Contemporary New Age Review: Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer-A Journey of Dreams

Release Date: November 15, 2024

Label: Independent

Website:  www.pauladams.org  / www.elizabethgeyer.com

Paul Adams and Elizabeth Geyer have been teaming up for many years and producing some fine and very eclectic offerings for a listening base that can span worldwide. The most recent release is A Journey of Dreams, ready for everyone to experience. I stress the word experience, which is the key to this music. From new age to Americana, blues, and ambient, this talented duo utilizes all their talents to create individual pieces of art.

"A Journey of Dreams" is their title track to start this recording and the second longest track at 6:00 minutes. The Native American Anasazi Flute and slide guitar provided by Paul and Elizabeth's keyboards and vocalizations are a superb marriage of sound. The synth layer is like a soft sound cloud for everything to glide nicely—an excellent lead-off track to correctly set the mood and experiential process.

 

"The Emergence" starts with the piano, wordless vocals, and the flute's fantastic and relaxing earthly tones. The word emergence indicates the realization of something happening physically or spiritually, so from my listening perspective, it is either physically, mentally, or something otherworldly or esoteric. And this can be about a person, place, or thing. Again, my thoughts only and my perception. The music triggered my feelings and thoughts, which is what it is supposed to do. The electric sitar makes its "emergence," giving the composition a more world feel, and it's an excellent addition.

 

"The Arrival" follows in perfect sequence to the last track about the title, first the emergence, then the arrival. You may ask yourself, what is the arrival? I can relate to what I previously stated in my spiritual, physical, and mental state. The piano is subtle, and the layer of consistent synth with the differentiators of the harmonica and sitar. Two elements combine to add to this mix of new age and world flute for a trance-like, meditative sound.

 

"Gabriel" is a title that immediately recognizes anyone familiar with the Bible or religions. As little as I know, I did find recognition, and I do with biblical names. I heard some of the same this time, but a horn is added to the mix, giving it a floaty jazz element. So many different instruments come into play in these tracks that, at times, it defies explanation or any generalization, which is a good thing.

 

"A Beautiful Sadness" is a thought-provoking title. So where does one find that? I hear and feel it all the time in music. This track holds a beauty, but at the same time, you could be engaged to reflect on a sadness you have been feeling or a part of your life where that happened, and you can never forget it. While the music soothes and guides with the layer of synths, the flute, piano, and sitar, it leads you down a clear path to find the truth and meaning of each word.

 

"The Lightness" is bright and airy, relieving the previous sadness; however beautiful it was, some dark areas and grey shadings need cleansing. Here, you find it in the music again; its magic is in the feeling of lightness around you as it carries you to another frame of mindfulness and space without barriers. The constancy of that synth layer is always there as the foundation to add all the other instruments, giving you comfort. It highlights the flute's organic, earthy tones and the acoustic guitar's subtle yet impactive strings.

 

In “Contemplation,” a word that the music allows to come through and process, the duo's talents shine. Much like the pied piper throughout this journey, Paul's flute brings immediate calmness to your receptors. Elizabeth's dreamy, wordless vocalizations add a touch of heaven. At the same time, the sitar and its Middle Eastern flavor bring a spiritual and ethnic element to the track, creating a powerful combination that resonates deeply.

 

"Drifting" is the most extended composition at 6:25 minutes. A word indicative of what this kind of music can initiate in a listener, whether you call it relaxation, meditation, or a form of hypnotic state, drifting is part of getting into that place. The piano plays a more significant role this time, and its significance is noticeable. The dobro was a nice touch and addition with its definitive echoing sound.

 

"Somewhere There Is Hope" for all of us. Should that be a statement or question? It is a statement that can apply to anyone's life regardless of the situation. I have been there several times, as I imagine many of you have. If you are following the story to this point, you can see how it all fell into sequence and how we got here through all the other tracks and their meaningful titles. A track title is a hint, and you need to take it from there. This music continues down the path you have been on, with the flute, piano, and ambient synths creating that backdrop for thought, reflection, and healing in the music, which in turn gives us hope.

 

"The Reward" is yours to take now that you have made it to the end of this journey. The music's purity and healing frequencies, tones, and colors again give you clarity and meaning. It is unencumbered by racing thoughts or a mental "to-do list," which magically disappears in the flute, piano, sitar, vocalizations, and the different instrumentations that allow you to go to another place in time and space. This track encapsulates all of that in just under six minutes.

 

The title and artwork are engaging and give you a good idea of the journey you are about to partake. The music is suitable for relaxing and meditating, and if you choose to do some dreaming during the day or evening, it is perfect for that as well. And that is the point of this music and A Journey of Dreams.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

November 12, 2024

Tracks:

01. A Journey Of Dreams 6:00

02. The Emergence 4:50

03. The Arrival 4:46

04. Gabriel 5:15

05. A Beautiful Sadness 5:51

06. The Lightness 6:10

07. Contemplation 4:10

08. Drifting 6:25

09. Somewhere There Is Hope 4:58

10. The Reward 5:46

New Age Contemporary Instrumental Review: Doug Hammer-November

Release Date: November 1, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Main Link

Official Trailer

When I saw November, the first person I was reminded of was the late great George Winston. I couldn't help but remember all those excellent piano solo albums on Windham Hill named after the seasons.

 

Doug Hammer is one of my favorite piano players, and I always look forward to his recordings, so that is my tribute to him.

 

The album starts with the title track, "November." Coincidentally, we just finished our Indian Summer here in New England, so getting in the mindset for the oncoming Winter for the next month is what we do. It's time to put away all the summer lawn decorations and lights, batten down the hatches, get some bags of salt, and turn off the water for the hoses. All that needs to be ready.

 

The song is straightforward and gentle, like how the leaves quietly fall to the ground in splendor and color as the trees prepare for hibernation. The second longest track on the album, at 4:29, sets the atmosphere for the rest of the story.

 

"Colder" is perfect in sequence for the meaning of the previous track and the different things I alluded to. It's my favorite time of year, and I don't mind the Winter so much when it's mild, like the last one. A bit of sadness is attached to this feeling every year, seeing the Summer fade away for good for this year. The piano playing reflects my feelings about that "cold" wave coming in. Doug's contemporary approach to new age instrumental compositions is absorbing and always relates so well to the track title.

 

"The Setting Sun" is again in sequence with the previous track, as it does from beginning to end on this recording. It doesn't just cool down like the Summer; it gets colder in the subsequent months, heading into old man Winter. Winter can be harsh, but somehow, the way the piano compositions come across gives you a sense of peace and tranquility not generally associated with this time of year, yet here we have it.  

 

"Glimmer of Light" is the last hope on the horizon as the morning breaks, and you can see the frost on the grass. The mood and vibe are uplifting as the piano takes its solo flight like a bird cruising through the air just because it can. The pace picks up, and the melody is strong and impactful.

 

"Dancing Leaves," as I mentioned previously, falling off the trees, seem to dance from side to side until they meet the ground before dissolving into the earth again. In other instances, you can be driving by a pile of them on the side of the road, and in the wake of the wind from your vehicle, it makes the pile a whirling dervish of color. The piano notes feel like a ride in the fall, emulating all those feelings and pictures in your mind. And if you have not experienced it yet, you can envision it in this song.

 

"Bare Trees" is the logical progression of everything you heard before they reached this place of change. We all know the rebirth and the green buds will start popping in the spring, and that is something to anticipate with joy and wonder every year. It's about enjoying and appreciating the transformations nature and its miracles offer. The piano is purposeful, and the notes are placed well for the reflective thought process of what just passed and what is to come next; it's perfect.

 

"A Cold Wind Blows" finally comes as the trees and wildlife are ready to face and survive. Doug's piano has a holiday flavor with Christmas approaching. Will the wind be blowing in those beautiful white flakes to decorate the barren trees and make the evergreens even more beautiful? This song is as powerful as Mother Nature and sounds classical, with that hint of holiday spirit weaving through it.

 

"First Snowfall" begins now, and the change is set for the next 4 months. Snow can fall gently and dance in the light wind or blow viciously, creating whiteouts and treacherous conditions. I think what is captured in the notes coming from Doug's fingers is a little of both scenarios to think of, one to enjoy and appreciate and one to beware and prepare.

 

"So Bright" is our life here on earth, but appreciating everything in it can sometimes be challenging, always seeing the positive or silver lining in the clouds. The music is bright, like the sun's rays, warm and welcoming. Like some of the other tracks, there is an underlying bass tone that gives it that power of persuasion, and you say to yourself, I get it; there is brightness every day. Whether it's obvious or you need to find it, it's always there.

 

I mentioned "Indian Summer" early on. Once again, the piano has this innate energy and color bursting from it, like the palette of colors all around us in the mountains and all the trees. It is a warm and happy track. We all feel it here in New England, and that time comes in one short week, usually in late September or early to mid-October, as it did most recently.

 

"Radiance" is a lovely spiritual word. Doug is in a nonstop groove of momentum and high energy, one track after another. Once he gets through the softer, slower-paced tracks and hits his stride, he keeps that motion up, and this track is an example of those happy, talented fingers at work. He radiates joy and love, which you can feel in the music. A new age track of elegance and beauty with classical influences.  Another superb track!

 

"Thanksgiving" is an excellent day for us in the U.S., celebrated by millions in many ways and traditions. It is the predecessor to Christmas. These two holidays are beautiful times to be thankful for everything you have today and spend time with family and friends.

 

"Frozen Ground" is the appropriate end for this journey through two seasons that shape our lives here in New England. I spent 8 years in California in the 80s; this time of year was never the same until I returned home. This is where I was born and where I will die, just like my parents before me. The frozen ground indicates the death of many things that will be reborn once it thaws, and the sun's warmth sprouts the first grass blades. I feel sad now; the music helped me realize the definitive end of the fall and this recording.

 

Doug's piano continues to ring true to the heart and spirit, and his music hits home uniquely for me (and I hope it will for you). The piano is like an orchestra and sounds as such when the right person is playing it.

 

I am grateful for all the feelings I went through listening to Doug Hammer's album November. It was easy for me to relate to all of this because of my location; however, if I were still in California now, I would still feel the same. Once you grow up here, you never forget. Thanks for all the fantastic music and memories, Doug.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 24, 2024

Tracks:

01. November 4:29

02. Colder 4:06

03. The Setting Sun 4:38

04. Glimmer of Light 3:06

05. Dancing Leaves 3:15

06. Bare Trees 3:19

07. A Cold Wind Blows 2:27

08. First Snowfall 3:28

09. So Bright 3:23

10. Indian Summer 3:00

11. Radiance 4:08

12. Thanksgiving 3:47

13. Frozen Ground 3:38

Featured Track: Instrumental New Age-Ryan Michael Richards-That Trip to Bethlehem

Ryan Michael Richards has been releasing impactful guitar-based instrumental singles this past year. His next release is “That Trip to Bethlehem,” just in time for the upcoming holiday season.

His acoustic guitar playing is extraordinary, in my opinion. Many people would agree with that assessment once they hear this track.

The cover art to the single, with what looks to be the aurora borealis in the sky, evokes the wonder of the cosmos and what took place on the day our savior, Jesus Christ, was born. We need him now, so please send him back! I say that in a severe manner. I don’t think I need to elaborate as to why.

The guitar strings evoke the magic of the Holidays and their meaning to families, individuals, religions, and, in general, humanity across the globe—not specifically Christians, may I add, as I think being a spiritual individual gives reason for belief, and it does in my case. Many others who do not attend church or mass feel the same way.

Music is the universal language; in this instance, it is even more powerful and impactful without words. No religious or political statement is made; it simply speaks to the heart and soul of humanity, whether you believe it or not. Even if you do not celebrate Christmas, it gives pause for reflection just by looking at the image and hearing the guitar strings resonate with joy and gratefulness for the season to come. If you read more about this artist, you will realize why he believes in a power greater than himself.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

November 2, 2024

Website

Growing up in South Philadelphia, Ryan Michael Richards began learning how to play the guitar when he was fourteen years old after being diagnosed with Auditory Processing Disorder. Ryan's parents encouraged him to learn how to play a musical instrument, for the arts are an excellent way for people to cope with learning disabilities. It did not take long for him to decide that the Guitar would be his musical instrument of choice…READ MORE…

New Age - Contemporary Instrumental Review: David Darling-Other Worlds

Release Date: October 18, 2024

Label: Curve Blue

Website 

Music Links

David Darling is joined by virtuosos Jiebing Chen (erhu, zhonghu) and Lili Haydn (violin) as guest performers on Other Worlds. The new album includes the late cellist's signature pizzicato, vocalizations, and solo and choir cellos.

"Amelia" opens the door to this recording and is the second-longest composition at 6:07. The cello is David's doorway to bringing in the other atmospheric instrumentation, including a lovely piano that seems to be stepping carefully down a path led by David. The other subtleties are an enhancement, making this opening a track a relaxing and intimate way to bring the listener in and keep them.

 

"Voyager" begins with light percussion, and the cello sounds magnificent and precise. A synth layer forms the backdrop, and an Erhu adds extra texture and feeling as the cello answers beautifully. The percussion remains light and practical while maintaining a constant, stable beat. The way I hear the cello is like never before; it usually sounds so sad and longing, but not this time. David's bending of the strings is so different in style and tone that it makes you wonder how he created something so different and sophisticated, separating himself from anyone else who played it.

 

The title track, "Other Worlds," comes in at 6:10 but is not the longest. You wonder how all of it will come together with so much time involved in one track and with a cello, never a lead instrument. It starts with more of that longing, faraway sound or feeling, yet succinct and meaningful. It suddenly changes with rhythm by backing the cello that calls out to your heart. Deep bass follows along with a touch of piano arriving into the mix like water dropping off a leaf onto the ground; gentle, but you know it's there, giving it more life and color.

 

"Rendezvous" starts with the cello and piano in an interplay of sound and color. It sounds like it is leading into something soon. The change comes with a more rhythmic approach, giving it immediate substance and a stronger foundation from which to work and branch out, and it does so without hesitation. The cello is in absolution for one instrument within the weaving of sounds found in one track. I hear emotion amplified via the notes as, once again, the piano's gentle accompaniment makes it more sensory and unique for a listener.

 

"The Pilgrimage" is a magnificent oeuvre at 6:50 minutes. It starts very interestingly, with an entirely different tone and resonance from the cello; you must hear it. An excellent guitar is in place; as it goes through its paces and ebbs and flows like a river of sound, you know what you are hearing is something special and begin to understand why nearly seven minutes are needed to complete it. Some wordless vocals join the ever-present percussive intonations to give a tribal hymn feel. The piano is always there to add ambiance and flavor and is more significant in the last few minutes before this complex composition ends.

 

"The Benedictine" sounds as you would imagine, beginning with deeper wordless vocals, i.e., the monks. Of course, that is the first thing that comes to mind when you see the track title. Once again, another completely different turn of the music is chosen. The sound of the cello is so different again; I cannot get over the character and sound that David receives from his instrument. The Erhu is aching and calling to the cello as it sounds more like the plucking of a bass with a pedal. I am speechless at this point.

 

"Lament of the Fallen" takes a more serious (darker) approach to sound, texture, and mood. The power of this music is more evident now from the variety of the previous tracks offered. The piano and violin are not strange bedfellows by any means. The cello tends to add another chapter to the ongoing story with its long lines of reverberating sound and total emotional, atmospheric presence.

 

"The Walk Home" is short and sweet, under two minutes, but meaningful as the cello takes center stage to remind us of its emotional pull and prowess.

 

Other Worlds is another masterpiece that David Darling (who passed in 2021) left behind for us to ponder his incredible talents. I promise you will never hear a cello played like this.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 29, 2024

Tracks:

1. Amelia (6:07)

2. Voyager (5:12)

3. Other Worlds (6:10)

4. Rendezvous (5:34)

5. The Pilgrimage (6:50)

6. The Benedictine (4:50)

7. Lament of the Fallen (3:32)

8. The Walk Home (1:56)

New Age Instrumental Review: David Wahler-Singular

 Release Date: October 25, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

David Wahler's Singular, released on October 25th, perfectly accompanies the reflective and contemplative mood that the Fall season often brings. His picture on the cover hints at the connection between humankind and the close people in our lives, a theme that resonates deeply during this time of year.

I will list what the tracks meant to David and then give my overview.

1. SINGULAR - We enter this life as one and leave ultimately as one.

The soft piano begins, and the cello, in a trance-like state of sorrow, quickly exits. The cello's mournful tones echo the empathetic understanding that we must face our final moments alone when we leave this plane of existence.

2.      LILT - When a day evolves into an effortless smile.  

 

The piano begins again softly, as you would expect, with David's relaxing, mesmerizing atmosphere. It carries a message, tone, and rhythm that indicates how one's outlook can change during the day. The evolution of the music brings a smile to the listener's face.

3.      LOVE IN A MEADOW - A clandestine meetup at a time (1970) when same-sex love forced young lovers into reckless abandon.

Love is love, and this is the story of a secret meeting between two people who felt that way for each other. It is gentle and beautiful yet fragile, like the music presented. Love can be complex, particularly in this time frame, which seems like a lifetime ago. All we seek as humans is love and acceptance regardless of who we love or our beliefs. Music can be heartfelt and touch the soul. Hopefully, this one does for all of you who can relate.

4.      ALONE - An introvert's castle.

What would it be like for an introvert to be inside the massive walls of a castle? It doesn't sound very comforting to anyone with that personality type. The piano beckons the call for courage and strength with a gentle push to acceptance. I am not an introvert, but if I were, I would want to hear this soothing music to calm me internally and mentally so I could deal with the fear of being alone in such an intimidating piece of architecture and history.

5.      OLIVE BRANCH - When conflict seems insurmountable, a tiny light appears.

The title of this track is so essential for a world on fire that we live in these tumultuous times.  The music has a distinct timing and repetitive, hypnotic effect as the bell sounds off in quiet solitude. The piano on the third layer completes the track—3:46 minutes of absolute beauty.

6.      IF ONLY… - The distant voices of doubt, guilt, melancholy.

If only it were not part of your life, it would not haunt your soul. The what ifs and such can make us doubt the present, hold guilt about the past, and an overall melancholy about life itself. The music invites you to look another way to the positive as you focus on the frequencies and let it take your mind to another place. It's a very atmospheric ambient track worth exploring all those feelings again. You can find your truth in the music, focus on the bell sound, and the slow pace and flow of the synths

7.      LOTUS LAKE - My place of peace, solitude, reckoning.

The Lotus flower is synonymous with spirituality and the solitude of meditation. You can take this music, which is a beautiful flower as well, and picture it in your mind's eye to realize your peace, solitude, and reckoning of your soul to give you the freedom you deserve. Beauty is in the eyes and, in this case, the ears of the beholder. Another gorgeous backdrop of colors and sound to bring attention to your inner being.

8.      LENTO - Living in a slower world.

How does one live in a slower world when all around you is chaos, fast-moving days and nights, and frenetic movements and thoughts running through your head? The answer, of course, is to focus on lovely sounds like the track provides. Its pace and tempo epitomize the term slower. The cello makes an appearance once again to add additional texture and emotion to the keystrokes.

9.      FINGERS TOUCHING - Those first glances, that yearning, and finally a connection.

The human touch is our healer, so it is for many creatures we like to love and comfort. This love story could apply to any number of things—the keys dance in rhythm and in time with a waltz of sweeping emotions. Anticipation leads to satisfaction and the realization of making all the essential connections that are our life force. This track is one of the most beautiful and entrancing on the recording.

10.   LOVE, ME - My valediction to people, places, and events in my life.

The track is the curtain closer on this touching group of tracks and sums up the entire story behind the music for David Wahler. To be validated is a feeling of joy and truth in our lives. It gives us the positive sensations to carry on our chosen path and makes our world right. Everyone in our lives is vital, and the love they surround us with is a precious gift not to be taken for granted. Here, the piano plays like a lullaby that pulls on your heartstrings. Such clarity of thought and emotion set to music needs to be celebrated. It all ends appropriately with gentleness and the feeling of the keys penetrating your soul.

Singular is a masterful collection of music that invites introspection. Each note, each title, serves as a guide on a journey of self-discovery. It is a thought-provoking and absorbing experience, perfect for those who seek a deeper connection with music.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 25, 2024

Tracks:

01. Singular (3:06)

02. Lilt (3:44)

03. Love in a Meadow (3:43)

04. Alone (3:42)

05. Olive Branch (3:46)

06. If only…(4:16)

07. Lotus Lake (4:09)

08. Lento (3:30)

09. Fingers Touching (3:45)

10. Love, Me (4:12)

Contemporary Instrumental New Age-Jazz Track Feature: Neil Tatar-Bella

Neil Tatar: Guitar

Premik Russell Tubbs: Soprano Sax

Tom Eaton: Bass

Jeff Haynes: Percussion

 

I think it's essential to add what this track is about through the artist's words, Neil Tatar. I highly recommend you read this before listening to the music. It will give it much more meaning as it carries the weight of those persecuted during World War Two.

 

Words of the artist: The storyline for my composition "Bella" is interesting and began in September 1939 in Radom, Poland. This was when the Nazis invaded Poland. "We Were The Lucky Ones" is a book written by Georgia Hunter and tells the story of a family's World War II experiences trying to survive in Nazi Occupied Poland. I read this book a couple of years ago and was mesmerized by the stories being told. I was struck by the similarities of these stories to those I heard from my own family when I was a child, having been born a few years after the war's end.

 

In the "Bella" track, Neil Tatar's sublime acoustic guitar is featured. The music combines contemporary instrumental and new age sprinkled with jazz via the Soprano Sax. The beauty and essence of the music reflect a mirror of a difficult time and the melancholy or sadness one may feel looking back on inhuman experiences that scared their souls forever.

 

On the other hand, without knowing what the track "Bella" is about, you recognize it as a calming and meditative sound. It does hold a certain charm and calmness amidst the pain and suffering that went on during the Nazi occupation. Everyone can count on finding a different place in time, whether you are someplace physically or just need a place in your mind and the reassurance that the music brings you to; it is that refuge for the human race that can be a saving grace in the moment of need.

 

Music can be many things to many people, but the one thing it does have for everyone is the timelessness of the melody, rhythm, and incredibly gorgeous six-string acoustic playing that Neil Tatar is known for. The track’s exceptional musicianship and production values are a superb tribute to the subject matter.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 17, 2024

Neil Tatar is an award-winning composer, guitarist, and pianist. A playful and expressive musician, he has a unique, contemporary sound, primarily rooted in blues, rhythm and blues, and light jazz. Influenced by his many years of working with legendary cellist David Darling and guitarist Will Ackerman, his passionate expression is recognized in his approach to everything he plays…READ MORE…

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review and Interview: Neil Patton-The Small Hours

Release Date: October 18, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Neil Patton's The Small Hours comprises many stories from one night. These are musical narratives of the nighttime hours as they are experienced worldwide. Spawned largely during the stressful months of pandemic shutdowns and social turmoil, these pieces were a source of solace and peace as Neil intentionally composed in a quieter vein. (Info derived from the artist).

 

I thought that would be a good way to start things off with discussing this music, giving each potential listener a glimpse into the how and why of this project of contemporary instrumental solo piano new-age music. You will discover one hour and ten minutes of relaxing and reflective piano music for the soul. It was recorded from September to December of 2023.

 

"Day's End" is the beginning of this journey, which gives one pause, as any good music would. Neil's piano is a soft invitation into his world, a lovely way to begin the recording. Close to five minutes of building chords and then bringing down the level give you a feeling of the emotions one can experience during a few hours of passing time.

 

"We Will Tell the Stories" Melody is a free-flowing and airy track with a similar approach to the previous track, which builds up and then steps down. This pace allows a listener to reflect on the tones and vibrations that vary within one composition. Once you become cognizant of that element, you hear it all differently and more reverently.

 

"Goodnight, Daddy" puts a twinkle and maybe a tear or two in your eye if you have the privilege of being a dad. I think about my children when they are little but enjoy and appreciate the people they have become. The sadness of the music made me wish I could go back in time to those days for just one day to remember all the joy they brought to me and my wife and when they were kids, too. I hope someday they will have the same rewarding experiences that we had.

 

Those are three examples of how a track’s title, meaning, and music that expresses those words become real. If you listen to music like I do, you will know precisely what that can mean.

 

Contemporary new-age instrumentals are very popular for piano solo work. I hear a good share of compositions in this range of musical styles on a regular basis. Thus, the challenge is to hear something that is actually different and gets my attention. The artist's role is to immediately capture the listener's interest and hold it from start to finish.

 

I think that is a monumental task, and for one to accomplish it is incredible. Neil Patton can get into that groove and hold you from the opening track to the last note.

 

I wanted to give the first three tracks as examples of the flow and range of sound you are going to hear, along with the emotional canvas it is going to create in the framework of your mind. I think as an attentive listener, which many of you are, you like to get a view of what to expect and then find your own meaning and relatedness to some of the things I may mention.

 

In the context of emotions, I cannot fathom what one artist must go through in creating 15 tracks like The Small Hours. It sounds complex and encapsulates a perspective of one's thoughts, feelings, and emotions being captured into a musical composition translated through the piano's keys.

 

As Neil Patton's music flowed from his fingers, it evoked many emotions: reflection, sadness, and satisfaction. It compelled me to delve into my innermost thoughts. But this is experiential music. On the other side of this profound experience, you can cleanse your mind of all thoughts and find a place of peace within. This is the transformative power of instrumental music, the all-encompassing reach of the piano.

 

Give yourself the gift of Neil Patton's music. Let it unwind you, take you on a journey, and cleanse your mind. Once you've experienced its power, share it with a friend or loved one. I can promise you they will be grateful for the experience. It only takes one hour and ten minutes of your day or evening to realize the impact this music can have on you and those around you.

 

Only in The Small Hours can we really appreciate the solace and grace of the piano with that one special person sitting at it, creating something from nothing into a beautiful piece of art. And that is exactly what Neil Patton does. When the night passes and "Daybreak" arrives (the last track), we can feel energized and ready for the new day, do it all over again, and come back full circle to find that energy in the music to invigorate our mind, body, and soul repeatedly.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

October 14, 2024

Tracks:

01. Day's End 4:55

02. We Will Tell the Stories 3:46

03. Goodnight Daddy 3:10

04. Good to See You Again 5:09

05. Above the Treetops 3:54

06. A Room with a View 5:20

07. Falling Up 4:53

08. The Moon and Sun Dance 3:27

09. A Prayer in the Darkness 4:05

10. The Small Hours 3:40

11. Trust 5:34

12. Shame and Grace 4:23

13. This Grief Lies Down Beside Me 4:36

14. Nightwalk (Be Thou My Vision) 5:28

15. Daybreak 7:13