New Age Music Review and Interview: The Living Earth Show and Danny Clay-Music For Hard Times

Release Date: January 18, 2022

Label:  ‎Earthy Records

Websites https://www.dclaymusic.com

https://tles.bandcamp.com/album/music-for-hard-times

This is the first time I have ever heard music referred to as “calming strategies.” It is an excellent way to look at what The Living Earth Show and Danny Clay present on their recently released Music For Hard Times.

The hard times we have endured going into the third year of a pandemic forces everyone to pivot and rethink everything. Things we took for granted, visiting with loved ones, going to a crowded mall, participating or going to a sporting event, or how we will work to secure income are some of the many aspects of daily life we did not have to ponder a few years ago. All of it is very complex. It seems like we live in a science fiction movie, but it’s all true.

I am one of the fortunate souls the did not get sick or lose my job. However, I remain cautious and think entirely differently, with more discipline. Lord knows there are enough things to approach with that mindset, and music removes all of those barriers. Music cannot get me sick or hurt me in any way. It is suitable for me regardless of when I decide to listen to it.

The music is composed in a book style with 15 parts with a contemporary chamber duo. And to encapsulate this recording, I would say it’s an effective combination of genres grounded in a new age foundation with ambient, electronic, and meditation elements. It is a very ambitious project with many moving parts and talents combined to make it a reality.

Important Information Direct From The Artist: Recorded in isolation and compiled and edited by Clay, Music for Hard Times exists in two parts. Book 1 was recorded in April 2020 in the homes of guitarist Travis Andrews and percussionist Andy Meyerson of The Living Earth Show using instruments, voices, field recordings, and found objects. Book 2 was recorded in 2021 and includes young musicians from the San Francisco Girls Chorus – led by Valerie Sainte-Agathe – and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, led by Edwin Outwater.

As a listener who respects the music and appreciates what is involved in creating it, I would say that the presentation here is essential. Any theme is great to hear in good times or bad. The significant difference with a project like Music For Hard Times is how it can help heal any soul seeking some comfort from something other than a physical or inanimate. Music is about detaching from anything in our world that you can touch, taste, or feel. It is aural bliss with many different sounds and layers to accomplish the result, a listening experience that will make you feel better than when you started. And once it is complete, you will remember that it is a tool to get back into that space again.

NOTE: The interview provided is very organic and posted as is. We had tech issues and lost the call however we collectively decided to go with it as it was recorded.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
January 30, 2022 

Tracks:
01. Book 1 - Part 1
02. Book 1 - Part 2
03. Book 1 - Part 3
04. Book 1 - Part 4
05. Book 1 - Part 5
06. Book 1 - Part 6
07. Book 1 - Part 7
08. Book 1 - Part 8
09. Book 2 - Part 1
10. Book 2 - Part 2
11. Book 2 - Part 3
12. Book 2 - Part 4
13. Book 2 - Part 5
14. Book 2 - Part 6
15. Book 2 - Epilogue

Featured Track: Moonstone-Al Jewer & Andy Mitran

Al Jewer & Andy Mitran return on January 27th of the new year with their follow up to "Emerald," titled "Moonstone."

As they continue with the concept of gemstones, so do their gorgeous soundtracks to emulate the perfect beauty of the stone celebration.  

Once again, Hans Christian delivers fretless bass and cello performances to enhance the track, giving depth and soul and the meditative, ethereal atmospheres provided.

When listening to "Moonstone," I felt like I was taking a journey into a distant land to discover a long-lost treasure. That treasure could be identified in many ways, finding the solitude, peace, or deliverance of a spiritual awakening.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

https://aljewer-andymitran.bandcamp.com/track/moonstone

For access to our other recordings go to www.aljewer-andymitran.bandcamp.com

 

Track Feature: HARGO -From The Rooftops

We all need inspiration and hope. And we most definitely need it now! Every day just a little positive energy coming from some source can help us all. HARGO delivers all of that energy and light on the track "From The Rooftops."

The track is a formulation of a new age foundation with elements of world and pop intermingled to satisfy any music lover.

Yes, it is simple as that. Music transcends all, creating unification of mind, body, and spirit with all living beings.

The bass is prominent, which drives the song along, and the sitar gives it that world feeling.

"From The Rooftops" is a track you will want to hear more than once; I can guarantee that. It is a global track for all walks of life to enjoy and celebrate!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

 

More About HARGO: https://hargomusic.com

Hargo Khalsa – aka Hargo – is a producer & singer/songwriter known for his mind expanding music, soul-centered message. His sound is as diverse as his background… raised a Sikh in a yoga Ashram bordering a Native American reservation in New Mexico.

His 2012 debut Out of Mankind was hailed by Billboard Magazine and American Songwriter as "mesmerizing", "anthemic" and "thinking-man's Rock", catching the attention of Beatles producer Phil Spector who dubbed him "a Young John Lennon" during their 2007 collaboration on Hargo song "Crying for John Lennon”.  READ MORE

Ambient Instrumental-New Age: Phillip Wilkerson & Chris Russell-Dark Measure

Release Date: December 10, 2021

Label:  Spotted Peccary

Website

Dark Measures is the release that follows the 2014 recording Vague Traces.

Getting the perspective from one half of Phillip Wilkerson & Chris Russell, Phillip reflects…"All my music comes from a meditative and contemplative place within awareness and presence," reflects Wilkerson. "I don't necessarily feel like I create music, but rather music is created through me by releasing my consciousness and willful direction of the music and just letting it flow through the channel of open awareness. Attempting to put the process into words feels like a disservice to how it actually happens."

So how does one put all of that introspection into each track on Dark Measures? I certainly have no clue; however, I can say that it is similar to my listening experiences. To put into my perspective as the intent listener is what I endeavor to do for a listening audience.

Ambient electronic music is fascinating to me. It is like watching an artist paint on a blank canvas then create a masterpiece of audible colors, textures, atmospheres, and above all, disposition and feelings. It is that very atmospheric mood that can set you at ease. And I would venture to call this project new age meditation music as well. It fits many molds from where I listen and observe. My viewpoint is all-encompassing as a listener. It offers many touch points that come and go with the progress of the tracks. The time slots range from 4:50 ("Faring Forward") to 10:54 ("Unopened Doors").

If you are looking for stimulation of a different kind, you may find it here. You need to know this is very relaxing and reflective music, so this stimulation end of the spectrum is passive. If you are further along the self-awareness and meditation path, you can seek this music out as a guide to get to your plane of existence, where you heal and find enlightenment. I found that place through this music with ease.

Some passages will peak your awareness and tickle your senses to invite new realizations. The result is always good when listening to the music, you will discover on Dark Measures. And don't let the word dark throw you off. The reference to dark shades is where the light may be. It is all upbeat spacey music that is good for the soul. Dark to light, light to dark, and shades of grey encompass this music from start to finish.
 
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
January 9, 2022

Tracks:
1. Unopened Doors        
2. Evening's Embrace        
3. Myriad Visions        
4. Deep Lane
5. Distant Vistas         
6. Unbroken Devotion         
7. Faring Forward

New Age Instrumental Reviews: Trine Opsahl-The Moon Stays Bright

Release Date: January 1, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Trine Opsahl is a pioneer of harp therapy in Denmark and works as a therapeutic harp player in two hospices, playing for the dying and their relatives. She is a Certified Therapeutic Harp Practitioner (CTHP), trained and certified within the International Harp Therapy Program (info from the artist website).

To truly appreciate the all-encompassing artistry of Ms. Opsahl I needed to share that information.

The new year will be ushered in with The Moon Stays Bright. The recording encompasses eleven tracks of solo harp music, with three accompanied by her daughter Josefine on cello (tracks 4,8,11). In 2018 I was introduced to Trine's music with Add Colours To My Sunset Sky.

I find the simplistic beauty of the harp to be the most attractive aspect. It draws me in very quickly and what I hear are the voices of angels. Trine's precise and gentle touch allows you, the listener, to relax and let your soul melt into the sounds. When Josefine joins in on the three tracks, the harp takes on a new meaning; the sound becomes multi-hued with all the definitions you would expect from string instruments.

Most listeners would find this music exceptionally accessible and, more importantly, healing. The exciting aspect of this listen is that the healing I speak of happens unknowingly. Without effort or thought in that direction, things happen inside the audio vibrations and various dimensions on offer.

Most interesting is the trilogy of "Moonscapes" I-III. The moon is significant to mother earth. Its gravitational pull affects the oceans' tides, our weather and brings light into the dead of night. It is like the offspring of the sun giving us the natural light we need. When a full moon rises, it affects people in different ways. This reference has a spiritual meaning, and it stays bright from the first to the last track.

Listen to The Moon Stays Bright, and you are bound to find that "Stars Lie Hidden In You." This is a prolific release that you should not miss. The Celtic Harp is a fantastic instrument and becomes magical instantly in the right hands. Trine Opsahl is one of those rare artists that come along once in a lifetime for a listener. Her music will leave an indelible imprint on your soul.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
January 1, 2022

Tracks:
01. The Moon Stays Bright
02. Moonscapes I
03. Do Not Simply Pass By Like A Dream
04. Rose Of The Eternal Spring (Duo)
05. Return Of The Light
06. Moonscapes II
07. Stars Lie Hidden In You
08. Do Not Simply Pass By Like A Dream (Duo)
09. I May Look Distant But I Am So Close
10. Moonscapes III
11. The Moon Stays Bright (Duo)

New Age World Review: Stewart Copeland and Ricky Kej-Divine Tides

Release Date: July 16, 2021

Label:  ‎Ponderosa Music Records

Website: https://www.rickykej.com

https://www.stewartcopeland.net

 

This year, there was quite a buzz about Divine Tides from the Stewart Copeland and Ricky Kej collaboration. Stewart is a renowned drummer with The Police and many other projects over the years. Ricky Kej has made his impressions in the new age realm with award winning releases. I was about to experience what all the excitement was about…

Divine Tides brings the color of humanity and all its cultures into the album covers artwork. It is one of the more imaginative, eye-catching works of art I have viewed this year.

The nine tracks encompassing this recording is a new age world montage with superb vocals from a range of talented individuals, including Rasika Shekar, Varijashree Venugopal, Sangeeta Kaur, Vidhi Sharma, Salim Merchant, and Charanraj MR. These are the lead vocalist on the tracks.
 
There are several other key contributors on backing vocals, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs on "A Prayer," which is a fantastic track. It is full of uplifting energy and color, much like the artwork depicted on the cover. I have to say, even though I could not understand the language they were singing in, I found it very enjoyable and spiritually moving. The entire album is a masterpiece of new age world, and I would expect it to win a Grammy in the new age or world category for 2021. I have heard some incredible music this year that would be difficult to displace on my top 10 for the year in the new age genre; however, I have to say this one just moved into the #1 spot for me.

The previously mentioned attributes, such as the artwork, is the first aspect then from there are the superb arrangements from Ricky Kej and the incredible percussive elements from Stewart Copeland. Stewart mentioned that he harnessed his aggressive drum playing into a gentle beauty. That was quite a transition for him, and I can imagine a life-changing experience.

The production of each track is outstanding; it is bright, flows well, and gets your attention from start to finish. The musicianship is unparalleled. The CD comes housed in a tri-fold cardboard case with a booklet in the adjacent sleeve to the clear CD tray, which has a picture of the percussion instruments with a kaleidoscope of color emerging from it. That description would express all the music and artwork in this package and how it intersects into a beautiful work of all-encompassing art.

Here is the message from Kej regarding the title: ONE WITH SELF, ONE WITH TIME, ONE WITH OUR PLANET. Is that the reason we are all here? Is it to become one, merge with our fellow humans, and find peace and harmony for all? Imagine a world with no wars, no starvation, or diseases?

It could happen if we listen to these enlightened artists and follow the music to realize a new reality; we all can have it.

The Divine Tides of nature, the planet, humanity, and the innate goodness within our hearts will help us find our way back to oneness. Together with all the elements around us, we can positively influence life now and in the future. This music is awe-inspiring, and it delivers the truth and spirit of us all directly to our ears and then to our souls. Listen to Divine Tides, and I am confident you will agree.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
December 15, 2021

 Tracks:
1. Wonders Of Life
2. Himalayas
3. Our Home
4. Art Of Devotion
5. Pastoral India
6. I Am Change (2021 Remastered)
7. A Prayer
8. Gandhi
9. Mother Earth

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Tim Sadow and Mike Kopp-Out of The Mist

Release Date: December 20, 2021

Label:  ‎Independent

Website: https://timsadow.com/ / http://mikekoppmusic.com

Tim Sadow (violin, viola) and Mike Kopp (guitar, bass) collaborate on a new release titled Out of The Mist.

The duo's music within the nine tracks is a variable montage of colors, textures, vibrations, rhythms, and emotions. All of that is encompassed in every track.

"A Kite's Tale" is a beautiful introduction to what to expect going forward. The energy is contagious and moving in many different directions. I found it quite enjoyable and immediately respected the gentleman creating all of this entertaining music.

One of my favorites was "As The River Runs." I could honestly picture a flowing river in my mind's eye. The first part of the song was fast-moving, like a rushing river after a hard rainfall. Subsequently, the music takes on a slower pace, like a smooth-running stream on a hot summer's day. The music played is so powerfully convincing that you can envision what the track's title is suggesting.

Tim's violin and viola find the perfect bedfellow with Mike's acoustic guitar and bass lines. The viola has a hint of sadness at times, and the violin can reach the range of human emotions. The blend of their artistry is significant. It shines brightly in all of the tracks. Every track takes a different turn with some nice changes as well. The way they all start will get your attention. "Pins and Needles" was another excellent example of their synergy on display. It is an upbeat track with high energy woven into every second. You get some violin, dare I say shredding, during a few moments.

You can't put names and genres on this music because it doesn't fit into any box. If pressed to define it, I would call it contemporary instrumental with some Celtic influences, easy listening with a new age flavor and ambiance; it's all of that. The point is that Out of The Mist is an entirely accessible and enjoyable listen for many types of listeners. That is not always the easiest thing to accomplish, and its success is an outstanding achievement.

Out of The Mist brought me much joy and hit all the sensory areas where I find the most peace and enjoyment, which equals out to spirituality.

Out of The Mist ends most interestingly with "Space Chatter," which was a surprise ending compared to all the other tracks. I did appreciate it; it was very progressive, and actually, I thought of something Jean Luc Ponty would have done during the height of his popularity. Coming from that perspective, I don't think I could get more complimentary! And lord knows there is nothing better than a surprise ending to an album you loved right from the start. They could not have finished it in a better way.


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

Tracks:
1. A Kite's Tale  3:27
2. Song Of The Circle 3:45
3. Desperate Measures   3:02
4. Dance Of The Leaves   3:50
5. As The River Runs  3:54
6. To Speak Of Love    3:28
7. Behind The Waterfall  4:53
8. Pins And Needles    3:56
9. Space Chatter    3:58

Mike Kopp · A Kite's Tale