New Age Music Reviews

Instrumental New Age Review: Crystalline Dream-Threshold

Release Date: July 10, 2006

Label: Solovey Music

Crystalline Dream is a band with the intent to craft a vision with every album they perform. Threshold is the entryway to a journey of enlightenment, with each album gaining the listener increased wisdom. The main band members for Crystalline Dream include Richard Ross, Korey Ross and guest artist Peter Phippen.

The first track on the album is "Threshold." Ethereal and drifting with flutes and an electronica based backdrop, the music brought me to a place of introspection far away from the swirling chaos that makes up most of my days. It was as if I were perched on a threshold to another place…a place of peace and tranquility that if I just took another step, it could be mine. The flute urges you forward even as the cosmic wave of the electronica pushes and whispers you to a dwelling where that elusive joy is hiding. Voices break over you and the music funnels you down a new rabbit hole…the journey is just beginning.

"Inner Peace" is another song that captured my attention at the onset. Harp sounds and chirping insects make it seem as if you, the listener, are in the middle of a forest, being lulled forward toward an enchanted paradise. Just one step closer toward the pool…just one more. The ethereal music drifts in the background like a hidden current pushing you along toward your destination. This is what happiness sounds like and if sound could be painted in color, it would be a spiraling ribbon of shimmering blue, wrapping around and around in layers of gossamer silk, one delicate note at a time.

"Borealis" urges you toward the end of your comfort zone. Icy and grinding, you mark your passage with effort and are ever working toward your next destination. The price of enlightenment comes with great perseverance. The sound of flutes and the bitter winter wind skitter along the top of the ice as you reach for the next fork in the road…the next vision of flickering lights to direct your path forward. Beautiful and treacherous, the way ahead will not be an easy one. Growling and grinding electronica and percussive elements mark your progress and the undying urge to find enlightenment at any cost.

Crystalline Dream have begun a journey of sorts with Threshold. Using the ethereal and at times sparse elements of electronic music, it is blended with percussive elements, flute, harp and other sounds such as whispered chants or insects. This instrumental New Age experience focuses on enlightenment and is the beginning of what so far is a five album progression toward grace. It is a pleasant sounding album that any fan of New Age music will vastly enjoy.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Threshold, Borealis, Inner Peace

Tracks:
01. Threshold
02. Ethereal Gauze
03. Solar Flight
04. Evensong
05. Inner Peace
06. West Wind
07. Crystalline Dream 1
08. Crystalline Dream 2
09. Crystalline Dream 3
10. Borealis
11. Threshold (Reprise)

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

July 9, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Instrumental New Age/Meditation Review: Peter Sterling-Sacred Visions

Release Date: June 21, 2016

Label: Harp Magic Music

Website

Peter Sterling’s Sacred Visions album is music that is transformational. This statement on his website holds the absolute truth. If you listen to the 9 tracks on this recording you will find your own truth in the music.

The music has to move me shortly into the first track to feel any sort of inspiration. This feeling is translated to joy and then my words flow about the music. If it does not unfold that way then there is not a lot to say.

With Sacred Visions there is plenty to feel joy about and to translate to abundant feelings and words. Peter plays one of the most magical instruments in the world, the harp (he also contributes percussion, keyboards, loops, ocarina, recorder and vocals). Peter is also an artist that creates a thing called Portals of Light Crystal Frosted Art which adorn the cover of this CD. That is one example of many. This multitalented man used his art as an inspiration on canvas to create a musical canvas with his harp. This was obviously a very intense creative period for Peter. Many folks that make music paint as well however this is a blend of spirituality, music and art that transcends the norm. It sounds like divine intervention.

“Sedona Sunset” opens the album and it mesmerized me and made my soul smile. The sounds are full of beauty and good energy; it beckons you to come along for the journey. I was all ears and found it quite easy to let myself just melt into the music becoming one with the sounds. For my listening pleasure that is the goal, to allow the sounds to let the day and thoughts disappear and feel complete blissfulness with all of creation. Music such is this is so powerful and spiritual and that is the reason I love it so much.

“Eclipse (Featuring 3rd Force)” was another track that swept me away with the alluring harp intermingled with a smooth jazz like saxophone. That combination when placed properly within in this type of music is a perfect blend just like the right combination of coffee and creamer in the morning; it’s a pause that refreshes. Jazz and new age always sounded compatible to me if done well and properly and in this case it was.

“Dance of Saraswati” has all the essential elements of the previous tracks however the difference here is the female vocalizations that give it that gentle angelic touch that takes the spirit to a higher plane. Peter also adds his vocalizations as well. The balance is exceptional with perfectly placed harp textures for the vocals to ride along, like a billowing cloud floating across the sky it all seemed so natural and flowing.

We all seek solace from the pressures and stresses of daily life. We endeavor to reach the end of the day when we can put on some music like Sacred Visions and recharge our batteries for another day. It works very well; you will find what you need just let the music lead the way.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Sedona Sunset, Eclipse (Featuring 3rd Force), Dance of Saraswati

Tracks:
1. Sedona Sunset
2. Shaman’s Cave
3. Starlight and Moonbeams
4. Bombay Boogie
5. Eclipse (Featuring 3rd Force)
6. Dance of Saraswati
7. Mystic Rose
8. Thru the Valley and Over the Hills
9. Remembrance

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck” Hannaleck

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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July 7, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Instrumental World Fusion/New Age Review: David Clavijo-From the Depths

Release Date: May 13, 2016

Label: Independent

Website

When I look at a fascinating cover on any recording it makes me feel like we are getting off to a good start. But almost as soon as that thought goes through my mind it leaves and the questions pops in “Will the music be representative of the art or anywhere as compelling as the cover art?” The answer to that question lies in the 11 tracks on the latest David Clavijo recording titled From the Depths. The final answer to the equation is a resounding yes! This is a fine recording with a lot of different colors and textures for all the senses to absorb and process.

Anyone seeking a listening challenge would welcome the prospect of an eclectic listen such as this.

I think “Fragile World (feat. Laura Powers)” is a prolific track. First and foremost is the meaning of the song. It has the power to compel a listener to think outside the box. That is the best circumstance for any artist trying to get your attention. And with that it gives us impetus to pay more attention to the world we live in. It also is very different from all the preceding instrumental tracks.

The title track is critical to any recording, it sets the tone for the entire album actually and either opens or closes the door on many listeners. I look at every album as an open book ready to flip through the pages and some I go back to again for another chance in the event there was any doubt. This is my process however that thought of doubt never occurred to me on this listen. The opening title track was different enough to grab my attention. I heard world, rock, new age and a tone that distinctly was coming from inspirations of our Native Americans. A lot of New Age music features the earthy tones and this album is full of them.

“Sitting On The Sea Wall” is another step away from the norm. Clavijo is from Spain and this track is the sound of his land peppered with smooth saxophone to open things up then a very distinct flavoring of guitar picking that puts you right in that beautiful country. I also took note of the tremendously infectious percussion that was quite appropriate for finishing the picturesque tune. It sounds like it would be the perfect accompaniment to a scene in a movie. It ends with sounds of seagulls on the shoreline, a perfect closing for a beautiful picture painted with a broad musical brush.

As the saying goes variety is the spice of life and From the Depths is as spicy as it gets from a musical standpoint. From a multitude of instruments to angelic vocalizations, this recording will please your ear, satisfy your soul and leave you hungry for more. That is the whole idea so mission accomplished for Mr.Clavijo (Viva!).

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: From the Depths , Fragile World (feat. Laura Powers), Sitting On The Sea Wall

Tracks:
01. From the Depths
02. When We Were Together
03. Fly With Me
04. The Song of Wisdom
05. Fragile World (feat. Laura Powers)
06. Sanctus Dominus
07. Sitting on the Seawall (feat. Premik Russell Tubbs)
08. The Journey (feat. Charlee Brooks)
09. Où Est Mon Bonheur? (feat. Chad Lawson)
10 Out of the Depths (feat. Charlee Brooks)
Fragile World (Bonus Track) [feat. Rosa Cedrón & Chad Lawson]

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck” Hannaleck

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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July 1, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Review

New Age Instrumental Review: Crystalline Dream-Journeyman

Release Date: 2013

Label: Solovey Music

Website

The Crystalline Dream project started in 2006. It is a series of 5 albums telling a musical story of a personal journey, discovery and growth. Crystalline Dream takes you on a spiritual journey of music, emotion, and sonic soundscapes with Journeyman and the other releases available. This is how it’s explained (abbreviated) on their website and I would have to say that is quite accurate.

Richard Ross (keyboards, flutes, recorders, percussion and voice), Korey Ross (acoustic & electric guitar) and Peter Phippen (Shakuhachi and Native American Flute) come together to create beautiful relaxing sounds.

I can listen to music like this on any day or evening and feel it move me is some way. I enjoy the relaxing sounds of the flute… it is enchanting, and it calls to you. The masterful touch of Peter Phippen and the multitude of talents from Richard Ross come into play on each track.

Journeyman was released in 2013 and three years later it still sounds relevant. It resonates with textures, atmospheres, mysticism and earthy tones. The 10 tracks flow into each other with great ease. The title track leads the way.

Tracks like the atmospheric “Lady of the Meadows” is soft but enduring the you find yourself “Drifting” into another time and space with this fine music. That is the purpose from what I can determine, at least that is the effect it had on me. Once you make your way to when the curtain closes a subtle reminder closes out with a reprise of the title track.

Journeyman is a fine instrumental recording. It is by design made for those who wish to center themselves, relax and get in tune with what is around them. All of that and more can be accomplished through this music.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Journeyman, Lady of the Meadows, Drifting

Tracks:
01. Journeyman
02. Serenity
03. Robin in the Wind
04. Shadowlands
05. Lady of the Meadows
06. Vassillia
07. The Far North
08. The Gloaming
09. Drifting
10. Journeyman (Reprise)

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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June 30, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

New Age Fusion Review: Monica Logani-Secret Garden

Release Date: April 22, 2016

Label: Independent

Website

Monica Logani began her journey into music as a seven year old child. Off and on over the years her wanderings continued, but the music bug bit hard when a friend gave her an abandoned Weber piano. From there she went on to study and Secret Garden is the compilation of her five year journey. At times New Age, rock, world music and classical, this album reaches across genre borders and creates an emotive journey that speaks of a mother's love for her children, day to day experiences and the people that have made a difference in her life. The album was mastered by the Grammy award winning Corin Nelson.

"The Gardener" is the first track on the album and is a bittersweet glimpse into the life of a man dear to Logani's heart. Her personal gardener was a man who loved his craft and the flowers he tended. Each whimsical note depicts both beauty and sadness. With edges of rock and classical strains, we can envision a brightly colored garden, rich with life and love. When the gardener passed away, it left a hole in the artist's life but gone is not forgotten if you keep the person alive in your heart. Flowers bloom and life goes on. In each delicate note beauty unfolds.

"Bali Bells" begins with a piano movement and blends with electronic elements of Indonesian and Indian origin with classical influences. Fluid and organic the three genres blend together to create a seamless composition of life, love and happiness. Children dancing in a brightly colored garden, the happy smiles bringing life and love even during the bumpy times, family are where the heart is.

"Between Two Worlds" has a world music sound that captured my attention immediately. The sitar morphs into a tender piano sequence that speaks of introspection. Caught between two forces, Western and Eastern or perhaps two lovers, the conflict and bursts of hope are effervescent in every note. The moody nature of the piece calls to me as a writer and I can't help but listen to it over and over again.

Monica Logani's debut album Secret Garden is a shining example of the fusion of many different styles of music. They are blended together to craft a sound all her own that is both emotive and uplifting. New Age, rock, world music and classical all blend together for a sound that any connoisseur of music will appreciate. Logani is going on my watch list and I expect to see even more great things in the years to come.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Gardener, Bali Bells, Between Two Worlds

Tracks:
01. The Gardener
02. Anthem
03. Autumn Sky
04. Amber Rust
05. Starboard
06. Carousel
07. Butterfly
08. Bali Bells
09. Nonlinear Love
10. Second Hand
11. Journey's End
12. Between Two Worlds

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

June 17, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Instrumental World-New Age Review: Ann Licater-Beyond The Waves

Release Date: April 8, 2016

Label: Cul De Sac Mystic Productions

Website

Ann Licater is an award-winning recording artist, world flutist, producer and composer who has released four albums prior to her latest effort Beyond The Waves. She features wood, clay and silver flutes in her music, and has also created and facilitates “Flute for the Soul” workshops, where she plays Native American and world flutes as tools for personal discovery. What you get is flute for the soul, and food for the soul all in one package.

The flute is a mystical instrument in many cultures. The sound is beautiful and alluring. It connects you to a spiritual place; one that is weaved into mother earth. I found Ann to be an exceptional flautist and the mixture of other instruments in the tracks give it a more worldly sound with a definite new age touch of class that makes it so appealing to the mind, body and spirit.

From “Rhythm of the Stars” to “Ocean Lullaby” one track seamlessly flows into the next. Guitars, pianos, tinkling bells, vocalizations and more add to the overall ambiance and musical culture delivered to your ears by a collection of extraordinary artists. At times it felt like I was walking on a path to the ancient Mayan temples, mesmerized by the beautiful sound and letting it lead me there. Great music enables you to envision many things and while listening to this recording it was an easy transition to see what my spirit wanted me to see.

Every track is a gorgeous symphony of earthy tones and spirituality. It all serves a higher purpose if you allow the music to sweep you away into another dimension. I found it quite easy and natural to do so and it was a matter of a few seconds before I was immersed in all of the wonderful sound and atmosphere. Normally, I focus on at least three tracks to give folks a good taste of what to expect however I think my previous words puts it all into proper perspective.

This is a masterful recording of varied forms and textures of flute music. Beyond The Waves is must have if you are looking to meditate, relax or need to go on a journey of self-discovery to find an answer that lies within. This music is your passport there and one that never expires.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: ALL

Tracks:
01. Rhythm of the Stars
02. Halcyon Morning
03. Blossoms Falling
04. Beyond the Waves
05. Island Garden
06. Sailing on Moonlight
07. Sunrise Blessing
08. Dreaming in Time
09. Echoes in the Mist
10. Shimmering Waters
11. Ocean Lullaby

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

Founder of:

New Age Music Reviews

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June 14, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

New Age Instrumental Review: Lynn Tredeau-A New Dream

Release Date: April 15, 2016

Label: Independent

Website

Lynn Tredeau began her love affair with music at the young age of six when her parents got her her first piano. By the age of sixteen she was a master of Classical music. A New Dream is her third album and showcases thirteen original solo piano compositions that give you an up close and personal window into the soul of the artist. Each song is performed with a depth of emotion both evocative and illuminating.

"The Deepest Part of the Lake" begins in an almost hesitant and reverent way as if the listener were looking out over the water and reflecting on the dark fathoms below. Tender and reminiscent of times long past, the piece makes me wonder at the memories invoked. A long ago fishing trip with a loved one? A treasured boat ride or perhaps just a quiet interlude on the side of a lake watching fireworks burst across the darkness of a summer sky. Each keystroke tugs on emotions and the human element within.

"Lunch with Vincent" is an enjoyable piece that makes me at once think of Vincent Anthony "Vince" Guaraldi, the composer of the Peanuts musical scores. Playful and frolicking, the piece could also very well be an audible visit to an art museum on a lunch break to visit the thought provoking art work of Vincent Van Gogh. Either way, the solo piano in this piece is captivating and speaks of creativity of the arts no matter the Vincent in question.

The last song on the album is "Shadow of Your Absence." This piece resonated with me particularly, echoing the loss of a loved one. Tender and careful, each note touches on the more delicate aspects of our suffering. The love, the loss and yes, even the laughter. We are fragile beings, but we do leave behind a pebble in the great ocean of life. It ripples out with our actions and when we love, the currents go on forever.

Lynn Tredeau is an award winning artist and her third album has put her on my watch list. This blend of Classical and New Age music is seamlessly done from playful pixies to somber melodies of love and loss. The art of sharing emotion through music has to be one of this artist's greatest talents and I look forward with great longing to her next project.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Deepest Part of the Lake, Lunch with Vincent, Shadow of Your Absence

Tracks:
01. Awaken
02. Deepest Part of the Lake
03. Living in a Dream
04. Courageous
05. Lunch with Vincent
06. Pixie Dance
07. Winter Thaw
08. Seasons Change
09. Land of Enchantas
10. A Quiet Memory
11. Ocean of Tears
12. Innocence
13. Shadow of Your Absence

DanaWright, Sr. Staff Writer

June 7, 2016

Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

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