Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Darlene Koldenhoven-The Grand Piano Spa

Release Date: May 14, 2020

Label: TimeArt Recordings

Website

Pre-Order Special $5 CD until May 14th  

Darlene Koldenhoven is one of those artists that has taken advantage of the virus lock downs. For musicians like her, they take a negative and turn it into a positive by creating music so we all can heal. Of course, everyone has different needs and has been affected by the virus. The one thing we all share in common besides how that event has changed our lives is the reliable source of energy and good vibrations from those who are creative.

Darlene has been on a creative path and an eclectic one at that. This time her release The Grand Piano Spa, will delight those listeners that enjoy the simplicity and directness of solo piano. I think the cover says it all. That makes this release that much more focused and special for the artist and her listeners.

With the two tracks that I have heard so far, I am hearing that classical foundation with a new-age approach and message. This combination has become very popular for piano or a range of keyboard players, in particular. The solitude of one person in front of the ivory keys can be mesmerizing for a listener. I can only speak for myself, however, I am quite sure there are a multitude of individuals all over the planet that find this type of music very enjoyable and a great tool for relaxation or meditation.

For those that need a change or an introduction into this world, The Grand Piano Spa can be the keys to the kingdom. There have been many strong releases over the years that can fall into that category. So, what can make this release any different or special for those of us that hear so much of this type of music? The first thing that comes to mind is your familiarity with the music and the artist presenting it. I know before the first note that 99.9% of the time I am going to love the music before I even hear it. I realize what to expect and many times find gems amongst the tracks that are a nice surprise.

The title itself promotes that feeling or renewing and the light of energy and hope. When one thinks of a spa you can envision how wonderful that can make you feel if you are there and if not, you can use the music to take you there as you relax into that state of mind or meditative focus. Whatever road you choose, the benefits of this music are immediate. A veritable “Spring Dance” will emerge and take you into its arms and give you relief. The relief can take many forms for each person but the reality is that this music is so beautiful and inviting that it’s a process everyone can enjoy on every level of the listening experience.

The Grand Piano Spa and all nine tracks will lift your spirits, provide an opportunity to receive all the positive vibrations of the music provided by this talented woman, Darlene Koldenhoven. I think the singularity of the cover photo provides an immediate sense of peace and an open invitation to what you can find inside the music. That fact alone sets me off on a journey that I am always very grateful for. And if you enjoyed this album there will be a sequel titled The Grand Piano Spa: Legacy.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
February 7, 2021

 Tracks: 

1. Wisteria
2. Into the Light
3. Delphi’s Dream
4. Quiet Read
5. Spring Dance
6. Reverie
7. Soliloquy
8. Clover Fields
9. Simple Life