"Quantum Gates" Is The Latest Album From Progressive Electronic Artist Stefan Elefteriu

 

The latest album from Stefan Elefteriu steps into uncommon ground. Traveling through realms of progressive, electronic and rock, Stefan's vision is truly vibrant in 'Quantum Gates'. Starting his journey building his own synths in Communist Romania, Stefan's journey advanced when he scored a science fiction film and created the new album. Armed with skills as a classical composer, keyboard player, violinist and a cinematic story-teller, Stefan's talent is showcased through instrumental complexity and imagination, 

Stefan stated that the release is best described as, "Twelve portals open to twelve different worlds awaiting discovery through imagination, fantasy and feelings... Go beyond the Quantum Gates and, with each re-listening, you will perceive new territories of musical expression. Let the evolution and permanent dialogue of the melodic lines - based on symphonic counterpoint - take you through a new multidimensional sound universe."

A journey into outer space, this album calls for your full attention and it certainly will take hold of it. Not only a musical experience, this captivating release will talk hold of other senses.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StefanElefteriuMusic 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/stefanelefteriu  

Website: https://www.stefansound.com/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/stefan_sound 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3uXquOCFBiGsuy2W5V90hh?si=5OxW-6VnRiSKQqqkDcv6-Q Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2rXwyOWkt9kqfD3KZtRWFQ 

Instrumental New Age Review: Eric Bikales-Mandala

Release Date: January 9, 2021

Label: Independent

Website

Eric Bikales is ringing in the new year with his album Mandala. He is an established artist that restarted his recording career after several years in music and video production. He moved to Tennessee and found peace and re-engagement with his true paths in the music industry. He now concentrates on helping others in music by creating online courses for the Academy of Art in San Francisco and playing the piano and bringing new age world his music.

For the folks that may not know what a Mandala is, here is the description I found on Wikipedia:

In New Age, the mandala is a diagram, chart, or geometric pattern that represents the cosmos metaphysically or symbolically; a time-microcosm of the universe, but it was originally meant to represent wholeness and a model for the organizational structure of life itself.

I have to admit the artwork is very eye-catching on the album cover. I find it similar to a tapestry and the combination of orange and blue always works. It is arranged like yin and yang. Two forces interdependent and becoming one within the music. I can assure you; Eric makes it all come together properly on Mandala.

Mandala is incredibly relaxing and pleasant music to take in. The combination of piano, synths, flute, and other ambient and spacey sounds that are generated to give more layers to the music, will have you looking more intently at the titles of the tracks. This is a key component to this experience and an all-encompassing experience it is.

What you will observe are the 12 commandments of a new age being ushered in by a gifted and spiritually enlightened musician. After looking at the track listing all I could think of was god at the top of the mountain with the 10 commandments. Yes, this is spiritual music in every way not religious. It is a point that came to me, and as I have said many times, different people have varying touch points and things that click for them. This is a good thing; it allows the music to be seen through several different lenses of humanity.

Mandala is engaging and each track is different utilizing an array of changes in flow, instruments, and computer-generated sounds that all interconnect to make beautiful music. Every part has its place and every sound falls together quite nicely.

“Resourcefulness” is a fine example of how one musician can have the ability to do so much in one song. I found it to be one of the most different tracks from all the others. It was the one out on the fringes that is undefinable, giving you something entirely different to show the all-around talent and eclectic approach being taken by this artist. I truly appreciate that kind of change in an album. If you are meditating with this music this may take you off course however if you are well focused and, in the zone, it will be a stop along the way to put a different spin on your frame of mind.

In the end, what Mandala does is take you to different places in the musical spectrum thus your listening space will shift along with that. I found it highly entertaining and I was very appreciative of the range of talent that Eric Bikales has on display in this inviting release. It is a nice reprieve from the day and something to look forward to and you are guaranteed to find “Serenity” as the curtain closes on this experience.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
December 14, 2020

Track List:

01. Generosity
02. Kindness
03. Honesty
04. Love
05. Compassion
06. Charity
07. Forgiveness
08. Devotion
09. Resourcefulness
10. Humility
11. Respect
12. Serenity

Instrumental World Review: Marla Leigh-Rhythms Of TOF Miriam

Release Date: May 15, 2020

Label: Independent

Website

Marla Leigh is one of the few female professional frame drummers in the world. She is all about helping people to find an alternative mindset, and her music puts you in that state of change readily.

Rhythms of Tof Miriam was recorded in Israel and is her debut album and music video. Based on what I saw on her website, Marla has quite a presence in the world and is very busy with a number of things that relate to a healthier mind, body, and soul. With that thought, it brings you to the conclusion that a healthier and happy life through her teachings and incredible world instrumental music is possible.

Marla went to an ancient, sacred land to record this album and made it all the more appropriate by introducing equally timeless instruments to accompany her on the frame drum.

Marla’s Bandcamp Notes: At its core, Rhythms of Tof Miriam is about staying positive through challenging times by using the universal language of rhythm to help us rediscover our genuine connections.

I think that is a very true statement. The rhythm of life is the key component that inspires the creativity of this music. I found it very enjoyable and quite fascinating, in fact magical. There are many tracks that I felt in sync with. “Desert Prophecy” made me feel I was there in Israel with her on that mountaintop, watching her play. This music is not only rhythmic, it is spiritual, original, and meditative. I made it a priority to list the credits in this review, so that listeners can identify, or try to pick out, which instruments are being played besides the frame drum.

Marla also plays the flute on one of my favorite tracks, “Awakening.” In a manner of speaking, as well as in a literal sense, it will be an awakening for many of the listeners. This could happen without seeking anything in particular or anticipating any result. I believe this is a process that can be as natural and flowing as the music you are hearing. Personally, I just let it happen: I accept the invitation and let the music take me away, and, even though I never know what mind space it will put me in, I trust it implicitly. Everyone is different, so some people will relate and others will not and will have different approaches to the music. In the end, the result will always be positive; when the music ends, you will know you’ve just had an experience that you will not forget.

The combinations of the instruments are mystical and breathtaking. I think the use of the flute and drums Marla employs is superb, along with the mixture of the other instruments. “Dawn of Truth (Flute Savasana)” is the longest track, coming in at 9:08. The atmosphere and textures are beautiful and it draws you in deeper and deeper. It is the track that has everything, and the length of the song was needed so all the instruments could breathe and build in the track as it continued to evolve. This of course would be perfect for meditation and falls right in line with that particular process.

Rhythms of Tof Miriam is an excellent example of world instrumental music with varying degrees of intensity that mirror the changing tides of human emotion. It is indeed the rhythms that make this so appealing. The drum serves as the heartbeat of the tracks and everything else is like the blood of life flowing through your veins. Let it flow!

Credits:

Marla Leigh: Percussion (all songs but Track 8), Flute (Tracks 2, 6)

|Yair Dalal: Oud (Tracks 1, 7)

Meira Segal: Ney (Tracks 1, 4, 7)

Shahar Kaufman: Mandol (Track 3)

Ori Werner: Kimenche (Track 3)

Gavriel Fiske: Frame Drum + Riq (Tracks 3, 7)

Leat Sabbah: Cello (Track 8)

Oren Tsor: Violin + Viola (Track 8)

 
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder

December 10, 2020

Track List:
1. Rhythms of Tof Miriam 06:10
2. Awakening 03:47
3. Longing 03:47
4. Desert Prophecy 03:57
5. Miriam's Well 03:06
6. Dawn of Truth (Flute Savasana) 09:08
7. Rhythms of Tof Miriam (extended version) 07:02
8. Ahava Abba (bonus track) 03:55

Howard Givens Interview With The Final On Vinyl

This was a wonderful experience speaking to Howard Givens, an amazing man does that simply does it all in the music industry. Listen for some great insight into the process of making music!

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Michele McLaughlin- Sketches

Release Date: December 4, 2020

Label: Independent

Website

Michele McLaughlin just released her latest studio album Sketches just a few days ago. These are musical sketches created on a blank canvas and improvised on the first take. That sounds like it was quite a challenge however I believe this talented lady would be ready for a challenge. One listen will advise you that she was.

Michele Commented: Several of the songs were completely improvised during the recording process for this album and several were inspired by my “Monday Morning Improvisations.”

I had previously enjoyed the last three releases from Michele and would anticipate nothing but excellence. To anticipate with music at times can end in disappointment but I must stress that has never happened with this artist. Michele is smooth, precise, and she articulates her compositions clearly and crisply which can easily reach a listener.

“One Life” caught me with just the name and then the music was absolutely beautiful and fitting. It filled me with gratitude for the life I have. It also made me ponder the possibilities of having more than one opportunity to have a physical presence here on earth. Possibilities, I love that word and what it means. Michele uses her imagination and digs down deep into her soul to create this spontaneous group of tracks she calls Sketches. Look at the many colors of the piano keys on the cover of the album and it gives you some insight into what she is presenting for her listening audience.

I am taken with the simplicity and clarity of all the tracks on Sketches. The emotion for instance on “The Right Choice,” is remarkably real and touching. Michele is so gifted to be able to release such an amazing recording, and the way it was done makes it that much more incredible. My appreciation for true art runs deep and this is something that moved me for all of the reasons I have mentioned.

I could never properly express in enough words the impact of such a recording as this. It humbles me and reminds me that what I do is my way of giving back to all the artists that share their talents and incredible music with us. I am one voice of hundreds that likely feel the same way about this music.

There is joy, beauty, and sadness that are all tied into this music. The human condition is no stranger to the accompaniment of music, it has gone on for centuries. There has to be something conveyed to a relatable audience. I know that this is more difficult when you are listening to music without words. If the music has enough power and emotion then any barriers will come down and the need for lyrics melts away as you, the listener, melt into every track, becoming one with the artist and the sounds being created.

The majesty of a track like “Lost,” cannot be understated. The piano says come listen to me now! This is how music paints a picture for you with a memorable impact.

The musical Sketches created by the artist then in your mind will come to life in seconds. This is a masterful display of musical virtuosity and undeniable talent. Michele McLaughlin reaches for the stars on this group of tracks and now you can find your star by just listening. She is indeed “Unshakeable” and always has been.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews
December 8, 2020

Instrumental Meditation Review: Ivan Valles-Meditation Music 4: Deep Theta

Release Date: December 4, 2020

Label: Musical Spa

Website

Before listening to meditation music do you ask yourself a series of questions to justify it or does happen with the natural flow of the day? That is the way I have always looked at life when doing certain things. Things do change as time passes; I still do that in some instances especially on my day job. I have to constantly ask myself “What is the most important thing you can do right now?”

With music things are much different. It has become a matter of fact part of my life that I enter into naturally without much thought. So, looking at that from my perspective, that is healthy and good for my mental and spiritual wellbeing. Music, any music, is a spiritual journey for me.  

Music like what you will find on the new Ivan Valles recording Meditation Music 4: Deep Theta could easily become a quintessential part of any day. Many of us need this kind of music to unwind from the day, clear our minds, and get into that space or time capsule if you will and experience a different kind of existence. It is a dimension of peace and can be a spiritual center for many listeners. I know meditation is a discipline, at first it is, then it becomes something you look forward to, kind of like a daily workout, you do it because it gives you good energy and a sense of accomplishment. Music pulls you into a nonphysical space and allows you to focus on mind, body and spirit. This is the core of who we are and it brings us home. I think it can be a glimpse of what our existence will be once we leave our physical bodies.

So, what will one find taking in the sixteen tracks on Meditation Music 4: Deep Theta. First of all, what is Deep Theta? I know many people that are reading this right now know exactly what that is but for those who do not here is some info to explain the difference between different types of music that engages different states of mind…

Theta brainwaves occur most often in sleep but are also dominant in deep meditation. Theta is our gateway to learning, memory, and intuition. ... In theta we are in a dream; vivid imagery, intuition and information beyond our normal conscious awareness.

Starting at the age of eleven years on the piano to present day through Musical Spa, Ivan Valles has had over 30,000 albums sold, 170,000 song downloads, and 78 million streams. And certainly, that number will exponentially rise.

Based on that information it certainly sounds like it can be a very healing and enlightening experience. This fourth volume of meditation music from Ivan Valles should get you to that deep state of awareness and healing. Think of it as the portal into the soul, our dreams, it is similar to that. Different things are presented to us in our dreams, such as answers to questions, a look into the future or a warning, it is up to us whether or not we take the guidance. This is what this music is, a guide to reach a certain point of consciousness. It is very light and ambient and it gently invites you in and once you are fully relaxed it will sweep you away naturally, it will happen when you have accepted the path and have the full desire to get to that state of mind.

Along the way while listening to these tracks, you will hear sounds of nature folded into the music. After all, it would not be complete without adding the natural sounds we know and love. Those are sounds that touch our inner soul, our humanity and our distinctive connection with Mother Earth.

Meditation Music 4: Deep Theta  is the teacher and you are the student but you become the master of your destiny by accepting the invitation to another realm of thought and being. It works beautifully if you let it. Think of the music as your magic carpet ride to new and fulfilling destinations. That is the promise of this beautiful journey with the music of Ivan Valles, who holds the key to unlock that doorway.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Review
September 21, 2020

Track List:
01. Sunrise
02. Breathe
03. Inner Balance
04. Lotus
05. Mindfulness
06. Love and Kindness
07. Reflections
08. Seeds of Wisdom
09. Soothing Vibrations
10. Equilibrium
11. Searching for Paradise
12. Intuition
13. Namaste
14. Into the Light
15. Ocean Dreams
16. Warm Embrace

Instrumental New Age-World Review: Bodhi-Deep Dream-Shamanic Flute Journeys

Release Date: November 1, 2020

Label: Independent

Website

Deep Dream is my first Shamanic Flute Journey with Bodhi. This prolific artisan has 14 albums available at Bandcamp. I did notice he is offering all the albums in one package at 20% off right now if anyone has an interest. I thought that fact was noteworthy and he deserves attention to his recorded works.

Bodhi Setchko (Flutes, Keyboards, Bells, Chimes, Charango, Guitar, and Drum), Christopher Krotky (Drums, Drum programming), Jen Rund (Bass), and Spencer Nielson (Didgeridoo) are the vital combination of talent and spirituality that is the focus of Deep Dream.

The first and title track “Deep Dream,” got me engaged and attentive immediately. The mystical sound of Bodhi’s flute and the subtle drone of the Didgeridoo was very mesmerizing as well. That ancient instrument can sound like a worker bee just buzzing and inviting you to the center of the hive where everything is happening. That is what I felt and envisioned after just one track. I immediately added it to my New Age Music Reviews Spotify Playlist. I feel honored to have this opportunity to hear this music and provide my input so I am returning the good karma.

It comes as no surprise that Bodhi has been working with sound meditation, sound healing, and sacred sound journeys for over 40 years. Around the globe, his music is used in yoga studios, health spas, and health practitioners’ offices. I can understand the therapeutic effect this blessed music can have, experiencing it first hand is the best way to be able to convey your interpretation or simply use it for meditation, relaxation, or listening enjoyment and let those in your circle, or should I say bubble these days, take their journey and decide how it works for them.

The beautiful combination of the flute, drums, sounds of nature, bells, keyboards, guitar, bass, etc. is what makes this music so exceptional and alluring. Having that present drone to focus on for meditative purposes is helpful. Once focus is attained then it becomes natural to let all the colors, textures, and amazing sounds permeate your soul.

Whether it’s the sounds of crickets or water it fits so well with what they are presenting. This is very complex to put all of this together for it to make sense and have the ability to pull you in. This process will allow you to open that portal to your mind, body, and spirit for the complete audio experience Bodhi and his band members are offering you.

The shortest track is “Behind The Buddha,” clocking in at 6:34 and the longest is “Gathering Dawn” at 9:55. This gives each listener ample time to settle in and utilize the therapeutic tools on offer. If you are a novice or old pro at meditation, or you can get in focus readily or it takes you some time, Deep Dream will serve you well.

Congratulations to Bodhi and the band for making an incredible album and presenting such a wonderful gift to humanity. I think that puts it all into proper perspective.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
November 30, 2020

Track List:
1. Deep Dream 08:57
2. Gathering Dawn 09:55   
3. Every Breath 08:05
4. Desert Canvas 09:54
5. Alone 07:30
6. Surrounding Mountains 07:14
7. Waves Of Color 09:26
8. Behind The Buddha 06:34
9. Purple Shadows 08:24