Ambient New Age Instrumental Review: Liquid Mind-Liquid Mind XV-In The Love

Release Date: February 14, 2024

Label: Chuck Wild Records

Website

This is a warning from Chuck Wild, the man behind Liquid Mind XV - As Liquid Mind deeply relaxes some folks: please do not listen while driving or operating machinery of any kind, and always drive safely!

 

Liquid Mind XV-In The Love was just released on Valentine’s Day, which contrasts nicely with the title, the meaning the artist conveys in the music, and the beautiful artwork for the album. The person on the cover looks so free, with no boundaries and nothing but the light of the cosmos at his fingertips. It is like looking at a transformation that happens right before your eyes. And hopefully, the music will take you to that place.

 

The album offers a diverse range of tracks, from the shortest, “A Willing Spirit,” at 4:32, to the longest, “Sanctuary,” at a substantial 11:09. This variety ensures that every listener experiences the very best of Chuck Wild, with seven full-bodied tracks of dimensional sounds. Whether you're seeking relaxation or a tool for meditation, each track offers a unique journey, keeping you engaged and intrigued throughout.

 

The artist performing that type of music needs to be in a particular place with personal growth, a spiritual connection to all living things, and a clarity of who they are and their purpose. That can apply to any profession to give one success; however, it is more predominant amongst those in the artistic industries like music and art. Those two things are interchangeable and the same. Music takes a blank canvas and draws many scenes through sounds. I find that fascinating.

 

We don’t always express an attitude of “Gratitude” in our daily lives. I am guilty of that; however, I feel instant gratitude whenever I have the time to listen to some music. Now, we are off on another magic carpet ride with Liquid Mind.

 

As the synths softly introduce your road to the many things love is delivered by, the feeling is one of serenity and healing. While the artist does not claim to have the magic elixir to make you healthy again, the music invokes a good feeling and allows you to relax. Its instrumental ambiance and layers of atmosphere are beautiful, giving, and colorful, and the tones and frequencies initiate a spirituality that many types of music do not.

 

“Soul Whispers” caught my attention immediately with just the title. I started to think right away what that could mean, and indeed, it is dependent on who you are, how you respond to sounds like this, and where you want it to take you. I feel blessed to be able to take it all in on the listening level and then take the next step to convey the reactions and emotions it may generate along the way. My soul does whisper to me at times, and at other times, it shouts when appropriate if I happen to be asleep at the wheel on the road we call life.

 

The track felt soft and warm, like I was floating into another portal of “being” away from where I was sitting. To me, that is everything, to be transported in some way to move away all the cluttering of the mind and whatever is in the way emotionally to receive the music’s message. I love being the recipient of the sounds and conveying that to people interested in knowing more about what I heard and how it affected me. And, more importantly, what the possibilities would be for another listener.

 

Those two tracks I focused on encapsulated what you will hear and possibly feel while listening to In The Love. They encompass over fifteen minutes of music, a sizable sampling of what one would expect on the entire album.

 

The compositions' varying tempo, rhythms, and intensity offer a listener enough variables to keep interest and a consistency that will allow a continuous flow of peacefulness and healing. That was the goal of this recording. The entire listen from where I exist in this time and space allowed me to empty my mind so the music could fill my soul. That is my goal before listening to ambient new-age instrumental music.

 

If you are In The Love, then you are the love. It is all about connecting with your inner self first, becoming whole, and being able to share that with a significant other with whom you are enjoying your journey or simply someone you need to share this music with because you realize how much they need it and how it could help them.

 

All of this is important to sentient beings; to live is to love, and to love is to live. Stop at some point during your day or evening and listen to these tracks. You can use it to listen to it all, use select tracks while meditating, or if you need relief after a long day and a release of tension, it's perfect. The music’s simplistic and practical approach will serve you well whatever you use it or need it for.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

February 15, 2025

 Tracks:

1. Gratitude 7:02

2. Soul Whispers 8:10

3. Sanctuary 11:09

4. A Willing Spirit 4:32

5. In The Love 9:13

6. Forgiveness 8:23

7. Coming Home 7:43

Ambient New Age Review: Paul Avgerinos-Beloved

Release Date: February 14, 2025

Label: Round Sky Music

Website

Timed just right for the day of love for sweethearts worldwide, Paul Avgerinos releases Beloved, an album of eleven new-age ambient instrumentals. Paul produces the album and plays vocals, cello, guitars, bass, and keyboards.

 

"Love Flows" is a standout track featuring the unique collaboration with Kevin Braheny Fortune on EWI electronic wind instrument, alto clarinet, and alto flute. The soothing sounds immediately disarm you, offering a cloud of relief and spirituality that will help you release any stress or negative feelings. This track is a testament to the power of music to connect and heal, and the collaboration with Kevin adds an exciting element to the album.

 

"Beloved" is the title track and first single from the album. It starts with gentle keyboard notes and a soft synth layer. That thread continues during the track, and its soft touch feels like love. The touch of a loved one and a look of reassurance that you are indeed loved and in a safe place where you will want to remain. The music spoke to me that way, and those feelings emerged. This one is for lovers and dreamers alike.

 

"Softness," featuring Kevin with his alto clarinet, is a healing song. The title perfectly encapsulates the feeling present from the start of this recording. The synth and piano blend seamlessly, creating an ambient layer that feels like a journey into a realm of consciousness. This music is designed to heal, and it does so beautifully.

 

"Enchantment" starts with Juliet Lyons' angelic vocals. One tool used is the echo swell guitar, a key component in creating the ethereal layer you hear. It's a dreamy, spacey sound that can mesmerize a listener. With the wordless vocals fading into the background at times, the instrumentation can sound stronger. The elements of voice and music are perfect partners and indeed enchanting.

 

"Radiant Paradise" is a beautiful name for a song, and living up to that expectation and experience must have been an enjoyable process for the artist. The musical layers reverberate in your soul. I could feel the frequencies and tones going through me, creating an inner peace. That is a paradise I could use more often; however, without the help of lovely ambient instrumental music like this, it is not as easy to attain; in fact, it is difficult (speaking for myself, of course). The best thing about this track is that it is one of the longest at 7:34. A perfect tool for meditation. The most noteworthy features are seven tracks of Paul playing cello, like a cello choir.

 

"Luminous" makes you think of the inner light in all of us or the heavenly higher power you may believe in that gives you strength and guidance. Another thought that came to mind was the luminosity of our vast universe's stars, planets, and galaxies. This music easily guides you to another place where those thoughts and feelings instantly come to you. The keyboard is purposeful, immediate, and at a slow pace for centering yourself. Stardust we are…

 

"Lucid Dreaming" is a gift, mainly if you receive a necessary message from another plain of existence. They say that dreams are the window to the soul, and I believe that to be true. I have had many lucid dreams and a few in which I was out of body looking down at myself. The whirling synth sounds create a map of a dream state to follow. The only requirement is to listen and let the sounds and layers take you there.

 

"Sacred Space" could have dual meanings: a sacred space only to you or the space surrounding our planet and beyond. Sacred is holy and a significant word; it's spiritual and heartfelt. By now, you trust that this music will match the title somehow, although, in the end, the interpretation is yours alone. It always works out for me, and I find a synchronicity with the track title and music and see and feel the correlation between the two. The wind machine, again, is a key component here, drawing you in as you absorb all the layers of sound and colors into you, and your entire body relaxes. It's like a musical spa day for the senses.

 

"Flow in Oneness" begins with water flowing. This is the sound I use for my meditation and relaxation with massaging goggles on my temples. Water is from whence all life came and will eventually return. That sound continues throughout the track, creating an atmosphere of wholeness and oneness with nature, which is beneficial. Nature is an intrinsic part of humanity whether we choose to recognize it or not. It is the longest track, 8:19, and this track alone in a loop (dependent on how long you want to meditate or relax) will fulfill your needs for that state of mind, body, and soul. The consistency of the synth and water is a superb combination of auditory bliss.

 

"Blissful Presence" features Kevin going solo for the last time on the album. His contributions are noteworthy, giving the tracks an added element of grace and exquisiteness. His alto flute is beautifully played and stunning. It creates a vibe of intimacy and spirituality that most listeners seeking this instrumental music will appreciate.

 

"A Love Supreme" had me think of John Coltrane. Being one of the most famous tunes and albums he ever recorded, it's an immediate thought if you are familiar with his work and a jazz fan. This is not the same thing. The atmospheric sounds are entrancing, sounding like something you may hear on a soundtrack to a movie about space travel. The emptiness of space is not there; it is filled with the tones, sounds, frequencies, and instruments that fill your heart and soul with peace for which you will be grateful. Every track on this album gives you that feeling. The synth builds on each layer, and that whooshing sound like it's taking you away to another place is the final piece that works so well.

 

Paul Avgerinos' Beloved is not just an ambient new-age compilation but a meditative journey that offers moments of rest and reflection. It provides a space to center yourself and find a relaxation that renews and refreshes. The absence of distracting words in the music allows for a deeper connection with the audience, fostering a sense of calm and centeredness.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

February 14, 2025

Tracks:

01. Love Flows 5:52

02. Beloved 4:30

03. Softness 5:52

04. Enchantment 4:49

05. Radiant Paradise 7:34

06. Luminous 5:07

07. Lucid Dreaming 6:24

08. Sacred Space 5:47

09. Flow in Oneness 8:19

10. Blissful Presence 6:19

11. A Love Supreme 7:10

Progressive Ambient Instrumental Review: Phillip Wilkerson and Chris Russell-Imaginary Realities

Release Date: January 24, 2025

Label: Spotted Peccary

Website

Phillip Wilkerson and Chris Russell's newest collaboration, Imaginary Realities, was created for those seeking a portal of escape from everyday mundanities and stress. The shortest track is under seven minutes, and the longest is just under nine minutes, so you get full-bodied tracks and everything these two men can create within that timeframe. It is impressive.

I love the artwork, which is intrinsically connected to the music you hear. As mentioned in the press release, it harkens back to when humans drew pictures on cave walls so they could sit and look at them and transcend from their current space to another. After all, music is art, and art is music, which inspires the mind and imagination. It has no boundaries, just endless possibilities with those open to listening to the music and letting it transport you.

 

Now it's time for "Liftoff," a moving opener with shifting sounds and light. It gently pushes you to discover dimensions of yourself that you have yet to discover through the guidance of sound, vibrations, colors, and tones. The music is synthesizer-based, and it feels like you are moving from one place to another. Thus, this is the beginning of your musical journey, your liftoff. I would love to hear this in surround sound!

 

"Dissipation" picks up where the previous track left off (lifts?). This music is a progressive ambient instrumental. I have been accustomed to hearing more meditative sounds; this is mind-expanding and exploring music. My wife walked in while I was listening and asked if I was watching one of the Star Trek series I have been enjoying. A journey through space and time, going to the far reaches of the mind where no man has gone before? Yes, something like that!

 

"Principles of Creation" follows the same path with the ambient layers and sometimes more significant audible sounds. The mix is both, giving each track its personality yet retaining a core sound from the previous track.

 

The first two tracks give you the mindset and atmosphere you should expect to hear, with different variations of sounds, tones, and vibrations. Some listeners may find it mind-altering or relaxing, whereas others may feel different. It does depend on your current frame of mind or reference point before listening. The music will get your attention as you ponder the artwork and realize the space you are in and how much music affects that space. Do not overthink it, but experience it in your way.

 

"Manifesting Presence" starts with a lighter layer of synth, changing the feeling of the music thus far. As the track progresses, some interesting sounds are abundant. It's like a skipping static sound like old-time radio trying to find the right frequency to tune in and lock in. It can relate to a listener attempting to do the same thing: dial in. As the title suggests, create your presence inside your space within the music. Some lovely piano and bell sounds arrive with the whooshing of ocean waves to soothe the soul. Here is where I noticed a significant change in the temperament of the music and choices of sounds. It also lets the listener know how eclectic these two artists can be with that change and sound entirely different while painting another picture on the blank canvas of your mind.

 

"Revealing the Concealed" begins with a floating ambient atmosphere, which allows your consciousness to latch onto and ride along with the music. Its layers of sound are mysterious, like a soundtrack to a particularly thought-provoking scene in a movie or documentary about the far reaches of the universe, asking the age-old question, "Is there life out there?" The synths weave, turn, and swirl around you while filling your space and spirit.

 

"Abandoning Desire" is the ultimate track, clocking in at a hearty 14:23. If you think about it for a moment, that is nearly one side of an LP; it was back in the day anyway. It starts with the synths ranging from high to low tones as the background features a focal point of a steady, pleasing layer of synths, not drone-like, but more of a soft underlayer for everything else to slide over. The track gathers momentum in sound, and the volume increases for more impact.

 

Memories of other bands may come to mind if you started listening to music like this in the 70s or 80s. It does work that way for longtime listeners. With a newer audience generally not exposed to this kind of music, it will be like a revelation of discovering an entirely new world, a path to somewhere they have never been. That is the kind of energy this track holds. Many shifts in sounds and textures will keep your attention for nearly fifteen minutes!

 

"Imaginary Realities" closes out this recording with the title track. The music creates your imaginary realities. That was a clever title for the album, along with a very descriptive use of the vocabulary. Thinking about that makes you realize how true that is with any music. It is more impactful with instrumentals because words do not get in the way of the process. The track completes the journey with a gentle nudge back into the realms you have created with several layers of synths. Of all the compositions offered, I would choose this one for meditation. It has the right atmosphere and tones to assist with that process and runs for nearly nine minutes.

 

Imaginary Realities is recommended for listeners who have enjoyed ambient instrumental music created with synths and computer effects and are fans of bands like Tangerine Dream, Jean Michel Jarre, Kraftwerk, etc.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

February 11, 2025

Tracks:

1. Liftoff 7:23

2. Dissipation 9:03

3. Principles of Creation 6:52

4. Manifesting Presence 7:53

5. Revealing the Concealed 7:08

6. Abandoning Desire 14:23

7. Imaginary Realities 8:50

Instrumental New Age Meditation: Ilka de Gast-Ocean of Light

Release Date: February 18, 2025

Label: Global Sacred Sounds

Website

Pre-Save Link

Ilka de Gast, PsyD, is a California-based singer-songwriter, overtone singer, sound healer, Qigong, meditation teacher, researcher, and licensed psychologist from the Netherlands.

For 30+ years, Ilka has worked with sacred sound healing modalities worldwide, including the ancient art of overtone singing (vocal harmonics). The Chinese Zhineng / Wisdom Healing Qigong ties in firmly with this music and is something the artist taught for many years.

 

If you have not had the opportunity to listen to the results of those studies and all that has worked collectively over the years for many people, then now would be a good time to start.

 

Her most recent release is Ocean of Light, a collection of eleven new-age instrumental tracks made for meditation. Eight of the eleven tracks are considerably long, making each a great tool for guided meditation through sound.

 

“Spirit Eyes” begins your path to healing sounds with Ilka’s amazing vocalizations. It is apparent immediately her voice is one of the main instruments in this recording. The soft synth layer in the background brings her voice to the front with elegance and beauty.

 

“Ocean Waves Overtones” begins with a heavier bass-sounding synth, and her voice sounds like a centering Om point. Then, it changes to a different tone as the music changes. The tones of her voice are incredible. As we move along the composition, we realize that what she is doing is distinctive and original. She can get high and low or change her intonations to fit the frequencies and harmonics of the music. At times, she sounds like a digeridoo, which is fascinating.

 

“Sophia’s Song” takes on a different tone and path with a nice acoustic guitar and the reliance on the higher vocals to fill in the spaces between the music. A flute arrives for more ambiance. It is beautiful.

 

“Abalone Skies” begins with a pulsating synth sound, and the vocals take on another tone to offset that as the flutes join in. Ilka reverts back to a more chanting/tribal mode, then back again to the humming, buzzing tone you hear briefly at the beginning. The way she switches back and forth is like her voice is a band within itself!

 

“Song Bird” begins with a drone sound, with bells ringing, the kind that sounds so beautiful, like when you hang chimes, and the wind blows, to create that organic symphony. The vocals come in, echoing like she is in a cave. A whooshing sound is added, and a very subtle percussive knocking sound, like a quiet xylophone, is added.

 

“Desert Dance” rings a bell, then a digeridoo or Jewish Harp sound comes to life, and some percussion begins, all sounding very earthy, like a spiritual dance for the elders before an offering or meditation. If you consider the track title, those comparisons seem to fit. Her voice sounds off in the distance in another direction; however, as usual, it is stunning. Things start getting more energized with the pace of the percussion and winding digeridoo/Jewish harp sound. This one is very mystical, and I loved it.

 

“Harmony Chant” is another glistening beauty, with Ilka’s lovely, wordless vocals leading the way to your place of comfort and healing. Like many other pieces in this collection, it is a harmonious chant, as the tones change during the track. The frequencies get your attention and, ultimately, your focus, which can be a great tool if your goal is regenerative meditation.

 

“Soul Shimmer” is an excellent title. Hopefully, after using this music to relax or meditate, your soul will shimmer with an inner light that may have been subdued somehow during your day. It starts with a light keyboard and those angelic wordless vocalizations. It sounds like an invitation to heaven, a musical soul food you will return to for a second helping.

 

“Light, Sacred Connection” is different in a few ways. It has lyrics with Ilka, showing how she can sing an entire song beautifully without changing her harmonics. It is warm and soft and so lovely. The length is 3:17, which is shorter than all the previous tracks. It is a step away from everything else to show another side of the most capable artist when called upon.

 

“Light Chant (Remix)” returns to the more extended compositions but starts with an acoustic guitar picked gently to match her vocals. Some nice woodwinds or Native Flute are added to give it a more organic earth tone, a nice addition. I could see where this lady could get full-time work providing backing vocals for numerous artists; however, what she does is much more valuable to an audience that needs it.

 

I had not heard “Healing (Remix)” before it was remixed. It is a reboot of “Light, Sacred Connection” and is just as beautiful, with a soft acoustic guitar, synth layer, gorgeous vocals, and emotive lyrics with such strong meaning.

 

This music certainly is an Ocean of Light. It is one of the more unique new-age releases I have heard in a long time because Ilka de Gast uses her voice as many instruments with varying harmonics. This is the perfect meditation recording.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

February 5, 2025

Tracks:

01. Spirit Eyes (6:04)

02. Ocean Waves Overtones (6:08)

03. Sophia’s Song (4:30)

04. Abalone Skies (6:55)

05. Song Bird (6:40)

06. Desert Dance (6:45)

07. Harmony Chant (6:25)

08. Soul Shimmer (6:50)

09. Light, Sacred Connection (3:17)

10. Light Chant (6:07)

11. Healing (3:14)

Contemporary Instrumental Ambient- New Age Music Review and Interview: Orchestra Indigo-Hearing Visions

Release Date: January 31, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

Hearing Visions is the fourth release by Rick Randlett's alter musical ego, Orchestra Indigo. I have had the honor of covering every release thus far. For listeners who may not be familiar with the artist, he was a blues guitarist for many years, known for his soulful riffs and emotive solos. However, he decided to take a different road, exploring ambient and instrumental music realms. So here we are several years later with another new release. The stunning cover art is bound to get a reaction as you ponder its beauty and meaning. Listening to the music will reveal your answers and yours alone.

 

Rick's musical prowess shines through in this album, where he composed all the music, played the synths and piano, and produced it. The diversity of his DIY approach is evident in every track, promising a musical experience that will surely captivate and surprise you.

 

The title is thought-provoking and makes sense if you think about it momentarily. Instrumental music creates visions through the auditory senses.

 

"Emergence" begins with a resonating acoustic piano, followed by a synth layer in a short minute. At 2 minutes, it is one of the shorter tracks but a suitable introduction to get you comfortable and into the right mindset for what will be next.

 

The title track, "Hearing Visions," is up next and starts immediately with the two layers of synths, then another with a rhythm and tone that sounds like it could replace another main instrument in a band setting, which is a different way of looking at it but a reasonable one as well. The pace slows, and the flow changes with some beautiful piano playing, with the synth layers giving a solid background. The keys float along the top, making the piano notes more attractive. Are you hearing the visions yet?

 

"Reverie" features a slowly played piano. The notes are punctuated by synths and colored with a sense of calm and assurance. The title means pleasant dream-like thoughts, and the music perfectly paints that picture for you, settling into your senses like a warm blanket or a comforting pillow under your head after a tiring day.

 

"Chimera #1" is the shortest track in under two minutes. The word Chimera means, in Greek mythology, a fire-breathing female monster resembling a lion in the forepart, a goat in the middle, and a dragon behind. However, in this case, there is just the word Chimera minus the mythology tag, which means a thing that is hoped or wished for but is illusory or impossible to achieve. We may realize more about this as the other tracks are played.

 

"Through the Portal" features a sound like a violin around the beginning segment. The pace changes just before it hits the two-minute mark with a syncopated sound, and its consistency sets a beat for adding more changes. The delicate piano's feathery, faster-paced synths run in the background and melt into each other. It fades out nicely at the end as the next track begins in a few seconds, making it sound like a segue.

 

"A Hidden Glen" begins with a lovely piano and synth layer. The combination is a slice of heaven. It felt ethereal and uplifting to my spirit. Music like this makes me smile inside with optimism about life itself. Something about it was no longer hidden, as the title would imply. Interestingly, one of my town's most popular natural sites is the Glen up the street from my home. Thinking that before the song began gave me a warm, loving feeling I have for Mother Nature and have always honored. Such pleasing tones and emotions brought a force through the music.

 

"Looking Inward" is what new age instrumental or contemporary and ambient music is supposed to do. The piano once again forges the path for everything else, slowly and methodically, as the synth offers another sound more like something you would have heard on a Tangerine Dream or Jean Michel Jarre album, which I always enjoyed. Those two elements made this a change in the direction of the sound as if it was a movie soundtrack or background to a particularly epic scene in a movie. It felt that way, sounding very regal and vital, like a tribute march.

 

"Eidolon" is an idealized person or thing or a specter or phantom. I think because of the music, it is safe to say it is referring to a person or thing in reference to an ideal. As you start to listen, its tone is more emotional than the previous tracks, with the rhythms repeating, and that gorgeous piano to disarm you and let you fall into the music like it was a warm pool of soothing water. The idea here is to heal with the sounds, let the world be lifted off your shoulders, and let the light in so you feel lighter, just like this incredible music!

 

"In the Shadows" is a very descriptive title and brings many things to mind; at least, it did for me. The piano, as lovely as it sounds consistently, can give the feeling of the unknown in this case. What is in the shadows that awaits introspection? Do you embrace it or ignore it like it's not there? This music is so inviting that it changes your attitude immediately, so perhaps it's you in the shadows of your own thoughts, or there are things you must look at to move on in your life. Again, healing and the light are key in this kind of music, and if you listen intently and focus and look inward as you did on a previous track, everything you need will step out of the shadows and into the light.

 

Is "Chimera #2" no longer illusory or impossible to achieve after hearing all this uplifting, spiritual, and healing music? Although a short composition, the tones, and frequencies hold the questions. It puts it out there for you to decide what the truth is, your truth.

 

"A Distant Glimmer" continues this musical story, a landscape of sounds, colors, and feelings that come alive in the music and then translated within for each listener to discern its meaning for them. The piano guides you in every track as the synth creates layers of additional beauty and texture where you can be safe and honest with yourself. It centers you and makes you whole as you go from one track to the next. Like many other tracks, I found this exceptionally relaxing and spiritually uplifting. The glimmer may be distant in your mindset, but it's closer than you think. It sounds so hopeful and can change to something within a grasp.

 

"Euphoria" is a heightened sense that can be wonderful, but be careful of lasting effects that determine a reality that is no longer there. The music comes at you carefully, slowly, to help you release that the track title does not necessarily mean your energy hits the sky. Everything seems unreal, and you lose touch with reality. It is quite the opposite; the music is saying the euphoria, in this sense, is beautiful, heavenly, spiritual, renewing, relaxing, and all the above. That is a favorable inference and, in its way, euphoric with certainty.

 

"Culmination" segues from the previous track, starting with just piano; the sound resonates in your ears and spirit, and those effective synths enter the mix again to give you instant pause and a breathing-out effect of relief. As this closes out the recording, the culmination of all the feelings, colors, tones, and wonderful feelings this music brought about, you feel satisfied and fully re-energized.

 

With Orchestra Indigo, you will Hear Visions. These visions become a reality with this ambient keyboard-based music. I see no end to the creativity that Rick Randlett has found on this road, and I look forward to the next journey.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

January 20, 2025

Tracks:

01. Emergence 2:00

02. Hearing Visions 4:38 

03. Reverie 4:18 

04. Chimera #1 1:52 

05. Through the Portal 3:42 

06. A Hidden Glen 5:35

07. Looking Inward 5:18

08. Eidolon 4:16 

09. In the Shadows 5:24 

10. Chimera #2 1:48

12. A Distant Glimmer 4:45 

13. Euphoria 4:44

14. Culmination 3:14

Electronic-Ambient-New Age Review: Thierry DAVID-Six Waves

Release Date: January 17, 2025

Label: K-VOX

Website

Thierry DAVID's latest project, Six Waves, rings in 2025 with his New Age-Electronic-Ambient sounds.

 

"Causality" begins with sounds of waves, as you may have suspected, but not in the traditional sense. The music is atmospheric and relaxing, with many layers of sound and ambiance. Right away, I recall some of my favorite bands of this type, like Tangerine Dream and my favorite album, Le Parc. The whirling and swishing sounds are sublime and hypnotic as you move on to the next track.

 

"Into the Wave Axis" has more of an edge at first, which is industrial to my ears, in the sense of machines and man working. Then, it changes with various tones flitting about as the sounds echo back and forth, finding their way into your consciousness and subconsciousness. The atmosphere felt more pensive, and fear of the unknown was approaching.  Going into an axis, as it were, is more methodical and mechanical, so that is how the sounds rush over you. Spooky and ethereal, the magic of the music sounds like it could be a soundtrack in a science fiction movie, like gazing at the endless darkness of space. The longest track clocked in at 10:30 minutes.

 

"Elliptical Tales" takes another turn, as you should expect at this point. The gentle synths brush over your body as you quickly immerse into the layers of sound, merging and becoming one. The eventuality is that you, too, become one with the music. The timing of sounds starts to feel like an internal clock slowing down or speeding up, dependent on your frame of mind or focus you decide to have once it starts. Some pictures pass through your mind, and the sounds and textures encourage that. For those of you who are cerebral, this can engage you from start to finish. For those looking to empty their minds and relax, that is also an option for this track and acts as a twofold exercise for individuals looking for both elements to work together.

 

"Ultrasonic Vibes" is the second longest track at 10:17. The beginning is intriguing, and your interest holds steady as the flow of change continues. Reverberating sounds travel back and forth, backed by a steady beat, and the layering of many sounds converges (as they always do) as the track builds. Halfway through, there is a brief millisecond pause, then a complete change of direction, and then it reverts to the core sounds. Always full of surprises, Thierry uses the tools to give a listener an expectancy and a wonder about what may be next. Anticipating is futile; you must wait and listen to what happens next. A few prolific change elements insert themselves without losing sight of the center of concentration, including a repetitive sound for focus; however, you can hear everything else without losing your mindset.

 

"Submarine Whispers" captured my imagination before the start of the music because of the title alone. The track begins with a crackling radio signal like a submarine trying to reach its home base in the ocean's depths. It also reminded me of what an older, uncleaned vinyl LP sounds like when you pick it out of the dollar bin. I used to call it the "frying eggs" sound. There is a bass sound that sounds like a heartbeat, and the crackling sound is maintained. And a bell-like ringing that a synth produces so well. It feels ominous in my frame of reference of the underwater craft. The whispers become more of a warning of something imminent. The strange thing about this track is that even though I felt like I did, I believed there could be moments of relaxation and reflection.

 

Now, we have reached the "The Sixth Wave." The final part of the waves completes this recording. It is another substantial track at 9:09 minutes. You will hear more of a mellowed-out sound with an echoing guitar sound; sometimes it's hard to tell these days with all the computer-generated facsimiles; you can decide as the synth percolates like morning coffee on the stove (like many years ago!). The sounds again feel like the tic-tock of a clock turned internally to get in rhythm with your center self and the music. 

 

Those two things must happen before using this music as a tool other than background music, which is your choice as the listener. The colors and tones are relaxing, and with the addition of a few sounds you have not heard prior, the music takes on another element or flavor that I found very appealing.

 

Six Waves is a beautiful group of tracks that would sound amazing in the vinyl format, surround sound, or 7.1 Dolby you hear at the movie theater. I did not listen to this with any of those enhancements and was mesmerized from start to finish. For this listener, that is mission accomplished.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

January 17, 2024

Tracks:

1. Causality 

2. Into the Wave Axis

3. Elliptical Tales

4. Ultrasonic Vibes

5. Submarine Whispers

6. The Sixth Wave

New Age-Holiday Review: Ed Bazel-The Christmas Sessions: Season's Greetings From Studio 2

Release Date: November 15, 2024

Label: New Thought Records

Website

Ed Bazel has been one of the busier recording artists this year. It seems like I get one review done, and a few months later, there is another album in front of me to enjoy. Of course, time is transient differently for everyone. In my case, as I get older, it seems to move so much faster.

Now that another Holiday is upon us, it's time for my first seasonal review. I anticipate an illuminating experience with Ed at the helm, doing things his own way. The tracks are given a diverse range of interpretations, each with its unique sound, ensuring they pay tribute to their legendary status while offering a fresh perspective.

Ed has some featured artists that add their talents to the recording to make it all complete, which includes:

Flute: John McMurtery

Cello: Vivian Barton Dozor

Violin: Nina Vieru

Mallet Percussion: Louis Anthony deLise (Tracks 1, 5, 11) and Alex Carter (Track 6)

"It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" starts with a familiar melody. Immediate recognition rings in your consciousness and spirit. As the piano keys dance across his fingers effortlessly, you feel the profound emotional depth that the music brings, resonating with the true spirit of the Holiday. A cello accompanies him, adding a layer of depth to the interpretation.

"Christmas Time is Here" brings the Charlie Brown cartoon to my mind. This song, along with others like "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem", forms a cohesive narrative of the holiday season. That instantaneous recognition brightens your spirit and makes your heart smile. It's short and sweet, quite lovely, and soothing.

"O Little Town of Bethlehem" starts, and the variations of his keyboard accuracy bend and shape the notes most beautifully. The tradition of the song's original composition and melody is held intact as Ed goes through the paces, and the cello enters again towards the end to add some emotion.

"Silent Night" is perhaps one of the most recognized and revered compositions in the world. With the piano keys expressing their own emotional style, it takes on a flavor all its own without diminishing the original intent of the treasured track. This time, the violin joins the keys and answers the melody to perfection, like an echo for Ed's playing, so touching and sweet.

"O Come All Ye Faithful" continues the flow of classic Holiday songs. It fills your soul with love and joy—it's just that simple. I like the way the track builds with the piano's interplay with the flute. I noticed a stronger bass sound with the keys, which resonated so well. The addition of the gentle flute provides some balance, along with the snippets of cello.

"The Christmas Song" is another one that instantly brings the words to you. This is what everyone who hears this will likely enjoy the most. The perfect sound of the keys echoing a timeless classic is the most simplistic, and with a little variation, you get Ed's stamp on it.

"What Child Is This" begins slowly and purposefully, with a lovely violin following the path of the keys, with the joy of a miracle and hints of sadness as the cello enters. By this time, I am getting more reflective and feeling the emotion that this holiday brings me every year. It is missing loved ones who are with the heavens. It was a gorgeous rendition.

"Away In A Manger" starts, and you can't help but start singing in your mind. I think that kind of prompting is the best way an instrumental version of the song can relate to a listener. The track is picturesque and full of love that is felt in every note.

"Christmas Time Is Coming" has a nice melody and rhythm. The cello is a gentle and effective complement to the beautiful orchestration of the piano. Once again, it's a great way to relax and reflect on all you should be grateful for.

"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" has always been one of my favorites. I remember singing it at church with my family as a young boy. The memories of those times flood back as I listen to Ed's rendition. I especially like the line "tidings of comfort and joy," something we all need at times and sometimes more so this time of year. It is superb and simple.

"We Three Kings" closes out this beautiful collection of songs with a memory from so long ago yet so meaningful and ever present in our minds when listening, regardless of what part of the planet you may reside in. These three men began gift-giving, which became a yearly tradition that will never end. The piano, cello, and violin combine their unique sounds to create the star of Bethlehem in your mind's eye just one more time.

Listening on this Thanksgiving Eve was perfect timing for me. It started those feelings of both happiness and sadness, but gratitude is paramount for being here to listen and then be with some of those I love tomorrow and the rest of the season.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

November 27, 2024

Tracks:

01. It Came Upon A Midnight Clear (3:22)

02. Christmas Time is Here (2:13)

03. O Little Town of Bethlehem (2:36)

04. Silent Night (3:07)

05. O Come All Ye Faithful (2:32)

06. The Christmas Song (2:20)

07. What Child Is This (3:53)

08. Away In A Manger (2:45)

09. Christmas Time Is Coming (2:38)

10. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (2:09)

11. We Three Kings (4:32)