New Age Vocal Review: Ananta Govinda-Mirror of Desire

Release Date: August 28, 2020

Label: Independent

Website

 

I have heard some very unique spiritual new age music this year. This surely aligns with what a unique year 2020 has been. Using that terminology pretty much sugar coats what kind of experience we have had up until now. It has been a terrible time with a pandemic, civil unrest, wars, fires, tornadoes, and hurricanes, and floods devastating cities everywhere. We are seemingly on the brink of extinction at times. Mother nature is very upset with our mistreatment of her sacred offerings and all living things are paying a price.

With all of this in mind, some artists are responding to all of the pain and suffering with some very good music. One of those artists is Ananta Govinda with his recent release Mirror of Desire. The cover of the album reminds me of the colorful graphic novels that my son got in the early 2000s.

From The Artist Website: Mirror of Desire is 3 part musical journey that is part of a multimedia juggernaut that will see an accompanying book, set for release on Amazon on October 30th, and an immersive show in a 360-degree projection dome, where he is forging new creative styles for combining music and visual storytelling into a groundbreaking presentation (once live events return).

Now, that is exciting and promises to be transformative for anyone that attends. I say that because this kind of spiritual outreach is normally contained in the music and artwork or words to the tracks, this is going to be a memorable experience once it arrives.

From an entirely musical perspective, I enjoyed this recording. I am gradually hearing more new age-related releases with vocals. I do have to say I was not sure at first, and if I could adjust or accept this after many years of strictly instrumental albums. It has been a pleasant experience that I fully embrace and artists such as Ananta Govinda have assisted in bringing me down that road to this destination. That place is acceptance which in turn brings about change and the subsequent growth from that positivity of moving forward.

“Mazes of The Mind” was my favorite track. I felt it symbolized the very essence of this presentation and the vocals and musicality of it all were amazing. It made me smile inside and delivered the necessary message to me swiftly and convincingly. The mind is a complex maze of thoughts and emotions and if you stop and think about how many things that go through it minute by minute, second by second, day by day, it is a wonder. Science tells us we only develop a very small part of our brain while we are alive and as we get older the sharpness of our minds begins to deteriorate. I think the key is to always be learning, thinking, and using our abilities, and then it will continue to grow and expand. Music does help the activity in the cranium and it affects our brains immediately upon listening. For me, it opens the door to possibilities that under normal circumstances would not come to mind.

What I recognized about this album was the different types of music that come to a boil in an all-inclusive melting pot. The styles come at you with a trajectory straight to the heart and mind and with a definitive impact. It touches all of your senses at once. This will make an impression upon anyone that hears it. There is a mixture of pleasing vocal styles, world, jazz, new age, and a meditative essence that takes hold right at the beginning of your listening experience and it gets stronger and clearer with each passing track. Time is of the essence as well with every track ranging from 4 to over 6 minutes except for “Room of Darshan,” clocking in at 2:10 minutes.

There are many contributors to this project and it is one of healing that we all need to hear. Deep down I know the earth and its inhabitants will have a spiritual awakening so we all can heal and take the earth along with us. This is my Mirror of Desire that I pray will become our reality. This kind of music is a reminder from whence we came. It touches our inner being and brings about positive thinking and a desire to translate that through the music to all the people you come into contact with. After all, we all want the same thing, and, in the end, music is another tool to get us all there.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
September 4, 2020

Track List:
1. Mirror of Desire (5:44)
2. Self Writing Book (feat. Indubious) (4:18)
3. Golden Goddess (feat. Will Calhoun) (5:48)
4. Mazes of the Mind (feat. Lili Haydn)(4:24)
5. Onto the Timelessness (5:02)
6. River of Time (feat. Pierre Edel) (4:16)
7. Room of Darshan (2:10)
8. Mantras of Paradesha (6:38)

Contemporary Instrumental New Age Review: Chris Field-Beneath The Sun

Label: Tosca Road
Release Date: September 4, 2020 
Website

Chris Field has a name in the music industry for his cinematic instrumental music in some well know music trailers. Now for his second full-length release Beneath The Sun, he continues to create instrumental music that is energizing, beautiful, and incredibly mesmerizing. I would describe it as contemporary instrumental and new age.

The epic tone of the opening track “Time Will Tell” features the beauty and the impressive rising energy of his compositions. I can tell from the very first track why he has made a name for himself with many well-known movie trailers.

Beneath The Sun will most certainly show the diversity and all-around talent this artist commands. Chris produced, composed, and performed all the music except for the Ethnic wind instrument that is credited to Sandro Friedrich on the inner CD sleeve. With all of this considered, there is a lot to listen to in each track presented.

“From The Heart” is what I say all music comes from and I like to write about it the same way. The song starts as a true cinematic adventure. I could picture some footage of a beautiful sunset or the peak of a majestic snow-capped mountain top. That is the advantage of music such as this, it allows you to encapsulate your entire being while letting your imagination take over. Watching a movie of your own making prompted by music is a beautiful thing. It is truly a gift.

The combination of instruments and effects utilized gives each track its personality and atmosphere. I certainly appreciate the diversity offered from track to track so it kept my ears glues to the speakers, wondering what was coming next. Take “Summerland” for instance, it is a total step away from the previous tracks with and a modern funky beat, jazzy keyboards, and beautifully layered orchestrations for all that to glide along on like a musical magic carpet. It was one of my favorites and it had a great rhythm and movement to it all. I could picture Times Square in NYC with all the people walking in the streets and traffic buzzing by. If you have been there pre-virus times you would understand what I mean.

Beneath The Sun is a cinematic new age instrumental recording coming from the basic foundation of classical with elements of jazz and funk peppered in between, depending on what track you are listening to. This music continually builds and evolves, which makes Chris a multitalented artist with a true vision within each track.

“Eucalyptus” is a slower-paced track with a kind of sadness to it. Like watching the story of a child growing up, going to college, getting a job, then starting a family. There is joy in watching that progression but if you are a parent, you long for the days when the children were little again and life revolved around them and all the joy that brought.

These are the ever-changing tides of life in the music. It is altogether exciting, energizing, picturesque, beautiful, and more importantly entertaining. The title track “Beneath The Sun” was effortlessly flowing and it pulled on my heartstrings so much I had to select it for my NAMR Spotify Playlist. I particularly enjoyed the guitar passages and the way the keyboards were layered and how it all moved together effortlessly. It was a ray of sunshine for this listener and very inspiring. “The Prophet” was also very uplifting and positive, it gave me a good injection of high energy and optimism, like knowing you can conquer anything that comes your way in life.

Beneath The Sun is an absolute joy of sounds, colors, and textures that any music appreciator could enjoy. For music without words, it says a lot about who we are and how creative and wonderful music can be and how it pushes a listener to places that can only be reached with its help. This can be a soundtrack to your life, a movie, or simply an incredible listening experience that you will never forget.

Remember the name Chris Field, and his masterful instrumental collection of songs titled Beneath The Sun!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder
July 26, 2020

Track List:
01. Time Will Tell
02. Metamorphosis
03. From The Heart
04. Summerland
05. Eucalyptus
06. Beneath The Sun
07. Interlude
08. The Prophet
09. The Vision
10. The Journey
11. In Motion

 

THE FINAL ON VINYL REVIEW: Howard Givens & Craig Padilla-The Bodhi Mantra

Release Date: June 26, 2020

Label: Spotted Peccary Music

Website

The Bodhi Mantra was a real treat for this addicted vinyl collector. The fact that I love to hear music on vinyl is the driving force behind this addiction. So, I am thinking, when can addiction be a good thing? Ok, I thought for a minute, when the music makes you happy and the vinyl is a beautiful teal and blue splatter and looks very cool when you hold it up to the light. There is my justification. I’m sold- But seriously…

Howard Givens & Craig Padilla unveiled their third release in June this year and it is an instrumental blessing of sound and textures. A little bit of history is good to know before you listen to this immersive slice of vinyl. The artists use analog, digital, and modular keys and synths to create their multitude of sounds and spiritually with an exceptionally enlightened approach. This version of The Bodhi Mantra is a deluxe 140-gram 12" vinyl record pressed on teal and blue splatter colored vinyl with a premium polylined sleeve and color insert.

I pulled this info off the artist Bandcamp page to give more meaning to the album title: Bodhi is a Sanskrit word translated as “enlightenment” or “awakening” which relates to a Buddhist concept of spiritual awareness, wherein Bodhi is synonymous with the state of nirvana - being freed from hate, greed, and ego or the unenlightened identity. The Mantra is the musical expression of this serene offering.

That certainly puts things into proper perspective from where I sit. I am interested in comparative religion and have a fascination with the ancient healing arts and all the music these enlightened musicians create. On the other side of all that for the listener that is not seeking any particular path of enlightenment and has a desire to hear some wonderful ambient new age sounds, this is a great listen. There can be a multitude of purposes for music like this. I happen to look at every aspect possible like the album art, the inner sleeve that comes with this album, the credits, the equipment used, and the color of the vinyl, and finally, the all-important sound.

The first side offers one track titled “Prana” which clocks in at 13:01. The mellow and immersive sounds gradually relax you and the tones, wavelengths, colors, and textures go through some changes during the time that fills over 13 minutes. It sets you up for side two which is more complex.

“Serenity, the Peaceful Place” runs for 9:29 and it is perfectly titled. It says it all giving the listener an imaginary comfy chair in your mind's eye to slide right into a melt into the music. The sounds are an invitation to reach down in an explore your soul and find the truth. Our daily lives are so fast and busy that we stop only because of mental or physical exhaustion, or both. This is time to unwind and heal, to recharge those batteries so your inner light can shine again.

“Leaving Behind the Now” runs for 18:50 and it is their ultimate track to close the curtain on their synthesized delights. I find myself thinking of legendary performers such as Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream. I reference these two bands frequently when I hear music that flips that switch inside me. This track did right away and even though it was nearly 19 minutes long I did not want it to end! It just kept getting better as it progressed with the different layers of keys. It starts as a small quiet stream of water then gradually builds to a mountain full of sound. Some of the stronger heavier sounds got the Tangerine Dream thing happening for me.

This was an album that was an awakening to two very talented artists sharing their path with the world. Music, good music, has the power to do that. Do not miss out on The Bodhi Mantra.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder

August 31, 2020

Tracks:
Side One:
1. Prana 13:01
    
Side Two:
2.Serenity, the Peaceful Place 09:29
3.Leaving Behind the Now 18:50
 

New Age-World-Meditation Review: Yuval Ron-Four Divine States Of Mind

Release Date: June 24, 2020

Label: Metta Mindfulness Music

Website

This album is dedicated to the children who will grow up to embody the Four Divine States of Mind. This thought process and music were released by Yuval Ron, a respected and accomplished musician. He is the producer, and the executive producer is Dr. Richard Gold, a person steeped in the ancient healing arts. The combination of those two men makes for a powerful presentation of recorded music.
 
The recording consists of four extensive tracks that can be considered as meditation, new age, world, and a path to enlightenment through sacred chanting. I understand that this is dedicated to the children and most certainly a good place to start because someday those kids will be adults passing on their knowledge to their children. This is a cycle for generations to follow and if it can truly happen, the world will be changed for the better forever. It is going to take a long time but what better time to start than now with all of the unrest and difficulties everywhere you turn?

“Compassion” is the lead-off track and it is what the world needs now so desperately. Estrella Morente, Deva Premal, Uyanga Bold, and Chloe Pourmorady are featured along with the stellar musicianship of Yuval Ron. And most importantly, the vocals are incredibly beautiful, all accentuated by a children's choir. This makes total sense to draw in the children to some of their own following the path and singing to this very spiritual music. This is the very first track and it sets the table for what is to follow.

It is important for any recording to start strong with a firm message when you are creating a message so significant and one that young minds will absorb and take to heart. I think this is a brilliant way to send the right communication. I know many children will not understand the words but all the feeling, atmosphere, and spirituality is very evident while listening. The world element is strong because of the vocals and there is a lot of musicianship that points in that direction as well. It comes together very nicely and the musicality is quite appropriate and mesmerizing I must say.

Four Divine States of Mind is a labor of love two years in the making. The care and love that went into this production became very apparent to me readily while listening. I was drawn in quickly. With other genres of music, if it is in a different language, I steer away from it. When it comes to new age releases such as this, I welcome it with an open heart and mind. I know there are going to be many things that intrigue me musically and when it comes down to purpose, that is what is the main attraction. I would think it will work the same way for any astute new age, world, or meditation listener looking for all of the things that are on the same path this all leads to or the assistance they need to get there. This music will lead you there one way or another.

The beauty of the music and message are the same. Four Divine States of Mind merges many elements to create art, music, and spirituality all in one package. I would recommend this for meditation or relaxation, either way, it does its magic with ease.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
August 27, 2020

Track List:
1. Loving Kindness (Metta) 12:56 (vocals by Chloe Pourmorady)
2. Compassion (Karuna) 11:47 (vocals by Estrella Morente)
3. Vicarious Joy (Mudita) 14:34 (vocals by Deva Premal)
4. Equanimity (Upekkha) 14:36 (vocals by Uyanga Bold)

New Age Review: Sangeeta Kaur- Illuminance

Release Date: August 28, 2020

Label: Domo

Website

This will be the fourth album I have had the opportunity to hear from new age artist Sangeeta Kaur. Illuminance is her first official label release with Domo. What is significant about that it is on legendary performer Kitaro’s label. I remember the first time I heard Kitaro and I loved it. Since that time a lot has happened and changed however the one thing that never changes for me is the incredible healing power of music. In fact, it is music like the kind that Sangeeta has been releasing for many years now that leaves a lasting impression.

Peter Kater is on the piano making the album very special for her and the listeners who are familiar with Peter’s work. They both have been fans of each other’s work and it was kismet that they finally met and collaborated. Peter’s piano is quite the compliment to her gorgeous vocals and vocalizations (singing without words).

Sangeeta said: So, for me, these songs are meant to remind us of our strength and of our pure bright light within. It is this light that can help us overcome anything.

That statement is from the heart and soul of a true artisan following her path straight and true. I can hope that the world will begin to change and see the inner light that is in all of us and transcend from these hard times and evolve into a strong and resilient world community. Music that you hear on Illuminance will resonate with those seeking the light, those that have it, and then finally those that want to share it, like Sangeeta.

Sangeeta’s classical opera experience is her greatest asset on this recording particularly when she is vocalizing without words. Honestly, I found it all so soothing and her tone and delivery were simply angelic. “Light of Love” is one of the examples that shows the immense talent she commands with the most important instrument on the album, her vocals. She dubs this kind of music as Mantra Opera however it stretches even further into other areas of sounds, theatrical elements, and even a bit of jazz at times. It is a diverse array of sound, color, and an overall musical kaleidoscope led by an amazing voice that floats over the music so effortlessly.
 
Illuminance glides the listener on a cloud of hope, inspiration, beauty, and a touch of heaven and spirituality that will touch you with a firm but gentle purpose. So as Sangeeta sings “Come Find Me,” it sounds like an invitation and it instantly pulls you in to listen to something you will never forget.

When new age artists collaborate, it is always a memorable experience because they are coming from the same place with the same goal in mind. Whoever you are and whatever you are looking for, this music will clear a busy mind, relax a tense body, and calm a troubled soul. The healing powers become evident immediately as you begin your journey of Illuminance with Sangeeta Kaur.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
August 24, 2020 

Track List:
01. All My Love
02. Illuminance
03. Worlds Collide
04. Light of Love
05. Path of Light
06. Come and Find Me
07. Supernova
08. Stardust
09. Dedication

Instrumental Classical-New Age Review: Terry Lee Nichols-The Pale Blue Dot

Release Date: August, 3, 2020

Label: Soundscape Productions

Website

The more you read about Terry Lee Nichols and his release The Pale Blue Dot the more interesting and intriguing it becomes. I have also had a fascination for space exploration and was reading astronomy books at a very young age. After looking at all the notes provided with this release, I anticipated an amazing aural ride through the cosmos. As it turned out that is exactly what I experienced.

On February 14, 1990, NASA's Voyager 1 probe snapped a photo of Earth from 3.7 billion miles (6 billion kilometers) away which was referred to as The Pale Blue Dot. There was a lot of excitement about all this and the music you will hear on this recording is as cinematic and beautiful as you would expect. It is about the voyage, the vastness of space, and the fact that here on earth we look like a lonely planet inside an endless universe of solar systems and galaxies. 

The one I track I decided was my favorite and I added to my New Age Music Reviews Spotify Playlist was “Asteroids.” It is a lovely track filled with the foundation of classical piano and the sounds of space ending with whooshing and powerful sounds of an asteroid passing by.

I loved this on Terry’s website page where there is a media player to stream the entire album…

Mission Statement: In The Pale Blue Dot, I try to provide resonance to our ever-growing knowledge of who we are, where we came from, and what may help life on this planet continue well into the future. The language used is intended to celebrate scientific achievement in a way that fosters spiritual revelation, examines the social fabric of our species, and provides hope for our future.

That is a very prolific and meaningful thought process and the motivation behind this cinematic and thought-provoking (mostly) instrumental voyage through the stars.

“East of Eden (feat. Rebekah Eden)” is a gorgeous track with the addition of Rebekah Eden’s wordless vocals which serves as an added instrument. This is the story of Cain and Able. According to the book of Genesis, they were the first two humans born. Cain murdered Able, making him the first to die. Of course, there are more details to the storyline and the track is one of many shining moments on the recording.

Terry Lee’s piano playing is exquisite throughout in The Pale Blue Dot along with many layers of keyboards, sounds, and effects that complete each track and make it a full experience to reflect each title.

“Memories of Love” is a very touching song and when you see the accompanying picture on the media player it will melt your heart. On the other side of that, there is the absolute truth about “Global Warming,” which hits you hard when you see the picture of the melting and steaming earth. This is a scientific fact so don’t let the politicians in Washington ignoring this and saying it is not true or a hoax fool you. I think that most people with any sense of reality can see this happening with all the natural disasters across the globe. It is an epic track, to say the least, and yet another wake-up call. So, when we will ever wake up before it's gone too far and we commit genocide of the human race and all its inhabitants? It is a hard thing to watch knowing what the ultimate end will be if we do not take action and make it our priority. I do not want to see my grandkids going to Mars to live under a dome and our blue globe turning into a massive desert.

“The Pale Blue Dot (Train to Dachau Redux)” ends significantly with the voices of people from around the world. The solo narrative holds impact and truth based on the realities that we face and have always since our existence. And Carl Sagan says, it is “the only home we have ever known.” We should cherish, respect it, and take care of it for our future generations. The future is now, we are living it. Sometimes it takes a message like this to sink in and hit home and some incredibly moving music to push it all one step further. All things considered; The Pale Blue Dot is one of the most important releases of 2020.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
August 21, 2020

Track List:
01. In the Beginning... (Quantum Fluctuations)    
02. Cosmic Dark Ages    
03. First Stars    
04. Stardust (Clouds of Gas and Dust) [feat. Rebekah Eden]
05. Asteroids    
06. The Cambrian Explosion    
07. East of Eden (feat. Rebekah Eden)
08. Child's Play
09. Memories of Love    
10. Global Warming
11. The Pale Blue Dot (Train to Dachau Redux)

Podcast Interview: Suzanne Doucet Interview With The Final On Vinyl