Contemporary Acoustic Instrumental Review & Interview: Michelle Qureshi-Compass of the Heart

Release Date:  September 12, 2025

Label: Music As Metaphor

Website

Michelle Qureshi’s instrumental acoustic guitar music, with its unique blend of nature-inspired melodies and emotive storytelling, has captivated the imagination and attention of music fans and industry professionals. I, too, have had the pleasure of experiencing her music and sharing my thoughts through my reviews.

 

Compass of the Heart is her latest achievement. It encompasses 14 tracks and begins with “Carry Me,” a track just under 2 minutes that sets the tone and atmosphere of this journey. Her guitar playing is pleasing and ear-catching, characterized by a lot of melodicism typical of acoustic music.

 

“In the Forest” brings you the quiet and solitude that a place can bring when surrounded by nature alone. Her guitar’s tone is gentle and expressive, taking you to that place.

 

“Lavender Fields” is quiet and persuasive as the notes gently brush across the air. You can smell the pleasant lavender and picture what a field would look like in your mind’s eye.

 

“Sort Your Blessings” reminds us that if we have enough of those blessings to consider and are fortunate, we need to take stock and be grateful. Michelle’s guitar sings a sweet song that resonates with those thoughts.

 

“Lost in a Talking Forest” is the longest track at 3:38, which makes it stand out on this recording because most of the other tracks run around 2 minutes or less. Right away, the tempo is faster than that of all the previous tracks. The melody line is catchy, and the leads effectively punctuate it, bringing the piece together as a multilayered whole. I thought it was an interesting title. As nature speaks, we listen, and it doesn’t sound like a bad thing to get lost for a while amongst nature’s many voices.

 

“Marigolds” continues the walk-through of nature. Flowers are one of the many gifts we can enjoy, and the guitar’s gentle approach and sound reflect the pure beauty we can enjoy.

 

“The In Between” could have many meanings, and I am sure it will find a purpose for each listener. Its pace is methodical and introspective as the artist paints her audio picture for you. It’s a song that will give pause to your day.

 

“Irises” bring back the scent and natural beauty of a flower. The way Michelle picks out the notes is in tribute to one living thing that has made an impression on her—acoustic perfection.

 

“Layla’s Lullaby” is a sweet audio sonnet that may evoke memories for those who have children who have grown and left, as well as for those currently experiencing childhood. It was a poignant reflection on how fleeting life can be. If you have children, enjoy them, love them, and keep them close to your heart.

 

“Subtle Realms” is the guitar creating just that, another realm, albeit gently, but coercive enough to pull you in to experience it. The guitar’s resonance rings accurately and clearly through musical realms of sound and beauty created by a single guitar.

 

“Not Just for Us” but for everyone? That was my initial thought when I saw the track title. Music is for the multitudes; those within range of the notes coming off the strings of the guitar will realize that it is indeed universal.  Beautiful and to the point.

 

“Prince Street Gardens” is in Edinburgh, Scotland. I was previously unaware of its existence. The guitar playing and its atmospheric quality could easily conjure images of a distant, captivating place that will capture the heart of someone. The distance is closed, and the images become clearer through the music.

 

“Simple Blessing” is perfect for Michelle’s music, as it showcases her unique approach to composition and presentation. The sounds are indeed a blessing, simple, straightforward, and uncluttered, allowing them to reach you quickly with feeling.

 

“Sweet and Sunny” is the perfect conclusion to this acoustic music journey, crafted with the fingers of Michelle and her guitars. The track’s tempo and sound perfectly reflect the title.

 

Michelle Qureshi’s music, a true Compass of the Heart, is an inclusive experience that felt that way to me while listening to this album. Her approach is clear and concise, making the music easily accessible and appreciated by all. This contemporary acoustic instrumental, built on a new age foundation and concept, is a welcoming journey for all music enthusiasts.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

August 25, 2025

TRACK LIST:

01. Carry Me – (1:43)

02. In the Forest – (2:02)

03. Lavender Fields – (2:11)

04. Sort Your Blessings – (1:44)

05. Lost in a Talking Forest – (3:38)

06. Marigolds – (2:01)

07. The In Between – (2:47)

08. Irises – (1:36)

09. Layla’s Lullaby – (2:54)

10. Subtle Realms – (2:12)

11. Not Just for Us – (2:16)

12. Prince Street Gardens – (2:51)

13. Simple Blessing – (1:54)

14. Sweet and Sunny – (1:47)

Contemporary Instrumental (Solo Piano/Classical-New Age) Review & Interview: Soul Improvisations-From the Depths

Release Date:  August 24, 2025

Label: Mystics Music

Website

This woman is quite a story! She is Devorah, a composer and pianist; however, her album, From the Depths, is released under Soul Improvisations. The title From the Depths reflects the depth of her personal journey, from the depths of her medical condition to the depths of her soul, which she poured into this album.

 

Devorah is not just a talented pianist and composer, but also an athlete, lawyer, and single mother of three. Her journey is one of resilience and determination. In 2023, after seventeen years as a lawyer, she stepped down due to her declining health. Over the next two years, she underwent five surgeries, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Focusing on her childhood love of the piano and composing, she found a new way to express herself. The artist’s website provides this information, and it’s a testament to her strength and perseverance.

 

This contemporary instrumental solo piano music has a solid classical framework as a springboard for the many improvisations you will hear, and no track is under 5 minutes.

 

A listener needs to keep in mind that the length of the tracks is for a reason. This is a person pouring their heart out in their music. The expressions of a lifetime are built into these tracks. It’s a journey filled with hope, faith, and belief that whatever can happen to you in your time here on the planet, you can live a whole life and overcome any obstacles.

 

“Keep Hope” sounds like the appropriate title to begin an album about all the trials by fire a person can go through. The hope is what keeps a person resilient and able to get to the other side. The flow and essence of the composition convey a sense of hope with a steady tempo, variations, and transitions that are bright and beautiful.

 

The opening track is always so important. It lays down the foundation for the musical story being told. In this case, through the keys of the piano. There is so much to be said through a piano. I have often referred to it as the built-in orchestra. Its versatility and ability to partner with other instruments are unmatched, and alone, it creates a symphony of sound unlike any other instrument. If the music is presented in the form of contemporary instrumental, as it is here, the results can be stunning and prolific. And that is how I would explain the opening track, which runs for 11:26, but not the lengthiest track yet. Everything I love about instrumental solo piano music is found in this one track.

 

I loved the second track title “Be Still in Divine Power.” This title is inspired by a phrase that the artist found particularly comforting during her recovery period. That sentence holds a lot of meaning, and I am certain this artist lived it, can discuss it, and expresses it through her music. She does exactly that, and quite beautifully, may I add. The flow is so consistent and stays with the atmosphere and moods of the first track.

 

So, by now, as the listener, you have settled in, have an understanding of who this person is, and how expertly she can bring forth all the emotion, love, and experiences that are in her heart and soul.

 

The sense of melodicism, rhythm, and tone that Soul Improvisations produces from her piano is exceptional. Three tracks in, and that is more than evident; it is the essence of her style, approach, and synchronicity with the piano keys through her soul that creates these gorgeous compositions.

 

What I found interesting is that, knowing all the hardships that this individual has gone through, I have not heard any sadness in the music. What I am hearing is upbeat and bright with the promise of a new day. We all need to hear that in the music we listen to. Indeed, that is one of the anchors of this presentation. This is literally From the Depths of a woman’s very soul, consciousness, and I believe inspired from not of this earth. She taps into something spiritual, filled with light.

 

As I move through these compositions, another quintessential element is the relaxing and renewing core from which this all originates. One cannot persevere, have faith, and hope without positively directing energy. Once again, I hear that all over this music, and it gives the listener that opportunity to do so. The healing powers of this artist came through with conviction in every track; she IS Soul Improvisations.

 

The second group of tracks begins with “Waking Up to Wonders, Modeh Ani,” which starts with an adaptation of “You Are My Sunshine,” then takes an entirely different direction and melody, and ultimately comes full circle.

 

"Modeh ani" (Hebrew: מוֹדֶה אֲנִי) is a short Jewish prayer recited upon waking in the morning, expressing gratitude to God for the return of the soul and the gift of a new day—a most beautiful musical prayer set to the keys and all their infinite expressiveness.

 

“Spring Rebirth” lasts an impressive 14:07. That is quite a lengthy duration for a solo piano piece. Anyone who can accomplish that and has the confidence to do so must be acknowledged with respect. The title is significant in this story, as the artist allows us, at this point in her journey, to see that all the hardships have been set aside, and in their place is her renewed spirit; life itself has changed, and the rebirth has begun. This is the magnum opus of this recording and the most important one for so many reasons.

 

I have said a lot, but then never enough to relate all the emotions and life experiences woven into this magnificent music. Besides the experiential aspects of life, I believe the artist healed again through the creation of this music. If you are a listener and need healing, this music will allow you to go down that path to a new beginning, just like Soul Improvisations did.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

September 16, 2025

Tracks:

CD 1:

1, Keep Hope (11.26)

2. Be Still in Divine Power (5:01)

3. Just a Little Light (6:49)

4. Love from the Heights (5:56)

5. In Quietness and Confidence (6:31)

CD 2:

6. Waking Up to Wonders, Modeh Ani (8:07)

7. Spring Rebirth (14:07)

8. Variations in Loving Memory (8:40)

9. Reflections on 39 Years (8:30)

10. The Liberation (7:58)

Total Time: 1 hr. 21 min.

Contemporary Instrumental Ambient Classical Review: Benedikt-Piano Passion: Arctic Fire

Release Date:  July 1, 2025

Label: Independent

Website:  www.violinpassion.com /www.consordino.com

Benedikt Brydern is an award-winning composer and performer. His scores have been featured in film, television, and on the concert stage in the United States and internationally.     

             

His most recent release, Piano Passion: Arctic Fire, is a solo album that presents a unique blend of contemporary instrumental and ambient music, with a strong influence from classical music. The combination of piano, violin, and ambient synths creates a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new, inviting listeners to embark on a musical journey.

 

“Arctic Lullaby” opens the album with a steady synth that immediately sets an ambient atmosphere, followed by the entrance of the acoustic piano. The piano, with its beautiful and tender notes, offers a serene and meditative introduction to the music, inviting listeners to unwind and immerse themselves in the sound.

 

“Drifting Ice” provides an orchestral layer of synth sounds as the piano lightly makes its entrance to supplement that layer of ambient texture. The piano’s beauty shines brightly here, and the gentle touch eases the listener into a positive, relaxing frame of mind.

 

“Aurora Mon Amour” continues the journey with its accompanying synth layers, and the piano is as inviting as ever, gently drawing you in. Its mesmerizing beauty, combined with the effective use of ambient synth layers, creates a captivating listening experience that keeps the audience engaged.

 

“Icicle Bicycle,” with its clever title, gives you a sense of lightheartedness just by saying it. The music reflects that attitude with airy, happy notes floating off the piano as the synth keeps a steady layer to float over so effortlessly.

 

“White Knight” begins with the cello taking a larger role, while the piano continues to provide a gentle atmosphere and adds substance to the ongoing synth layers in these tracks. I must say the cello stands out effectively as the subtle piano keys are like a layer of velvet underneath.

 

“Snowburn” features a more melodic synth layer backing the piano, as opposed to the more focused, single-point concentration of the previous track. The violin serenades the gorgeous piano keys as they seem to float through the air, as if the violin were playing right below; additionally, a soprano sax is added. Very picturesque and engaging.

 

“Frozen Fire” sounds like it could be a soundtrack to watching billowing clouds float by in a blue sky. I remember the fascination I had with clouds as a child, lying on the grass and looking up. The layer of synth sounds like a mini orchestra as the piano plays.

 

“Blizzard Wizard” has a very light melodic feel with violin added and a church organ sound. The tempo builds gradually, with each step contributing to its completion. You can picture a snow blizzard as the violin runs emulate that rapidity and movement. The piano, organ, and violin merge to create pure energy.

 

“Crystal Dive” begins with emotive notes, like a person sitting and reflecting upon things. The piano is gorgeous as usual, and then the violin adds its substantial contributions, at times sounding deep, like a cello, for that extra feeling.

 

“Polar Pool Party” sounds like it would be referring to polar bears and penguins and how they enter the freezing waters looking for food. The piano sounds like a lullaby to them as the synth background lulls them into their slumber after a tiring swim.

 

“Lament on the Rocks” is immediately distinct, including wordless vocals for the first time. The vocals sound in sync with the synth effects as the piano displays its gentle and convincing notes throughout the piece. It’s instrumental bliss with a touch of heaven.

 

“Requiem for a Polar Bear” relates to the pool party, except the tone is a bit sad because of the situation those poor creatures find themselves in. This is a beautiful piece to close out this recording. The consistency of the acoustic piano in this and throughout is the separate symphony that makes this listening so lovely, and this is yet one more example of that.

 

Piano Passion: Arctic Fire is an excellent instrumental piano and string-based recording. Those are the two main instruments, while the ambient layer of synths provides the icing on the cake. Superb musicianship and a quality recording!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

September 11, 2025

Tracks:

01. Arctic Lullaby

02. Drifting Ice

03. Aurora Mon Amour

04. Icicle Bicycle

05. White Knight

06. Snowburn

07. Frozen Fire

08. Blizzard Wizard

09. Crystal Dive

10. Polar Pool Party

11. Lament on the Rocks

12. Requiem for a Polar Bear

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review: Ed Bazel - A Weekend in Marin

Release Date:  August 19, 2025

Label: New Thought Records

Website

Ed Bazel’s latest offering, A Weekend in Marin, brings the beauty and elegance of Northern California to your speakers. It is also available in the immersive Dolby Atmos recording, a cutting-edge audio technology that creates a more realistic and immersive listening experience by adding height channels to traditional surround sound systems. This format, rapidly becoming the industry standard, adds yet another dimension for listeners to enjoy. Only superior quality in engineering and production can create such precise and crisp recordings, and that is fully accomplished on this release.

There is a special guest on this recording, James “Kimo” West. You will hear his guitar playing. This is a name I see coming up a lot so it looks as though his talents are in demand!

 

The romance of Marin, with its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere, is the concept at the heart of this contemporary new age instrumental recording. The album captures the essence of this romantic setting, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its beauty.

My personal connection to Marin County, from my days in the Navy, adds a layer of intimacy to this listening experience. If you have your own memories of the areas Ed Bazel represents, it will undoubtedly enhance your connection to the music.

“Pacific Drive” takes me on an emotional journey, evoking memories of my travels along the California coast. Ed’s piano, filled with emotion, has the power to transport me back to my youth. The blend of piano and violin in this piece carries a hint of sadness, but also a flood of fond memories.

“Love Letter to The Coast” is the artist's heartfelt tribute to the coast and the profound love he holds for it. The violin, once again, adds its substance to the composition, creating a layer of emotion and soulful movement. As an instrumental piece, it allows each listener to interpret and form their own love letter with the help of the beautiful music.

“Moonlight in Muir Woods” is a special place in nature. I recall visiting there only once when my parents came to see me in California. It is one of Mother Nature’s grand treasures that people from all over the world visit to see the impressive redwoods. The violin sounds like it’s singing a lullaby to the piano as it flows so beautifully, telling its own story and its respect and love for the romance of the location.

“Sky Walking” carries a lovely melody. Noticeably, Ed uses both hands so superlatively with the lead notes and bass section. The bass line offsets the tinkling of the keys, and it ends with a short burst of quiet violin.

“Romance In the Redwoods” reminds me of the grandeur and beauty of those massive landmarks. They are protected as they should be. Any place in nature could find a home for romance; it’s all in what you make it, how you look upon it through your own eyes. This time, the cello lends its resonance to the mix, giving the track a distinctive essential depth that would not be there without it.

“Starlight Waltz” tempo is perfect to fit the descriptive track title. The melody is succinct and measured, evoking a couple dancing, anticipation with each step as they glide across the floor. The dance is elegant yet brief, lasting just over 2 minutes; however, the vision is easily attained through the keys.

“Windswept” is a piece that invites personal reflection. The piano, with its pauses and building melody, encourages introspection. The title, in the context of the album's romantic theme, could be interpreted as being swept away by someone’s charm, adding another layer of personal reflection to the music.

“Foggy Morning” is a reminder of what it’s like to live on a coastline with morning fog, which quickly burns off in the sun; however, if you are moving through it on the road, you must proceed with caution. It’s one of the potential dangers of an environment. The cello adds its somber notes to the gorgeous yet thoughtful notes. Sounding very classical in nature, the composition brings a graceful atmosphere.

“Melody To Marin” is an energetic and colorful movement. The piano and cello make for good partners here, and the times the piano pulls away into a solo timeframe, the excellence and clarity of Ed’s playing are highlighted. This is another short run at 2:14, but delightful every second.

“In My Eyes” is a title that immediately resonates with me, as it embodies the art of reflection and how healing it can be. It also allows one to evaluate or reevaluate a life or situation, and to move on and bring it to a close. In the case of the artist here, everything he is interpreting is through his eyes alone via the piano’s keys, as the cello again provides a steady backdrop of emotive notes to enhance the vision.

“Lullaby In the Pines” brings forth the scent of pine wafting through the air during Christmas time. In the woods, where several trees are gathered, there is a different feeling altogether. Visually, it’s stunning and wonderful if you can appreciate nature as it is.  The melody is a lullaby perfected through the keys of the piano, and the length of the composition was perfect.

“Sunset Over the Bay” brings memories of some of the most beautiful sites I can remember throughout my life. The use of the cello is significant here as it encourages those landscapes to come to mind quickly. The piano subtly leads you there through its soft-sounding keys. The satin touch of Ed’s hands brings a storybook to life as the sun sets on this magnificent, provoking piece.

“California Sunrise” is perfectly positioned to alter the flow of your visions inspired by the music. After watching a sunset, the sun rises to a new day. The keys hold that positive energy and promise nicely as the melody and rhythms sweep your mind away to a picture only you can see. At the end, a brief acoustic guitar makes its presence known.

“Autumn Reverie” is a title that is perfect timing, as I am enjoying the cooler temperatures of early September and the beginning of my favorite season of the year right around the corner. It seems to arrive sooner every year as I get another year older. So, with that thought in mind, I hear the violin playing a sweet accompaniment to the piano, flowing so nicely, and changing in tempo and direction as the four seasons do.

“The Tide” of music throughout this listening experience has been thought-provoking, relaxing, full of the colors of nature’s offerings, and an artist adept at painting the necessary pictures to follow the track titles. I think that ability must be exceptional to visualize what the music is saying. This is about the ocean; however, it can relate to so much more, like the tide of one’s feelings or memories regarding romances that have come and gone. Or how it can all relate to nature alone, without involving another person. This closing composition holds the drama of the human condition and how it flows through our lives. Here you can see how this music stems from a classically based thought process when building a song.

A Weekend in Marin is a superb collection of compositions that highlights the talents of one man and his exceptional vision of people, places, and things set to music without words—this contemporary piano instrumental music, with a new age foundation, will find its audience relatively quickly.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

September 4, 2025

Tracks:

01. Pacific Drive

02. Love Letter To The Coast

03. Moonlight In Muir Woods

04. Sky Walking

05. Romance In The Redwoods

06. Starlight Waltz

07. Windswept

08. Foggy Morning

09. Melody To Marin

10. In My Eyes

11. Lullaby In The Pines

12. Sunset Over The Bay

13. California Sunrise

14. Autumn Reverie

15. The Tide

Contemporary Instrumental Review: Lynn Tredeau - Time Dances Past

Release Date:  September 26, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Time Dances Past will be Lynn Tredeau’s eleventh proper recording. I had previously covered Shifting Sands and Fellowship of Solitude. So, it’s been seven years since I had the opportunity to enjoy the solo journeys of this fine artist.

Lynn said it well when discussing the album, noting that Time Dances Past evokes the reality of an unstoppable passage of time and the silent ballet of moments slipping through our lives.

 

The album, comprising thirteen tracks, commences with the enchanting “Her Hands.”  This piece serves as a gentle introduction to solo piano music, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and introspection that is sure to captivate the listener.

 

Instrumental piano music can be moving, and it will engage your senses in so many ways. This one had a hint of sadness around it, yet the pure honesty and beauty of the music stood out to wash away those feelings that surfaced.

 

“Special Wish” continues with the slower tempo and gentle touch on the keyboard. It is similar to a lullaby in its feel and compositional structure. That is my first impression of the music; however, that may not have been the intention of the artist at all. Music such as this is always open to your interpretation.

 

“Small Town Summer” takes on a significantly different aspect of Lynn’s music. I could feel a lot of the “looking back” type of emotion here. Being from a small town myself, I then moved to a city, which was the path I took as a young, restless man. I would eventually return to that small town and live in the house where I grew up. Not everyone gets that kind of opportunity or meaning in their lives, but I did, and so did my children, who grew up in the same house. One song held so much meaning for me, and it made me realize just how fortunate I am.

 

“Thread the Needle” suggests a task that requires intense focus and concentration to complete, but the level of difficulty may not have been anticipated. The analogy of a quarterback completing a pass to an overcrowded defense on its receiver is a good way to put that term. The track took on a more serious tone to emulate that phrase. Even though the shift of thought here changes, the piano remains consistently beautiful and elegant.

 

“Daisies in Her Hair” is the shortest track, clocking in at 2:54. This composition has a light and airy feel about it. A musical poem for a beautiful girl or woman, perhaps? The daisies make the beauty held by that individual even more prolific. Short, sweet, and impactful.

 

“Falling Softly” is something we all would wish to do with an event in life that precipitates some event that involves a fall of some sort.  We all have been there before, and the key is getting back up on our feet again and walking forward. The keystrokes hold a promise or redemption through faith, even though it hurts to move through it all. This one hit my heart and brought tears to my eyes due to personal experiences and challenges I have overcome throughout my life. Still, the excellence of artistry through the piano got me to move on to the next track and feel what I needed to feel.

 

“Socks on Shoes” is a title that made me think of the innocence of a small child. The love behind that thought runs deep and true in my heart. It holds more meaning with each passing year as my children are at the stage in life where they may have their own family. Life is fleeting, and the simplicity of the track’s title is felt as Lynn’s talented fingers paint the picture of these thoughts so beautifully in my mind.

 

“It’s Complicated” says exactly what it means to each listener. People, places, and things that populate our lives can become a long string of knots that need unraveling. Music, however, particularly solo piano, does not have to be complex; it can be straightforward with no frills and can speak to you just as clearly. Life can be as complicated as we make it; the decision is ours to make.

 

“Capture the Breeze” is an excellent title for a song. To capture mother nature with one breath, a glance, a feeling of warmth, is one of the splendors of life we may take for granted. The song makes you think more about what that can mean on any given day. To me, the piano playing made me think this could be a love song, but a different kind of love, not for another person, for life itself. Now that is meaningful.

 

“Wild Horses” couldn’t drag me away. The Rolling Stones song was my initial thought, until the piano started to play. Lynn’s tempo is measured so beautifully in every track, and this is no exception. Her playing is soft and inviting. It’s as if Lynn is evoking a scene through her fingers for each listener. There is nothing gentle about wild horses traversing the land; however, their graceful steps and the strength of their muscles carry them like they are gliding through the air.

 

“When I Dream” can be revealing, magical, and at times mind-boggling to interpret the meaning. They are messages to your soul. The tempo of Lynn’s playing gets you in the right mindset to think about the title of the track and what meanings it may hold for you. We can dream in the day or night, either way, it’s energy pushed out to the universe seeking something. In the same token, it could be innocent thoughts streaming in and out of your consciousness.

 

“One Last Time” is finality. Does it have to be so finite? It depends on your thought process and interpretation. I can view it as a process of feeling or doing something, then moving on to the next level. Of course, the piano intimates some sadness because it’s the end of something, but a new beginning is on the horizon as we “Turn the Page .”

 

What an appropriate title to end an album. After all those emotional journeys I experienced through the piano playing of one person, it’s time for me to “Turn the Page.” And even so, another book awaits to be written by Lynn Tredeau using the piano to tell a story. Such a beautiful song, and the last note played closes the curtain perfectly.

 

All the moments I was reminded of that slipped through my life were my silent ballet, and they left an indelible imprint on my soul. I have the music to thank for that.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

September 4, 2025

Tracks:

01. Her Hands (3:41)

02. Special Wish (3:17)

03. Small Town Summer (3:15)

04. Thread the Needle (3:06)

05. Daisies in Her Hair (2:54)

06. Falling Softly (3:18)

07. Socks on Shoes (3:21)

08. It’s Complicated (3:24)

09. Capture the Breeze (3:40)

10. Wild Horses (3:18)

11. When I Dream (3:42)

12. One Last Time (3:03)

13. Turn the Page (3:18)

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review & Interview - Wayo Hogan and Aritra C- Flathead Lake: A Montana Album (Interview with Scott Hansen - Producer & Jennifer Ortiz-Immersive Engineer)

Note: Included with this review is a fascinating interview with Producer Scott Hansen and Jennifer Ortiz, the immersive engineer for Dolby Atmos.

Release Date:  August 5, 2025

Label: Bigfork Bay

Website

I had the pleasure of hearing Wayo Hogan’s Montana Stillwater last October.  Almost a year has passed, and Flathead Lake: A Montana Album has been released; this time, Wayo has Aritra C joining him.

Immersing myself in the entire album in Dolby Atmos with the special headphones the producer generously sent me was a unique and thrilling experience. As a first timer, I was eagerly anticipating the depth and richness of the sounds that this format would bring.

 

The engineering and production values must be top-notch to make this format work, and based on what I’ve heard, they’ve done just that.

 

“Whitefish” opened the recording. The sound was clear and crisp. There is a lot of melodicism in this song, particularly with the piano. There is also a synth layer that drives the track along with a strong rhythm section. I felt this was a very colorful and energetic way to kick off this listening experience.

 

“Going-to-the-Sun” begins with a lovely piano introduction, followed by a steady rhythm that features keyboard, drums, and bass. An acoustic guitar lends its ambiance to the mix. An electric guitar arrives to give a new rock edge, sounding very progressive once it’s in place. That segment ends, and there is the quiet of the just the keys doing their work, then it circles back to the original driving rhythms and melody. The composition is excellent, with smooth transitions from soft to more energetic and rocking sections. Once the electric guitar kicked in at various junctures, I thought of Mike Oldfield. Those familiar with his work may recognize it in this track.

 

“Glacier” begins with a rolling piano accompanied by an acoustic guitar, then quickly transitions to a more orchestral sound as layers are formed, and the electric guitar reenters, lending another element of excitement and anticipation for what may come next. Then, the bells chime for a bit, and another transition occurs, with all the sounds merging into a complete composition. I enjoyed how it all came together in the end.

 

“Stillwater” opens with a nice acoustic guitar, setting the stage for another musical journey. And that is precisely what each track is: a dissimilar journey of audio excellence. I really appreciated the different layers of music at work and the insertion of the electric guitar; however, this time, it was accompanied by fuzztone, which was a distinct difference. One moment you are immersed in the magic of the music with a softness, then another elemental force comes in. I heard the influence of Celtic music in this. The music’s keyboards are the foundation upon which they build their sound. Lush layers of ambient atmospheres populate this track.

 

“Bigfork Bay” begins with an acoustic piano, and immediately, a synth is added to provide an additional layer, allowing the keys to float over. The acoustic guitar returns once again, providing a solid backing for each part to take off and grow within the song. If you listen via Spotify, the images in the videos enhance the experience, highlighting the theme of Mother Nature. It is so relaxing and interactive at the same time.

 

“Flathead Lake” is the closer, and it begins with a much different approach and sound. The influence of legends such as Tangerine Dream, Kraftwerk, Vangelis, and others is unmistakable, adding a layer of intrigue to the listening experience. This track is a testament to the album’s eclectic nature, characterized by its well-defined rhythm and predominant keys. Yet, all the layers are distinctly heard, making the separation of the instruments in this format quite extraordinary.

 

Flathead Lake: A Montana Album is a superb follow-up to their previous album, showcasing the artist’s growth and evolution. Listening to it with headphones in Dolby Atmos was a fantastic experience, and it’s clear why this format has gained such popularity.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder

August 30, 2025

Tracks:

1. Whitefish

2. Going-to-the-Sun

3. Glacier

4. Stillwater

5. Bigfork Bay

6. Flathead Lake 

Contemporary Instrumental New Age Review & Interview: Peter Kater-Untethered Heart

Release Date:  August 22, 2025

Label: Kater Music

Website

I have had the opportunity to cover Peter Kater’s music on several occasions over the years. As I recall, I always enjoyed the extraordinary instrumentation. Untethered Heart features seven tracks, with two extended versions.

 

My first thought regarding the title was, what would it mean to have an Untethered Heart?

 

It could have multiple meanings depending on the context. My thoughts tell me that my heart would be free (the first track is “Freed”) and unattached to any one person, place, or thing. In which case, I would find it impossible.

 

Listening to all the tracks, I am sure different thoughts and feelings will arise, and the music will take me on an emotional journey, setting me free for the duration it has to offer.

 

“Freed" begins with the piano taking small steps, and the tempo is thoughtful. What is it we need to be free of? Free to think, express, Love, and live. To me, that is freedom. As the piano moves on, there are some significant steps forward with some tempo rises, then some flourishes of notes casting beauty upon your ears and senses. One hand sets the tempo/bass part, while the other is “free” to explore wherever it wants. Emotive and moving, this is a lovely way to start the recording.

 

“Flight” (Extended) is the longest track at 5:47, and I anticipate it will be quite complex. As it begins with piano and synth elements, it rises in conjunction with the orchestration, evoking a symphonic quality that takes “Flight.” It is dramatic and colorful. The imagery of a bird taking off or a person reaching their goals, both personally and professionally, can also be applied here.

 

That one word can be inserted into many different life situations. More than halfway, Peter gives you a little flourish of jazz notes, then as quickly as they come, they go away, and it returns to the uplifting soloing on the piano. It’s energetic and invigorating. Then it slows right down to a gentle closing for more reflection on what you just heard and felt.

 

“Spellbound” has a beautiful flow and flavor. I felt a mix of joy and sadness at the same time—the classical influences are strong here. The piano, with its beauty and grace, continually amazes me. Yes, I was “Spellbound.”

 

“Spirit” (Extended) is a connection that unites all sentient beings. The notes flow with purpose and meaning as the orchestration layer lends itself to the song’s structure and emotional feeling, taking you to a new place. Peter’s playing is rapid and with purpose. Again, the uplifting feelings and elation in the keys of the piano are so evident that you feel the energy and “Spirit” of his artistry. A very tasteful ending closes out the track.

 

“Hinterlight” is the shortest track at 2:14. The flow continues with consistency and strength on this track. Although it is short-lived, its impact is no less significant than that of the previous tracks. Short, sweet, and memorable, a lovely melody.

 

The title track, “Untethered Heart,” now features the wordless vocals of Kristin Hoffman. She sings beautifully, adding substance and a layer to the music that I found moving and so impactful. Your heart is hearing it loud and clear as the music accompanies the singer and nudges the vocalist to higher highs of magnificence. If you were to make a significant impact with the title track, this is how it's done.

 

“Boundless” energy, spirituality, emotion, and Love are all the things that define this music. The piano creates a symphony all its own, and anything added is just extra. Once again, I hear the influences of the classical realm. The music of the piano, with its beauty and intensity, impacts my senses in a way that can only be described as 'Boundless.' The combination of melody, elegance, and aggressive playing forms a perfect blend of sound, making for a fantastic way to close out this album with optimistic energy.

 

Untethered Heart is melodic, engaging, hypnotic, and visually moving, so it integrates with every fiber of your being. Peter, you are amazing. Your magical fingers swept me away to where I needed to go.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

August 22, 2025

Tracks:

1. Freed—3:48

2. Flight (Extended)—5:47

3. Spellbound—3:24

4. Spirit (Extended)—4:51

5. Hinterlight—2:14

6. Untethered Heart—5:08

7. Boundless—4:14