New Age Instrumental/Classical Review: Angelo Râpan-Songs of Leaving

Release Date: August 2105

Label: Indie

Website

Angelo Râpan has created a beautifully composed album titled Songs of Leaving. My introduction to this finely crafted recording was the track “Remember” which was featured on our Rate The Tracks site.

I was moved by this music, it hit me square in the heart. I thought about the title of the album then the tone and atmosphere of every track. If you listen carefully, the pace of each song can relate to something or someone leaving. Whether it be walking at a brisk pace or slowly turning back with a tear in one’s eye, or just cruising down a highway with a view of the coast …There is a song for each mood and place in time.

Angelo transfers his heart and soul through his incredibly talented fingers then creates music with the piano that is simply amazing. For the most part it is just the piano however you will hear a few different instruments peppered here and there such as the violin which can be an excellent companion of the piano. You will hear new age instrumental and classical influences coming through at every turn, and it is a wonderful mixture of sound and textures.

Once again I find myself at a loss to single out any one track that stands out above the rest as the entire album is superb from start to finish. The reason I say this is because each track seamlessly flows into the next. What this artist accomplishes within 8 tracks is like a moving musical storybook. Even though each one is different it ties into the next like a patchwork quilt with many colors and distinct purpose.

If you are in the mood for some soothing instrumental music to take the edge off and have the ability to really take stock of your inner most feelings and thoughts, Songs of Leaving will be the light at the end of the tunnel. Perhaps what it all means is that you can leave whatever it is that is preoccupying you behind and totally immerse yourself in this music. Whatever meaning you find in this music will certainly take you in a positive direction. It is worth several listens and I would be willing to bet will become one of your favorite instrumental albums to relax to this year.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: ALL

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 26, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Music News: Russell Suereth Creates A Spiritual Haven For New Age Listeners

New York, NY-September 15, 2015-Russell Suereth released his maiden voyage into the new age world music genre this spring with Spiritual Haven.

He created the Spiritual Haven album to provide a place where people can go to relax, and connect to their own spirit.

Russell commented: I feel there’s a connection between our life today, and the vast stream of human existence that came before us. In many ways, our spirit can help us make that ancient connection. In this album, I focused on ancient and traditional instruments to set a tone. Then I sprinkled in modern instruments and synths to contrast old against new. My goal was to create music that connects to your spirit, and connects to that ancient existence.

Based on the reception he has received for the release and all the positive reviews there is valid evidence that his final goal was accomplished and many souls were touched by the music. Spiritual Haven ushered in a new direction for Suereth. Previously he had released contemporary rock and pop music however he found that there were many elements and influences that pulled him towards creating this music.

This has to be one of the most fascinating and cleverly woven albums that I have had the pleasure to listen to for some years.” –  
Steve Sheppard, One World Music (OWM)

“One of the best New Age albums of the year … a masterpiece” –  
Robert Steven Silverstein, mwe3.com

Spiritual Haven was composed and performed by Suereth with Assistant Production provided by Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck and final mastering by renowned engineer Tom Eaton, who works with Will Ackerman at the famous Imaginary Road Studios in Vermont where many artists go to record their music.

Spiritual Haven combines relaxing and spiritual sounds with new age and world elements. The final result is an eclectic mix that is not easy to define specifically to one genre. This factor helps the artist to stand out amongst the many different artists creating similar music. Although the two main genres are dominant it has the ability to cross over and appeal to a wider audience. Music such as this can serve as a guide to a meditative state or just a nice soundtrack to casually relax to. Either way it is a spiritual or contemplative journey that provides so much joy and wonder from start to finish that you will feel compelled to return again and again for more listens.

Russell Suereth is dedicated to his craft and has worked tirelessly to create awareness about Spiritual Haven. Once you listen to the recording you will understand the concept and reasoning behind the intent of this prolific release. Listeners are anticipating more from Russell Suereth in the future and certainly he intends to provide more spiritual journeys soon but until then give Spiritual Haven your undivided attention, you will not regret it.

Contact: Russell Suereth

Location: New York, NY

Email: rsuereth@optonline.net

Website: http://www.russellsuereth.com/spiritual-new-age-music

Instrumental New Age Review: Dan Chadburn-Keys of Light

Release Date: August 1, 2015

Label: Indie

Website

My introduction to Dan Chadburn was the title track off his new album Keys of Light. I featured the track on one of our sites (RateThe Tracks). What happened while listening to that song turned into quite an eventful experience. I was feeling so sad that my little girl was all grown up, and had left home. What I realized after I had shed my tears was how healing that was to be able to feel those powerful emotions then let the music take me and heal my soul.

Great music carries a message with it however creating instrumental music is more difficult for people to find something that moves them. I have heard some amazing music this year and that is my honor and privilege to do so. This is why I can appreciate and respect incredibly talented artists like Dan Chadburn. The keyboards and orchestrations throughout Keys of Light are like a soundtrack to heaven. If this is the kind of bliss that awaits us after we leave our bodies and become pure light then we are in for an amazing journey ahead. This is music for the living and it will make you feel so many things, and it can be very healing if you want to take the time to listen to it all.

I normally like to point to three key tracks but in this case I feel that would not be fair. Each track leads the next down a different path and they are all connected. Every track is extremely strong with a different pace and texture that creates moods and atmospheres that I can see fitting into a motion picture or narrated visual. Music such as this has a multitude of uses and that makes it invaluable.

It was a pleasure to discover the music of Dan Chadburn and his work of art on this musical canvas called Keys of Light. It certainly was a bright spot in my day to listen to this music. Yes it will bring many thoughts and emotions upon you but you will also have an opportunity to process those feelings then move on. You have to feel before you can heal and this music is the perfect place to start.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: ALL

Tracks:
01. Tacoma Morning   
02. Beyond the Rain   
03. Keys of Light   
04. Tyler's Tribute   
05. Diamond in the Sky   
06. Chesapeake Sail   
07. My Irish Love   
08. To the Heavens   
09. With You Always   
10. Matthew   
11. Paul's Prayer
12. Colour My World

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 10, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

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New Age/Ethnic Fusion Review: Paul Adams-Imaginings

Release Date: September, 1, 2015

Label: Lakefront

Website

Paul Adams is a man of many talents. A crafter of fine instruments, an artist, composer and nine critically acclaimed albums crossing several genres, what can this man not do? Imaginings is his newest accomplishment and together with the talented musicians Elizabeth Geyer, Pravin Godkhindi and David Hoffman they have crafted an album filled with meditative moments and pure fodder for the imagination just as the title to the album suggests. Instruments used in this album include the guitar, piano, hang drum, Chinese halusi, dobro, electric sitar and flute. 

The album opens up with the haunting strains of an electric sitar and the winding trails of flute music. Bearing the kiss of a piano, “Just Such Beauty” is a foray into the rainforest of lush musical experience. A buzzing sound denotes life uncoiling all around you as the breathless flute weaves a spell of expectation and bliss. This piece lulls the spirit into another place, guiding you past the trials of the day and into a higher place of spirit and substance. 

“Giggles and Grooves” is the second piece on the album and is a funny little piece complete with the laughter of children, flute, percussive elements and electric sitar. This song is the bounce and hop of a small child as they play ball with their friends. The skip and jump of a puppy learning first steps. The bubble in your belly of first love. A flower given. A grin on your face as your heart floats as light as the flute playing. Love and laughter live here within each and every note.

“Conch Shell by the Sea” is the last piece on the album. Echoes of time slip through the wisps of flute music as they sigh past your ear and into the vast ocean beyond. Piano music creates the waves that swirl and rush past your ankles as you step into the forever ocean. Life is limitless. Your possibilities great and ever flowing as the whisper of the conch spells out the secrets of the universe. 

“Imaginings” is an album rich with imagery that crosses into the New Age genre and also makes its mark with World Music. Improvisation runs rife through the thought provoking pieces, tangling up the spirit in a maze of lush plant life and effervescent compositions. Melodies hum and spin, carrying the listener deep into the meditative places that promote healing and stress relief. This is a remarkable album and I highly recommend it for some quality sound.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Just Such Beauty, Giggles and Grooves, Conch Shell by the Sea

Tracks:

01. Just Such Beauty
Paul Adams, Pravin Godkhindi & Elizabeth Geyer

02. Giggles and Grooves (feat. David Hoffman & Pravin Godkhindi)
Paul Adams
   
03. Imaginings (feat. David Hoffman, Elizabeth Geyer & Pravin Godkhindi)
Paul Adams
   
04. Panda Bears At Breakfast (feat. Elizabeth Geyer & Pravin Godkhindi)
Paul Adams
   
05. Pastoral (feat. Elizabeth Geyer, Pravin Godkhindi & David Hoffman)
Paul Adams
   
06. Like Blue and Velvet (feat. Elizabeth Geyer)
Paul Adams

   
07. For Two Lovers (feat. Elizabeth Geyer)
Paul Adams

   
08. The Mysteries of Mood (feat. Pravin Godkhindi & David Hoffman)
Paul Adams

   
09. Upon Early Rising (feat. Elizabeth Geyer & Pravin Godkhindi)
Paul Adams
   
10. Clouds (feat. Pravin Godkhindi)
Paul Adams
   
   
11. Dawn
Paul Adams
   
12. Conch Shell By the Sea (feat. Elizabeth Geyer, David Hoffman & Elizabeth Geyer)
Paul Adams

Dana Wright, , Sr. Staff Writer

September 4, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

New Age Instrumental Review: Peter Phippen and David Roll-Unearthed

Release Date: May 1, 2015

Label: Promotion Music Records

Website

Peter Phippen is a Grammy Award nominee and four time Native American Music Awards nominee. David Roll has been in the music business for at least three decades. The two have collaborated together for more than thirty five years, each with a style that melds together to craft albums full of improvisational techniques that stand out from the crowd. Unearthed is the newest release from this dynamic duo and it has been decidedly worth the wait.

Instruments included in this production are: Butch Hall Native American style flute, synthesizer, antique bamboo alto flute, antique Haitian flute, electric grand piano, Butch Hall Native American style bass flute, Early Showa period 1.7 Japanese Shakuhachi, Ken LaCosse 2.4 shakuhachi flute, Olwell bamboo flutes, Chilean clay ocarina and the Ellis fusion bansuri.

Soulful harmonies greet the listener as the opening piece “Lubbock Lullaby” awakens. The peaceful sway of a synthesizer combined with the majesty of the Butch Hall Native American style flute takes you down from the rigors of the day. It brings to mind the silent and grassy plains of Texas where solitude reaches the human spirit and lifts it toward introspection.

“Unearthed” is the second piece on the album. Electric grand piano meets antique bamboo alto flute and antique Haitian flute and the effect is primordial. Like the picturesque cover, this track takes you back to a time where things were simpler. Gentle and plodding, the harmony winds around you, luring you down the path least traveled by. Discovery of self in lives mired down by modern day responsibility and endless multi-tasking is not a small thing. It only takes a moment. The stillness. Close your eyes. Open your ears. Just listen…

“Cedar Song” is another visit from our friend the Butch Hall Native American style flute. Airy and cavernous, this simple swaying piece is a lone man playing on the edge of a cliff, singing out his humanity to the world and letting the wisps of music be carried away on the breath of the wind. The memory of trees sways behind him, but it is the open sky and what is to come that takes precedence. To delve into harmony is the breath of life. From the earth comes all things. 

“Hope Springs” is the last piece on the album. A synthesizer greets us and is soon joined by the Ellis fusion bansuri creating an ethereal piece that leaves you floating above the ground. Hovering. Waiting. Listening. This is life. A journey of beginnings and culminations. Never ending, this cycle gives and takes. Life and death. Each textured melody twists a strain of hope that meanders in the life blood of the human spirit and lends the spark of renewal. 

Peter Phippen and David Roll have crafted a magnificent album with Unearthed. Different styles meld into an album with distinct tracks, echoing with melodies and compositions to stir the introspective elements of your soul. With many unique instruments from around the world, this album is textured and well formed. It is highly recommended if you want a breath of fresh air from the frenzied pace of everyday life. I’ve found myself playing it over and over again and the album just resonates. Phippen and Roll are true artists and no collection of flute music is complete without this album.  

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Lubbock Lullaby, Unearthed, Cedar Song, Hope Springs

Tracks: 
1.Lubbock Lullaby
2.UnEarthed
3.Equinox
4.Icy Depths
5.Fjord
6.Cedar Song
7.The One Sound
8.Hope Springs
 

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

August 24, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Russell Suereth Releases Video Documenting Spiritual Haven Album

September 1, 2015-New York, NY-With the release of Spiritual Haven this year recording artist Russell Suereth broke new ground. Entering the world of new age and world music was big change for the former rock and pop artist. That step has brought the artist to new heights and success in the world of recordings.
 

The album features 12 diverse and moving tracks that engage the senses and allow you look inward and find yourself in another time and place. 

Russell Commented: I wanted to provide my listeners with something that would really help them see the story in the album. I had done a few radio programs about the journey inside the album, but I didn’t feel that it really hit home for my listeners.

So along those lines he decided to engage his audience and potential listeners through a video storybook.

Russell wanted to have the story narrated and felt having another voice tell the story was more appropriate. A friend suggested Steve Sheppard of One World Music and things began to take shape.

So now with the video released listeners are invited to a guided tour through what the album has to offer. In essence the video provides a holistic spiritual voyage for the listener while expanding the breadth of the new age experience. And finally, it combines the original music of the Spiritual Haven album, and the story of the journey inside, to form a creative work that is new and memorable.

 

Music, spiritual destinations, meditation and new journeys are all part of the Spiritual Haven experience and with the release of the narrated video any one appreciative of those healing practices will find enjoyment viewing the video stream.

 

Contact: Russell Suereth

Location: New York, NY

Email: rsuereth@optonline.net

Video Link: https://youtu.be/QGUHJRU_22w

Website: http://www.russellsuereth.com/spiritual-new-age-music/

New Age Review: Wouter Kellerman-Love Language

Release Date: August 28, 2015

Label: Listen 2 Africa

Website

Wouter Kellerman is a flutist and composer that left tracks in the New Age music industry with his album Winds of Samsara, a collaboration with lndian composer and producer Ricky Kej. Winning a Grammy in 2015 for the album and multiple SAMA awards in his native South Africa, Kellerman secured his status as one of his country’s most prominent musicians. His new album Love Language brings to mind the book by Gary Chapman in which the author discusses the many ways love can be expressed. In this album, Kellerman reaches across the globe and reflects on how multiple cultures give and receive love in all of its forms. It is an electric album that captivated me from the first track. Love can be learned but most all love can be experienced.

From the first strains of “Aishwarya” to the ethereal “Shenandoah” the presence of Kellerman’s flute and world class musicians and artists brings each piece to glowing life. “Shenandoah” in particular grabbed my attention for the angelic female vocalist, the twinkling chimes and the way the song was sung. The vocalist sings of a love for the river’s daughter and that is not something you hear every day in modern music. It speaks to a love that spans the world and the rainbow that shines down over everyone who hears it. This is truly a gorgeous piece that is a fitting reflection of our time.

“Notre Futur” crackles to life with percussive elements, male vocals that scrape low and bring the listener up toward the heavens. Again, I couldn’t help but feel a kinship to this piece, with its rattles, flute, guitar and textured layers. The world music flair was persuasive and upbeat, making me want to replay the track over and over again. Rich and full, this piece was shivering with emotion and joy.

“Love Gets Old” is the last song on the album. Pensive with piano movements and flute intertwining in blissful harmony, this piece walks with you as the years go on. With each step, your loved one’s footprints follow alongside yours. Bittersweet as the strings break in, this piece has a hauntingly familiar strain that tugs at heartstrings and brings burnished memories out of mothballs from the past. The first kiss is new but the sweetest ones are the ones that grow familiar over time.

Music spanning the globe, this album shines the light on love in all of its forms. Featuring influences from Senegal, Spain, Cuba, India, The United States and Greece. Wouter Kellerman brings out music that speaks to the heart of us all. Love is universal. So is music. Each of us can wield them both but in the hands of a magician like Kellerman…he makes it look and sound easy. I highly recommend this album for a refreshing listen that will give renewed faith to the power and resilience of the human spirit and make you long for the album to never end.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Shenandoah, Love Gets Old, Notre Futur

Tracks: 
01. Aishwarya
02. Winter (feat. Soweto Gospel Choir)
03. Si Do Mhaimeo
04. Up To The Mountain
05. Zininzi
06. Solo Tu / Still Life
07. To Tango Tis Nefelis
08. Turning Page
09. Shenandoah
10. Guajira
11. Notre Futur
12. The Long Road
13. Ek Verlang Na Jou
14. Love Gets Old

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

August 27, 2015

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews