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

Visit The Song Gardener's Website

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.

 

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review and Interview: David Franklin-Music for Ketamine

Release Date:  June 20, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Music for Ketamine is a collection of 13 songs, soundscapes, and a complete sonic journey designed for therapeutic ketamine sessions. Each track, with its unique blend of instruments and sounds, is a testament to the therapeutic potential of music. Created by David Franklin, this album is a memorable auditory trip that offers hope and healing to its listeners.

 

So, what is Ketamine? Ketamine is a medication that comes from a chemical called cyclohexanone. It's mainly used as an anesthetic to make people unconscious during surgeries, but it also has effects that can help with depression and pain relief. Ketamine can create feelings of hallucination, which means it can alter a person's perception of reality. There are two forms of Ketamine, known as S-ketamine and R-ketamine, and both can help treat depression in ways that go beyond just blocking a specific receptor in the brain. Essentially, it’s a versatile drug that can help with different medical issues, including anesthesia and mood disorders.

 

Armed with this knowledge, listening to Music for Ketamine should be enjoyable and self-healing, making it a compelling choice for those seeking therapeutic music.

 

“When Silence Learns to Speak” starts the journey and is the longest track, at 6:12. The piano begins methodically and softly before adding other elements that make up the track. The track sets up the potential listener with a soft bed of sound to fall into a completely relaxed state of consciousness.

 

“Mycelium Highway” is an interesting track title. Knowing what mycelium is will help. Mycelium is a root-like structure of a fungus consisting of a mass of branching, thread-like hyphae. It is the root system of the fungi. Its standard form is branched, slender, entangled, anastomosing, hyaline threads.

 

The track begins with chanting and a slow tempo that builds into a cool groove. Some constant percussion and synth sounds change the entire fabric of the track. It is an ambient meditative music that reminded me of artists like Tangerine Dream or Vangelis. Those comparisons should create enough curiosity to get you to listen.

 

“Everything and Nothing” immediately creates some thoughts—opposites in meaning, yet living in the same universe. Some people have everything and then lose everything; some start with nothing and then have everything. It depends on your own beliefs about what is essential in life. The track has a constant drone-like sound, however pleasant, to focus on, and then birds chirping are added. That combination is hypnotic; if that is the goal, it was accomplished. Swirling sounds like wind and water moving through the synths give it a spacey feel.

 

“Figure Painting” is finger painting taken to another level? Possibly, I suppose. Words can have dual meanings, and it just hit me as a take on finger painting. The piano sounds serious and focused, like an artist creating a painting on a blank canvas. The bass part is played with one hand as the other picks out the delicate patterns (figures) and rhythms (painting) that unite the song. You visualize this in the composition as the piano keys or the imaginary paintbrush create all the music.

 

“Sylver’s Theme” begins with a guitar and flute sound, completely departing from the previous tracks. Its beauty and ambiance immediately strike you. As one of the shorter tracks, it must make that kind of impact and hold you until it closes out. Then it does with the birds chirping, a nice touch.

 

“Carry Wood, Chop Water” segues from the previous track with the birds chirping. This eclectic music continues with the sound of a hand drum and bell tinkling. The inference of the track title is that simplicity and movement equal spirituality and connection. Piano shifts in and out and resonates with the other elements as it builds into a fuller sound. As it nears the end, the percussion strengthens, fades, the piano takes over, and the curtain closes.

 

Ironically, “The Longest Night” is one of the shorter tracks. The sounds differ significantly from what you heard previously, keeping you focused and expecting change. The synths weave in and out, echoing emotion and thoughts. Even though it is night, it is like watching a billowing cloud move across a clear blue sky, then suddenly ending. There is light in the darkness; you need to find it.

 

“FireCat” reaches back to the more synth-driven spacey sounds. The sounds created are like hundreds of crickets together, as the layers of synths provide the vehicle for them to carry their sounds further. Another track with over six minutes of music opens the door to many things. Then you hear frogs. The sounds of nature make that organic connection for you, keeping it real. A clock ticking sound brings us to the end.

 

“Silver Spirit Dancers” begins with a tribal rhythm on percussion and the flute. It calls out to you in a mesmerizing way. The spirit of the music brings out the dancers as they elegantly go in circles around the ceremonial fire. This is another shorter but impactful track.

 

“The Foggiest Idea” is the longest track at 6:30, giving ample space and time for layers of sounds to unfold. As the synth builds, so does the tempo, and there is the sound of a howling wolf. That is what I envisioned and was my first thought when I heard it. Maybe that was my own foggiest idea. The synths create a whooshing, calming sound. Many different sounds and textures populate this track. A significant change happens nearing the end as the electronic synth sounds start with chanting and percussion finish it.

 

I never expected a track named “Finger Painting.” I did not look at the track titles before listening, so it was a pleasant surprise as a follow-up to “Figure Painting.” Figuratively speaking, David’s finger painting is done using the keys he uses for all the sounds. It is 3:26 of perfect piano beauty.

 

“TheLongTale” is spelled that way for a purpose. To simplify, three shorter words are combined; the combination immediately becomes longer, merged into one. He tells the tale at a lower and softer tempo, giving the listener space for thought and reflection. The gentleness and eloquence of the keys bring you peace and enlightenment.

 

“Song for Living” closes the book on this story within the thirteen tracks. It begins with the chirping birds, a sound I know and love once Spring arrives after a long, cold winter. That makes the connection between going out of hibernation and going into a full wake-up mode (winter to spring).

 

Experiencing all the seasons brings more appreciation for the gifts of Mother Nature. David’s piano strokes are measured and beautifully placed. This part of the keyboard reminds you of its versatility as an instrument within an instrument. It sounds like a symphony for my ears, and tracks like this bring that to mind regardless of the tempo. It is a nice way to end this recording. And it ends appropriately with the birds singing their song.

 

Music for Ketamine takes the beauty of the keyboards and integrates it into a healing session of science and helpful chemicals, the suggested path, a process that many people need. That combination of tools is very effective. This is a soundtrack to that process.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

June 23, 2025

Tracks:

01. When Silence Learns to Speak (6:12)

02. Mycelium Highway (5:30)

03. Everything and Nothing (6:10)

04. Figure Painting (4:56)

05. Sylver’s Theme (2:25)

06. Carry Wood, Chop Water (5:41)

07. The Longest Night (2:49)

08. FireCat (6:10)

09. Silver Spirit Dancers (2:20)

10. The Foggiest Idea (6:30)

11. Finger Painting (3:26)

12. TheLongTale (6:15)

13. Song for Living (6:09)

Instrumental World-New Age Review-Ann Licater-Echoes From The Forest

Release Date:  June 20, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

I am familiar with Ann Licater's work. I covered Between The Stars in 2023 and Beyond The Waves in 2016. Echoes From The Forest is her most recent release.

 

Ann Licater is a remarkably versatile musician. She demonstrates her mastery of 11 flutes, including the Ocarina, Native American, Native American-style, Mayan-style Drone, silver C, and alto. Her performance on Track 1, "Sky Dreaming," where she also handles Synth and vocal layers, and on Track 14, "Journey Beyond," where she plays the Steel Tongue Drum, showcases her diverse musical talents.

 

Ann Licater's music is a captivating blend of instrumental world music and new age music. Once you experience it, you'll be drawn in by its unique and intriguing soundscapes.

 

"Sky Dreaming" opens the recording. The flute's woodwind sounds immediately engage your senses as you await the other layers of sounds and instrumentation to join in. The Synth is a nice additional layer to the track as the calmness of sounds soothes and pushes your mind's thoughts away. The sound of these types of flutes is very organic and earthy. The connection between you and Mother Nature is one of the significant benefits of the mesmerizing sounds emanating from Ann's flutes. We are off to a fantastic start, and your heart is filled with joy and anticipation for the next journey.

 

"Cedar Sanctuary" begins with a different sound, as you would expect, considering all the different flutes Ann plays. The sounds are rhythmic and breathy like a cool breeze hitting your face to refresh and enhance the natural sensations of the outdoors. That intrinsic connection to nature you firmly established in the previous track continues.

 

"Wisdom of the Pines" brings that connection to nature to the forefront with the title alone. Trees are one of nature's magnificent gifts to humanity. They have vast underground networks established through their root systems and communicate through them. Their wisdom of the world around them reaches beyond what humans will never come to understand. The flute sings and dances; you can imagine the trees smiling as they listen.

 

"Echoes from the Forest" is a continuation of the last track from a conceptual viewpoint. However, as one would expect, the sounds of these different flutes are much more extensive. As there are echoes within the wooded areas, so the flutes emulate that, answering back and forth and resonating with their distinct tones, rhythms, and flawless beauty. This is the longest track on the recording and one of the most fascinating. I felt I was standing in the middle of the forest, turning my head back and forth to listen to each flute talk to each other in their special language.

 

"Peaceful Willow" keeps the connection to all these organic elements and resides in the middle of nature's glory. The willow's nature is to have long branches draping over, almost touching the ground, as its vast roots continually grow and stretch out, searching for water and nutrients. Visually, they are peaceful; their roots are aggressive and determined underneath their trunks. The flute's sounds are picturesque, creating the vision of the willow fully grown and thriving.

 

"Ancient Vistas" has a title that immediately recalls pictures stowed away in the back of your mind that you may have seen in person, in a documentary film, or read about. Once again, the synth creates a lovely layer for the flute to drift over, and all the sounds created perfectly address the track titles' meaning. In your mind's eye, the colors and vision take you to places you may have been or wish to be. It is hypnotic and beautiful.

 

"Redwood Canyon" is one of the shortest tracks; however, it paints the picture of a canyon easily with the resonating and echoing tones of the flute. Short and sweet, the mysterious sounds of the flute keep you fascinated.

 

"Circle of Trees" sounds spiritual and indicative of a sacred ceremony that may recall the Indian tribes worldwide that respected and revered all living things and only took what they needed to survive. The flute brings you into that circle and holds you as you reflect upon all the possible meanings of the track's title and significance to the artists and likely many others with that connection to the music and nature.

 

"Woven Reflections" are all the things that you may be feeling and experiencing while listening to this music. The sound weaves its way into your consciousness and your very being. The power and spirit of these woodwind instruments make you realize their significance and how they are connected to living things. Reflection is essential; the soothing tones and colors emanating from the flute help you get into the right frame of mind.

 

"Wings in the Mist" are the birds of flight going through the trees and surrounding areas as they forage for food and water. The morning mist will eventually clear and dry as the sun's warmth changes the temperature and conditions. The flute sounds joyful and invites you to join in this dance of nature and our feathered friends.

 

"Earth Calling" is a prolific title that fits the meaning of this recording and all the tracks you just heard. Everything that makes up the Earth is part of what the flutes' sounds are inspired by and instantly connect to seamlessly. The dexterity of Ann's playing and all-important breathing make this an invitation to be part of all she is offering through her tones, colors, and vibrations. So beautiful.

 

"Bird and Breeze" continues with the journey of one of nature's wonders, birds. The flutes emulate the callings of those marvelous creatures. Hearing those sounds from an instrument is so sweet and endearing. It is the shortest track, but one of the more fascinating displays of the Ocarina’s sound.

 

Your "Journey Beyond" now comes full circle and to a completion with the sounds of light percussion in the background. As the rhythms connect effortlessly to the call of the flute, so do you. This track is very different from all the others, yet it is an excellent way to close out this recording. I found so much inside this track with the tenderness of the synth layer and the soft invitation of the percussion as the flute happily dances along, so does your heart and soul.

 

Ann Licater's Echoes From The Forest is a clear stream of collective consciousness about nature and Mother Earth's endless gifts that are present all around us. The tracks offered here make connecting to all that musical communication easy. It is one of the best new-age instrumental world releases this year.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

June 16, 2025

Tracks:

01. Sky Dreaming 4:31

02. Cedar Sanctuary 3:43

03. Wisdom of the Pines 2:50

04. Echoes from the Forest 4:37

05. Peaceful Willow 2:53

06. Ancient Vistas 4:12

07. Redwood Canyon 2:01

08. Rose Moon 3:24

09. Circle of Trees 3:13

10. Woven Reflections 2:32

11. Wings in the Mist 3:42

12. Earth Calling 2:02

13. Bird and Breeze 1:35

14. Journey Beyond 4:18

Fiona Joy Hawkins Review and Interview: When Shadows Talk-Contemporary Instrumental-New Age

Label: Little Hartley Music

Main Link

Bandcamp Orders Available Now

Fiona Joy Hawkins's latest recording, When Shadows Talk, is her eighteenth proper release.

The title, When Shadows Talk, reflects the album's theme, which explores the emotional depth and complexity of human experiences. As Fiona herself says, 'My greatest hope is that my music makes a difference.'

 

I had a detailed overview of what each track meant to the artist, but I decided to listen and respond to what I envisioned in the music. I like to stand by that thought process, as each of us who listens will have a blank canvas to create what the music inspires us to think, feel, and absorb.

 

As the piano began to play its lovely notes in 'Stasis', I was immediately moved by its beauty and intimacy. Fiona's playing is fluid and rhythmic, and I was drawn into the music's stillness, despite its inviting nature. The emotional stimulation and sense of stillness coexisting were a unique experience.

 

"The Ghosts of War Are Marching" seems like an ominous title, and I think this should feel "haunting" with echoing piano keys, which is precisely what it sounds like. The melancholy and realities of war set in and bring my thoughts to my father, who served in WW2. The emotional pain and depth of loss if you are involved in killing another human being must be insurmountable. We all have heard the term "hauntingly beautiful," which perfectly explains this composition.

 

"Lava and Snow" are opposites in temperature and textures, so I wondered how different this track would sound. It starts most beautifully like measured steps down a path to a destination. Gradually, the tempo picks up, and the rhythm and force of the music change, like the flow of lava from an active volcano. However, there is no explosion from the top; it is gradual and consistent, like how Fiona's fingers press the keys. This was like beauty in motion, developed in my mind's eye as the snow cools the molten hot lava, it hardens, and the notes are forever trapped inside you.

 

"Angel's Message" is the longest track at 5:20. It immediately gives recognition to classical influences as I know them. The title indicates one of spirituality and prolific communication to all listeners. I found it very interesting separating her hands on the keys. To me, that is one of the fascinating aspects of the piano and how one person can play two parts and make it one gorgeous symphony of sound. One woman, one piano, and the creation of resonating sounds of piano keys that draw you in, and permanently hit you all at once. I am astounded by her sense of rhythm and the incorporation of different tempos; it's the song within a song.

 

"The Lost Ballerina" is thought-provoking. Interestingly enough, I just went to see the new movie Ballerina last night; however, that is an entirely different setting and story. I heard an infinite sense of rhythm and purpose, with hints of sadness all around the edges of this thing of elegance, telling me the story. The playing is very purposeful, creating imagery from beginning to end. It's gorgeous.

 

"In the Deep" is short at 2:22. The melody emanates an unknown darkness. As the piano chords paint that picture, you feel like falling into it. It feels real, as images of the deep ocean come to mind.

 

"Outside the Circle" can create emotions and thoughts just by the title's implication. A circle is drawn to capture something; boundaries are there, and you may feel trapped and unable to break free. But outside the circle, you are "outside" looking in. You are free, but limitations are imposed because you are not "in" the circle. The piano weaves its tapestry of sound and light, giving more meaning to the track's words. The keys ebb and flow like a river of sound coursing through your soul. Its simple beauty defines the meaning of the words.

 

"Finding the Clearing" is an interesting choice of words after the last track. This would indicate another path, an alternative to any other that allows total and complete freedom. There are no lines in the sand here; you can roam and discover your truth and destiny. Once again, the piano's keys directly reflect that one thought that the title would indicate. It sounds like a waltz or lullaby to soothe those who need that kind of reassurance and calm to get into the clear.

 

"The Mirror" recalls looking into that glass. What do you see beside your image? Do you define yourself by what you see in front of you or what is inside you as a sentient and spiritual human being? The tempo is slow and defined, and meant for you to "reflect" on thoughts that immediately come to mind. Is the mirror inanimate, or are there other people you use for that reflection? Perception is indeed in the eyes of the beholder. I felt a realistic sadness to the track, although its beauty gave me hope.

 

"The Journey" is what you have been on, listening to all this piano-based music. The journey of life and all that enters it is what you are about. The music builds as does your life's journey. This is how the piano's keys speak to you and all your senses. Music can be transitional, and so is life. Fiona's playing is simply extraordinary on this track. The heart and emotion come through clearly.

 

"Hitting the Glass" suggested the term "hitting a glass ceiling" used in conjunction with corporations, where one stops in growth and opportunities, and incites you to begin looking elsewhere for those things. It's short and sweet, and the tone of the keys quickly conveys the message. It is the shortest track at 1:22.

 

"The Brown Bird" begins like a classical masterpiece, with emotion and energy like a bird in flight. Then, with a quick shift down in tempo, it suddenly lands. The music is short-lived, but the image is created with immediacy and stays true to the last note played.

 

When Shadows Talk is a prolific title with music to match. Fiona Joy Hawkins creates an instrumental piano masterwork with 12 thought-provoking, colorful tracks. Her artistry and deeply felt emotions bleed through the keys with a purpose and meaning beyond words.

 

The track titles evoke a thought, and your journey takes different paths as you move through the music. This is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys instrumental music, particularly piano-based music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

June 12, 2025

Tracks:

01. Stasis (4:38)

02. The Ghosts of War Are Marching (3:07)

03. Lava and Snow (4:52)

04. Angel’s Message (5:20)

05. The Lost Ballerina (Solo Piano) (3:22) 

06. In the Deep (2:22)

07. Outside the Circle (4:41)

08. Finding the Clearing (3:09)

09. The Mirror (3:14)

10. The Journey (Solo Piano) (5:03)

11. Hitting the Glass (1.26)

12. The Brown Bird (2:30)