Contemporary Classical Instrumental Review: Lisa Swerdlow-Dancing Between Worlds

Release Date: April 25, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Dancing Between Worlds, a piano-based instrumental EP from the incredibly talented Lisa Swerdlow, showcases her mastery over the keys. Her adeptness with the piano is apparent and a marvel to behold. This release is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates instrumental piano music with orchestral elements.

 

"All Is Not Lost" begins with a soft piano intro, setting the stage for an emotional journey. As the orchestration emerges and takes shape, accompanied by a violin, the music becomes a conduit for introspection. The rise and fall of the music mirrors the ebb and flow of emotions, creating a dramatic scene that will resonate with the listener.

 

"Beneath the Harvest Moon" starts similarly, with a soft piano intro that sets the tone for the track. The gorgeous stringed violin adds a new dimension of color and emotion to the mix. Lisa's touch on the keys is elegant and a testament to her reverence for classical music. The high production values are evident, giving the listener a layer of assurance about the EP's overall sound quality.

 

"Dancing Between Worlds" begins with a different tempo, albeit faster than the previous tracks, but just right. The rhythms are sublime, and the tone is crystal clear as the orchestration once again enhances her piano leads. The track has an exciting and regal element, leaving the listener filled with emotions as if they have reached the summit of a long climb to a mountain top. Metaphorically, either an actual mountain or a long-standing challenge is finally completed. I should be watching a documentary film about the vast wonders of nature.

 

"Remembering You" sounds like a love song about whatever or whomever the subject matter may be. Of course, it starts purposefully and carefully to bring that emotion to the forefront. In any case, it can bring both sadness and joy. Those two emotions are found in the keys as Lisa's fingers tell the story with clarity and feeling. This time, I heard some jazz elements interspersed, which was interesting.

 

"La femme Sur Mer" means Signification. It's the shortest track on the EP, clocking in at 2:25. The description of 'short and sweet' is perfect. It captivates the senses with the romanticism of days gone by, transporting you to another time and place. All great music can do that, and Lisa achieves it effortlessly.

 

"Carousel of Life" is a prolific track title, the longest at 4:26. While it conveys the unpredictability of our lives, it offers moments of pause to reflect on what it means to each listener. As the closer, it takes a step away from the previous tracks, focusing on the romantic side of life, which can encompass many aspects. It begins with the sound of a clarinet, not an accordion. Every time I hear it, I think of the boats in the canals of Venice, evoking the romanticism of Europe. Lisa's acoustic piano is like the flowing water of those rivers, leading the way as all the other elements are blended in for a complete listening experience. The orchestrations are also superb.

 

I found it interesting how the tracks were synced consecutively, with the shortest and the longest. This, in turn, demonstrates the broad range of skills and effects of Lisa Swerdlow's piano expertise. You pick out how her playing is separated, and the additional sounds blend nicely, without removing the show's star. This is a credit to the production and mastering process.

 

Dancing Between Worlds may be short-lived compared to a complete release. However, the quality of each track far outweighs the time involved. Every note is carefully placed within each track, and each track is different in sound, texture, mood, and color. It will please you and keep your interest from beginning to end.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

April 24, 2025

Tracks:

1. All is Not Lost (4:07)

2. Beneath the Harvest Moon (4:05)

3. Dancing Between Worlds (3:16)

4. Remembering You (3:05)

5. La femme Sur Mer (2:25)

6. Carousel of Life (4:26)

Contemporary Instrumental-Relaxation/Meditation Review and Interview: Raphael Groten-Inner Sanctum

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Label: Hummingbird

Website

Inner Sanctum, Raphael Groten’s seventh proper release, is a unique and intriguing addition to his discography. Having followed his musical journey for five previous releases since 2016, I've witnessed his impressive accomplishments and the evolution of his guitar skills. His ability to create albums in just a few days is a testament to his creative prowess and innate talents.

Raphael’s music defies simple categorization. While it can be described as new-age instrumental or acoustic instrumental, these labels are secondary to its profound impact on a listener. Let me delve into this further.

 

The goal of this music is to provide a respite from the constant barrage of external noise we hear 24/7. In a world where wars are waging, people are constantly at odds, and the media is manipulating it all for their benefit, we all need a break from the madness. Raphael's music is a soothing relief, offering peace and reflection amidst the chaos.

 

His music is primarily acoustic, featuring various textures and enhancements that add depth and character to each track, giving it its own unique identity. On this release, he uses the electric guitar, which is a first-time treat to hear from the artist. Raphael strives for individuality in each track across all his releases. It is spiritual, reflective, and relaxing, renewing the spirit, regardless of whether it is acoustic or electric.

 

I found it interesting how he added the classic legendary song “Amazing Grace.” With his ability to create original compositions, he didn't need to include it, but he did. It is beautiful when played appropriately on either an electric or acoustic guitar. I believe this to be his tribute to the legendary song. It is well done, and now he has a piece of history recorded in his catalog. You also get another listen done differently on track 21. Also noteworthy is the coverage of Leonard Cohen’s extraordinary “Hallelujah.”  

 

I enjoyed the simplicity and resonating tones of “Old Home” on electric guitar. The artist takes things slowly and with resolve, allowing you to focus on the intricacies of every note. For my listening process, this provides a deeper appreciation for the artistry on display through the guitar, whether acoustic or electric. You will hear a lot of that approach and consistency in the songs of these 22 tracks.

 

The strings' gentle touch and clear sound are like an orchestra within themselves, much like the piano with all its capabilities. However, accomplishing that on the guitar is much more difficult. Again, I found much more appreciation for Raphael’s creations and overall ability to maintain the flow of each composition while creating layers of beauty throughout each track.

 

While listening to this extensive compilation, I heard touches of guitar sounds that reminded me of Pink Floyd, like on “Eternities.” Additionally, a few other ambient instrumental artists came to mind, and, as always, Tangerine Dream was a notable mention for me. This seems inevitable because they have been around for a long time and have influenced many recording artists.

 

As “Tidings” followed, it had the same effect on me. That ambient, spacey sound, with the guitar echoing its chords as if calling from the cosmos to speak to you in some way. It is soft, appealing, and beautiful. So, it can talk to a listener quickly without any thoughts going through your mind. That factor is not a prerequisite for thoroughly enjoying it. I usually have a string of thoughts weaving through my mind, endlessly listening to instrumental music such as this. It's not a bad thing either; I find it very relaxing, and stress relief is the main component that helps me reach a state where I can still process thoughts, relax, and take stock of them. It’s a beautiful thing; only music without words has that ability. Its power and light shine brightly if you let it guide you.

 

The interesting thing about Inner Sanctum is that Raphael Groten metaphorically uses the bear cave as a place where he can go and be safe, allowing the processes to flow through him. The power of nature, its organic earthiness, and our spiritual connection can be vast and influential. This recording is the result of that experiential journey.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

April 1, 2025

Tracks:

01. Stillness 3:13

02. Good Medicine (electric) 3:32

03. Inner Sanctum 3:20

04. Drifting 2:52

05. Amazing Grace 3:07

06. All Souls 3:11

07. Old Home (electric) 3:53

08. Blackbird (electric) 3:21

09. Patience 3:30

10. Eternities 4:57

11. Tidings 3:14

12. Eclipse (electric) 2:53

13. Dream Cave 3:10

14. Rest (electric) 2:47

15. Soliloquy 3:20

16. Rise 2:33

17. Meditation (electric) 3:45

18. Blessing 3:36

19. Timeless 2:49

20. Love Is 2:49

21. Amazing Grace (reprise)

22. Hallelujah

Featured Track: Michael Dulin- Shimmer and Fade Track

The multi-colored keys of Michael Dulin’s cover art for his latest track release, “Shimmer and Fade,” catch the eye immediately. Once you get inside the music, you will find many different hues and colors that will affect your state of mind.

Michael Dulin's solo piano work, a unique blend of classical foundation and resonating parts of jazz and blues, continues to captivate and expand in sound.

The depth of the music is emotive, and the movements are dramatic and compelling, offering a truly exceptional listening experience.

Like a star, the music shimmers with unparalleled elegance and fades with a truly appreciable grace.

This music without words track will speak to you beyond the human vocabulary. It is both powerful and exquisite. The universal language of music transcends all barriers, making any lines in the sand disappear. It brings joy to the heart and soul of every living thing, connecting us all through its beauty.

“Shimmer and Fade” is another excellent instrumental solo piano track from Michael Dulin that can be used for relaxation anytime.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

March 17, 2025

Michael Dulin is internationally acclaimed as a pianist, composer, and producer whose music fans worldwide enjoy.

From age two, it was apparent that Michael had an exceptional gift for music…READ MORE…

 

New Age Instrumental Review: Richard Theisen-Shambhala

Release Date: April 4, 2025

Label: Wayfarer Records

Website

Richard Theisen's Shambhala, with its vibrant cover art depicting a meditating figure and chakras, sets the stage for a profound spiritual journey. The angelic vision in the foreground prepares you for the introspective and contemplative experience that awaits in this auditory voyage.

"The Sacred Path of the Warrior" begins the recording. Soft keys start with a backing wordless vocal for a short time. Then, another layer is introduced by a synth as the wordless vocals reappear. This mix effortlessly creates an ambient atmosphere and fosters a spiritual connection for the opener.

 

"Astral Forest" evokes an exciting blend of sound, sight, and color vision. The interpretation alone has you embraced from the first note onward. The swirling and whirling synths, accompanied by the sounds of crickets, pull you quickly into that time and space, and you sink into Richard's meditative, relaxing, and easy chair of sounds and textures. Now, as you listen and gaze at the album artwork, it seems so fitting and easily imaginable in your mind's eye. Whatever is authentic to you is yours alone as you travel through this forest of sound.

 

The "White Lotus" is, of course, significant in the practice of meditation, yoga, and other disciplines that focus on the mind, body, and soul. At this point, the music is trance-like, and you find yourself immersed in the instrumental beauty and bliss. The keys are gorgeous, and the synths are layered and orchestral, adding more beauty to the existing beauty. It is as beautiful as the morning flower opening to accept the first rays of the rising sun, its pure light.

 

"The Seventh Veil" begins with a more upbeat tempo and the addition of a flute, which gives the track a distinctly different mood and atmosphere. It is light and airy, evoking a smile from within your soul. The music offers optimism and positivity, adding another layer of symphonic synths. Beauty is in the ears of the beholder, so behold and be grateful for the sounds.

 

"Rebirth" is a significant and profoundly positive concept to embrace as you discover the realization of self through the healing powers of sound and rhythm. Once again, the music possesses a warm and consistent sound and texture that can transport a listener to another realm or a different time. The synth layer is always right and orchestral as it builds during the song. There is a constant sound of a ringing bell or plucking of a harp; that is the best way I could describe it. It also serves as the focal point of the track's length, as you take in all the other sounds.

 

"Tibetan Rain" begins with a rapid tinkling sound, almost like an acoustic guitar, but you know it's not; it's synth generated or a keyboard as it mixes with those marvelous layers of synths and the mini orchestra being so inviting, you, as always, just let your consciousness melt right into it.  What could be more relaxing than a soft rain in the serene mountains of Tibet? This track emulates that feeling and picture in your mind. It's very uplifting and cinematic.

 

"The Essence" sounds like a prolific musical statement, as the title indicates. It begins purposefully with a solo piano run, inducing a classical sound, as one hand plays the lower-end bass and the other creates light, elegant sounds. Then, the added synth layer provides for more depth and feeling. Yes, it is prolific musically as it reaches out and touches your spirit. It opens the door, and the light and energy shine into you with conviction. It is one of the most beautiful tracks on the album, living up to its name and message.

 

"Shiva's Hand" begins in an entirely different way, with the sound of an ancient stringed instrument, such as a sitar, as the wordless vocals return, sounding ethereal and angelic simultaneously. It calls to you to bring yourself home as your spirit ascends to another level of existence, where the elders live to impart the knowledge, you can use for your spiritual growth.  In case you are curious, in Vaishnavism, Shiva's hand symbolizes the physical aspect of Shiva that Parvati holds, reflecting the dynamic tension between them. It is a spirit working from within.

 

"Shambhala" is the title track as we get closer to the end of our journey. The sounds begin with some drama and color, sounding spacey and mysterious. It's like the wonders of the universe rushing to meet you all at once, then the flute and wind chimes sound off as the wind sound continues to move the track forward. It holds consistently, giving it a sound movement that is graceful and inviting at the same time. It feels like the wilderness of one's soul reaching for a conclusion to the journey.

 

"Muladhara" is a Sanskrit word meaning the root of existence. You are coming to the close of this musical landscape, finalizing your discoveries. Your very existence can be found in the music, the truth revealed without any interference or complexities. It's just you and the music, and it always has been once you started listening. With the sound of the percussion arousing an epic feeling, as if reaching the summit of the mountain, and the synths and wordless vocals conveying the energy and grandeur of the spirit, you have reached the pinnacle of selflessness and realization. This is an epic way to wrap up this excellent recording.

 

Shambhala is a collection of ten tracks featuring ambient, new age, world, and instrumental sounds, colors, and emotions, all presented beautifully within the music's arrangements. The production values are at a high watermark for the artist as well, giving the listener the sense of being surrounded by the warmth and light of the music, which soothes the soul. You will want to listen again!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

April 4, 2025

Tracks:

01. The Sacred Path of The Warrior 4:37

02. Astral Forest 4:37

03. White Lotus 3:57

04. The Seventh Veil 3:47

05. Rebirth 4:01

06. Tibetan Rain 4:14

07. The Essence 4:11

08. Shiva's Hand 4:10

09. Shambhala 4:48

10. Muladhara 4:45

Contemporary Instrumental New Age Review and Interview: Stephen Wallack-Open

Release Date: March 28, 2025

Label: Gale Road Records

Website

Stephen Wallack's aspiration for us to discover faith and inner peace in our complex world is beautifully echoed in his piano-based contemporary instrumental release, Open. The album, like a guiding light, is a journey that begins with the first note, as depicted in the captivating artwork.

The opening track, "Faith," sets the tone with its airy and optimistic melody, evoking a sense of warmth and joy that will surely make you smile from the inside out.

 

"Love Story" starts with a similar atmosphere that builds with multiple layers of keys that have excellent rhythm and a resonating sound. If there is faith, you will find the love within—absolute beauty set to the piano's keys. At the conclusion, things slow down for the final unwind.

 

"Fall" shares the common thread of rhythm continuing to keep things on the brighter side of life. It starts nicely, and then the tempo changes quickly. As the tones and colors emerge, the piano keys move faster, creating a need for the mood, but in a good way. The positive channeling of energy remains the foundation for every track.

 

"Changes" happen every second of every day—some we experience and some we never see but can still be affected by. The piano is soft and paced beautifully to bring your state of mind into the right place for acceptance. If you are thinking about that word and its meaning, the music is meant to relax and reflect on how things have changed.

 

"Ireland" is the emerald isle. I have never been there but have seen pictures of the coast's landscape with its beautiful grass fields and towering cliffs. It is undoubtedly breathtaking. It is the longest track at 6:34, and rightly so. Dedicating a song to a country is quite the tribute and must hold a lot of meaning for the artist. The music is cinematic sweeping through the piano's keys, reflecting the word breathtaking within its auditory excellence.

 

"Maine" has hundreds of acres of untouched natural beauty. My family and I used to go there every year for a summer vacation, and we all loved it. On the East Coast, thousands of miles away from the subject of the last track but holding its distinct beauty and New England charm, it would keep you in its spell. The piano sounds like an invitation to visit there with softness and a melody filled with the warmth of the sun and the soul of a man yearning to go there. I sure miss it.

 

"Once Upon a Time" is a story for us all; whatever that is, you can relive it as the music plays. The song is beautiful and carries a certain sadness because of the joy of the story and the memories held within. This was one of my favorites. Something about the rhythm and tempo pleased me because it went straight to the heart in seconds. The classical leanings are evident in most of these tunes, but more so in this one.

 

"One Last Run" may indicate the end of something, but the track's rhythms and tones say something that gives it a life of its own and makes it count before it's over. On the shortest track, there was a lot to be said; however, there was enough time to stretch things out and provide the emotion underneath all the beauty provided by the keys.

 

"Girl in the Painting" made me think about how life can stand still for eternity in a painting—a portrayal of one person and what it can emit as you look at it. Is it someone you knew, or would you like to know? Does it become real as you picture it in your mind? Music has the power to do all that, and solo piano can be so picturesque and suggest so many thoughts. The track title is a good start; your imagination is ignited, and the gorgeous notes pull at you as you create your story or picture.

 

"Storm" is the grand finale. After all the previous tracks of elegance and simple beauty, we now have a storm, or is it? It doesn't feel like a storm based on how it begins, as the keys are practical and purposeful. The tempo is slower with meaning, and the beauty of the note's placement is extraordinary. Perhaps this was a storm of thoughts that came racing to the mind of Stephen Wallack as he built this composition, which was interpreted through the keys differently to relax him and slow that very process. Whatever it was, it came out lovely, and I appreciated how the recording closed out.

 

Open is a collection of ten tracks that take you on an emotional journey, filling your heart and mind with positive energy. Each track title invites you to reflect, and as you immerse yourself in the music, you'll find a listening experience that resonates deeply and stays with you.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

March 28, 2025

Tracks:

01. Faith

02. Love Story 

03. .Fall

04. Changes 

05. Ireland 

06. Maine 

07. Once Upon a Time 

08. One Last Run 

09. Girl in the Painting 

10. Storm 

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Doug Hammer-Stronger

Release Date: March 21, 2025

Label: Independent

Website  Stronger  Official Video  Sheet Music

Stronger is Doug Hammer's 20th release—quite an established archive of music! The theme behind this new recording is our struggles.

Doug's keyboard playing has always been very moving to me. Having covered eight releases before this, I have a good idea of what to expect. Respecting the artist at the beginning of a new listen is a good way to kick things off.

 

"Broken" does not mean it cannot be fixed, but it is also not a good indication of where things stand regarding whatever subject, object, or person you may be referring to.

 

With its dark tones and slow tempo, the piano becomes a vessel for our shared emotions and disappointments, mirroring the track's title. It encapsulates a significant feeling in just over three and a half minutes, yet the light, like the one on the cover, has not yet shone.

 

"Uncertain" is another word that evokes apprehension, prompting you to proceed with caution or simply a lack of confidence in moving forward. In either instance, it is not an easy feeling. It is a learning process throughout our lives because we don't want to walk away "Broken." We base our feelings on past experiences, either positive or negative, and thus create a sense of uncertainty. Once again, the piano approaches you slowly, mirroring that feeling. While beautiful, it allows you to pause, reflect, and adjust your attitude.

 

"Losing" is another powerful, straightforward word. Now, this justifies the uncertainty! You are validated for your initial feelings, but we know what it feels like to lose and win, which leaves some light at the end of the tunnel. Everyone loves a winner, but you don't discuss how much losing went on before you entered that more positive frame of reference.

 

The piano plays a lovely melody with a dark cloud looming behind you. As you continue to move forward, there is another path to take, fueled by newfound energy, a sense of possibility, and a different state of mind, allowing you to change your direction. The keys are emphasized and then fade to the next phase.

 

Acceptance of loss is not a defeat, but a decisive step towards moving forward. It prompts us to reconsider our frames of reference and the process of losing, offering us another chance to win. Acceptance, with its beauty, strength, and soul, is always the first step toward the light, and the piano echoes this sentiment. There's no direction to go but forward now.

 

"Healing" is another significant step and part two of the acceptance process. The process of healing the wounds enables you to move on to a brighter, more optimistic time and space, making success a natural, everyday occurrence through the lessons you've learned and the steps you've taken.

 

The piano is bright and energetic. You can feel the warmth and spirit of healing in every note. You can picture Doug's hands rolling across the keys with a big smile on his face. For me, the smile begins on the inside, from the heart, and then it quickly manifests in my demeanor, body language, and facial expression. What a gorgeous composition!

 

After moving through the artist's steps via the piano's keys, you can look back with a different "Perspective." That word is about attitude, the lens through which you decide to look at everything. Being positive and optimistic can make a significant difference, even when the information presented is complex. The proper perspective means everything to get to the other side of where you want to go. And now, with all the emotions and difficulties you went through behind you, you have earned your place here.

 

The piano returns to a more serious, slower tempo, emphasizing the reflection on what just passed—the time to consider all the benefits of what is to come.

 

Now you are "Stronger" because you stayed the course after much difficulty, learning, and reflection. You are the better person in every way. As we say, going through difficulty, getting to a point of relief, and moving forward always makes us Stronger.

 

Doug's piano closes the curtain with certainty and passion. This is his driving force; you can hear it echoing through the keys as his fingers guide him through the final step to be Stronger.

 

Doug Hammer has added another fine work to his vast library of recordings. His music explores the human condition and our enduring spirits, and it will resonate with your soul because it is so genuine and relatable. That is something we all desperately need these days, and Stronger provides it from start to finish.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

March 12, 2025

 Tracks:

1. Broken 3:38

2. Uncertain 4:22

3. Losing 4:10

4. Acceptance 4:10

5. Healing 2:52

6. Perspective 4:04

7. Stronger 3:52

New Age-World Instrumental Review: Bryan Quinn-Rejuvenescence

Release Date: December 13, 2024

Label: Bryan Quinn Music

Website

Like many, Bryan Quinn's personal growth was shaped by the trials and tribulations of life. His journey, marked by the rapid end of multiple relationships, is a testament to his resilience and strength.

Bryan Quinn's debut album, Rejuvenescence, is a healing musical journey. The 12 tracks, predominantly featuring the flute, are a comforting embrace of new-age world instrumental music, each note resonating with his heightened sense of healing and emotion.

 

“Relationshipwrecked” is quite the title, and its purpose is its significance and poignancy for the artist. Feeling like he was shipwrecked on a deserted island, Bryan immediately brings his emotions to the forefront, with the flute resonating with loneliness and sadness yet as beautiful as a bird singing alone in a treetop. The tones are steady, and for a brief time, I heard a Celtic influence, with its characteristic melodic and rhythmic patterns, come through, and then he goes back to a more traditional earthy organic sound.

 

“Longing” could easily fit the opening track's title with its sense of grief and need to express sadness to move on to the next healing phase. The flute is absolute, as the keys add a layer of elegance and beauty only it can provide. The flute has an echoing quality that strengthens and makes an impression that stays with you. As the piano answers softly and clearly, so does the flute, making perfect partners to remedy their loneliness.

 

“Blue” starts distinctly differently than the previous tracks. It fits the title perfectly, showcasing an electric guitar playing the blues. As the flute arrives, it holds on to that feeling with a change in sound to mirror the guitar as the bass and drums tread along with purpose.

 

“Solitude” is a total turnaround of feelings into a state of grace because time alone allows one to focus on the processes within the heart, soul, and mind with the goal of healing. This music is about the healing process and the different stages one must go through to get to the other side. The flute is consistent with timbre, while the acoustic guitar accentuates all those notes to encourage the process.

 

Solitude can bring “Rumination.” This track, one of the lengthier ones, represents the thinking part of the healing process. It begins with an echoing sound, like something bouncing off a mountainside or a cliff, as it falls over the side, finally reaching a resting place. The flute is purposeful and measured, like taking small steps first, then gradually moving at a more pronounced state of emotional resolution. The shifting spacy sounds indicate more movement and change to the following steps, mirroring the process of rumination, which involves deep and careful consideration of one's thoughts and feelings.

 

“Optimism” is an excellent state of mind and being. Look back on what the artist went through before this point. It all happened in its own time and space to feel everything and understand it. The flute is gentle and uplifting, as the title would suggest. With the synth sounds, this is more of an ambient track than anything you have heard. The tone and atmosphere are subtle yet effective.

 

“Introspection” is the time to go back within to search for more answers and reflect on all the stages and how you got to this point and reinforce its effectiveness. The flute’s ability to mesmerize you and gather your consciousness is paramount to allowing yourself to follow its path. My feeling here was that its rhythm and the soft accompaniment from the keys were a perfect mix that extended the invitation to what the title suggested. And the power of the music makes that happen, as it does in all the other tracks so beautifully.

 

“Exploration” is a significant advancement in the development of the individual and the music being presented. It's taking that chance to see what else can be achieved through all of the sounds and the creation of this music. Percussion plays a more significant role this time, setting the pace and foundation where the flute explores its powers of persuasion for the listener and creator. Each instrument has lightness and resolve, allowing you to stretch out emotionally and spiritually with no boundaries.

 

“Brea(d)th” is spelled in a way that indicates your newfound freedom of expression and is the “bread” of life, the sustenance to maintaining your energy and strength to keep going and growing. The bell-like sound is a trigger point for another beginning, like a bird leaving the nest, spreading its wings, and flying off to live and survive by its means. The breadth of your growth is now substantially increased to allow for this advancement. The flute is gorgeous, with the other sounds mixing in with grace and beauty like an angelic figure skating on ice, taking strides to a new day. The trance-like effect of this music would be perfect for a meditative or deep relaxing state. As the bell rings and the water flows towards the end, you enter another growth stage!

 

Ahh, “Redemption” is terrific! The track starts joyously, celebrating your feelings of accomplishment and all the internal work you did to get here. The flute sounds so happy and satisfied as the acoustic guitar strums along. The track takes a different road and is more pop accessible to lighten the atmosphere and give a change of direction in sound and literal frame of mind and reference. This is a fantastic change in sound, giving the listener an idea of how the artist can offer something entirely different in sound, far away from all the previous tracks. The mood is perfect to feel redemption.

 

“Reflection” is critical to understanding where you came from and where you are now. In this course, through feelings, emotions, and spirit renewal, remembering all these factors keeps you grounded and humble. The flute and piano are equal partners to get you to that place of being. With their softness and beauty, they relax and destress you as the world falls off your shoulders. You breathe with relief and gratefulness for this story and the incredible sounds that have accompanied you so far.

 

The title track and final piece to the puzzle, “Rejuvenescence,” is the essence of who you are now. This “process” brings you through many phases of thoughts and emotions. Once again, the piano and flute combine their sounds for a spiritual connection to gather all that has come before this to one place where your body, mind, and soul merge for the feeling of new life, an emergence of a healed person ready to live and love again. The music is slow as you take in all its auditory guidance, so be careful not to step backward. The loveliness and approach of the music provide more space for you to continue on the right path. I appreciated the rhythm and atmosphere created to close out this recording.

 

Rejuvenescence was the perfect recording for me. Music is everything—feelings, thoughts, emotions. It is the human condition translated through sound and the visions it perpetuates. Bryan Quinn decided to share this journey with the world. His story is told through sounds, and the stages of emotional growth are a significant factor in understanding all the steps to the final place of rejuvenation.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

March 8, 2025

Tracks:

01. Relationshipwrecked

02. Longing

03. Blue

04. Solitude

05. Rumination

06. Optimism

07. Introspection

08. Exploration

09. Brea(d)th

10. Redemption

11. Reflection

12. Rejuvenescence