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)

Instrumental New Age Review: Peter Sterling-Heaven Sent

Release Date: November 29, 2024

Label: Harp Magic

Website

Peter Sterling has consistently released music for years, and I have been the fortunate recipient of many of his works. I have enjoyed his heavenly sounds five times over the years, and Heaven Sent will be his 17th proper studio release.

 

The message of this recording is evident from the first look at the cover art. This music is spiritual, healing, and filled with positive energy and light. As I have often said, the harp is the perfect instrument for this message if you seek something to fill your spirit and soul with healing tones, sounds, colors, and frequencies.

 

"Golden Leaves of Fall" begins the journey with Peter's harp and soft, wordless vocal in the background that beckons to you. Remember, there are various violin variations, Tibetan bowls, Cello, piano, Irish Flute, Ocarina, Irish Penny Whistle, Ilium pipes, Native Flute, keyboards, percussion, and Free Note Chimes.  You won't hear all of that in the first track; however, it is a beautiful start, and you get the feeling looking at all the credits and instrumentation that this is new-age world music. It's so intricate that you must listen closely to pick out all the tools to create each track. That is a good thing and something I look forward to.

 

"The River Runs Deep" is the longest stretch of instrumentation at 7:31. As with all the tracks Peter records, they start beautifully with that fantastic harp. The addition of other instruments is always a bonus. This track is exceptional with the way it comes together piece by piece and fits so perfectly as it belongs as part of this transitional composition. All music is transitory somehow; however, in this instance, it is prolific and absolute with pureness and beauty. An acoustic guitar adds to the mix and is played delicately to fit nicely with the ambiance of the harp. The river of music runs deep indeed, and it will enlighten your spirit.

 

"Timeless Heart "is a great title. The meaning is accurate. A pure and faithful heart stays that way. There is no change of timeframe involved. Like this music attached to the track title, the sounds are perfected to hold time in a place; it neither goes backward nor forward and keeps your attention in the moment. Adding the pennywhistle gives it that "off in the distance" feeling, like something that is happening either just changed or going through a change, like the music you hear. It makes you think or become more reflective and aware of the place you are in; you are now mindful.

 

"Silver Lining" can mean many things in one's life or situation. The old saying that every cloud has a silver lining has a positive connotation that can be very helpful in assessing the whole picture of what is going on at the time. The music immediately brings you to that string of thoughts; it guides you there as you listen and focuses on its beauty and what it can be. Like a flower opening in the morning responding to the first warm rays of the sun, its attraction is the delicate petals and a miracle of nature. It is very much like the incredible music you are hearing right now.

 

"Forever My Love" is a tune that resonates with familiarity. It intertwines romanticism with spirituality, for true love is a spiritual bond. With the harp and violin merging to convey sincerity and hints of sadness weaving in, the music evokes a profound sense of eternity. It's a poignant reminder of the seemingly unattainable nature of forever, yet it also kindles a deep connection with the listener, stirring up thoughts and questions.

 

"The Rain Will Fall" is inevitable in the world of plants and Mother Earth and, in a literal sense, our lives. It is time for relaxation and thought. The music's gentle touch pulls you in, suggesting this, giving you the reality and the miracle of nature at work by providing life from rainfall. The essence of all life is water, and to accept that is to become one with the earth that gives us so much life. And in human life and what can happen, a little rain must fall before the sun shines again—an interchange of times encouraged by the title and the music.

 

"Together Forever" returns you to that theme of eternity and how real it can or cannot be. If you believe, it is your truth, and forever is precisely that, whether in the physical or spiritual worlds of existence. The music continues to enchant and give you the reason for hope and belief that forever can exist, and the harp is a tool used to convince you it is possible. Keep playing, Peter; I am starting to believe.

 

"After Glow" happens when a particular person touches your heart and soul, or you are in a surreal and unbelievable experience. After all the previous tracks and titles, much thought and meditation has been given to the word's meanings. The harp can create a certain glow and vibrance yet delicate beauty to bring a picture into your mind's eye, the lens to the soul. The track is very deliberate in its delivery of this message. The wordless vocals give it a heavenly, angelic touch.

 

"Days Of Old" is the second most extended piece at 6:44. The harp begins and sounds like the opening of a large satin curtain as you hear the harmonica make its presence known. You immediately realize that this track will be entirely different than all the others. The track title is indicative of the setting when one reaches back into another place in time in their lives that is held close and dear to their heart. The laughter of children and birds singing is like heaven to parents. It makes life complete. The circle of life is the music by design, and it feels honest and sad simultaneously. Yes, it worked for me.

 

"The Sun Always Shines" on TV—oh wait, another band and another song! I could not help it; it was the first thing that came to mind! As Peter winds things down to bring you back to earth, the flute is as superb as the harp. The music continues and ends where it all started. It is all so exquisitely arranged and played, and this last track confirms the consistency you have witnessed in all the prior tracks. It was a perfect end to a perfect performance by everyone who contributed.

 

Heaven Sent was created for those who need its grace and gentle approach to enrich our lives by listening. And it does.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

November 21, 2024

Tracks:

01. Golden Leaves of Fall 5:14

02. The River Runs Deep 7:31

03. Timeless Heart 4:47

04. Silver Lining 4:01

05. Forever My Love 5:10

06. The Rain Will Fall 5:04

07. Together Forever 4:48

08. After Glow 5:17

09. Days Of Old 6:44

10. The Sun Always Shines 5:30

Contemporary New Age Review: Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer-A Journey of Dreams

Release Date: November 15, 2024

Label: Independent

Website:  www.pauladams.org  / www.elizabethgeyer.com

Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer have been teaming up for many years and producing some fine and very eclectic offerings for a listening base that can span worldwide. The most recent release is A Journey of Dreams, ready for everyone to experience. I stress the word experience, which is the key to this music. From new age to Americana, blues, and ambient, this talented duo utilizes all their talents to create individual pieces of art.

"A Journey of Dreams" is their title track to start this recording and the second longest track at 6:00 minutes. The Native American Anasazi Flute and slide guitar provided by Paul and Elizabeth's keyboards and vocalizations are a superb marriage of sound. The synth layer is like a soft sound cloud for everything to glide nicely—an excellent lead-off track to correctly set the mood and experiential process.

 

"The Emergence" starts with the piano, wordless vocals, and the flute's fantastic and relaxing earthly tones. The word emergence indicates the realization of something happening physically or spiritually, so from my listening perspective, it is either physically, mentally, or something otherworldly or esoteric. And this can be about a person, place, or thing. Again, my thoughts only and my perception. The music triggered my feelings and thoughts, which is what it is supposed to do. The electric sitar makes its "emergence," giving the composition a more world feel, and it's an excellent addition.

 

"The Arrival" follows in perfect sequence to the last track about the title, first the emergence, then the arrival. You may ask yourself, what is the arrival? I can relate to what I previously stated in my spiritual, physical, and mental state. The piano is subtle, and the layer of consistent synth with the differentiators of the harmonica and sitar. Two elements combine to add to this mix of new age and world flute for a trance-like, meditative sound.

 

"Gabriel" is a title that immediately recognizes anyone familiar with the Bible or religions. As little as I know, I did find recognition, and I do with biblical names. I heard some of the same this time, but a horn is added to the mix, giving it a floaty jazz element. So many different instruments come into play in these tracks that, at times, it defies explanation or any generalization, which is a good thing.

 

"A Beautiful Sadness" is a thought-provoking title. So where does one find that? I hear and feel it all the time in music. This track holds a beauty, but at the same time, you could be engaged to reflect on a sadness you have been feeling or a part of your life where that happened, and you can never forget it. While the music soothes and guides with the layer of synths, the flute, piano, and sitar, it leads you down a clear path to find the truth and meaning of each word.

 

"The Lightness" is bright and airy, relieving the previous sadness; however beautiful it was, some dark areas and grey shadings need cleansing. Here, you find it in the music again; its magic is in the feeling of lightness around you as it carries you to another frame of mindfulness and space without barriers. The constancy of that synth layer is always there as the foundation to add all the other instruments, giving you comfort. It highlights the flute's organic, earthy tones and the acoustic guitar's subtle yet impactive strings.

 

In “Contemplation,” a word that the music allows to come through and process, the duo's talents shine. Much like the pied piper throughout this journey, Paul's flute brings immediate calmness to your receptors. Elizabeth's dreamy, wordless vocalizations add a touch of heaven. At the same time, the sitar and its Middle Eastern flavor bring a spiritual and ethnic element to the track, creating a powerful combination that resonates deeply.

 

"Drifting" is the most extended composition at 6:25 minutes. A word indicative of what this kind of music can initiate in a listener, whether you call it relaxation, meditation, or a form of hypnotic state, drifting is part of getting into that place. The piano plays a more significant role this time, and its significance is noticeable. The dobro was a nice touch and addition with its definitive echoing sound.

 

"Somewhere There Is Hope" for all of us. Should that be a statement or question? It is a statement that can apply to anyone's life regardless of the situation. I have been there several times, as I imagine many of you have. If you are following the story to this point, you can see how it all fell into sequence and how we got here through all the other tracks and their meaningful titles. A track title is a hint, and you need to take it from there. This music continues down the path you have been on, with the flute, piano, and ambient synths creating that backdrop for thought, reflection, and healing in the music, which in turn gives us hope.

 

"The Reward" is yours to take now that you have made it to the end of this journey. The music's purity and healing frequencies, tones, and colors again give you clarity and meaning. It is unencumbered by racing thoughts or a mental "to-do list," which magically disappears in the flute, piano, sitar, vocalizations, and the different instrumentations that allow you to go to another place in time and space. This track encapsulates all of that in just under six minutes.

 

The title and artwork are engaging and give you a good idea of the journey you are about to partake. The music is suitable for relaxing and meditating, and if you choose to do some dreaming during the day or evening, it is perfect for that as well. And that is the point of this music and A Journey of Dreams.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

November 12, 2024

Tracks:

01. A Journey Of Dreams 6:00

02. The Emergence 4:50

03. The Arrival 4:46

04. Gabriel 5:15

05. A Beautiful Sadness 5:51

06. The Lightness 6:10

07. Contemplation 4:10

08. Drifting 6:25

09. Somewhere There Is Hope 4:58

10. The Reward 5:46

New Age Contemporary Instrumental Review: Doug Hammer-November

Release Date: November 1, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Main Link

Official Trailer

When I saw November, the first person I was reminded of was the late great George Winston. I couldn't help but remember all those excellent piano solo albums on Windham Hill named after the seasons.

 

Doug Hammer is one of my favorite piano players, and I always look forward to his recordings, so that is my tribute to him.

 

The album starts with the title track, "November." Coincidentally, we just finished our Indian Summer here in New England, so getting in the mindset for the oncoming Winter for the next month is what we do. It's time to put away all the summer lawn decorations and lights, batten down the hatches, get some bags of salt, and turn off the water for the hoses. All that needs to be ready.

 

The song is straightforward and gentle, like how the leaves quietly fall to the ground in splendor and color as the trees prepare for hibernation. The second longest track on the album, at 4:29, sets the atmosphere for the rest of the story.

 

"Colder" is perfect in sequence for the meaning of the previous track and the different things I alluded to. It's my favorite time of year, and I don't mind the Winter so much when it's mild, like the last one. A bit of sadness is attached to this feeling every year, seeing the Summer fade away for good for this year. The piano playing reflects my feelings about that "cold" wave coming in. Doug's contemporary approach to new age instrumental compositions is absorbing and always relates so well to the track title.

 

"The Setting Sun" is again in sequence with the previous track, as it does from beginning to end on this recording. It doesn't just cool down like the Summer; it gets colder in the subsequent months, heading into old man Winter. Winter can be harsh, but somehow, the way the piano compositions come across gives you a sense of peace and tranquility not generally associated with this time of year, yet here we have it.  

 

"Glimmer of Light" is the last hope on the horizon as the morning breaks, and you can see the frost on the grass. The mood and vibe are uplifting as the piano takes its solo flight like a bird cruising through the air just because it can. The pace picks up, and the melody is strong and impactful.

 

"Dancing Leaves," as I mentioned previously, falling off the trees, seem to dance from side to side until they meet the ground before dissolving into the earth again. In other instances, you can be driving by a pile of them on the side of the road, and in the wake of the wind from your vehicle, it makes the pile a whirling dervish of color. The piano notes feel like a ride in the fall, emulating all those feelings and pictures in your mind. And if you have not experienced it yet, you can envision it in this song.

 

"Bare Trees" is the logical progression of everything you heard before they reached this place of change. We all know the rebirth and the green buds will start popping in the spring, and that is something to anticipate with joy and wonder every year. It's about enjoying and appreciating the transformations nature and its miracles offer. The piano is purposeful, and the notes are placed well for the reflective thought process of what just passed and what is to come next; it's perfect.

 

"A Cold Wind Blows" finally comes as the trees and wildlife are ready to face and survive. Doug's piano has a holiday flavor with Christmas approaching. Will the wind be blowing in those beautiful white flakes to decorate the barren trees and make the evergreens even more beautiful? This song is as powerful as Mother Nature and sounds classical, with that hint of holiday spirit weaving through it.

 

"First Snowfall" begins now, and the change is set for the next 4 months. Snow can fall gently and dance in the light wind or blow viciously, creating whiteouts and treacherous conditions. I think what is captured in the notes coming from Doug's fingers is a little of both scenarios to think of, one to enjoy and appreciate and one to beware and prepare.

 

"So Bright" is our life here on earth, but appreciating everything in it can sometimes be challenging, always seeing the positive or silver lining in the clouds. The music is bright, like the sun's rays, warm and welcoming. Like some of the other tracks, there is an underlying bass tone that gives it that power of persuasion, and you say to yourself, I get it; there is brightness every day. Whether it's obvious or you need to find it, it's always there.

 

I mentioned "Indian Summer" early on. Once again, the piano has this innate energy and color bursting from it, like the palette of colors all around us in the mountains and all the trees. It is a warm and happy track. We all feel it here in New England, and that time comes in one short week, usually in late September or early to mid-October, as it did most recently.

 

"Radiance" is a lovely spiritual word. Doug is in a nonstop groove of momentum and high energy, one track after another. Once he gets through the softer, slower-paced tracks and hits his stride, he keeps that motion up, and this track is an example of those happy, talented fingers at work. He radiates joy and love, which you can feel in the music. A new age track of elegance and beauty with classical influences.  Another superb track!

 

"Thanksgiving" is an excellent day for us in the U.S., celebrated by millions in many ways and traditions. It is the predecessor to Christmas. These two holidays are beautiful times to be thankful for everything you have today and spend time with family and friends.

 

"Frozen Ground" is the appropriate end for this journey through two seasons that shape our lives here in New England. I spent 8 years in California in the 80s; this time of year was never the same until I returned home. This is where I was born and where I will die, just like my parents before me. The frozen ground indicates the death of many things that will be reborn once it thaws, and the sun's warmth sprouts the first grass blades. I feel sad now; the music helped me realize the definitive end of the fall and this recording.

 

Doug's piano continues to ring true to the heart and spirit, and his music hits home uniquely for me (and I hope it will for you). The piano is like an orchestra and sounds as such when the right person is playing it.

 

I am grateful for all the feelings I went through listening to Doug Hammer's album November. It was easy for me to relate to all of this because of my location; however, if I were still in California now, I would still feel the same. Once you grow up here, you never forget. Thanks for all the fantastic music and memories, Doug.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 24, 2024

Tracks:

01. November 4:29

02. Colder 4:06

03. The Setting Sun 4:38

04. Glimmer of Light 3:06

05. Dancing Leaves 3:15

06. Bare Trees 3:19

07. A Cold Wind Blows 2:27

08. First Snowfall 3:28

09. So Bright 3:23

10. Indian Summer 3:00

11. Radiance 4:08

12. Thanksgiving 3:47

13. Frozen Ground 3:38

Featured Track: Instrumental New Age-Ryan Michael Richards-That Trip to Bethlehem

Ryan Michael Richards has been releasing impactful guitar-based instrumental singles this past year. His next release is “That Trip to Bethlehem,” just in time for the upcoming holiday season.

His acoustic guitar playing is extraordinary, in my opinion. Many people would agree with that assessment once they hear this track.

The cover art to the single, with what looks to be the aurora borealis in the sky, evokes the wonder of the cosmos and what took place on the day our savior, Jesus Christ, was born. We need him now, so please send him back! I say that in a severe manner. I don’t think I need to elaborate as to why.

The guitar strings evoke the magic of the Holidays and their meaning to families, individuals, religions, and, in general, humanity across the globe—not specifically Christians, may I add, as I think being a spiritual individual gives reason for belief, and it does in my case. Many others who do not attend church or mass feel the same way.

Music is the universal language; in this instance, it is even more powerful and impactful without words. No religious or political statement is made; it simply speaks to the heart and soul of humanity, whether you believe it or not. Even if you do not celebrate Christmas, it gives pause for reflection just by looking at the image and hearing the guitar strings resonate with joy and gratefulness for the season to come. If you read more about this artist, you will realize why he believes in a power greater than himself.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

November 2, 2024

Website

Growing up in South Philadelphia, Ryan Michael Richards began learning how to play the guitar when he was fourteen years old after being diagnosed with Auditory Processing Disorder. Ryan's parents encouraged him to learn how to play a musical instrument, for the arts are an excellent way for people to cope with learning disabilities. It did not take long for him to decide that the Guitar would be his musical instrument of choice…READ MORE…

New Age - Contemporary Instrumental Review: David Darling-Other Worlds

Release Date: October 18, 2024

Label: Curve Blue

Website 

Music Links

David Darling is joined by virtuosos Jiebing Chen (erhu, zhonghu) and Lili Haydn (violin) as guest performers on Other Worlds. The new album includes the late cellist's signature pizzicato, vocalizations, and solo and choir cellos.

"Amelia" opens the door to this recording and is the second-longest composition at 6:07. The cello is David's doorway to bringing in the other atmospheric instrumentation, including a lovely piano that seems to be stepping carefully down a path led by David. The other subtleties are an enhancement, making this opening a track a relaxing and intimate way to bring the listener in and keep them.

 

"Voyager" begins with light percussion, and the cello sounds magnificent and precise. A synth layer forms the backdrop, and an Erhu adds extra texture and feeling as the cello answers beautifully. The percussion remains light and practical while maintaining a constant, stable beat. The way I hear the cello is like never before; it usually sounds so sad and longing, but not this time. David's bending of the strings is so different in style and tone that it makes you wonder how he created something so different and sophisticated, separating himself from anyone else who played it.

 

The title track, "Other Worlds," comes in at 6:10 but is not the longest. You wonder how all of it will come together with so much time involved in one track and with a cello, never a lead instrument. It starts with more of that longing, faraway sound or feeling, yet succinct and meaningful. It suddenly changes with rhythm by backing the cello that calls out to your heart. Deep bass follows along with a touch of piano arriving into the mix like water dropping off a leaf onto the ground; gentle, but you know it's there, giving it more life and color.

 

"Rendezvous" starts with the cello and piano in an interplay of sound and color. It sounds like it is leading into something soon. The change comes with a more rhythmic approach, giving it immediate substance and a stronger foundation from which to work and branch out, and it does so without hesitation. The cello is in absolution for one instrument within the weaving of sounds found in one track. I hear emotion amplified via the notes as, once again, the piano's gentle accompaniment makes it more sensory and unique for a listener.

 

"The Pilgrimage" is a magnificent oeuvre at 6:50 minutes. It starts very interestingly, with an entirely different tone and resonance from the cello; you must hear it. An excellent guitar is in place; as it goes through its paces and ebbs and flows like a river of sound, you know what you are hearing is something special and begin to understand why nearly seven minutes are needed to complete it. Some wordless vocals join the ever-present percussive intonations to give a tribal hymn feel. The piano is always there to add ambiance and flavor and is more significant in the last few minutes before this complex composition ends.

 

"The Benedictine" sounds as you would imagine, beginning with deeper wordless vocals, i.e., the monks. Of course, that is the first thing that comes to mind when you see the track title. Once again, another completely different turn of the music is chosen. The sound of the cello is so different again; I cannot get over the character and sound that David receives from his instrument. The Erhu is aching and calling to the cello as it sounds more like the plucking of a bass with a pedal. I am speechless at this point.

 

"Lament of the Fallen" takes a more serious (darker) approach to sound, texture, and mood. The power of this music is more evident now from the variety of the previous tracks offered. The piano and violin are not strange bedfellows by any means. The cello tends to add another chapter to the ongoing story with its long lines of reverberating sound and total emotional, atmospheric presence.

 

"The Walk Home" is short and sweet, under two minutes, but meaningful as the cello takes center stage to remind us of its emotional pull and prowess.

 

Other Worlds is another masterpiece that David Darling (who passed in 2021) left behind for us to ponder his incredible talents. I promise you will never hear a cello played like this.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 29, 2024

Tracks:

1. Amelia (6:07)

2. Voyager (5:12)

3. Other Worlds (6:10)

4. Rendezvous (5:34)

5. The Pilgrimage (6:50)

6. The Benedictine (4:50)

7. Lament of the Fallen (3:32)

8. The Walk Home (1:56)

New Age Instrumental Review: David Wahler-Singular

 Release Date: October 25, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

David Wahler's Singular, released on October 25th, perfectly accompanies the reflective and contemplative mood that the Fall season often brings. His picture on the cover hints at the connection between humankind and the close people in our lives, a theme that resonates deeply during this time of year.

I will list what the tracks meant to David and then give my overview.

1. SINGULAR - We enter this life as one and leave ultimately as one.

The soft piano begins, and the cello, in a trance-like state of sorrow, quickly exits. The cello's mournful tones echo the empathetic understanding that we must face our final moments alone when we leave this plane of existence.

2.      LILT - When a day evolves into an effortless smile.  

 

The piano begins again softly, as you would expect, with David's relaxing, mesmerizing atmosphere. It carries a message, tone, and rhythm that indicates how one's outlook can change during the day. The evolution of the music brings a smile to the listener's face.

3.      LOVE IN A MEADOW - A clandestine meetup at a time (1970) when same-sex love forced young lovers into reckless abandon.

Love is love, and this is the story of a secret meeting between two people who felt that way for each other. It is gentle and beautiful yet fragile, like the music presented. Love can be complex, particularly in this time frame, which seems like a lifetime ago. All we seek as humans is love and acceptance regardless of who we love or our beliefs. Music can be heartfelt and touch the soul. Hopefully, this one does for all of you who can relate.

4.      ALONE - An introvert's castle.

What would it be like for an introvert to be inside the massive walls of a castle? It doesn't sound very comforting to anyone with that personality type. The piano beckons the call for courage and strength with a gentle push to acceptance. I am not an introvert, but if I were, I would want to hear this soothing music to calm me internally and mentally so I could deal with the fear of being alone in such an intimidating piece of architecture and history.

5.      OLIVE BRANCH - When conflict seems insurmountable, a tiny light appears.

The title of this track is so essential for a world on fire that we live in these tumultuous times.  The music has a distinct timing and repetitive, hypnotic effect as the bell sounds off in quiet solitude. The piano on the third layer completes the track—3:46 minutes of absolute beauty.

6.      IF ONLY… - The distant voices of doubt, guilt, melancholy.

If only it were not part of your life, it would not haunt your soul. The what ifs and such can make us doubt the present, hold guilt about the past, and an overall melancholy about life itself. The music invites you to look another way to the positive as you focus on the frequencies and let it take your mind to another place. It's a very atmospheric ambient track worth exploring all those feelings again. You can find your truth in the music, focus on the bell sound, and the slow pace and flow of the synths

7.      LOTUS LAKE - My place of peace, solitude, reckoning.

The Lotus flower is synonymous with spirituality and the solitude of meditation. You can take this music, which is a beautiful flower as well, and picture it in your mind's eye to realize your peace, solitude, and reckoning of your soul to give you the freedom you deserve. Beauty is in the eyes and, in this case, the ears of the beholder. Another gorgeous backdrop of colors and sound to bring attention to your inner being.

8.      LENTO - Living in a slower world.

How does one live in a slower world when all around you is chaos, fast-moving days and nights, and frenetic movements and thoughts running through your head? The answer, of course, is to focus on lovely sounds like the track provides. Its pace and tempo epitomize the term slower. The cello makes an appearance once again to add additional texture and emotion to the keystrokes.

9.      FINGERS TOUCHING - Those first glances, that yearning, and finally a connection.

The human touch is our healer, so it is for many creatures we like to love and comfort. This love story could apply to any number of things—the keys dance in rhythm and in time with a waltz of sweeping emotions. Anticipation leads to satisfaction and the realization of making all the essential connections that are our life force. This track is one of the most beautiful and entrancing on the recording.

10.   LOVE, ME - My valediction to people, places, and events in my life.

The track is the curtain closer on this touching group of tracks and sums up the entire story behind the music for David Wahler. To be validated is a feeling of joy and truth in our lives. It gives us the positive sensations to carry on our chosen path and makes our world right. Everyone in our lives is vital, and the love they surround us with is a precious gift not to be taken for granted. Here, the piano plays like a lullaby that pulls on your heartstrings. Such clarity of thought and emotion set to music needs to be celebrated. It all ends appropriately with gentleness and the feeling of the keys penetrating your soul.

Singular is a masterful collection of music that invites introspection. Each note, each title, serves as a guide on a journey of self-discovery. It is a thought-provoking and absorbing experience, perfect for those who seek a deeper connection with music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 25, 2024

Tracks:

01. Singular (3:06)

02. Lilt (3:44)

03. Love in a Meadow (3:43)

04. Alone (3:42)

05. Olive Branch (3:46)

06. If only…(4:16)

07. Lotus Lake (4:09)

08. Lento (3:30)

09. Fingers Touching (3:45)

10. Love, Me (4:12)