Award Winning New Age Artists Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer Release New Album “Sanctuary”

In recent years upheaval and uncertainty has become normal for many of us. Our careers, possessions, health, even relationships are more fragile than we realized. More than ever we need that sanctuary, the safe blissful place that can only be found within.

Following on from their previous successful collaborations including “Imaginings” (Winner, ZMR's Instrumental Album of the year) and “Deeper Imaginings” (nominated for both Zone and Independent Music Awards), Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer now bring us “Sanctuary,” nine new pieces borne out of their own - and our global collective need - to heal and re-anchor to our soul's true home in uncertain times. Included is an art insert of poetry focusing on peace, self - acceptance and songs within.

Solo artists each in their own right - multi award winner Adams has 120 million Pandora streams alone and Geyer's singer/songwriter albums have drawn high praise from industry heavyweights including EMI/ Blue Note's Bruce Lundvall, Jim Moginie (Midnight Oil) and multiple Grammy winner Bill Champlin (Chicago, The Sons of Champlin). It was one windy morning in Illinois two years ago which sparked the idea for “Sanctuary.”

“In my view this has to be one of the best New Age music releases I have heard for many years… an award winning album of true majesty…. and a multi-instrumental delight!” - Steve Sheppard, One World Music, UK

Elizabeth was meditating in a dark room to stave off a blinding migraine while Paul practiced the breathy Anasazi and Native American flute downstairs. Something about the combination of the wind and the low gentle phrases Paul was playing was curiously grounding and she began to feel better. Wondering what was different about these sounds from other gentle music they'd created and explored, it was the comforting reassurance of a constant low anchor that seemed to be holding the dreamy, soaring, floating textures. Put simply, music that flies without ever flying away.  Music is an incredible medium; it can excite, confront, take us to the edge; equally other music can nurture, comfort and heal. “Sanctuary” is both a powerful grounding meditation soundtrack while equally artistically rich. Adam's sultry electric sitar and other worldly touches and Geyer's distinctive jazz sensibilities on piano and vocal make “Sanctuary” both indulgence for the soul and a perfect healing backdrop for these troubled times.

Here’s what the press has said about “Sanctuary”:

“With ‘Sanctuary,’ Adams and Geyer once again prove that they are among this genre's finest artists... the soundscape is everything... beautiful beyond words.” - B T Fasmer, New Age Music Guide, Belgium 

“The addition of various other textured layers of sounds like electric sitar, chimes, etc... Elizabeth's wordless background vocalizations. make for a completely immersive experience. I suggest putting this on a loop.” - Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck, New Age Music Reviews, USA

“… soundscapes that draw you in and keep you comforted and relaxed are outstanding... both a salve  for the soul and peace for the mind.” - Clouzine Magazine, United Kingdom   

“Using flute, piano and voice, the duo have created nine rich, earthy tracks of ambient and world music that seem to have a life of their own… It is like immersing in waters made of music... Highly recommended.” - RJ Lannan, Artisan Music Reviews, USA

To purchase:
(Apple, Spotify, Pandora etc) https://pauladams.hearnow.com/sanctuary
BANDCAMP https://pauladams.bandcamp.com/album/sanctuary

For more information:
www.pauladams.org  
www.elizabethgeyer.com
https://twitter.com/ppaul3      
https://www.facebook.com/paul.adams.754/
https://www.instagram.com/ppaul3/?hl=en  

Videos:
SANCTUARY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyAVinhhYaE
GRACEFUL WATERS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iJLoJD0tsA
AN EVENING’S CARESS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqAlulE42yA

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

New Age World Instrumental Review: Vito Gregoli & Ricky Kej-Wild Monsoon

Release Date: June 28, 2022

Label:  Independent

Website: https://www.vitogregolimusic.com/

https://www.rickykej.com/

Vito Gregoli & Ricky Kej combine their diverse talents on Wild Monsoon. This recording comes at you bursting with a world new age color and dynamic that will lift you right off the ground.

Vito has been a multi-instrumentalist for many years, and Ricky Kej is a composer who has made his mark globally. The recording is another incredible album and partnership that will derive plenty of attention from the music community and listeners.

Ten tracks will engage all your senses, and I mean that in a literal sense of the word. The Indian influences are strong; however, the background and music foundation from which both artists are from merge splendidly. It is an East meets West amalgamation that is stunning. Here is an idea of how good this music is. I am listening to it on little speakers attached to my laptop; the sounds fill the room. That says it all about an all-encompassing experience of sound and effect. It would be amazing to think about how this would sound on vinyl or a mobile fidelity audiophile vinyl release. I hope at some point that is a consideration.

Two consecutive tracks just blew me away, "Vana (Forest) 6:41" and "Jharna (Waterfall) 6:09." Note all the references to our environment, from the title to the tracks and the artwork on the cover. It is intrinsic to the music you will enjoy. Ricky is an advocate for the environment and uses all the platforms within his influence to get the message out that we need to heal the planet. The healing must come from within us all for change to begin first. Let's not look to our political leaders and complicated legislation. It will take forever to accomplish and will be watered down with concessions to favor big corporate money and greed. Yes, that is a very political statement, but in my mind and observations, I believe it to be accurate and the one factor that has stopped any progress.

We have the singularity of music to step away from the politics of things, which unfortunately seems to creep into everything these days. All its power, grace, spirituality, and tremendous energy can be absorbed with one listen. From that point of reference, you can propel into a different attitude and use music as your voice. Vito and Ricky are doing that with Wild Monsoon. 

If you consider production values, they are extraordinary. The complexities and nuances of everything that goes into just one track are mind-boggling. Listening to "Badra (Rain) featuring Kimberly Haynes on vocals, is an excellent example. I got chills hearing all the music and her singing so poignantly of returning to nature. Such a prolific statement to make in such an uncertain time we live gives you the energy and hope of that message, and the words and music carry it with a clarity and certainty that I am sure made Ricky smile.

"Baadal (Clouds) 7:56" is the longest track on the recording and one of the most gorgeous and affecting pieces of music I have heard closing out an album. The entire album is the perfect blend of new age and world and sets the standard for consistency and taste.

It is a Wild Monsoon of music that will excite the mind, body, and soul, get the blood flowing, and inspire those who listen on every corner of the globe. It will make us reevaluate who we are and how vital mother earth is to our survival and think about honoring how all living things are connected and deserve our respect. Thank you, Vito and Ricky, for a beautiful message in such incredible music.

Vito Gregoli & Ricky Kej have set the bar extremely high for all releases in the new age world genre that are forthcoming for the rest of the year. I see another Grammy nomination and a possible win for Ricky to add to his collection.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

June 29, 2022

Tracks:

01. Greesham (Summer) 7:04

02. Sheeth (Winter) 6:50

03. Vasant (Spring) 6:36

04. Sharad (Autumn) 6:03  vocals: Kimberly Haynes

05. Mahatma (Vito Remix) 5:35  flute: Wouter Kellerman, sitar:  Paul Livingstone

06. Vana (Forest)  6:41

07. Jharna (Waterfall)  6:09

08. Nadi (River) 6:55

09. Badra  (Rain) feat Kimberly Haynes  6:12  vocals: Kimberly Haynes

10. Baadal (Clouds) 7:56

New Age Instrumental Review: Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer-Sanctuary

Release Date: July 1, 2022

Label:  Independent

Websites: https://pauladams.org/home

https://elizabethgeyer.com/

I have familiarity with Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer. I had the pleasure of covering Imaginings, Deeper Imaginings, and Elizabeth's The Bridge. With July 1st right around the corner, Sanctuary continues the successful partnership.

 

There is always a story behind the music. One day, Elizabeth was suffering from a migraine and heard Paul practicing the Native American flute on the floor below. Something about the flow of the music, with its low gentle phrases and a breeze that grounded her. The migraine started to subside.

 

I love hearing about music's healing powers and how it genuinely helps people who suffer. We all need some help to relax and heal; this type of music will undoubtedly lead you down that path. I could use it daily myself, as I am sure many people would echo that statement. 

 

We have more stressors today than ever with many social issues because of the media and the social platforms, war all over the world, inflation, and the list can go on and on. It gets to be a bit much. I have decided to stop watching the news because it stresses me out and makes me negative about everything. I get glimpses of headlines from cell phones and even my laptops. It appears we cannot escape it anymore. Unless I move to the mountains and have no electronic devices, that would make me feel alone with no awareness. So, what is the answer? 

 

For my sanity, I need music, as you will hear on Sanctuary. For instance, in "Nothing Is Really Lost," the track begins with the sound of water running down a stream, and Paul introduces his flute as Elizabeth's piano comes in. It is one of the more beautiful and engaging tracks on this release. It is 5:05 minutes of new-age bliss that you can count on for meditation or simple relaxation. If you like to meditate, I suggest putting this on a loop to maintain that state of consciousness. Honestly, the entire album is well suited for meditation or deep relaxation.

 

"Graceful Waters" is another getting back to your root's tracks. With 6:00 minutes of the sound of water (from whence all life came) and that beckoning sitar and the dreamy flute sounds, it brings you into that state of consciousness you need to heal. It will get you in touch with our connectivity with mother earth and all living things.

 

Something about the Native American Flute's tones and more specifically the breathy Anasazi, vibrations, and overall feeling instantly set you at ease. The addition of various other textured layers of sounds like Elizabeth's wordless background vocalizations, electric sitar, chimes, etc., make for a completely immersive experience.

 

This music can be your Sanctuary. The outstanding production values will allow you to feel the water moving in the music and hear Paul's breathing as he plays the flutes. It is an exceptional addition to an already impressive catalog of music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

July 1, 2022

Tracks:

1.Sanctuary 7:00

2. A Forest’s Embrace 7:50

3. Through The Tree Tops 6:50

4. An Evening’s Caress 7:30

5. Nothing Is Really Lost 5:05

6. Forest Light 7:00

7. Graceful Waters 6:00

8. An Endless Summer’s Evening 6:00

9. By The Water’s Edge 7:30

Contemporary Classical Instrumental/New Age Review: Tim Neumark-24 Improvs

Release Date: June 24, 2022

Label: Independent

Website

(The cover photo for 24 Improvs is licensed by akg-images. The original photo is the property of the National Museum - Czech Museum of Music and can be seen on display at the Antonin Dvorak Museum in Prague.)

Tim Neumark is an exceptional musician and piano player. I have heard a lot of his music over the years. 24 Improvs is the sixth album in his comprehensive catalog that I enjoy listening to and covering for review. In essence a double album. If it were on vinyl, it would be at the very least 3 LPs. So, a lot of music!

To single out any track of this music is challenging for several reasons; it's all good, all instrumental, and most importantly, each one offers the variances of improvisations that showcase this artist's capabilities. If there were vocals on half the tracks, there would be a defining line. There is no separation between the type of music, but you must know this is all excellent and tremendous piano virtuosity.

Tim embodies solo piano performances with a solid classical base and a steady undercurrent of a new age to enhance it. The music sets you at ease, removes all barriers in the subconscious mind, and allows a listener to feel the flow of the music. Without the distraction of neurons firing away inside your head after a busy day, you get the opportunity to let it calm down and appreciate everything you are hearing.

About halfway through, you are surprised how quickly it all passed. You understand why it seems so fleeting if you absorb the music as I do. It all comes about due to an intense feeling of enjoyment, healing, and any range of emotions that flips that internal switch. The time factor is essentially meaningless as the music fills your soul. All good music accomplishes this. However, when you hear piano alone, you can listen to all the different parts of the composition differently, basically unencumbered by any other instruments or sounds that can populate a more complex new-age instrumental album. Not to take away from the other more involved projects I have covered and enjoyed. The main point here is that this is a clinic on how to present various improvisations on a piano. 

24 Improvs is precisely that and much more if you can listen to it all at face value. If you are looking for the brilliance of simplicity brought to you by the ivory keys, this will be your bliss.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

June 26, 2022

Tracks:

01. Improv in C Major (Gentle Stream)

02. Improv in C Minor

03. Improv in G Major

04. Improv in G Minor

05. Improv in D Major

06. Improv in D Minor

07. Improv in A Major

08. Improv in A Minor (An Interlude)

09. Improv in E Major

10. Improv in E Minor

11. Improv Over One Chord (Social Distancing in B Major)

12. Improv in B Minor

13. November Improv

14. Improv in F-Sharp Minor

15. Improv in D-Flat Major

16. Improv in C-Sharp Minor (Numb)

17. Improv in A-Flat Major (The End of the Road)

18. Improv in G-Sharp Minor (Isolation)

19. Improv in E-Flat Major (Stay Here With Me)

20. Improv in E-Flat Minor

21. Eternity (Improv in B-Flat Major)

22. Improv in B-Flat Minor

23. Improv in F Major (Sunday Evening)

24. Improv in F Minor

Instrumental New Age Reviews: Genevieve Walker-Home Songs

Release Date: June 21, 2022

Label: Blue Yarn Records

Website

Genevieve Walker’s debut was Walking Home. Six years ago, I discovered her music. With her babies grown into little people, she is back with Home Songs. It is appropriately titled because the melodies you will hear were what she hummed to her children while sitting with her. 

Music lovers can listen to lullabies set to music via the main instrument, the violin (she does play the viola and piano as well). That is the best way I could describe it. Genevieve’s instrumentations can fill up a room. “Fathers,” for instance, starts very strong, and the realization of the power of classically-based music rings true. It then mellows out and lulls your consciousness to a state of calm. The sweetness and purity of the place it comes from make it very special, so knowing what inspired this project before listening is beneficial to potential listeners. It gives you an immediate appreciation for her presentation, its purpose, and foremost, the talent to be able to translate it all to each listener.

The songs about family are in proper order as well, the birth with “Mothers,” the support and strength of “Fathers,” then the most critical piece, “Sons,” which in the case of some people may be “Daughters,” however the meaning and intent are the same. Parenthood is a life changer, and your world becomes anew with another life to care for. That responsibility never ends, and we are always there when needed, regardless of their age. There are many lessons in parenthood, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn with my children. From their first breath to our last, we love them and support them. That is the job of a parent.

Music is the ultimate expression of emotions; the projection of the feelings of Genevieve comes through in the music beautifully. Rafe Pearlman complements her violin, viola, piano, vocals, and Noah Hoffeld on cello, Chris Seligman on French horn, Steve Gorn on Bansuri flute, Nin Rao on vocals kartals, and the producer of the album, Chris Garter on bass, complete the significant backing throughout.

The sound and production values are solid and clean. The tracks are divergent but hold the same qualities and crisp production as you progress through each offering to the end with “Shadows,” which has many intersections of change and sound. It is a beautiful way to close out the recording. It leaves you wondering what could be coming next for this artist as it is very exploratory, and I enjoyed that aspect. 

Home Songs portray the gifts of life for one family through the eyes of a wife and mother. Someday her children will be grown and come to appreciate the beauty their mother created in their honor. I know I could not have related to this music and its meaning unless I was a father myself. For those of you who are not parents yet, it will give you something to think about; for those who never will be, an appreciation of what they may have missed comes to mind or newfound respect for parenthood and the sweetness it brings so many of us. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

June 21, 2022

Track list:

1. Constellations (5:51)

2. Saints (5:08)

3. Mothers (5:22)

4. Fathers (4:19)

5. Sons (5:16)

6. Beloveds (4:01)

07. Moons (3:11)

08. Shadows (5:23)

Contemporary/Classical Instrumental Review: Tim Neumark-Opus 8

Release Date: March 14, 2022

Label:  Independent

Website

Tim Neumark's Opus 8 album includes original compositions that Tim released as singles between 2018 and 2021, two additional solo piano tracks created just for this album, and his orchestral arrangement of Michele McLaughlin's "Hope" from her solo piano album Sketches.

While memories of the pandemic are lingering and affecting our lives in one way or another, we still have the music to shake us out of those doldrums. Opus 8 reflects the time when the pandemic was raging. When you look at this album cover, you will notice different pictures and wonder what it all means. They are intended to illustrate moments in life, the simple things that bring such joy. All those little things, and perhaps much of what we took for granted before the last few years, became more magnified. It was a wake-up call to be grateful that you are still here to enjoy those moments that bring a smile to your heart.

While Opus 8 is melancholy, the sheer beauty of Tim's playing is still good for the soul. It greets you with flowing rhythms with colorful bursts of energy. "Shining Through" is befitting the title, with some exciting playing from start to finish. At the halfway mark of the album, it was as if Tim wanted to say something that lifted your spirits. And with one listen, it most certainly accomplishes that. "The Ghost" was another favorite of mine. It all rang so genuinely and prolific when matching the music to the track title. That is a general idea, especially for any instrumental collection.

Tim Neumark's playing is a lot of things, including prolific ("Escape"), uplifting ("Shining Through"), reflective ("Lockdown"), and serving as a reminder ("The Ghost") of what was and finally to give us all something we need with the curtain closer "Hope." Perhaps, more importantly, the all-encompassing message of gratitude, joy, and all the things that make your life what it is.

The range of emotions you can feel on Opus 8 is truly remarkable. There is always something beyond the music that an artist attempts to project to the listeners. Tim Neumark accomplishes that with ease.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

June 13, 2022

Tracks:

01. Lockdown

02. February Moonlight

03. Bows in the Mirror

04. The Ghost

05. Non sequitur

06. Shining Through

07. My Love

08. Still

09. Conundrum

10. Yearning

11. Escape

12. Earth, Paused

13. Hope (An Arrangement for Orchestra)

New Age-World Review: Sharon Fendrich-Sapphire Oak

Release Date: June 10, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Red Sky Prairie is the last album I heard in 2019 by Sharon Fendrich. I can enjoy the gorgeous soundscapes that this talented composer creates on Sapphire Oak nearly three years later.

The title track, “Sapphire Oak,” is a mesmerizing combination of word and song. The chorus is sung in Ta’ek, a language devised by Sharon as follows…

Ge klad dokh ya rade (My song is your compass)

Um yi red a kha ya size (Let it lead you to your calm)

Tzafir dokh mes mosh ta (Sapphire is the color of love)

Ek dokh stu’ah (Oak is strength) 

Tzafir ta, kmo Ek stu’ah (Sapphire is love, and Oak, strength)

The devised language is a mixture of sounds based on nordic languages, and a bit of Hebrew. I think it’s brilliant that she discovered a language of her own making. That is an excellent example of creativity functioning on an entirely different level than adding all the music to it to make it complete. To me, that is amazing. I have listed all the credits and acknowledgments for your interest. I think it is essential regarding this project.

The use of natural sounds and the interconnectivity of life are evident in this music. Suggesting the strength of an oak, and if you listen to the words, she says it can be your compass to where you need to go in that moment.

The music, separate from any vocal attributes, is very cinematic. It is full of beauty and emotion. As you listen to the ebb and tide of the music, you may think of the past and the promise of the future in your life. Tracks like “The Oaken Door” gave me chills and injected energy into my being. 

“Of Badges and Crowns” has a world Celtic flavor. I love that kind of mixture; it stands so tall and proud. I found not only the picturesque elements of cinema and emotion evident, but it was also like a reach back to times long ago when we did not have technology. A bell tolling in the background, the wind blowing softly on your face, all those feelings are present and come alive within you. This is powerful music that will quickly paint the intended picture of the artist.

At this moment, as I write, I needed to hear, feel, and absorb everything about this recording. Seek, and ye shall find, or in some cases, it will find me. Sharon Fendrich, composer, producer, and arranger, gave herself 100 percent. The instrumentation is superb, including the violin, cello, harp, Irish whistle, and the lush phrases of the Symphonic Recording of the orchestra connects all the dots and creates another musical work of art. I also need to cite the vocal prowess of Sharon and Talia Valdez, with many of the tracks adding a special touch that make it soar and envelop you.

Music always gives me what I need, and Sapphire Oak appeared at just the right time, thank you, Sharon.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

June 10, 2022

Tracks:

01. Sea of Oaks (5:33)

02. Leaves of Glory (3:40)

03. The Grove at Dodona (3:55)

04. Runic Roots (4:15)

05. Call of the Ruins (5:37)

06. The Oaken Door (3;30)

07. Dryad's Rejoice (5:10)

08. Of Badges and Crowns (4:41)

09. Under Her Canopy (5:47)

10. Sapphire Oak (3:55)

11. Carry the Oak (5:35)

Credits and Acknowledgments:

Composer, Producer, Arranger: Sharon Fendrich

Orchestration, Contractor: Joaquin Garcia

Recording Engineer: Katharina Nuttall

Mixing Engineer: Linus Andersson

Mastering Engineer: Bruce Maddocks

Orchestra: Symphonica Recording

Conductor: Vladimir Martinka

Vocals: Sharon Fendrich, Talia Valdez

Violin: Lisa Rydberg

Cello: Klara Källström

Harp: Stina Hellberg Agback

Irish Whistle and Uilleann Pipes:: Ian Harpe