewer, reading about the story was fascinating and made the music more enjoyable and thoughtful. Yes, it is very scientific, and there was a process; however, once you hear the music and its sheer beauty and simple perfection, you will wholeheartedly agree that this makes sense in all its totality.

Sometimes I wonder what else to say about another solo piano instrumental album. The truth is, I always find enjoyment and something new. My fascination with how this all came together and the thought and care that went into making it a “complete” artistic rendering of audio recordings was the key that unlocked my mind. It all connects and makes sense. And to think one man’s fascination with the Physics of Light could create such beauty and picturesque sounds through one instrument. It was a lonely process, but that is the X factor in creating a successful recording. It would be best if you were alone with your thoughts, the process of creation, and no distractions to take you off the course that brings it all home.

Vicente Avella has triumphed over all the obstacles to release one of the most rewarding albums of his career. And for the listeners and followers, this is to be enjoyed for many years. Physics of Light will be your beacon to some well-deserved musical fulfillment and relaxation.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

July 13, 2022

Track List:

01. LIGHT PARTICLES                            

02. RADIANCE                                       

03. WHERE LIGHT AND SHADOW MEET        

04. ULTRAVIOLET                                  

05. OSCURO                                          

06. RESISTANCE                                    

07. COLOR SPECTRUM                          

08. CLARO                                             

09. PENUMBRA                                     

10. REFLECTION                                  

11. INTERMEZZO                                

12. OPAQUE OBJECT                                    

13. UMBRA                                         

14. INFRARED                                     

15. ANTUMBRA                                  

16. VISIBLE LIGHT 

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)

New Age Instrumental Review:Tron Syversen-A New Spring

Release Date: April 27, 2022 Digital/May 27, 2022 CD

Label:  Tron Music

Website

Tron Syversen has quite the recorded collection of music available on his website. A New Spring is his latest work. We look back on Winter as another season with different views once that is upon us. Some folks dread it, move south to warmer climates, and return after the orange-breasted robin's return. That bird and its song remind us that life can also be migratory.

This music brings those thoughts and feelings into focus. I look at the beautiful things Winter can be, and on the other side, the danger that awaits one if you are not paying attention.

Tron's music is atmospheric and soothing as watching the buds on the tree on the album cover coming to life and blossoming. If you live through the four seasons, each has its beauty and offerings to those wishing to embrace it. And the music is relatively easy to feel at home with. The tinkling of the keys from Tron to the lovely wordless vocalizations of Helene Edler is magical. Each pulls you into its separate journey of unspoken scenery. The track names are self-explanatory, and the music follows the pictures that come to life with the color and spirituality in your heart, mind, and soul. Helene’s angelic vocals are the axiomatic icing on the cake. Her talents are rendered with excellence as they embrace the music and become one with its purpose.

Tron has a lot of talent behind his piano and keyboards with violin, electric violin, cello, guitars, bass, English horn, flute, and soprano sax. I have listed all the contributors below.

Listeners can go from moments of "Surrender" to the chill of "February," then to the "Melting Snow," then reach back to the beginning of the recording to relive the "Dancing Butterflies." A New Spring is the poetry of life that we all share. We are witness to all of these songs of life, and hopefully, we all find our "True Love," whether that a person, a furry friend, or your life's work, those expressive words can apply to so many different things during our lives here on earth.

A New Spring reminds me of all the beauty and what mother nature gives us during all the seasons. They can apply to the different periods we travel through on our paths to the Winter of our soul. These "Magic Waves" of music created by the gifted artist Tron Syversen will find appreciation by many listeners. It is all original music arranged by the artist, making it much more valid and noteworthy.

I find peace and refuge inside the music, which is the idea you will hear in A New Spring.

Credits:
Voice: Helene Edler
Violin: Agnes Hoffart
Electric violin: Sunniva Tomter
Cello: Silje Katrine Gotaas
Guitars: Rolf Kristensen,
Harald Fjelde (2, 7) and Elin Løkken (4)
Bass: Per Elias Drabløs
English Horn: Henrik Eurenius
Flute: Elin Kathrine Thorkildsen
Soprano Saxophone: Arne Egnesvoll
Piano/Keyboards: Tron Syversen
Music and arrangements: Tron Syversen

 Tracks:

1. Dancing Butterflies (6:59)
2. Melting Snow (5:42)
3. Blossom of the Heart (7:21)
4. Surrender (5:27)
5. February (6:18)
6. Magic Waves (6:08)
7. Evening Breeze (7:16)
8. True Love (6:32)


Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
April 27, 2022