Instrumental World-New Age Review: Doug Hammer-Celtique

Release Date: September 21, 2018

Label: Dreamworld Productions

Website

Doug Hammer must be an old soul. To write instrumental songs about ancient lands and fisherman of the world, you have to dig down deep. You have to get the feeling of a place and time, then look inside yourself where that spark can turn into a flame. I think Doug does that with his music. Keep in mind that every track has double meanings and it ends like it starts, an unbroken circle. That will give you something to ponder while listening.

Celtique is dedicated to all fisherman that have risked their lives for our survival. There are 15 tracks to enjoy on this release. I found it most interesting just how many albums were released on September 21st this year. I think there is a connection with that date, being the introduction of another season is significant and the new music ushering us in. I notice subtle nuances like that but to me there is nothing subtle about it. And here is why - it's also a Celtic Holiday called Mabon, a mid-Harvest celebration. There was a fact I did not know so thank you Doug!

The perfect track to encapsulate the feelings, atmospheres, sights, and sounds that this music delivers to you is “Wind and Waves.” The music is like the wind blowing against your face and the rhythms and force of the sounds are like waves combing across your body, making their way inside to your heart and soul. Suddenly you realize that this man and his piano has put you right where he wanted to.

I think an album cover sets the tone and atmosphere of what you are about to hear, and with an entirely instrumental album, it is absolutely key. The flavors of the world are what this artist is all about, and the title (and fonts) tell you where you are about to arrive. Every album is a celebration of a place or timeframe. For my listening experience, the time is now, however, I am able to go back as far in time as I wish because this kind of music allows it. The intrinsic element of instrumental music is the focus it provides, not to mention how intensely focused the person presenting the music must be!

The way Doug plays those ivory keys is something to behold, his sound is so full and alive. One would think just one piano could not tell such an interesting story but he gets it done. It actually sounds like more than one piano at times, which is quite amazing.

That, my music loving friends, is the power of music. Celtique is an awesome expression of art. The talent it takes to create a recording like this is beyond my comprehension. To be a listener and feel the music like it was intended is something special. That is all any recording artist could ask for.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

September 27, 2018

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Tracks: 
01. Celtique (Daybreak)
02. Through the Mist
03. Wandering Path
04. Crumbling Wall
05. Ancient Stones
06. She Beckons
07. To the Sea
08. Wind and Waves
09. Calm Water
10. Safe Harbor   
11. Voices of the Past
12. Golden Land
13. Moss and Earth
14. Journey Home
15. Celtique (Twilight)