Ambient Instrumental New Age Review & Interview: Steven Halpern-Music For Microdosing

Release Date:  July 11, 2025

Label: Inner Peace Music

Website

Microdosing involves the administration of sub-therapeutic doses of drugs to study their effects in humans, aiming to gather preliminary data on safety, pharmacokinetics, and potential therapeutic benefits without producing significant physiological effects. In this case, it involves the use of music tuned to 432 Hz for optimal healing potential, as heard in Steven Halpern’s latest release, Music for Microdosing.

Steven Halpern composes his award-winning ambient soundscapes in a deep alpha and theta brainwave-entrained state.

 

Halpern, a pioneer in ambient new age music, has created a unique genre since 1975. His soundscapes, designed to soothe the soul, have a wide-reaching impact, and his name is instantly recognizable. His music, including his latest release, Music for Microdosing, is a testament to his unique approach and the healing potential of his compositions.

 

Music For Microdosing is 75 minutes and 30 seconds of pure ambient layers of sound. These layers, like the different colors in a painting, create a rich and immersive sonic environment. After hearing this recording, I can see how the music can be used for so many good things. Music is a tool, and meditation is an art to be mastered over time, and having any assistance to reach that goal is highly valued.

 

A theta brainwave-entrained state refers to a state of consciousness where brainwave activity shifts to the theta frequency range (typically 4-7 Hz), often induced through techniques like meditation, binaural beats, or specific types of music. This state is characterized by deep relaxation, enhanced creativity, and access to subconscious processes. With that thought in mind, it was evident that the artist required preparation and this state of consciousness to create the music on the recording. I find that fascinating.

 

Most recording artists have a routine they follow to create their recordings, and each is different. This, however, adds another layer to the process, which is quite involved. Steven is the creator, but also the listener and the subject first, before all of this could happen.

 

The soft textures and waves of ambient sounds in Music for Microdosing are not just music; they serve as a guide to a meditative state of consciousness. Each of the fourteen tracks consistently follows this pattern, creating a soothing and relaxing experience for the listener.

 

Music For Microdosing is a masterpiece of ambient music and synth-generated sounds. There have been many studies on the healing effects of sound, and some people are degreed in areas that address that. Steven Halpern, a longtime researcher in the fields of music and consciousness, has made significant contributions to our understanding of how sound can influence our mental and emotional states. This recorded work is a culmination of that experience to date.

 

There is a variety of sounds and textures in every track. “Inner Space Outer Space,” for instance, sounds like something that could be used for a soundtrack of space exploration, which is a step away from the previous track with its melting synth sounds. That is one example of how different one track can be from the next. The variety of sounds, colors, and textures is what makes this journey enjoyable, and its atmospheres are variable.

 

In another change of scenery, “Heart Mind Coherence” has the soothing sound of waves as a steady drone subtly providing a focus as you listen. In meditation, focusing on a single point of reference is beneficial. The lush sounds all around that focus point are what allow you to fall into the necessary state of consciousness.

 

Music for Microdosing is not just a recording; it’s a transformative tool. Highly recommended for stress relief, anxiety management, everyday relaxation, or to achieve deep states of meditation or a higher level of consciousness, this music has the power to change lives. It’s a healer that everyone uses, and at times, unknowingly. It’s a straightforward and effective way to enhance your well-being.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

July 20, 2025

Tracks:

01. Music for Microdosing (432 Hz) 4:06

02. Music is the Bridge (432 Hz) 5:08

03. Timeless Truths (432 Hz) 5:09

04. Whisper on the Wind (432 Hz) 5:32

05. Receiving Insights (432 Hz) 6:41

06. Mindful Microdosing (432 Hz) 4:40

07. Time Being II (432 Hz) 5:23

08. Deeper Journeys (432 Hz) 5:36

09. Inner Space Outer Space (432 Hz) 5:37

10. Root Chakra Resonance (432 Hz) 4:39

11. Transformation (432 Hz) 4:01

12. Heart Mind Coherence (432 Hz) 4:57

13. Sonic Elevation (432 Hz) 8:19

14. At Peace in the Present Moment (432 Hz) 5:05

Total: 75:03

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review: Terry Lee Nichols- Love Is...

Review Provided By Dyan Garris - New Age Notes

“Love Is…” by Terry Lee Nichols

Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff

I think we can all agree that love is one of the most complex emotions and may be defined in a lot of different ways, including, perhaps as “a many splendored thing.” Love can manifest in a variety of different ways, even through the magic of music.

Here, we have the phenomenal new album, “Love Is…” from Terry Lee Nichols, which presents us with a variety of multi-faceted expressions from which to experience the love. The album more than successfully expresses the many forms of love that have shaped Terry’s life — romantic, familial, and platonic — and is something everyone can relate to in their own lives as well.

Terry Lee Nichols is a classically trained, award-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist known best for his captivating blend of classical, cinematic, New Age music, and distinct artistic flair. From intimate solo piano to dramatic and sweeping orchestral soundscapes, his compositions are finely crafted to tell stories, speak to the soul, and evoke deep emotions in the listener. With a signature style that’s both timeless and refreshingly modern, Terry’s music resonates deeply with listeners around the world whatever the musical concept or topic may be. This is immersive musical storytelling at its finest.

First, I love, love, love this album. Not to be sappy. But there are an astounding amount of things to love here across 11 outstanding tracks. From the intricately composed musical layers, to Rebekah Eden’s absolutely stellar ethereal vocals, to the host of musical talent joining Terry Lee here. It’s just the kind of thing that leaves you completely breathless and in a good way.

“Is This All Just a Dream (Moon River Variations)” opens the album. A minute or so of super ethereal synth music carries us then right into the dreamy Rebekah Eden vocal. Twinkling, scintillating, and passionately played piano adds to the romantic mood.

Following is the wonderfully uplifting, “Friendship,” which is co-written with Terry’s good friend, Howard Wershil. “Friendship” is a tribute to that kind of connection — the genuine kind where one feels safe, understood, and valued. Strings, piano, percussion, and an excellent melody make this a favorite. I found myself listening to it over and over again.

Have you ever watched someone you love while they’re sleeping? “Lying Next To You” is slow, tender, and romantic and captures those moments perfectly. I can’t say enough about Rebekah’s wordless vocal performance here. Just wonderful, and this adds immense depth and emotion to the song.

“Morning Glory” pays tribute to the gift of the new day. But it’s much more than common gratitude. Again, wonderfully melodic, flowing piano, soft synth, and another dreamy other-worldly vocal by Rebekah Eden all lift the heart and we feel just like flowers raising their faces to the sun. It’s amazing.

I truly wish I could address every track of this stunningly gorgeous album in depth. Some highlights: “I Remember Her Smile” captures the feelings of “love at first sight.” There’s a nice innocence here that is very endearing. “Finding Annie” exemplifies both sorrow and light. Poignant piano stirs the heartstrings. Where is the love that is meant for us? Perhaps it is and has always been there.

Deep cello on “Trinity” contributes to the depth of the song and its meaning. And I really have to wonder how Rebekah Eden flawlessly hits those extremely high notes, perfectly executed. It’s truly astonishing. What a great song and marvelous in ways I can’t even describe.

Excellent piano and melody on “Lullaby” make this a wonderful tribute from father to sons. Terry Lee says it best in the liner notes: “In them, I see the hopes I once whispered into their dreams, now realized.” Beautiful and touching.

“We’ve Had a Good Life” is a deeply sentimental love story about Terry’s father, mother, and stepfather, and the love that transcends all. Gorgeous piano, strings, and cinematic build make this super special.

Passionate piano and strings wrap around the soaring vocal performance of tenor John Riesen (in Italian) on “Nella Fantasia.“

This amazing album closes out with “The Winds of Time.” Here we are reminded that “the winds do not erase — they carry our memories, folding them into who we are. And so we move forward, not untouched, but fuller, still becoming.”

All that said, I must say I am truly speechless. If you’re stressing about your day or tied in knots about whatever, this album has everything you need to remember that “Love Is. . .” everywhere and in every. . . single. . .thing. It just IS.

Available on all streaming services July 11, 2025, the album is also available as a physical CD. Get it here: https://www.terryleenichols.com/love-is

 

New Age Instrumental-World Review: Al Jewer and Andy Mitran feat. Hans Christian-Precious Stones

Release Date: July 30, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Al Jewer, Andy Mitran, and Hans Christian have released several tracks from their upcoming album, Precious Stones. It served as a good primer for the full release, with its focus on exactly what the title suggests.

 

As a boy, I was captivated by gems, rocks, and minerals. Listening to Precious Stones, I found myself transported back to those fond memories. Each track evoked the image and colors of a specific gem, creating a personal connection that made me feel more connected and involved in the music.

 

“Moonstone” begins with a multitude of instruments merging to create an atmospheric and textured soundscape. The synth, flute, cello, and interesting-sounding bass contribute to the track's originality. Additionally, there is an acoustic and an electric guitar. Many more additions help make the track unique and complete. It’s a fine way to start the album. The track shines with a quiet inner light just like the Moonstone.

 

“Amethyst” is one of my favorite gemstones. The fretless bass is used this time, and it has a unique sound. The woodwind synth adds a nice layer, complementing the various percussive elements, synth guitars, and cymbals, which lend a world sound to the mix. I found it very relaxing, like a cool drink on a hot summer day (much like we are experiencing lately in the Northeast).

 

With “Sapphire,” you will hear the flute cloud, Tibetan bowls, synth bass, concert harp, and cello. The cello sounds like it's longing for something (which it typically is); however, it remains an asset and is beautiful. The bass has a resonating sound to it, and as all the elements come together, it has a cool blue feel, just like the gem the song is dedicated to. The way the synth sound is used is brilliant.

 

The first thought of “Ruby” is red. Red is generally a color associated with strong emotions, such as anger. This music is on the opposite end of that spectrum. Native American flutes, Synths, marimba, djembes, frame drum, talking drum, synth brass, udu, hand percussion, and acoustic guitar all meld to make a gorgeous layer of atmosphere and color. The eye-catching color of the gemstone is evident in this image.

 

“Emerald” has a green and serene color, with depth and brilliance all its own. Several types of cellos are used in combination with various instruments, including flutes, electric pianos, synthesizer bass, and marimbas, among others. I am thinking of the lush greens of Ireland while listening. The track, as I would expect, flows nicely, and you find solace and relaxation in it.

 

“Onyx” is a word that sounds strong. Instruments like triple-chamber ocarinas and Chilean bombo add to the uniqueness and lovely atmosphere. The percussive elements are strong here, as the other instruments sound brighter and cleaner, supporting them. It felt like I was walking somewhere, like the remote mountains in the Himalayas, searching for a mystical place. This was one of my favorites.

 

The “Diamond” has always been the most sought-after and costly addition to one's gem collection. Here, the hand percussion is subtly added, complementing the electric guitar's emphasis. Some lovely piano notes float around as the flutes add their ambiance. Synth brass and bass are added components and layers. The marimba and djembe are also essential parts of the puzzle. It all shines brilliantly, like a diamond with its many facets —the music mirrors that.

 

“Obsidian” features the Native American flute, singing bowls, and an e-bow guitar. The colors of the gem are deep and black as night, and the music has a mysterious quality hovering around it, while the flute echoes and resonates, drawing you in with its hypnotic effect.

 

“Opal” evokes the thought of fire and a multitude of colors, reaching out to you and engaging your imagination as you gaze at its beauty. It is one of the more unique gems due to its luminescent, multihued colors. The flute cloud, koto, singing bowls, and the silver flute cloud are a feature. The synth layers add texture and depth. Listening gives you the incentive to relax and reflect. The track time is 7:38, allowing the listener not only to relax but also to use the piece for a meditation session.

 

The “Topaz” can have many different colors; however, the first that comes to mind is brown. Indian percussion, including the udu, frame drum, and drum synths, as well as cello and pizzicato cello, are among the interesting tools used to create this auditory journey. The cello took the lead on this track, with the other parts coming in elegantly and effectively. The woodwind synths are elemental as well, creating those smooth and soft layers that allow you to join in consciously with purpose.

 

“Aquamarine” closes out this fascinating album of musical art and sound. The name represents the colors, as you look at this gemstone, the thought of the ocean and sky comes to mind immediately. The piano, cello, and flute establish a firm footing here, as the concept of full relaxation and meditation still holds precedence in this track and all the others. The beauty of each gemstone is the primary focus, and the music elevates that perception to a higher level.  I especially appreciate the triple-chamber ocarinas making their appearance in this last track.

 

I am genuinely amazed by the diverse range of instruments used in each track on Precious Stones. And because of that, they all stand out with their own unique identity, just like the gems that are being represented.

 

This was a transformative listening experience, enriched by the subject matter and my familiarity with it. It moved me differently, shifting my focus between the brilliance and color of the gems and how the music beautifully complemented the essence of each gem, inducing profound feelings. The thoughts and feelings that arose were like a third element, enriching the entire experience and leaving me inspired and enlightened.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

July 18, 2025

Tracks:

01. Moonstone

02. Amethyst

03. Sapphire

04. Ruby

05. Emerald

06. Onyx

07. Diamond

08. Obsidian

09. Opal

10. Topaz

11. Aquamarine

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review: Masako-Dreaming Northern

Release Date:  July 31, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Dreaming Northern is Masako's ninth proper recording. Once again, the team of Will Ackerman and Tom Eaton, renowned for their expertise in instrumental new age and contemporary instrumental music, was part of the process. Their contribution ensures that the recording is top-notch, creating an environment at Imaginary Road Studios in Vermont that will enable instrumental music artists to thrive.

Like Masako, I find solace in the North. The distinct seasons, the absence of relentless heat, and the region's unique beauty resonate with me on a personal level.

 

"Mamabear Dreams" begins things. The piano sings its song. And it is warm, and a feeling of joy comes across through the keys. The rhythm and tempo are just right. As her fingers glide across the keys, I feel closer to nature as I look at the beautiful artwork on the album cover.

 

"One by One" starts slower and more methodically than the previous track, as if it has another purpose to convey through the music. The keys echo and reverberate as layers of synth are added for texture. Taking each task one by one or multitasking are two different things. This is what the artist wanted to communicate through her music.

 

"Our Bluebird Day" made me think of birds, of course, and how I love to watch them. I somehow get songs about birds in these instrumental albums, and get the feeling that there are a lot of people who feel the same as I do. It starts with a slower pace, then picks up as you imagine the bluebird taking flight. It is the longest track at 5:37 and gorgeous. The cello is added for accompaniment, and then a flute.  After losing our 16-year-old toy poodle just a few days ago, it doesn't take much to trigger my sadness. And I was feeling it with this song. Music is the universal healer, so I will continue to listen as the emotional pain of loss can be overwhelming.

 

"But It is Life" makes me think about how life unfolds, encompassing joy, sadness, heartbreak, elation, and all kinds of feelings and phases that one can experience during life. I feel it all and will continue to do so; it means I am alive. There is a beautiful acoustic guitar that complements the piano, and the blend is sublime. Then, more elements come into play, the flugelhorn rings out in its elegance and gracefulness. The way everything comes together in this sounds so beautiful, with some hints of jazz around the edges and wedged in between. It's a blend of instrumental new age and jazz, all rolled into one package—the quiet storm.

 

"Love Beyond" is a title that made me think more about how much I loved my little friend and how much I miss him, the waves of sadness I cannot control. My love goes beyond any explanation for him. The unconditional love he had for me. Even in pain and dying, he found it in himself to lick my hand to say once again I love you. This is quite beautiful, with the piano, acoustic guitar, and flugelhorn coming together to evoke such a sense.

 

Instrumental music is a personal experience, and it doesn't get any closer to home than that.

"Stairs in the Sky" starts with a nicely paced piano, and the cello arrives with its longing call. The cello has a definite sadness about it; however, this time it sounded more optimistic and uplifting, carrying you up those stars in the sky. It sounded like their own little concerto as the keys played off the resonance of the cello's strings. Thoughts of the natural beauty all around us, which we can enjoy and appreciate, came to mind.

 

"My Old Abbey" begins with a measured tempo, which to me evokes a thoughtfulness that resonates throughout the music. The endearing melody offers insight into a fondness of the heart related to something of significance to the artist. Towards the end, the tempo shifts to higher places then back down to close it out.

 

"Shape of the Clouds" has you looking above again in wonder at the magnificence of Mother Earth and all her splendor. The piano is soft and invites you to lie down in the grass like you did when you were a child, to see what you could see in the clouds in all the different shapes and sizes. It was a magical time being a child doing those simple things, and it brought me back. Now I wonder why I stopped doing those things that got me such joy.

 

"October Children" is one I can relate to, having lived in the Northeast. As the temperature starts to drop, the leaves reach their peak in color, then begin to turn brown, preparing to fall to the ground, awaiting the snow to cover them once again. The piano and cello combine to form a beautiful composition that touched my heart and soul as the sound of children playing came in and out. Some wordless vocals fit their way in to make it all more real and happening right in the moment I was listening. The piano sounds so rhythmic and wonderful.

 

"Dancing in the Snow" is a perfect segue as my thought of leaves getting covered by the snow in the previous track. The transition of nature taking its course is depicted in the piano's keys. As the keys dance, you can picture yourself or another person dancing amongst the flakes with the joy of freedom of movement all around. Celebrating the seasons is vital to us Northerners, and we can find the beauty and gifts in every season. This was a gentle reminder.

 

"Between the Two Trees" continues the reverence we have for nature. The piano's resonance and pure beauty shine in this track. Taking it slow to appreciate what is right in front of you, that's what I hear in this music, whether it's between two trees or a simple walk down the street and back. There is always something to enjoy and take in.

 

"Agiochook" pulls you out of nature into something ethereal. Then a synth sounds more atmospheric and wandering as your thoughts follow it, with other elements coming in, such as movements or a whooshing sound. The word Agiochook means "The Place of the Great Spirit" for Native Americans. The difference in this track compared to all the others was significant and had to be due to the message being conveyed through the music.

 

Dreaming Northern brought me to many different times and places in my life. And most recently, because of the loss, I was often moved to tears while listening to this music. I keep asking myself why this feels so painful, but I know it was just because I loved that little dog so much, I cannot imagine life without him. I had to share this and how I related to this music at this point in my journey. While the music was so beautiful, it felt like a conduit to my soul, and having that kind of connection and release was a powerful experience.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

July 18, 2025

Tracks:

01. Mamabear Dreams (03:36)

02. One by One (04:10)

03. Our Bluebird Day (05:37)

04. But It is Life (05:02)

05. Love Beyond (04:00)

06. Stairs in the Sky (04:50)

07. My Old Abbey (03:59)

08. Shape of the Clouds (03:04)

09. October Children (04:10)

10. Dancing in the Snow (04:12)

11. Between the Two Trees (02:03)

12. Agiochook (04:51)

New Age Contemporary Instrumental Review and Interview: Terry Lee Nichols-Love Is…

Release Date: July 3, 2025 

Label: Soundscape Productions

Website

Having had the privilege of covering several releases from Terry Lee Nichols over the years, I've come to appreciate the emotional depth of his compositions. His instrumental stories evoke a range of emotions, thoughts, and perceptions. His most recent release, Love Is…, is more than just a title; it's a journey of profound emotional exploration that unfolds as you delve into the tracks.

 

"Is This All Just a Dream? (Moon River Variations)" starts the album, and it's very atmospheric with beautiful vocals courtesy of Rebekah Eden. The piano and synth are gentle, yet their impact is significant. "Moon River," while a well-known track, can be profoundly moving emotionally, and being compassionate and emotional myself, made it difficult not to pause and reflect on some recent events that have affected my life and will continue to do so. I remember my father crying when he heard this song after my mother died; he was a WW2 veteran as well.

 

"Friendship" begins with an acoustic guitar, followed by the piano. It has a nice rhythm to it, and the percussion sets the pace. Bell sounds and other virtual effects have been added, which have a positive impact on the track.

     

"Lying Next to You" forms a lush soundscape as wordless vocals are added. Rebekah Eden sounds like an angel sent from heaven to soothe and ensure that the person next to you truly loves you.

 

"Morning Glory" and its orchestration, along with beautiful acoustic piano and an additional synth layer, create a spiritual experience that promises a new day. The wordless vocals add an ethereal element, evoking a sense of spiritual awakening or a glimpse into another world.

 

"I Remember Her Smile" is a look back at someone special in your life who may no longer be part of it, or one who already is. The memory is implanted into your consciousness forever. This is a love song, short and sweet with carefully placed notes from the piano and sweeping orchestrations to engage your consciousness.

 

"Finding Annie" has a flute accompanying the piano. This ongoing story of Love continues to build like a storybook romance set to music. It is one of the longer movements and features some rolling piano excursions; the foundation of classical music is evident throughout this piece.

 

"Trinity" starts with what sounds like the ruffling of feathers as a bird takes off. The piano continues to be the focus as the cello comes in (sounding sorrowful as it does a lot of the time), then the orchestration of the synths creates an additional layer of atmosphere. Rebecca joins once again, her wordless vocals sounding like she is performing a scene from an opera. And that was the finishing touch.

 

"Lullaby" sounds like something you might expect, given its tempo and melody. The tinkling sound of bells induces a sense of magical fairy dust in the air, lulling you into a relaxed state of consciousness. The piano is elegant and simply gorgeous, as the synth layer provides its orchestral elements.

 

"We've Had a Good Life" is a look back with gratitude for your life, one that is not only worth living but also sharing with loved ones, making it all complete. The tempo is perfect for those thoughts, and the piano and synth once again partner to formulate the ideal ambiance.

 

"Nella Fantasia" was not a song I was familiar with. John Riesen provides his tenor vocals to the mix. He sounds very commanding and owns the song, pouring every ounce of emotion and energy into it. The piano lays down the path, and he follows it. I do not appreciate opera; however, I can recognize pure talent when I hear it.

 

"The Winds of Time" is a fitting title and a perfect way to close these beautifully constructed compositions. Sometimes we don't have the time we want to be with the people we Love or do the things we've always wanted to do. As the winds blow through our short lives on this planet, the piano's keys remind us of its beauty and the opportunity to appreciate and have gratitude for all the things that enter our lives here, even though it may not be ideal, and there is suffering, the winds of time are still blowing.

 

Love Is…. It is a fine instrumental recording. I was deeply moved spiritually and emotionally, and that is all an artist could hope for. It's the entire purpose of making music like this.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

July 10, 2025

Tracks:

01, Is This All Just a Dream? (Moon River Variations) 3:54

02. Friendship 3:39

03. Lying Next to You 3:19

04. Morning Glory 3:15

05. I Remember Her Smile 2:45

06. Finding Annie 4:06

07. Trinity 4:40

08. Lullaby 3:00

09. We've Had a Good Life 2:55

10. Nella Fantasia 3:43

11. The Winds of Time 3:42 

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review: Joshua Zimmerman - Finding Peace

Release Date:  May 16, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Finding Peace is Joshua Zimmerman's second proper recording.

As noted on his website, Joshua Zimmerman's solo piano music resonates with the heartfelt, melodic styles of artists such as David Lanz, Jim Brickman, Michele McLaughlin, Yiruma, George Winston, and David Nevue. His compositions, rich in emotional depth and soothing quality, draw inspiration from these renowned pianists, creating a profound connection with the listener.

 

The lead-off and title track, "Finding Peace," sets the tone for this musical piano-based project. With its soft and soothing sounds, Joshua's fingers guide us toward relaxation, stress relief, and renewal. His sense of the rhythmic patterns is what makes this composition so beautiful. There are slow to medium tempos, all in perfect balance.

 

"Between Raindrops" is a lovely title for a song. What you find between the raindrops is all yours: thoughts, feelings, and memories. It is romanticism set to music, with the beauty of Mother Nature in all its glory, providing life-sustaining water to help life flourish here. The piano is pure and flowing through this man's fingers. I heard a hint of sadness in the music as it progressed; however, that aside, it remains an incredible solo performance.

 

'Untainted Joy' flips the switch on the melancholy of the previous track with unencumbered and absolute joy. The track unfolds with a palpable sense of joy, unspoiled by any outside influences, leaving the listener feeling uplifted and cheerful.

 

"Footprints in My Heart" struck me powerfully just by looking at the prolific title. Love can be many things, but leaving another's footprint on your heart is an indelible mark on your soul; that is a life-changing and unforgettable experience. I hear those piano keys singing their song with so much emotion, and the atmosphere created by the artist is extraordinary—the soundtrack to your heart.

 

"For a Princess" got my eyes to start welling up as I immediately thought of my daughter when she was a little girl and what a fantastic woman she has become. Music without words that says so many things to you in so many ways. The keys were the trigger for my emotions, as memories came rushing back, and I wished I could turn back the hands of time to relive them once again. This piano player is a hopeless romantic, and I am beginning to think my relating to this makes me one as well.

 

“Innocent Love” is not complex; it just is. The artist's ability to develop a song by varying the tempo infuses the compositions with emotion and truth, making the listener feel at ease and relaxed. It's a beautifully simple piece of music.

 

It is getting harder to "Simply Be" these days with the constant flow of information 24/7 between news channels, social media, emails; it can be overwhelming, and there are times you need to shut it down and do nothing and experience a space in between nothingness and eternity.  Our world tends to make the word "Simple" more complicated than it must be. I let the piano encourage my words and feelings, and that was my thought process while listening. That is precisely what good instrumental music is supposed to do, and it does.

 

Do you have an "Unwritten Letter" that needs to be done before it's too late? Perhaps we all do, and the suggestion here is to gather your thoughts and write that letter. It's a process of release and truth, whether it's to yourself or someone else, whether they are still here or have passed away. This process is therapeutic, much like the music you will hear in this song. The notes fill the air around you as they gently push you in the right direction to write that letter. Its tempo is slow, and the approach is soft and warm as you step onto another path of freedom.

 

"Familiar Arms" can comfort with a desperately needed hug or an assuring feeling of unconditional love, letting them know you are there. Each note feels like a step towards that feeling, memory, or sense of knowing you have of the person who is inviting you into their arms. There is nothing more powerful and reassuring than a heartfelt hug from a loved one. The familiarity of that gives you hope for another day.

 

"Into Open Skies" is the shortest track on the recording, and the suggestion of an opening to the skies above is spiritual and freeing as it suggests. Short, sweet, and a fantastic way to close out this instrumental piano music.

 

The absolute beauty and magic of the piano keys lay down the path to understanding the meaning of the track titles every time. If Finding Peace is the goal, then it was fully accomplished in this recording.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

June 26, 2025

Tracks:

01. Finding Peace 3:54

02. Between Raindrops 4:01

03. Untainted Joy 3:11

04. Footprints in My Heart 3:55

05. For a Princess 4:51

06. Innocent Love 4:32

07. Simply Be 4:12

08. Unwritten Letter 4:37

09. Familiar Arms 4:28

10. Into Open Skies 1:59

Track Feature: The Song Gardners-Spiraling Up

The Song Gardeners continue to release uplifting music with a positive message, and their latest effort, "Spiraling Up," is no exception.

Their energetic and colorful music tells the listener what a proper new-age vocal band should sound like. They are unique in the genre and stand out firmly with their hope and positive energy messages.

Their music is pop and rock flavored with a clear new-age concept and message.

The chorus perfectly encapsulates who and what they are:

We're spiraling up, higher and higher

We're not giving up, we're reaching for the stars

We're spiraling up, brighter and wiser

Filled with compassion and love in our hearts

Uplifting music and a message with clear intent would give anyone pause to reflect and inject some good energy into their consciousness. Their music's rhythms and tempos are infectious and catchy without fail. I always know I will feel good after listening to it!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

June 27, 2025

The Song Gardener's Media Page

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The Song Gardeners is a musical duo from the San Francisco Bay Area, featuring singer/songwriter Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar) and singer/songwriter Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, percussion).

Their original songs are filled with positive, empowering messages and beautiful harmonies.