Release Date: February 20, 2023
Label: Independent
WebsiteRelease Date: February 20, 2023
Label: Independent
WebsiteRelease Date: January 7, 2023
Label: 2002 Music
Introduction from the artist: Clouds Below was inspired by opposites - contrary forces that depend upon each other to exist and evolve. The sun above by day and the moon at night share a magic moment when they briefly mingle before one yields to the other.
Clouds drift along
regardless of day or night, and they appear below when we soar in an airplane,
climb above them on a mountain, or a chance to see them reflected in a pond.
The songs on this album explore the beauty found all around us, above and
below. The music reveals unexpected paths, inviting us to follow.
Are you ready to follow?
It is another blessing when I can cover a familiar artist. Music is a gift to
all humanity, and animals and plants enjoy it. Listening and following can be a
spiritual experience; with this family group of Pamela, Randy, and Sarah Copus,
that has always been the case for my tastes and needs. I need music daily to
inject energy into my body and uplift my spirits. It’s like wearing a watch
your entire life, then one day, you forget to put it on, it becomes a part of you,
and you feel incomplete. Music soothes our souls and completes the circle of
life.
A family relationship like
this is a beautiful thing to develop in music as they (and us) go on an aural
journey.
I know that sounds
prolific, and it can be for everyone. Walk through that door and find your
“Soulmate,” whether that is a person, a cat or a dog, or the music itself. It
can all be interchangeable. If there is a “Glimmering Hope,” you can find your
“Landing.” It is not intentional that I find a connection to tracks like that;
it just happens and makes sense as they unfold and dovetails into one message.
I hope this makes sense to many of you. It’s not complicated if you just let
the music and you become one.
The ethereal layers and
colors presented on each track on Clouds Below are meditative examples of new-age ambient
instrumental music with an objective. For instance, the interspersing of a
saxophone on “City Blue” gives you a glimpse into the eclectic world of the
Copus family. The quiet storm of jazz creates an alternate universe and takes a
listener elsewhere. However, it does remain relaxing and meditative. Each
member’s contributions are significant and in sync from beginning to end.
At the “First Light of Dawn,” the cosmos grants you another
day of life on this beautiful planet, and as you take “The Flight Home,” the
“Clouds Below” reveal the beauty and awesomeness of our world and the “Everyday
Miracles” that we can witness. We must open our eyes, hearts, and minds and let
the music in. It’s simple and direct, resulting in healing and a feeling of
blessedness we cannot find anywhere else.
The Copus family are
gifted purveyors of magical instrumentations and sounds you will appreciate.
Their journey as artisans continues, and I am grateful to join them on their
cloud for a short time and rejoin them any time I choose, and so can you!
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder
March 5, 2023
Tracks:
01. Soulmate 4:53
02. Glimmering Hope 5:38
03. Landing 4:16
04. City Blue 5:56
05. First Light of Dawn 4:35
06. The Flight Home 4:12
07. Clouds Below 4:33
08. Air and Light 4:26
09. Riding the Current 4:32
10. Everyday Miracles 4:28
Release Date: March 10, 2023
Label: Independent
Last fall, I had my introduction to Orchestra Indigo-the creation of long-time blues artist Rick Randlett. His first album was titled Farewell To Memories. I was impressed with the musical paradigm shift that Rick successfully made.
Now Requiem,
his sophomore release, is ready for release.
Rick Comments: Requiem comes from a lifelong fascination
with the form, growing out of college performances of both the Verdi and Mozart
requiems. In my version, I've tried to create the same flow and emotions
without using any Latin text but with piano, synthesizers, and vocal sounds.
Those who can appreciate classical music's importance and
timelessness undoubtedly appreciate what was accomplished in this release. And
in some instances, listeners that enjoy contemporary instrumental, ambient
keyboard-based, and new-age music will find appreciation with this listen. I
can feel gratitude from all aspects; however, I am unfamiliar with Rick's
inspirations that propelled him to a place of creative essence. After listening
to his progressive versions, I understand his fascination and
passion.
I remained focused and relaxed listening to this fantastic
concept and tribute to some great composers without previous knowledge. And
therein lies the key for listeners who may be like me. If you can present a
thought process or feel about anything and use music to make it come to life
and be believable, then you have completed the circle and reached your goal as
an artist. That is what Orchestra Indigo achieved on this release.
I felt transported from an existential plane to the ether in the
eleven tracks. The dreamy synth sequences and wordless vocals felt regal and
heavenly, making me think of centuries ago when incredible people created great
classical music. Telling a story is very important in most music and
challenging in instrumental music.
So how does a lifetime of the blues transform into something
like Orchestra Indigo? I don't have an answer to that. I know one thing; Rick
Randlett is a very talented individual who stepped out of his comfort zone,
took a big chance, and created something beautiful that all listeners can enjoy
and appreciate any time of day or evening.
Requiem is quite different from Farewell To Memories. I did
not know what to expect but was genuinely impressed.
The tracks have a nice flow, and I found it easy to get into
that rhythm and sense what this means to the artist and realized what it became
for me. I felt moved emotionally and spiritually. In essence, I found
everything I hoped to see inside the music. That is all anyone can ask.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
February 23, 2023
Tracks:
01. Introit 4:00
02. Kyrie 3:34
03. Dies Irie 4:34
04. Hostias 3:29
05. Lacrimosa 5:12
06. Offertorium 4:09
07. Sanctus 4:00
08. Agnus Dei 3:43
09. Lux Aeterna 3:51
10. In Paradisium 3:27
11. Libra Me 4:46
Release Date: November 18, 2022
Label: Independent
Robin Spielberg's All the Best Returns celebrates resiliency, hope, and the power of positive thinking. That is the first thing I read about this album before listening. This is the music we all need to hear and a message we should embrace. She is a world-renowned Steinway artist celebrating the release of her 22nd album.
I have always found appreciation, comfort, and joy in the music Robin creates. This new EP clocks in just under 20 minutes.
As the recording unfolds, you get a sense of this being the listen that will lead you down a particular path, which is an intent more strongly than any music with lyrics. It must reach out and grab you and touch you in some way. Right from the beginning of "In Search of the Forest Fairy," you find the enchantment that the artist is hinting at on the cover art.
The only track that hinted at any sadness was "The End of Summer." The sun's brightness will stay present in many of these fall and winter months; however, the temperature will surely drop. Depending on who you are, that is a gift because you are into winter sports or enjoy being outside regardless of the weather, or something you dread and would rather stay in a warm house and go out only when you must. Whatever your choice is, this song is relatable.
"Shche ne Vmerla Ukrainy" is Robin's gift to the brave and resilient war-torn Ukrainians as she performs their national anthem elegantly. I saw a video of some of the folks in Kyiv lining up to get water. They were smiling and said they had no intention of leaving. I had to look at myself and ask what I would have to complain about.
EP's do end much quicker, unfortunately, so you must savor each minute and give it a chance to process within your mind and senses. From the artist's viewpoint, it takes more of a compact focus. I can assure you that Robin makes every second count, so however fleeting it may seem, it sure is lovely.
Robin Spielberg is like a musical clairvoyant interpreting and delivering all the music through her fingers. The flow is smooth and natural, with exemplary production values. And everything about this music brings forth good feelings and hope.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
November 6, 2022
Release Date: August 31, 2022
Label: Independent
The native American flute is very simple, earthy, and spiritual. That is one thing that never changes. I am grateful for that and talented artists such as Diane Wheeler Dunn. Peace In Our Hearts is her second album release.
I think Diane’s story is inspiring. She is a retired
transportation worker turned musical artist with something to say. And she does
so quite elegantly throughout this ten-track release.
The addition of additional instruments makes this music so complete and beautiful. There is a steel guitar, dulcimer, upright bass, harp, Cajon drums, etc. The flute leads the way like a spiritual guide taking the other instruments along to accentuate an already sacred path to enlightenment.
What
an incredible healing the Native American Flute can be. It takes me to a
different place than other music. I think of the importance of the Native
Americans and how they lived. They treated mother earth with respect and took
only what they needed. If only we had followed their way, we would not be in
the situation we are in now with pollution of all sorts and the devastation of
forests. I have a deep respect for them and always will. I cannot help but have
these thoughts whenever I hear this music. While that carries a weight of
sadness, I can still move forward and let this music work its wonders on my
soul.
“Kaia Malu” has a hint of sadness about it. It is very
placid, and it relaxed me. I suppose it depends on who you are and what frame
of mind you are in when you listen. That is with any music; however, for me,
there is a bit more thought and reflection that goes into instrumental music.
And particularly music so earthy and sacred as this.
“Imaginal Realm” had a different feel and atmosphere. It
was more of a methodical piece, particularly with the Grand piano. The flute is
divine, and the keys were there to enhance the importance of the main
instrument. The keys make their presence known, but the flute is out front, as
it should be.
Those
are only two examples of the diversity of this music and how the flute can
encompass so many realms and invite the other instruments to partner
cohesively.
Diane Wheeler Dunn keeps your
interest from start to finish rather than lulls you to sleep. I am sure it can
be used for meditation or general relaxing listening. For my ears, it engaged
so many thoughts and feelings. I am grateful for the artistry that makes me
feel so good and gives me hope. Every track is so different, and I think that
is a significant accomplishment utilizing the Native American Flute.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
November 11, 2022
Tracks:
01. Petunias are Stars : Flute in F#, Congas, Ambient Pad, Acoustic Steel Guitar
02. Kaia Malu: Flute in C, Finger Bass and Ambient Pad (A tilde goes over the A in Malu)
03. Imaginal Realm: Flutes in A#, Grand Piano and Ambient Pad
04. Follow the Sun: Flute in Low D, Dulcimer, Acoustic Steel Guitar, and Ambient Pad
05. Float the Boat: Flutes in E, Panflute, Upright Bass, and Ambient Pad
06. Peace in Our Hearts: Flutes in D and A, Flute Ensemble, and Ambient Pad
07. Be the Flame: Flute in Low D, Cello, Harp and Jazz Guitar
08. Mystery in the Mist : Flutes in High C and High F, Ambient Pad, and Pluck
09. While the Rabbit Sleeps : Flutes in Mid A and Low A, Cajon Drums, Ambient Pad
10. Pause for Peace: Flutes in A and E, Grand Piano and Ambient Pad.
Release Date: November 25th, 2022
Label: Independent
This will be the seventh release I have listened to and covered by Michele McLaughlin. I had not given it any thought, but she must be the most frequent artist I have had the pleasure of hearing since 2015. Luminous, based on the first glance of the album art, gives the impression of something spiritual coming right from the soul. It is a commonplace for this artist, however.
Her solo piano works are portraits of a grounded individual with
the innate ability to speak to listeners through music.
Michele said this about the new release:
This is a special edition album written and created using a
softer and more delicate playing style by utilizing some of the more expressive
features of my piano in order to change the tone and timbre of the sound and to
illuminate the more expressive aspects of how it can be played. In doing so, I
was able to immerse myself into a softer and quieter style of writing to
compliment the changing elements of my beautiful piano. The music on this album
is themed around different aspects of light and dark.
And indeed, that does put it all into proper perspective. You
will feel the sadness of "When You Hurt, I Hurt," and the
ever-changing colors of the bright "Kaleidoscope" will lift your
spirits. Thus, the experiential journey through the dark and the light. And masterfully
depicted may I add. I am not surprised by this in the least. Michele has been
one of the most consistent and on-point artists I have enjoyed.
This year, more than any previous, I have heard more sadness in
the music. I am sensitive to what is happening worldwide, which certainly has
much to do with my perception. I am not mistaken, however, as many artists have
released "pandemic" themed recordings. The many pressing issues we
now face on our planet reflect our times. Hence the music that you will hear
will envelop your consciousness. Even though there is that element of sadness,
we can always find hope and healing in this talented individual's simplistic
beauty.
With Luminous,
you will find the light inside just like Michele did. She offers you that
doorway to where it is and helps you realize that music is just a tool to get
there. We all have it inside, and some of our light has been extinguished by
life events over the last three years that changed us forever. I feel blessed
that I have not got sick, lost anyone, and kept my job. That doesn't mean I
don't feel the world's pain daily and realize my mortality with each passing
year. It makes me very concerned and sad.
Hearing Michele making her way through these ten tracks of
instrumental contemporary grace and beauty puts a different perspective on
everything. And honestly, that is the goal of any artist, so mission
accomplished once again, Michele!
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
November 1, 2022
Tracks:
01. Droplets of Grey 5:06
02. When You Hurt, I Hurt 5:12
03. Kaleidoscope 3:56
04. Shimmer 3:20
05. Moonlit Shadows 2:59
06. The Golden Hour 3:43
07. Luminous 3:09
08. Fireflies 3:37
09. Adrift 2:22
10. Lanterns In The Sky 3:40
Release Date: November 15, 2022
Label: Independent
Dream Cloud Orchestra is the music project of Michael King, a
composer and recording artist. Nocturnes is
his debut release.
Michael found a fascination with the progression of piano and
then heard that same music set to a live orchestra. He endeavored to
create Nocturnes to
emulate that same sort of energy.
Creating the entire album at home with the unique technologies
we now have available was a key to accomplishing what he envisioned. When he
saw some silent films accompanied by an orchestra, it amazed and inspired him.
Every track is complete with beautiful orchestrations, pianos,
and synthesizers. Painting music onto a blank canvas and picturing the movie unfolding
in his mind, Michael creates ten tracks, which encompass an hour and a half.
Tracks like "Summer Night Wonders" and "A Slumber Journey"
clock in at 10:57 and 13:33, respectively, while the curtain closer roles in at
a substantial 14:55. Those three tracks push this beyond the typical 45 to 60
minutes most recordings are.
The strength of the music is well suited to an extended
relaxation period, or I can see it used for soundtracks and other media uses.
The absolute beauty in this music will give any astute listener satisfaction of
time well spent.
I began watching silent films at a very young age, found
appreciation for their art, and felt compelled to know more. I sought books
about these artists, such as Chaplin, Keaton, etc. I can understand Michael's
fascination with how the music related to what he was watching and how it added
to the story and created another ongoing element of emotion to fit the scenes.
Understanding that relationship helped him complete this project and attain the
desired results.
In "A
Slumber Journey," you will hear laughing to ensure the element of humanity
is present. The laughing tone creates different moods that, in turn, go with
the ever-changing flow of the music. The artist portrays his silent movie in
his mind, accompanied by music. With the concept of the nocturnal world
encompassing his thought process and the music to match, you have a blended
script perfected.
At first, I was a bit daunted by the length of the tracks and
was concerned I might lose interest too soon. That did not happen. The reason
is that the artist created something so accessible and exceptional musically
that you find it hard to resist listening to each track to its completion. It
is all enjoyable and very relaxing and, at times, thought-provoking. What
helped me was understanding the project, what inspired it, and the previous
references to my similar interests. To enjoy this music to its fullest (not a
necessity, just a recommendation), read the about section
on Michael's website. It will give you food for thought before listening.
The fact that Nocturnes is a debut
release bodes well for the future in music for Michael King and his Dream Cloud
Orchestra.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 30, 2022
Tracks:
01. A Twilight Walk
02. Night Clock Waltz
03. The Gates of Dreamland
04. Summer Night Wonders
05. A Slumber Journey
06. Sleepy Dog Lullaby
07. A Mysterious Dream
08. Traversing the Darkness
09. A Handful of Stars
10. Slumber’s Wisdom