New Age World Instrumental Review: Get Tribal-Radio God

Release Date: October 6, 2015
Label: Indie

Get Tribal is a group that pays tribute to ancient rhythms and spirituality on their recording Radio God. The goal is to awaken the Chakras and indeed it does. Each track is named with four radio call letters inspired by regional or religious iconography. Radio God is due out on October 6th 2015.

Kari Hohne is the artist that drives this new project. As stated in their press - Radio God is a surreal revival of world spiritual music arranged with ethnic rhythms, modern beats and infused with radio/media nostalgia. This recording is a follow up to the acclaimed album God of Drum.

Kari started composing music at the tender age of 6 so it is no wonder that she has advanced into so many segments of music and spirituality. She is a diverse and talented artisan with boundless energy without limitations. The music on Get Tribal is a direct reflection of that eclectic approach.

“GUIP Sunrise” opens up the album with gentle stirrings of life just as we experience on a daily basis. The combination of tribal rhythms and electronics make for an inviting sequence of events that unfold before you and then continue to advance with each track. 

“RUAH: Breathe” steps up the pace with more earthy tones and atmospheres with the drums providing the heartbeat that pumps the musical blood of the track as it builds and transforms. At this point I am becoming more and more intrigued with this music wondering what is going to come next.

“TABA: Out of the Underworld” creates an anticipatory and movie like soundscape for the listener. It excites and energizes then takes it all down a notch and relaxes within the same composition. Soft keyboards enter the scenery and it makes you feel like you are floating along on a wafting cloud. You feel like this should not end as it feels so natural and good for the spirit.

“KVED: At One in the World” is the album closer and perhaps the most prolific track that personifies this recording. It was featured on one of our sister sites Rate The Tracks. It starts off with a gentle invitation of an acoustic guitar closely followed by ever present drums to drive it along as different instruments gradually added create a world instrumental simmering kettle that comes to a full boil literally overflowing with good vibrations and spiritual awakenings. It gets injected with a shot modernization then some strong electronic essences via the synthesizer at different points. This kind of mix is what makes not only this track but the entire recording a true musical adventure.

The good vibes and earthly tones and rhythms are dominant on Radio God however what makes it all so special is that it takes the old and mixes it with the new in a distinct musical fashion, and transformed into a delight for the senses. The best of both worlds intermingle to make this album interesting and a completely fulfilling auditory experience that serves the main purpose of giving each individual listener an opportunity for a spiritual awakening

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: GUIP Sunrise, KVED: At One in the World,  TABA: Out of the Underworld

Tracks:

1. GUIP: Sunrise
2. RUAH: Breathe
3. BEJA: Elegant Flow
4. TABA: Out of the Underworld
5. RADIO GOD: Into the Outerworld
6. KEOK: The Gift of Fire
7. ADON: Across the Sea
8. ANKH: Dancing Desert
9. KSHEN: Remove the Red Dust
10 KVED: At One in the World

 
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 1, 2015
Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Instrumental New Age Review: Bob Ardern-Eight Winds

Release Date: November 2015
Label: Indie

Hailing from the shores of Nova Scotia, Bob Ardern brings us a new masterpiece with his newest album Eight Winds. Twelve original compositions including contributions from David Findlay and Duncan Woodcock cover the bases from Classical, New Age, Celtic and light hearted Jazz. This album is a wonderful example of Arden’s finger style playing and offers the listener a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the everyday world.

“Zephyr” is the first track on the album, bringing the listener into the captivating realm of springy playing and intricate movements. Bobbing along the water, you watch the sea hit the side of the boat and hold your head high as you crest wave after wave. This is freedom. Every note. Every wave.

“Matilda’s Dance” is a peppy and frolicking piece that invokes a child at play. Dressing up in too big dresses and shoes and dancing around the house with your father. Afternoon tea parties bumble alongside quirky melodic combinations that give loose tooth smiles and the carefree laugh of a child who knows her father’s love. This is the joy of family, of belonging. Picture the dance of a puppy as she figures out her feet, stomping and hopping over the carpet and stairs….the strumming guitar takes you there, every step of the way.

“Matushka” is a twisty and windy piece that caught my attention immediately. The guitar work is more intricate and I had to think about what was going on in the mind of the musician as he crafted this composition. Like a decorative top, this piece winds its way over street and sidewalk, taking you on a journey as rich as A Christmas Story and as full of mystery and intrigue as Stand By Me. This is the music of growing up and learning who you are. Sometimes it’s beautiful and others not so much, but with every twisting turn, you see another layer spinning out for the world to see-and the picture is marvelous if you stand still long enough to really listen.

Bob Ardern is a skilled guitarist and has picked some excellent contributing musicians for this album. Eight Winds is an experience that will take you skimming along the ocean, revisiting old memories of youth and even playing tea party as a child. Each song invokes an emotional response and a series of pictures that strum along with Arden’s guitar. Take a moment and listen. I think you’ll find a little of yourself peeking from inside…

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Zephyr, Matilda’s Dance, Matushka

Tracks: 
01. Zephyr 5.00
02. Matilda's Dance 5:36
03. Timing Is Everything 4:32
04. Mistral 4:42
05. Crusaders and Jesters 2:59
06. Cascading 4:03
07. 50 Not Out 3:27
08. Another Time Maybe 4:09
09. Three Years On 3:41
10. Matushka 5:49
11. Sangiovese 4:41
Bonus: 50 Not Out (Full Band) 3:24

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer
September 28, 2015
Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

New Age Music and The Grammys 2015

New York, NY-September 29, 2015-New Age Music continues to gather momentum with each passing year and the relevance of the music becomes clearer with Grammy Nominations.

 
According to Wikipedia it is used by listeners for yoga, massage, meditation, and reading as a method of stress management or to create a peaceful atmosphere in their home or other environments, and is associated with environmentalism and New Age spirituality.

That is a fair assessment of what this music can offer however there is much more to it. Avid listeners of this type of music can find so much more inside the music. It most certainly is a spiritual journey but one cannot put it in a box and tuck it away in the corner. Many elements and influences from all over the world converge to make this genre compelling. World, classical, electronic music and more find their way into this community. This in turn has the power to connect us all regardless of where we are from.

I think what stands out strongly within this genre is that every artist that records New Age music can put their own unique stamp on it. Many enlightened artisans will take the old and the new to formulate a refreshing sound. 

This year there is a newcomer to the genre that has emerged, Russell Suereth. Listeners should take notice of this developing talent. Suereth’s album Spiritual Haven focuses on a spiritual journey that takes the listener to a place far away. Suereth played all the instruments and Tom Eaton of Will Ackerman’s Imaginary Road Studios did the final mastering.

Spiritual Haven was a bold step for an artist that came from the contemporary rock sector. It was the right direction for the artist to go as the album has made quite an impression. Suereth was able to cross over any barriers and create something special. From an idea, a seedling planted and then nurtured, the album took shape and matured into a beautiful group of tracks.

With this year’s Grammy Nominations right around the corner there is hope that this fine recording titled Spiritual Haven will be recognized for its contribution to the genre and listeners across the globe.


Contact: Russell Suereth

Location: New York, NY


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

Release Date: August 2105
Label: Indie

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




Instrumental New Age Review: Dan Chadburn-Keys of Light

Release Date: August 1, 2015
Label: Indie

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



New Age/Ethnic Fusion Review: Paul Adams-Imaginings

Release Date: September, 1, 2015
Label: Lakefront

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