Contemporary Instrumental Review: Stephen Wallack-Wondering

Release Date: October 14, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

I covered Stephen Wallack’s Chapters and the Colors albums which gave me that feeling of familiarity. Although that does not necessarily mean the music will be what I would expect to hear. Wondering is an all-instrumental solo piano recording, which I would have anticipated. It does not always work out that way; in this case, I am glad it did. I was ready to hear this music in its entirety and knew that I would enjoy it.

 

The ten tracks on Wondering are contemporary instrumentals that will definitively brighten your outlook and spirit, which other types of music cannot.

 

“Beyond” starts things off with a very positive vibe with solid rhythms and a pace that immediately gets your attention and appreciation. “Castles” follows with a different style that prompts introspection. “Deep” has the same vibe with hints of seriousness, reminiscing, and sadness. As you progress through the recording, you discover different moods and pathways to seek answers to questions that may have been troubling you. Our solutions are within; music is a tool that will assist us in getting on the right path. There are no distractions, just the purity and undeniable honesty of the music.

 

The guiding force behind this music is for you to listen and find the answers you seek. We are living in very uncertain times now with many problems worldwide. When you stop and think about everything, it can be overwhelming and scary, leaving you with a sense of uncomfortableness and helplessness. Music is the ultimate universal healer and communicator for anyone from wherever you are on the planet. You can realize fulfillment through the sounds, colors, and vibrations provided through one instrument. Music without words needs no translating; it speaks to you regardless of your language. That is the beauty and the poignancy of instrumental music.

 

I found “Remember” to be so beautiful, healing, and filled with hope. If we could connect all over the earth one day at the same time, play just one song and pray for a positive change, think of how powerful that would be. I think a piece like this would be ideal. There are many tracks on this album that could serve that purpose. The continuity and consistency are so strong that you will find appreciation in every composition.

 

The singularity of one artist playing one instrument with grace and purpose sends a message and one that Stephen felt compelled to complete. The piano is universal in sound and presentation. With the gift of learning music by ear and the ability to create compositions readily, Stephen Wallack now presents his fifth studio album, Wondering, with a message we can all understand.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 27, 2022

Tracks:

01. Beyond 4:44

02. Castles 5:22

03. Deep 6:29

04. Remember 5:23

05. Sorry 4:26

06. Bridges 4:59

07. Games 3:55

08. Royals 4:24

09. Wolves 4:34

10. Goodbye 2:54

Instrumental New Age Review: Shambhu-Life Passage

Release Date: September 29, 2022

Label:  ‎Sacred Love Music

Website

Life Passage will be my fifth journey into the world of Shambhu (pronounced 'SHOHM-boo') and his gorgeous acoustic guitar compositions. What strikes me right away is the significance of the recording's title and the cover image. With that already creating an immediate impact, I found it easy, as usual, to melt into this music.

The artist's website states: Shambhu transforms stillness and silence into calming sounds. That statement puts his music in a proper point of view. He is a respected guitarist that emanates magic from those fingers. 

As you find yourself floating on the clouds while listening to Life Passage, it goes by very quickly, as life itself does (total correlation). Five tracks would be considered an EP by industry standards. Although true, it will be irrelevant because of the simple beauty offered throughout these tracks. The timeline of each composition is from 3:47 to 6:24, so what you get is everything that this artist can give. Once the music stops playing, you will realize that it is accurate and find great joy and satisfaction while listening.

"Mars Dawn" has a mesmerizing effect. It is a soundscape you want to hear multiple times, and if there is one track that hits the mark more than any, it's this one. It is beauty and compassion personified that transforms into a spiritual journey.

The title track is a lovely tribute to the late Chick Corea. It is nice to see so many artists remembering him and his importance to music and the legacy he left behind. And I must mention the lead-off track "Because of You," featuring the amazing Michael Manring on bass. His sound is so significant, and you recognize him when he is on any track. He is one of the greats and reminds me fondly of Erik Scott (rest his soul), whom I had the pleasure of knowing and enjoying for many years. 

"Gentle Flower" starts with a nice piano, and then that fantastic acoustic guitar arrives; as the piano continues to accompany the guitar, you feel that musical nirvana has come again. Then his name, "Shambhu," is the title of the track that concludes another exceptional release. It has a definitive world sound featuring Indian percussion and flute. It is the perfect way to end the album.

Life Passage is a superb example of acoustic guitar playing with suitable mixtures of other instruments to support the primary device of joy and light and accentuate how lovely it can be if appropriately presented. As always, Shambhu does not disappoint.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 29, 2022

Tracks:

1. Because of You (featuring Michael Manring) 6:24

2. Gentle Flower 4:02

3. Life Passage (dedicated to Chick Corea) 3:47

4. Mars Dawn 5:33

5. Shambhu 5:51

New Age Instrumental Meditation Review: Raphael Groten-Great Blue

Release Date: October 1, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Raphael Groten, known for his exceptional guitar instrumental music, has reached a long-time goal of releasing a flute recording. Twenty years after discovering the flute and playing it, Great Blue has arrived. Its artistry and exceptional sound will surely be a success in many ways.

I am sure this music will sound incredible as I have not heard the final master. That fact alone gave me pause to reflect; on how substantial these tracks are. The artist provided the track list to illustrate the different flutes he chose as he recorded.

While utilizing various flutes, each track is in that same flow (in the order it was recorded). Raphael is a very spiritual man, and he believes the instruments he plays have a unique way of expressing themselves through him. They speak, he listens, and then you have all the music ready for the people to hear and immerse themselves in.

All this music is new-age instrumental meditation. As it speaks to the artist that created it and can and will talk to you if you approach it for what it is. My meditation combines listening, feeling the music, then putting it all into words for the prospective listener. I feel blessed to have this opportunity, which puts a different perspective on my overall listening experience. It is what I would consider a gift.

Each flute individually carries a history, tradition, personality, and sound. If you are paying attention while listening, you will find this true. With three tracks under three minutes and the lead-off track "Raven Heart" clocking in at 8:51, you will find a comprehensive overview of each flute. It is apparent and essential to make this a complete experience with each instrument focused on this exercise. While the lead-off track is exceptional in length it is not too much nor too little. It feels just right. 

The next track, "Caduceus," is outstanding as it is mesmerizing. The meaning of the track title is an ancient Greek or Roman herald's wand, typically one with two serpents twined around it, carried by the messenger god Hermes or Mercury. It is the symbol you see in medicine. So, the flute, in this case, is the wand, and the music is your medicine. It makes sense to me; I just needed to investigate what the word meant. This frequently happens in music, particularly in a genre that references nature, spirituality, and mythologies. The entire recording is exceptional; however, those two tracks are my favorites for their meanings and content.

As the saying goes, Raphael leaves no stone unturned in his journey with the simple yet unique instruments. The mystical and magical flute can do many things that include capturing your attention and imagination while soothing and relaxing. I have enjoyed it in music for many years, more recently on recordings like this. 

Great Blue is a personal and professional triumph for Raphael Groten. I congratulate him for stepping out of an established format of music and comfort zone and trying something different, then turning it into a great success.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 23, 2022

Tracks:

01. Raven Heart - unknown maker - cherry, Native American style 

02. Caduceus - El Búho Flutes - bamboo, transverse, “The Mystic” 

03. Roots - Zacciah Blackburn - bamboo, Native American style 

04. Sanctuary - High Spirits Flutes - walnut, double flute (with drone) 

05. Great Blue - El Búho Flutes - bamboo, transverse, “The Zen”

06. Far Beyond - El Búho Flutes - bamboo, Native American style

07. White Bear - Mary Stone Clay Whistles - 3 hole polar bear whistle

08. Eagle’s Tale - High Spirits Flutes - cedar, Native American style 

09. Invocation - hand made by Raphael - bamboo, Native American style 

10. Hermit Thrush - Blue Bear Flutes - cedar - Native American Drone

11. Quiescence - El Búho Flutes - bamboo, long transverse, “The Mystic” 

Contemporary Instrumental New Age Review: Orchestra Indigo-Farewell To Memories

Release Date: September 9, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Rick Randlett is a blues artist with five albums in circulation. Orchestra Indigo is a separate project he created playing synthesizers and piano. His new journey began when COVID shut the world down, and he began exploring ambient new-age music. Farewell To Memories is the result of his studies and creations. When you look at the captivating view provided by the cover art, it is very suggestive. Are you ready to walk down that dock and jump in to see what will happen? I was prepared to go and take a swim through this music.

Just for a point of reference, the name of this project you may find has some interesting cross references. Indigo children, according to a pseudoscientific New Age concept, are children who are believed to possess unique, unusual, and sometimes supernatural traits or abilities. So, this music is the orchestra's child since it is the first release of this type of music. And, it certainly does have some magic and special abilities to change your feelings, brain waves, and well-being.

Farewell to Memories reflects on growing up in New England, with the title track and album title a direct reference to a return visit upon the passing of his mother several years ago. So, seeing this passing of a parent was his farewell to many things. I lost both my parents many years ago, and I have to admit that many memories have faded with time; however, there is not a day that goes by when I do not think of them. Life goes on, and death happens. It is our destiny to live and die; we do not know when that time will be. I saw a saying the other day that made sense, "Live life like it's your first day and your last." Some sound advice, to be sure. 

Rick used synthesizer strings to create his orchestra of ambient sounds and colors. Some of it does have a feeling of sadness and letting go. Such as the resolute piano in "Daybreak," which gently introduces the layers of synth for a pleasant feeling of floating on top of the primary instrument. I imagine the artist's intent with this type of composition would be that you are very relaxed and have that feeling of detachment from the physical world. In your mind, you can float away to another frame of reference or plane of existence, if you will. All tracks on offer here give the listener something to feel and find inside their soul. That sounds deep, I know, music is a powerful tool that can let you dig down and pull things out that need to be looked at, and then you can process it and move on.

Buddhists refer to our suffering as samsara, and we can reach dharma (In Buddhism, dharma means cosmic law and order but is also applied to the teachings of the Buddha-i.e., karma) through meditation and removing the thoughts of attachment to all things physical on this plane. I discovered a strong correlation between new-age music and the practice of Buddhism. And from there sought more knowledge and have continued to do so. Music like this, any instrumental recording made for relaxation or meditation, brings me to another discipline. That is just one example that is worthy of note.

As I made my way through each track on Farewell to Memories, it engaged me in many ways, triggering a thought process of feelings, including sadness, hope, joy, and the promise of a new day. This music can and will renew your spirit. You are the door that either opens or closes to this opportunity. It was my choice to listen and open the door. The result was a healing of my consciousness, direct and indirect thought process, and, most of all, my heart. As the track says, "Hope Is Eternal," it never rests. It is a part of us all; whether you acknowledge that or not, that is your choice. I always find some hope every day regardless of what transpires. And this music brought those thoughts to the forefront of my mind.

This is a distance away from the blues music this artist typically creates. For him, it was a creative and healing process; for the listeners, it can be whatever you need it to be. That is music's beauty and eclectic nature and the sounds you will hear on Farewell to Memories.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

September 9, 2022

Tracks:

01. Farewell To Memories 5:57

02. Distant Worlds 4:57

03. In The Aftermath 3:30

04. A Time Of Solitude 4:42

05. Twilight Falls 3:49

06. Daybreak 4:25

07. Lights On A Distant Shore 3:46

08. A Perfect Summer Day 4:44

09. Mysteries 4:18

10. Hope Eternal 4:37

11. First Snow 4:02

12. One Last Look 5:16

New Age Music Legend David Young To Release New Album “Love Wins” Feat. Prog Luminaries Tony Levin & Jerry Marotta

The past couple of years have been intense and unlike any other in most of our lifetimes! For David Young, those years have been a time of inspiration and enlightenment, which is evident upon first listen to his new album, “Love Wins.”

The album was recorded and produced at Dreamland Recording Studios in Woodstock, NY, and by Jeff Moleski and Moletrax Recording Studios, and features Tony Levin on bass and Jerry Marotta on drums and percussion. Tony is known for his work recording and touring with Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, Paul Simon and John Lennon. Jerry is known for his work with Peter Gabriel, Krishna Das, Sarah McLachlan and the Indigo Girls.

“David Young has a wonderful way of making people feel good through his music, art and soulfulness.” - Jerry Marotta

The eclectic, Americana-Inspired “Love Wins” incorporates heartfelt, inspiring lyrics with new age vocals and instrumentals, such as the soothing strains of the mandolin and mesmerizing, unique sounds emanating from crystal bowls.

Says David, “Together, we create a harmonic soundscape, alchemized with meditation and meaningful songs that will bring peace and joy to your body, mind and soul.”

“Love Wins” will be available on CD, download, streaming and thumb drive on October 28th.

Join us for an experience that will transform your mind, body and soul, empowering you with the wisdom that this is still a beautiful world.

Subscribe to DavidYoungMusic.com and stay current with News and Events!

photo by Richard Crawford

About David Young

David Young is an award-winning artist, author and musician well known for playing two renaissance flutes in harmony. He has recorded numerous hit albums and sold over one million copies. David's music, revered for its soothing sounds and healing properties, is a staple in hospitals, healing centers and spas throughout the country.    

David travels throughout the country hosting his signature workshops, A Portal Between Heaven and Earth, which blends his healing music with his enlightening guided meditations, and where countless attendees report remarkable experiences. These experiences are the inspiration for many of David’s songs and paintings, and chronicled in his book, “The True Story of Jesus and his Wife Mary Magdalena.”  

In addition to David’s many talents, he is also a gifted channeler. Through his music and art, David channels messages from the heavenly realms bringing healing messages and hope.  David’s abstract art reflects stories of ancient wisdom and actual events through brilliant colors and impressions.

His music and personal readings have brought healing and revelations to people for decades, serving as a bridge to the ethereal realms of goodness and light.  

Through his many talents and gifts, David Young offers the world hope, vision and self-empowerment.

To pre-order David Young’s “Love Wins”: https://checkout.square.site/buy/PP3HHGNJLEXPVC3WEX364CED

For more information:
www.DavidYoungMusic.com
www.facebook.com/DavidYoungMusic2018/
www.instagram.com/davidyoungsoulascension/
www.youtube.com/DavidYoungMusicVideos

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Contemporary New Age Instrumental-Classical Review: Christopher Boscole-Isle of Shadows

Release Date: July 18, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

I have not covered a recording by Christopher Boscole since the 2018 release Soul Dreams. The sands of time move faster each year, and your perception changes so much that it almost becomes irrelevant. We live by the ticking away of seconds, minutes, hours, and days. Then that transforms into months, then years. This perception depends on your age and how busy your days are.

 

Amazing how one thought and music can unravel an idea and how it forms and becomes your truth. Music is that powerful and persuasive. So how did Isle of Shadows work its magic when I listened?

 

Classical music holds so much tradition and everlasting beauty. Its importance goes beyond what words can say. So why not do what countless others have and will again, sit at a piano and give the nod to the great composers and compositions? It makes sense and finds validation in each talent and interpretation of those timeless pieces. Respect for the music is imperative. The legacy of the music and composers must be handled very carefully, and above all, you must be an outstanding musician.

 

Starting with the dreamy artwork on the album cover, with the lovely pastels that are pleasant to the eye and senses, is a good start. Rest assured; the painting perfectly matches the relaxing meditative sounds you are about to enjoy. It is identified as new age classical piano, which is an appropriate assessment.

 

Christopher Boscole has answered the call of the greats and played all these tracks with the utmost care and precision. The artist, in this case, has transformed into a different kind of piano player, one that can take the sublime beauty of the title track and create his rendition from a blank canvas. The composition by Selim Palmgren, is significant because the entire recording is named after it. That name does not come up when someone discusses Chopin, Bach, and Debussy. Perhaps that is why the composer, and the track are getting the spotlight. It will bring forth an awareness of the talent of this otherwise unrecognized master.

 

The more I hear recordings like Isle of Shadows, the realization that these compositions' brilliance and musical perfection attain full recognition from my point of view. This happens when an artist takes each track into a solo piano excursion. It is much more meaningful and appreciated by this listener. It makes me wonder why I have not explored classical music on a more profound level. Perhaps after absorbing this superb recording, I will reevaluate my music collection and endeavor to reach out further to explore this music that I found so appealing.

 

After paying tribute to all the masters, the artist closes the curtain with an original saying, "Until We Meet Again." A perfect ending and as close to perfection as one can get on an album.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

August 31, 2022

Tracks:

01. Romance Sans Paroles in Ab major, Op. 17 No. 3 (3:21) (Arranged by Christopher Boscole)

02. Nocturne in Eb Major, Op. 9 No. 2 (5:11)

03. Sonata No. 8 Op. 13 “Pathetique”II. Adagio Cantabile (4:45)

04. 6 Lyric Pieces, Op. 28 “Isle of Shadows”II. Skuggornas O (5:56)

05. Pavane, Op. 50 (4:32) (Arranged by Christopher Boscole)

06. Préludes, Book I, L. 117: Vii. La fille aux cheveux de lin (3:30) (Arranged by Christopher Boscole)

07. Sonata No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2 “Moonlight”: I. Adagio sostenuto (5:31)

08. Suite No. 3 in D Major: II. Air (4:44) (Arranged by Christopher Boscole)

09. 24 Preludes, Op. 28: No 17 in A-flat major (4:15)

10. Solace: A Mexican Serenade (5:21)

(Arranged by Christopher Boscole)

11. Kinderszenen, Op. 15: No. 7, Traumerei (2:59)

12. Until We Meet Again (5:41)

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Dan Chadburn-Always

Release Date: August 1, 2022

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

When you have performed for audiences at Carnegie Hall (New York), Symphony Hall (Boston), and The Kennedy

Center (Washington, DC), there is a level of acceptance recognized worldwide by the music community. For Dan Chadburn, these are just a few of his accomplishments over the years.

He released Always in August of this year. The keyboard's colors are illustrated on the release artwork and in his music. 

With tracks like "Yesteryear," he paints the picture suggested in the title without words with poignancy and beauty.

The twelve tracks on Always are like walking through a musical spiral staircase of life's emotions and events. The track "Uncertainty" puts that idea into perspective with grace and purposefulness. The pace and rhythms are moving with a genuine feeling that finds a way to soothe your doubts with the simplicity of solo piano music. Its pure beauty and message are clear as day and the blue sky above. It is also one of the most extended tracks on the album, giving the listener time to absorb the meaning entirely.

"Missing You" is another track that pulls on your heartstrings. I felt deeply moved by the way it was presented. While straightforward, the music has a hypnotic effect that draws you in, and you start reliving things in the corners of your mind and soul. That is what I call music doing its job well. 

Creating the sound and colors without words needs to be robust, clear, and concise to ensure you are paying attention and your mind does not drift elsewhere. That fact alone is the reason it can be so relaxing and used to help you reach a meditative state. I can see that mission was accomplished from the twelve tracks I enjoyed.

This music can be your "Wishing Well" and where you can realize "Synchronicity" with your mind, body, and spirit. And for this listener's ears, that is precisely what I seek when I listen to music like you will find on Always.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder

August 28, 2022

Tracks:

01. Always 3:14

02. Uncharted Waters 3:22

03. OShenandoah 3:27

04. Turning Point 4:44

05. Yesteryear 3:12

06. Minuet 2:42

07. Uncertainty 4:12

08. Missing You 3:07

09. The Wishing Well 3:31

10. Sacred Breath 3:26

11. Synchronicity 2:48

12. Final Curtain 3:28