Release Date: July 1, 2024
Label: Independent
It was not just any dream but a profound vision that resonated
deeply with Raphael. The artist felt compelled to act upon this vital message
and create this beautiful recording.
The central theme of this music is Unity, a message that resonates throughout the
album. This music has the power
to transform and inspire us to choose Unity. It is a guiding light and a
powerful messenger, potentially uniting us all.
Raphael Groten and Rebecca Kodis' alignment is a testament to
their musical ability and creativity. Rebecca's violin and vocals add a new
dimension to the music, enriching the overall sound. Will Ackerman at Imaginary
Road Studios' contributions, including Eugene Friesen on cello and Michael
Manring on fretless bass, further enhance the album's depth and complexity. Tom
Eaton's consistent presence in production ties it all together, making this
album a true masterpiece.
The violin's introduction in this album adds a unique texture
and color to Raphael's music, distinguishing it from his previous works. This
beautiful element enhances Raphael's acoustic guitar, creating a harmonious
blend. In the track “Rainbow Tribe,” their performance is seamless, as if it
was all predestined. Each track vividly captures the essence of this album,
making it a must-listen for new-age enthusiasts.
In this specific track, I found it significant that there was an
American Indian reference, and the vocals were a tribal chant. It always brings
me back to how the Native Americans lived and respected the earth and all
living things, providing equal existence and respect for each other and taking
only what they needed. This is the right way to live for all living things.
Unfortunately, we have been on a path of self-destruction for so long with no
regard for these important values and beliefs.
"Good Medicine" follows along that same path, with
Raphael's guitar resonating from beginning to end with extraordinary picking
that sounds very timely. It is so relaxing and calming that you cannot resist
its pull to let it melt away any stress you may be feeling. It can relax the
mind and clear the thoughts that make you anxious. As with meditation, the goal
is to be in the emptiness and just be. Healing of the body, mind, and spirit
can occur in that space. In fact, as usual, all of the tracks provide that kind
of atmosphere one would seek for renewal.
I found "Sleeping Lion" fascinating, a step away from
the norm. Michael Manring's bass leads off the track, and the acoustic guitar
comes in. The sound Manring gets is very different from a typical bass sound.
It is very recognizable to my ears, as I have heard it many times. It can be a
lead instrument with the sounds he coaxes out of it.
There is so much beauty and peace to behold in this music.
Watching Raphael develop over the years has been a true honor. Every release
brings more maturity and gorgeous guitar playing that can be enjoyed.
Unity is one more step that cements Raphael's growing legacy as a
new-age artist who has made his mark and will continue to do so. The
collaboration with Rebecca Kodis showcased his willingness to explore new
avenues. I suggest that he continue on this path, developing his music with
more intricacies and complexities to gather more interest from an ever-widening
and eclectic base of listeners.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Founder
June 23, 2024
Tracks:
01. Feathers 3:16
02. Ease 6:25
03. Rainbow Tribe 5:40
04. Open Hands 5:41
05. Good Medicine 4:37
06. Union 4:07
07. Old Home 3:53
08. Eternal Blossom 5:33
09. Sleeping Lion 4:13
10. Unity 5:37