Contemporary Instrumental Review: John Otott - Invictus (Classical)

Release Date: July 10, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

It’s been eleven years since I explored John Otott’s Colors. I anticipated a distinct experience with Invictus, and I was not disappointed.

Before listening, keep in mind that Invictus is a short poem about overcoming adversity and self-mastery, written by the British poet William Ernest Henley in 1875.

“A Warrior’s Song” begins this new journey with orchestral arrangements and a cinematic soundscape, featuring rising tempos and wordless vocals. We are off to an exciting and colorful start!

“Giuseppi’s Dream” begins softly, then builds like the previous track, engaging your senses and creating an atmosphere that feels authentic and deeply emotional. The piano’s beauty is not overshadowed here; it is enhanced with uplifting orchestrations and powerful percussive elements.

“Invictus” maintains the continuity of emotion and music, shaping a soundtrack that becomes a picture in your mind. The piano takes the lead right from the start, with higher tones and textures, as the orchestrations are melodious and energetic. As the composition progresses, it becomes more layered and complex. For a title track, the expectations are high and easily met on this masterpiece.

“Into Dark Into Light” is a journey of transition, and it is indeed transitory. For music to capture the essence of that human condition, it must move constantly and change quickly, and it does. The piano takes center stage in leading the orchestral maneuvers. Wordless vocals are interjected once again for more emotion and substance. This is drama set to music, a captivating experience.

“Highlands Rhapsody” immediately sounds like classical-based piano interplay. Its beauty is perfection in notes that effortlessly float into your space and consciousness. The tempo is fast-paced and colorful, upholding the standard set in the previous tracks, with some excellent orchestrations that find a distinct place within the composition while enhancing the solo piano runs—a gorgeous soundtrack with melodicism and an enduring foundation in classical music.

“The Storyteller’s Journey” is the perfect title for music like this. The emotion and skillful musicianship administered in every track, and here, bring any story to life. Things start at a slower tempo and then gently move into a higher tempo, accompanied by a layer of synths that adds an orchestral, dramatic touch. The melody is distinct as the piano keys move with strength and presence, continuing to hold the foundation from which everything else is built.

“A Valentine Waltz” is the dance of the piano keys on your heart. It is the shortest track at 3:44. It captures the essence of the track’s meaning immediately, then builds upon that with short bursts of energy and varying tempos. Music that equals pure love through the keys.

“Call of the Canyons” recalls something organic or the vision of the wonders of nature’s work. The Grand Canyon, with its magnificence and mystery of layers and colors, is what came to me quickly. Being there is something surreal and quite memorable. The music’s sweeping orchestrations and melodies help evoke those memories.

“Remember When” pulls on your heartstrings within seconds. Every listener is different; however, music is universal, and its effects on your being are guaranteed if you look at the meaning of the track title. Reminiscing can vary depending on your age. In my opinion, it can hold happiness and sadness at the same time. That is what music like this does: it moves you emotionally and spiritually. When you hear someone say, “remember when?” that is what the piano and synths are saying loud and clear.

“Dare to Fly” straight away asks you that very question. John Otott is flying high in his music. His compositions ended here; however, what you are hearing—and have listened to—is life in motion, masterfully composed and performed by a talented composer and musician. This is drama and cinema, crafted to engage your mind, spark your imagination, and immerse you in the present.  What a grand finish—a treat for the ears and mind.

Invictus will hold different meanings for many listeners. If you focus on the meaning of the album title or immerse yourself in every track and let the music shape your thoughts and emotions, either way works.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder

October 22, 2025

Tracks:

01. A Warrior's Song 4:17

02. Giuseppi's Dream 4:24

03. Invictus 4:15

04. Into Dark Into Light 3:47

05. Highlands Rhapsody 5:43

06. The Storyteller's Journey 4:05

07. A Valentine Waltz 3:44

08. Call of the Canyons 3:53

09. Remember When 4:04

10. Dare to Fly 4:35

New Age Instrumental Review: Richard Theisen - Whispers of Selene

Release Date:  November 14, 2025

Label: Wayfarer Music

Website

I have heard three recordings from Richard Theisen over the years. All of them were extremely enjoyable. Whispers of Selene is his latest release. His previous release, Shambhala, was released in April of this year. The man is going through a notable creative renaissance.

 

One look at the cover art (by Dieter Spears) conjures the image of a goddess, a large moon behind her, illuminating her. In fact, “Selene” refers to the ancient Greek Titan goddess and personification of the Moon, who drove a moon chariot across the night sky. She was the sister of the sun god Helios and the dawn goddess Eos and the daughter of Titans Hyperion and Theia.

 

So, with all those thoughts, that movie will play out in your mind, setting the stage as the story unfolds.

 

“First Breath” is the definitive beginning of the story. The sounds are soft, and the invitation to enter another world is present. The plucking of strings, the orchestration layers, and synths all combine to create a portal to this magical world.

 

“Avalon” is a musical masterpiece, renowned for its beauty and desirability, much like the mythical island it is named after. The piano, orchestrations, synths, and violin sounds flow through your speakers gracefully as if you’re being transported to a place of pure enchantment. More than halfway through, wordless vocals are added, further enhancing the music’s beauty and depth. The music paints the picture so beautifully that you can’t help but be captivated by its elegance.

 

“Whispers of Selene” begins with strings evoking a banjo, as the piano responds with measured steps. Then, an orchestral element emerges, resembling violins. It has a mystical feel to it all. The synth layer is always so important in these tracks; it’s the foundation on which everything is built. Notably, Sean O’Bryan Smith is on bass for this track.

 

“Light of the Ancients” evokes images of the past and lore that will endure for eternity, pronouncing the antiquity of the moment. The synths merge to create a floating cloud of sound as the wordless vocals enter, adding a heavenly texture. There is a modality of spirituality as you absorb the tapestry of color and sound.

 

“Blood Moon remix” is a cinematic masterpiece that focuses on stringed instruments, giving the moon and its colorful transformation a strong presence and meaning. The dance of the music now belongs to the skies and the moon above. The orchestration behind the strings lends it a cinematic quality that immerses you in the grandeur of the moon’s transformation.

 

“Silver Tears” is piano-based, beginning before introducing the cello. The piano’s elegance is on display here, as the other elements serve as additions to its musical path. The keys suggest the tears are falling, and the orchestrations lend greater emphasis to the emotion.

 

“The Inner Flame” is a significant title that underscores the spark of life within us all. This is the magic in our lives that makes things happen. The strings and orchestration are upbeat, instilling a sense of positivity and optimism about life. The beauty of the sounds reflects that light inside us all, forming the soundtrack of our lives. It is very melodic and joyful.

 

“Eternal Dawn” is the magnum opus of this recording, a musical journey that feels eternal, just like the dawn it represents. The softness of the approach helps you envision the idea of an “Eternal Dawn.” Thanks to the picturesque soundtrack, the beauty is in the heart, mind, and soul of the creator and the listener of this tale. It’s a piece that invites introspection and a sense of connection to the eternal nature of life.

 

“Sangreal” is another name for the Holy Grail, a legendary sacred vessel associated with divine revelation and divine power, with origins tracing back to the Last Supper. With that thought in mind, you need the music to conjure those images in your mind’s eye. The piano and strings articulate that thought process as the synth orchestration is added.

 

Whispers of Selene is a gorgeous soundtrack designed for introspective listeners and those seeking a path to slow down their lives and pause to enjoy the gifts of life around them, rather than rushing past them without a second thought.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

OcTober 23, 2025

Tracks:

01.  First Breath

02.  Avalon

03.  Whispers of Selene

04.  Light of the Ancients

05.  Blood Moon remix

06.  Silver Tears

07.  The Inner Flame

08.  Eternal Dawn

09.  Sangreal

Contemporary Instrumental New Age (Classical) Review and Interview: Joshua Zimmerman-Light Beyond the Shadow

Release Date: October 17, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

In June, I heard Joshua Zimmerman’s "Finding Peace" and had the opportunity to interview him in July, as well as again this month. Now we have Light Beyond the Shadow.

Zimmerman, a classically trained pianist, draws inspiration from his spiritual journey and his love for nature to create his music. Already, another release is ready to go with Light Beyond the Shadow. He presents instrumental solo piano music for his current fanbase and potential listeners.

The elegant and eye-popping cover art of Light Beyond the Shadow surely grabs your attention right away!

As I recall, Joshua’s music his very relaxing, coming from a spiritual place of the artist, and knowing that I would anticipate another healing experience through the music. This is a contemporary new age instrumental with a strong influence from the realm of classical music.

“What’s Meant to Stay” begins your listening experience with lovely notes flowing out of the acoustic piano. The melody carries through splendidly, allowing the transitions to be smooth and natural as the tempo changes. It felt like a modern classical lullaby at times when he focused on the more simplistic strokes of the keys—a beautiful way to start.

“Beneath the Surface” has a soft touch and a sweet, yet sad, ballad atmosphere. When you look or reach beneath the surface of anything, it can come as a surprise what you discover, particularly in the context of the human condition. Because music is so directly connected to us in this way, this composition’s tempo and melody capture the essence of a reflective, introspective individual.

The title track, “Light Beyond the Shadow,” is a beacon of hope and positive energy. Just as the cover art would convey.  Here we find the artist delving into an area that can be real as we desire (even though you cannot “see” it), whether in the mind or the space you are in this moment, there is always light to be found. The piano’s keys evoke a sense of warmth and positivity we all need, lifting the spirits of the listener.

“Whispers of Hope” continues the path of positivity and light. The music is more than a whisper; it hints at all our personal journeys that we hold dear to our hearts. With that, though, comes optimism and clarity, and the keys of the piano pronounce those thoughts. The tones and colors are clear and concise as each note resonates within your consciousness.

“Unseen Path” would indicate that what we cannot see physically has no bearing on where we can go or not go—relating to the previous tracks, I see how they are all connected in the tapestry of sound and emotion. The piano’s rhythm and innate melodicism pull you into the “path,” making it real and your own to follow. So elegant and beautiful, creating a sense of continuity and unity in the album.

This music is meant to make you feel “Made New.”  As you intently listen to the oneness of the solo piano and how the sounds embrace you, the feeling, every time, feels new. It sounds like the piano is singing to you alone, without a human voice to accompany it; it demonstrates that it has its own unique voice, with its own distinct sounds. The person manipulating the keys has every intention of bringing you into the story. The consistent flow and melodies capture you.

“Everything in Time” would suggest that patience will bring us what we desire in life. However, you must seek it for it to know when to come. Time is irrelevant when it comes to music. To my ears, it’s immortal and ready for me at my fingertips with one push of a button or a click of a mouse. The absolute beauty of the piano’s keys shines once again as the artist takes his internal compass to guide him to the place where gentle raindrops of melody and rhythm intersect. It sounds like a love song being played to everyone who will take the time to listen.

“Breathing Still” can have a few meanings. Breathing in stillness or still breathing is what you could discern. Breathe in motion or stillness, and you will create two entirely different scenarios. Without complicating the meaning, I think this is meant to encourage you to be still and listen, watching your breathing as it relates to your level of stress or lack thereof. This gorgeous music not only suggests it, but it also creates that thought and concept through the keys of the piano.

The piano is “Grace Without Words” on this recording. The track emulates this in so many ways, as does the entire album. The music actualizes emotions, visions, thoughts, a sense of warmth and belonging, all of that and more. This is the shortest track, at three minutes and five seconds; however, it conveys a great deal—another stroke of beauty and relaxation found through the music.

“From Here” we go to the end of this musical presentation. The piano’s instinctive resonant tones permeate your being every time with Joshua Zimmerman at the helm. There is a bright and rhythmic sense to this composition. The overall feeling of this entire recording seems to be encapsulated in this one track. I felt a sense of joy and lightness all around me as I listened.

Joshua Zimmerman is here to remind us that there is Light Beyond the Shadow.

On Light Beyond the Shadow, Joshua Zimmerman achieves a seemingly effortless blend of time and space through his compositions, which are filled with melody and smooth transitions that consistently convey the meaning of each track. It’s time to stop, listen, and enjoy the music of this talented individual.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder

October 10, 2025

Tracks:

01. What’s Meant to Stay 3:38

02. Beneath the Surface 3:38

03. Light Beyond the Shadow 4:04

04. Whispers of Hope 3:51

05. Unseen Path 2:52

06. Made New 4:36

07. Everything in Time 4:11

08. Breathing Still 4:02

09. Grace Without Words 3:05

10. From Here 3:4

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review and Interview: Robert Linton-Away into a Memory

Release Date:  October 17, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Robert Linton plays finger-style nylon-string guitar on his latest album, Away into a Memory. The sound is a unique blend of ambient and instrumental music, with a focus on the delicate, intricate melodies of the guitar.

 

In addition, there are several other talents on the album, including Graham Cullen (cello), Premik Russell Tubbs (EWI- wind machine), Trevor Gordon Hall (guitar), Sara Milonovich (violin), Jennifer DeFrayne (clarinet), Jill Haley (English horn), and Jeff Haynes (percussion). 

 

The title track, “Away into a Memory,” marks the beginning of this musical journey. As the soft guitar lines (note the significance in sound with the nylon strings) open the track within a minute, other instruments are added to accompany and accentuate the beautiful notes coming off the guitar’s strings. The cello and EWI sing their own song to answer Robert’s notes, adding another layer of ambiance and texture. With 5:51 minutes, there is ample time to explore how each piece of the composition is built as the movements come together.

 

Based on this opening track, there is a lot to look forward to as you move through each composition. The additional instruments add significantly to the piece in terms of color and variety of instrumentation.

 

“Times of Gathering” continues the album’s theme of providing a calming and immersive experience. The track begins with a tempered approach and a leisurely tempo, like a gentle warm breeze flowing over you, creating a sense of comfort and relaxation. The guitars, with their soothing notes, take the lead on this track, further enhancing the calming and immersive experience.

 

“Reaching The Field’s Edge” creates a bit of anticipation to reflect the arrival at the place indicated. The guitar serves as a guiding post to the eventual destination, while the violin creates its own path and atmosphere, making the track complete. As they merge and accentuate each other’s playing, it becomes increasingly beautiful as it unfolds to a finality.

 

“Covering the Pathway” has a distinctive melodic sense, with the guitar as the primary instrument, and the cello is added almost immediately to create a drone-like sound. The clarinet is also introduced. As you think about the meaning of the track title, it feels like the cello is covering the path as the guitar glides over the top of it like it were a carpet, receiving the help it needs along the way. It is instrumental bliss as the story unfolds before you, igniting your senses and imagination. The guitar playing is very methodical, and it holds its place well within each composition.

 

“In the Quiet of the Trees” brings you closer to nature and our connection with it. The guitar leads the way in each track, and so it does once again here with purpose and a quietude to reflect the meaning of the song. This time, Jill Haley’s English Horn brings its elegance to the piece, evoking a sense of tranquility and beauty. It is the perfect instrument to accompany the acoustic guitar and make the song complete and gorgeous, like the trees that are in tribute here. As it ends, you feel you have just walked through a wooded area, feeling refreshed with a new meaning of nature to hold on to. It is the longest track at 7:31 and just enough time to allow each instrument its space to move and grow within the composition. This was my favorite track, as it took me on a journey of introspection and appreciation for the natural world.

 

“Aglow in the Windowpane” maintains the gentleness of strings that have been established in every track. The strength of that is shown in how there is nothing given up for fullness or melodicism. If anything, you discover that those factors are present and completed by the guitar and cello.

 

“Searching for Clovers” is the second-longest track at 7:03. As the plucking of the strings makes their entrance, the violin joins in. It brings a new flavor resonance to the overall sound. There is ample atmosphere here as it takes on more color and emotion with each additional layer. It has a definitive Celtic hue to it at times and, as such, brings your thoughts and feelings along with the soundscape to somewhere else besides the space you are currently in. You can now travel inside and with the music. That is powerful and impactful. The track follows the same path as “In the Quiet of the Trees” in terms of its length and constant shifting and building to maintain your interest until the final note.

 

“Shaping the Moment” is what good music can accomplish for an attentive listener. The guitar, cello, and violin begin this journey with drama and feeling. The cello instinctively possesses a timbre that creates a mood, with edges of sadness and deep thought. The guitar propels it along with all its grace and purpose, bringing it to a place of rest, just as it has in all the previous tracks. Just sit back, listen, and let it shape your moments for you.

 

“Flickering of Summer Light” completes the trilogy of more extended and more complex compositions, clocking in at 6:40. This appropriately concludes the journey of light, sound, auditory stimulation, color, and emotion. Every track title has a significant meaning, and the instruments do a phenomenal job in making each track come alive. The EWI and percussion add an ambiance and lightness to the guitar’s sound. As the guitar flickers, the other instruments are the light of summer, making for a perfect blend of sound.

 

This music will put everything Away into a Memory because of its impact and beauty. It is an easy path to walk through to the end.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

October 17, 2025

Tracks:

1. Away Into A Memory (5:51) 

2. Times of Gathering (3:55) 

3. Reaching The Field’s Edge (5:34) 

4. Covering the Pathway (5:42) 

5. In the Quiet of the Trees (7:31) 

6. Aglow in the Windowpane (4:06) 

7. Searching for Clovers (7:03) 

8. Shaping the Moment (5:08) 

9. Flickering of Summer Light (6:40)

Track Feature: Contemporary Ambient Instrumental - Orchestra Indigo-Walking Among Ghosts

Rick Randlett’s musical journey is a testament to the power of reinvention. After a lifetime dedicated to blues guitar, he has boldly ventured into the realm of ambient new age music, leaving a trail of significant recordings in his wake. His latest offering, the single “Walking Among Ghosts,” is a testament to his artistic evolution.

The track is layered with synths and piano, creating a dreamy and stunning soundtrack. The music fits the title like a well-worn shoe. The word 'ghosts' can evoke many thoughts, and in this context, it represents the intangible memories and emotions that linger in our lives. The music captures the essence of 'walking among ghosts', evoking a sense of nostalgia and introspection.

"Walking Among Ghosts" is a musical exploration of the unseen entities that linger in our lives. We all have our ghosts, whether they are echoes of the past or the spirits of our loved ones. This music, with its soft instrumentation and gentle crescendo, provides a comforting embrace for the listener, acknowledging the universal experience of these intangible presences. 

Rick Randlett sounds like he is on his way to producing yet another recording that will help all listeners relax and heal through his music. If you enjoy ambient instrumental music with a New Age feel, you will love this music.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

October 17, 2025

For the past twenty years, Rick has taught music privately and performed and recorded as a Blues Rock artist.  He has released five CDs of all original songs.  

Rick's larger-scale compositions tend to be minimalistic, neo-impressionist works that are always designed to evoke emotions. 

Read more about Rick here.

Contemporary Instrumental - New Age Featured Track: Soul Improvisations-Inner Joy

Devorah Maho Lewin is the Pianist & Composer, founder of Soul Improvisations. Her journey in life brought her to us through her moving solo piano recordings,

Her latest gift, “Inner Joy,” is clear and something she hopes you can find within the music she creates.

The track continues along the same lines as her recent full release, FromThe Depths, which I had the honor and pleasure to discover.

Her innate talents and strong sense of melodicism, while blending the firm foundation of classical improvisation, exude her inner light and joy.

Through those talented fingers emerges a memorable track that exudes optimism and energy, which is contagious. With over six minutes of piano instrumental diversity, Soul Improvisations reminds us of what lies within us all.

“Inner Joy” is not just a listening experience; it’s a feeling, an emotionally moving piece that will touch your heart and soul.

This saying is posted on her site and sums up where she came from:

“The universe will reward you for taking risks on its behalf.”

– Shakti Gawain

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder

October 7, 2025

https://www.soulimprovisations.com/about/

Devorah is a talented pianist, composer, athlete, lawyer, and single mother of three. In 2023, after working for seventeen years as a lawyer, she stepped down from her position due to her declining medical condition. She received five surgeries from 2022 to 2024, which enabled her to begin building a new life to focus on her childhood love of the piano and composing.

Contemporary World-New Age Instrumental Review: Bill Leslie-Paradise

 

Release Date:  November 1, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Bill Leslie’s music has a unique sound. He blends contemporary instrumental with new age and world elements. Paradise holds that promise of variety and atmospheres that encourage the mind to envision peaceful healing settings. This is Bill’s trip around the world set to music.

 

“Autumn in Vermont” is a song that resonates with me as a New Englander, especially with the Vermont border so close. It’s the best time of year, with the trees (Mid-September) starting to turn into the colorful and fiery displays they will become. This familiarity brings a sense of connection and nostalgia to the listener.

 

The tracks feature a rich variety of instruments, including acoustic guitar, piano, flute, Celtic whistles, harmonium, keyboards, oboe, cello, and violin. This diversity of instruments keeps the listener intrigued and engaged throughout the album.

 

The wind blows to start the track as you imagine the leaves flying everywhere. It carries a sweet melody as the cello, flute, and acoustic guitar gather to paint that landscape in your mind’s eye. The track sets the tone for a journey of relaxing and healing sounds.

 

Then we switch over into another season, the end of winter and the beginning of spring, with “April in Asheville.” The birds are singing their song as the piano begins its serenade. The cello carries a Celtic melody as the piano’s keys continue in the background, allowing the instrument to take the lead as another change occurs, and the magical flute begins its song. The piano is a constant accompaniment as they take their turns, giving you, the listener, every opportunity to enjoy the simplicity and healing powers of this music.

 

“Oregon” starts with the sound of water, creating a vivid auditory image. The violin and flute join, maintaining the music’s flow. This combination of sounds and melodies transports the listener to the scenic beauty of Oregon, creating an immersive experience.

 

“Lofoton” is the sound of seagulls as images of the ocean enter your mind. The acoustic guitar and violin begin, with the flute adding another layer of sound and color to this dance of music. There is a feeling of freedom and joy in the notes being played. Like being in a boat in the vast open space of the ocean, there is a sense of limitlessness to that space and a feeling of being unattached to physical things back on land.

 

“Cinque Terre” is a string of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. This is the first track that does not begin with a natural sound. The music evokes the scenery of this old seaside village with its lovely acoustic guitar and cello, accompanied by the flute. The piano and guitar are harmonious and clear, serving as the lead and supporting elements when the other instruments take the forefront, such as the flute or cello. I find this aspect of the compositions captivating. The music beautifully captures the essence of this picturesque European village.

 

“Blowing Rock” starts with a sound of water rushing through the rocks of a cliff as the piano gently brings you into the scenery. The flute carries a harmony (Celtic flavored) as the violin joins in, adding its beauty and ambiance. I felt a sense of wanting and sadness in this music, although its beauty is stunning, as the wordless vocals, like a choir, give it an ethereal atmosphere.

 

“Ocracoke Winter” sounds like an old folk song, as the sound of ocean waves gives you its introduction. The flute, acoustic guitar, and violin add their touch, while another keyboard is also subtly heard. This music transports you to another time and place, and it feels genuine.

 

“Tuscan Trilogy” begins with the sound of church bells as the piano notes lead the way. The more I hear this music, the thought of a walk back in time comes to mind, and all the meaning and history that kind of journey would hold—the violin and piano partner with all the grace and elegance of a picturesque European view.

 

“Shenandoah” has flowing water through your speakers as the piano’s gentle accompaniment falls in sync. The cello sings its song with hints of sadness (which the cello is well known for). The harmonium makes a brief appearance, and then all the main instruments converge, sounding like a mini-orchestra. Quite beautifully done.

 

“Banff” is a town in Alberta, Canada. Although this is related to Canada, I could hear a brief Irish jig with the violin at the outset of this track, as it transitions to other sounds and textures. Simple acoustic guitar lines with the violin, flute, and cello joining in to create more atmosphere and feeling. Towards the end, there is a short burst of wordless vocals before the sound of waves comes in as it fades out.

 

“High Cascades” features the sound of water running and a bird, creating a sense of walking along a stream in a wooded area, with the birdsong echoing through the trees. There is a consistent acoustic guitar and violin, and some orchestration mixed in. This all blends for a soundtrack of being somewhere where the air is pure, and the water is clear.

 

“Fiordland” is once again filled with the sounds of birds. These snippets of nature are something that give the music a definite organic feeling of being there before the music starts. The harmonium, violin, and acoustic guitar blend nicely (and the cello is added eventually) as you imagine yourself on a boat moving through the fjords.

 

“August in Maine” evokes the sensation of walking through water, as the echoing bird sounds (a loon?) transport you right there, allowing you to experience it firsthand. Maine is vast and beautiful. I used to go there with my family years ago every year, but then everyone moved away as they became adults and started living their own lives. I will never forget those vacations. With those thoughts in mind, it feels bittersweet, yet also sad. The music became the catalyst for that whole thought process for me, so it moved me as any artist would want a listener to experience. All the instruments that are used consistently match the previous tracks.

 

The “Hebrides” is the largest archipelago in the United Kingdom (Scotland). As the curtain falls on this journey through nature and the various areas where it all unfolded, you can sense the emotion and elegance in the music. The music takes the listener on an emotional journey, from the peaceful healing settings of Paradise to the bittersweet memories of “August in Maine”, and finally to the graceful conclusion of “Hebrides.”

 

Subtle layers of ambiance with keys in the background take their place as the flute and guitar remind you of their importance for this recording and the constant thread that knitted this musical quilt together.

 

Bill Leslie has created his own Paradise in the music for us all to enjoy. There was a great deal of instrumentation involved, and I am sure I missed mentioning all of it within the tracks; however, you will get the idea of what to expect while listening.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

October 10, 2025

Credits:

Bill Leslie-acoustic guitar, piano, flutes, Celtic whistles, harmonium, and keyboards. 

Bill Covington-lead piano on tracks 2, 6 and 9

Jennifer Curtis -violin

Melanie Wilsden-oboe

Nancy Green-cello

Thom Canova-recording and mixing engineer

Steve Fallone at Sterling Sound-Mastering Engineer

Tracks:

01. Autumn in Vermont

02. April in Asheville

03. Oregon

04. Lofoton

05. Cinque Terre

06. Blowing Rock

07. Ocracoke Winter

08. Tuscan Trilogy

09. Shenandoah

10. Banff

11. High Cascades

12. Fiordland

13. August in Maine

14. Hebrides