Childhood By Andrea Sertori

 

Childhood

By

Andrea Sertori

Written by

Chrissie Sheppard

 

Today I have the pleasure of writing a review for this brand new, fun release by Andrea Sertori, it is called Childhood, a piece that as you listen to, takes you back to those carefree days of childhood.

Listen carefully, as woven within this delightful piano tune is a piece of music that I’m sure you will remember with delight from your childhood, one that I would sing every night looking out of my bedroom window at the night sky, the lullaby Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.

I love the way that Sertori has entwined this so seamlessly into his musical creation, not an easy thing to do, and done so flawlessly.

This is a fun, magical creation, one that I’m sure can be enjoyed by all the family, and an arrangement I am sure will do well with listeners too. Childhood by Andrea Sertori I am sure will win your heart and the hearts of other lovers of piano music, and I’m sure will do well in the charts too!

Glass Half Empty by Samer Fanek

 

Glass Half Empty

By

Samer Fanek

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Since Samer Fanek made his return to us here on One World Music Radio he has been on a roll, one which started with a massive hit single called Fleeting Struggle and one that continues with this his latest colourful creation entitled Glass Half Empty, and this classy jazzy styled manifestation is something to behold.

The gentle solo start hides the later explosive content beautifully, that morphs into a percussive lead opus, and the tantalising jazz styled piano enters this musical playground, but Fanek is not done there, he utilises the aforementioned percussive element and adds a symphonic, which in turn raises the piece to dizzying heights akin to a really good television theme.

Glass Half Empty is one of those tracks that you will find hard to press stop on; its power and fluency demands more attention, and each time you do continue you find more in the weave of this musical carpet of many tales to tell. For me this song is about choices, and as the rain falls outside, and drizzles down the window of the wine bar, one has a decision to make, is it going to be built on a glass half full or half empty, the choice is yours!

Glass Half Empty by Samer Fanek is another perfect step forward in the music career of the artist; I remember his work from its beginnings, his early inception into the world of the vast piano genre back in 2016, but in my opinion he has the makings of a huge talent about to make it big, and perhaps Glass Half Empty maybe one of the pieces of that beautifully textured musical jigsaw. 

Ocean in a Drop By Carbe and Durand

 

Ocean in a Drop

By

Carbe and Durand

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I still have fond memories of the band Incendio back in 2001 playing on my radio show at that time, what a buzzing vibe that was, it seems incredible that nearly 25 years later I would still be spinning their music, but this time as the amazing duet of Carbe and Durand, and a brand new single entitled Ocean In A Drop.

Now I took my dog for a walk yesterday, actually I think he took me for one in reality, he wanted to go to our beautiful lighthouse beach, the waves were uncommonly rough for this time of year, whilst a pastel blue sky glowed above us, this new single of Carbe and Durand with its vibrancy, its positive fluency, and its natural relaxed charm would have indeed been the perfect soundtrack for that most beautiful event.

Whilst many duets are technically solid with each other’s performances, this pairing are as natural as a new day in summer, the bass and guitar, always just flows with simplicity and a tranquil poise, the added piano here was also a nice edition to this most charming of reveries, in short Carbe and Durand have it all, technically outstanding, symbiotically sublime.

As such one only has to gaze upon this new creation to know that yet another mega hit is in the making, so if you like your music rhythmic, acoustic based and filled with positivity, then you need to look no further than Ocean in a Drop by Carbe and Durand to make your day happier than you could ever expected.

Glimpse Of Changes By Anantakara

 

Glimpse Of Changes

By

Anantakara

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Reviewing an album by Anantakara is like taking a walk around your favourite modern art gallery, there is so much to see and hear, but time is needed to allow each and every single nuance to settle in and let the joy begin, and here on this brand new album from the artist entitled Glimpse Of Changes we have indeed that, an artistic gift that keeps giving, and whilst doing so he produces some of the best electronic based music around in this ever changing era.

For example the opening offering is a symbiotic partnership of synth genius, of vocalisations, ones that offer much to the overall narrative of the composition, thus creating a multi-faceted opening manifestation on our beginning called Light is Calling, which gives us, the ever eager listener, a totally sublime place to start and is indeed a perfect scene setting musical creation.

The project is a wonderful 10 track collection of some of the most inventive and expressive EM tracks, like the growing and expanding Close To The Golden Rise, and the swirling intrigue of the piece entitled The Sacred Pulse Of Gaia Awakening, these are but two powerful examples of the artists crafted brilliance, both contain a certain power and intense energy about themselves which is undeniable.

However one of my personal favourite creations would sit nestled in comfortably in as track 4 and called Tune into the Flow, this ambient slice of brilliance drifts on the edge of time with its soft synth pads, but the bass takes over the narrative and manifests a whole new enticing dimension to revel within.

Quantum Field Reverie steers us towards the half way marker of the release with an almost space like motif to its construction, the repeated echoing vibe drifts around the main keyboard narrative, and in doing so manifests a beautifully empty and ambient oasis of sound to drift upon, whilst tracks like the long form creation Cosmic Sanctuary Nearby is true Anantakara home ground advantage, this is the bread and butter styled opus we have happily come to know and love over the years from the artist, even so, he has now also brought into his growing skill set an abundancy of ambient tonalities to enjoy as well.

There can also be found some sparkling reveries here too, like the glittering genius of Blossoming Tree Of Life, a track that reminds me of another electronic music friend in Forrest Smithson, whilst the offering Harmonic Convergence gifts us a more new age style composition, one that hovers on the cadence of the day, whilst it steadily builds into a truly compelling narrative.

The penultimate track off this sublime release is called Tipping Point, if anyone has listened to 70’s Vangelis one may find something similar there, the mixture of tender tones and deep swirling synths manifest a wonderful tapestry of musical colour for us to all bathe within.

Whilst on the concluding tale entitled Remember Who You Are, there is once again a slice of deep ambience weaved into the construction of the track that is both palpable and at times quite emotive, this is a fine piece to choose as the ending arrangement, a creation packed with a depth and tone that is undeniable.

Glimpse Of Changes by Anantakara is an album that all friends and fans of the electronic music genre should have in their collections, not to do so would indeed be very remiss. 10 tracks of a multitude of musical flavours can be found on this high quality album, a release that is that good, it is possibly one of the artist’s best works to date, and may even be a seminal creation of the musician’s career to this date.

Only Tomorrow Knows by Richard Dillon

 

Only Tomorrow Knows

Richard Dillon

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This flourishing new single has to be one of the most prominent of Dillon’s career, its wonderful, cinematic and gloriously colourful, touching the hem of the new age, and falling into the arms of a Hollywood soundtrack and called Only Tomorrow Knows, the performer once more is the one and only Neil Patton.

The composition has many parts to its 3 minute contribution to piano based music, the slow and tender opening, and then into the more full flowing narrative we would expect from a romantic movie. Dillon as a composer has one of the finest ears in the business and he brings it all to the table with this new creation.

In the latter half of the arrangement an ethereal and angelic motif can be felt, one that reminds me greatly of another US composer and pianist in Rick Sparks, whose ambient pastiches are always so beautiful, but we still have more, as the coda gives us a stunning end point in a style that is most certainly neo classical, where the listener may be reminded of artists like Lanz or Hoppe.

Overall one has to say that this is with ease one of the best releases that Richard has given us for a long while, could it be his best work thus far? Possibly, it’s right up there with other gems of his, but regardless, I have a feeling the artist is going to hit the jackpot with this one, and all good things are firmly on the horizon for Only Tomorrow Knows by Richard Dillon.

Journeys by Soul Improvisations

 

Journeys

By

Soul Improvisations

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I remember with great fondness this track, in fact if memory serves me right, I actually featured it on my long form music show In the Stream, and what a beautiful addition it was. I am of course referring to the glorious gift that is Journeys by Soul Improvisations, a delicate, yet fluent piano manifestation that has a wonderful timelessness about its construction.

The piece itself rises and falls like a summer tide and the piano is used as a diary of tone and timbre, or as a painter whose brush strokes are both illuminating and textured, all of that and more can be found on this amazing offering by the artist.

It is so good to see long form music making a name now, allowing for those of us who just wish that immersive journey to continue onward until we are satiated. The themes explored within this piece are built upon a dramatic and somewhat romantic melody, one alone that could be turned into a hit song, but the mastery of this quite breath taking opus is the piano performance, which has layers of sensitivity entwined with passion, all of which are layered perfectly into this inspiring colourful narrative.

This is one of those manifestations that fans of solo piano should allow themselves a good twenty minutes of their time, to thoroughly enjoy and explore this sublime creation, this is a true tale, a perfect musical narration of journeys taken, ones in motion, ones yet to have been started, so why not begin now, by bathing in Journeys by Soul Improvisations.

Ani Ma'amin, I Believe By Soul Improvisations

 

Ani Ma'amin, I Believe

By

Soul Improvisations

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I believe I have just listened to one of the best solo piano singles in recent times, this total gem is called Ani Ma'amin, I Believe, and as such a proud and regal melodic structure about its composition, one that is so very palpable and attractive, so much so I have currently got the piece on repeat on my media player.

This is tremendously powerful music, and when one looks at the art work associated with it even more so, with reflection one can hear the Jewish motifs, from that I researched further and would find the following narrative of Rabbi Shaul Yedidya Elazar, who was said to have composed the tune whilst being taken to Treblinka in a cattle car, the story that follows is deeply harrowing but heart felt, and the listener may find it interesting to research this title for themselves and allow their minds to be immersed into that moment.

The magnificent crescendos, and the empowering arrangement of this incredible track is deeply moving, but also incredibly enjoyable to listen to, the performance by the artist has to be one of the best I have heard from a pianist in many years, and indicates that they are indeed playing from their heart, to yours, here is a piece that should last within the hearts of minds of the listener for eons.

Warrior Heart, Conquering Life's Challenges By Soul Improvisations

 

Warrior Heart, Conquering Life's Challenges

By

Soul Improvisations

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The title of this piece by Soul Improvisations is well named in this era of global fear and confusion, and without doubt it has been a pleasure for me today to listen to a solo piano track that’s well over eight minutes in duration, but the themes explored within the realm of this brand new opus would have to be that long, as there is so much to enjoy and embrace within Warrior Heart, Conquering Life's Challenges.

The tempo and fluency of the track is outstanding and the presentation on piano doubly so, and while it bears no resemblance, and nor should it, to the song I am about to mention, its arrangement reminded me Elton Johns Funeral For a Friend track from way back in 1973, which was also a long form piano piece that explored several narratives and themes along the way.

Here Soul Improvisations have manifested a composition that has some wonderful elements in the weave of this piano narrative, courage, strength and persistence are fine examples of what I personally found within this creation, and as such I believe that this most intelligent production will be well respected and loved by the followers of the genre, and Warrior Heart, Conquering Life's Challenges by Soul Improvisations, will be a constant on listeners piano playlists of choice.

Sanctuary By Anaya Music

 

Sanctuary

By

Anaya Music

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Anaya has been composing compelling music now for a while, on my radar she has been tuned in for some 9 years and is still creating magical compositions, the first album I have from her was entitled Eternity back in 2016, and now in 2025 we are blessed with another piece in the jigsaw called Sanctuary, a single from a forthcoming album of the same name.

Here that maturity of years within the industry is evident, this in my view is her best work thus far, and this full flowing neo-classical composition is a charming reverie in an otherwise confused world, so in some ways she has created a sonic sanctuary for us all to escape into.

This creation has a level of beauty about it that is harmonic and symphonic, her skills on the keyboard have expanded to bring forth a more cohesive sound, and this brand new single will be one that will be much loved by all who listen to it.

There can be no doubt that Anaya has that ability to manifest truly intelligent and compelling neo classical and contemporary instrumental themes, and here on Sanctuary she has done just that, and as such she should with ease win over the hearts and minds of the listener, and maybe even a high chart position for Sanctuary by Anaya Music may follow as too.

Sonic Calm - Part One By Alexander Sussman

 

Sonic Calm - Part One

By

Alexander Sussman

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Lately I have felt the golden era of New Age music has returned, now I believe that it has, only this time the difference is the quality of compositional structures, release content, and the stunning quality of production that is now more sincere than it ever was, all of which I may add can be found in this brand new album entitled Sonic Calm - Part One by Alexander Sussman.

Here Sussman, a fine composer and pianist in his own right, raises the bar of New Age music with some of the best and some of the most thoughtful compositions I have heard in this genre for a while, for example the uplifting narrative of track one in Hope. If ever a piece raised the rhythm’s and literally gave you the energy to carry on, then this beautiful opening creation is it.

I have been fortunate enough to have been in the music business and in this genre for nearly 30 years, so it’s easy for me to compare styles, structures and methodologies, here on Stillness though we have a unique presentation, one that is caring, tender and moving in its progression, here is also a piece that takes a pastiche of moods and creates a meditative bed of tone to enjoy.

Now we seem to be falling deeper into a blissful meditative state with the composition entitled Tranquillity, the vibrations and lightness of touch gift us a somewhat minimalistic musical reality, one that is fit for purpose and thoroughly enjoyable, I could lay still with eyes closed and be bathed in gratitude for hours listening to this one track alone.

The chime that ushers forth this next track called Peace is extremely clever, offering two different tones with which to start the track, it’s an incredibly hard thing to do, but my goodness it worked so well. The piece itself continues to just be in its own constructed moment as pianist Sussman carves a delightful path for this most ambient of tracks to follow, a wonderful sense of balance and harmony are found within this gifted manifestation too.

The Australian composer adds a further dimension into the mix with this next production entitled Balance, at times taking me back to a certain Temple in the Forest, David Naegele style, then building on some of the most delightful of synth moments towards the middle part of this artistic and quite breathtakingly beautiful opus, one that manifested for me a sublime sense of harmony that I never wanted to leave.

As we move ever onward we come across an almost ethereal creation called Simplicity, here is a delicacy that is so deftly woven into this tapestry of musical delights. A soft stringed synth floats around us, while the main feeling of emptiness and clarity is found with ease, this is without doubt one of the most meditative and uncluttered offerings from the album, and it could have been 10 minutes long, I really wouldn’t have minded.

We have now drifted on our river of harmonic convergence into an almost soft bed of tonal delights with the offering Serenity, once more I found myself floating back into the days of artists like Liquid Mind, such bliss could be found back then, now it is here for us all to embrace, in the background one can almost hear the bells calling you home to the temple, and into a world of peace, a world free from turbulence, all of that and more can be found within the realms of this incredible track.

The penultimate offering is a creation called Contemplation; imagine taking sometime out to process your thoughts, allow the narration of an undulating piano take you on a journey through tranquil and serene states, and enjoy the process, with a subtle ease the theme changes slightly to allow an even greater access to the calm that this lovely composition places before you.

The final and concluding narrative is also the longest one from the release and called appropriately Lullaby. The gentle drum beat is distant in the composition, but close enough to manifest a warming heart beat with which to relax to, whilst the keyboards structures and chords gift us a magical new age arrangement where one can with ease drift off into a meditative reality of tranquil peace, this long form opus is a pleasure to immerse one’s self into, it’s a track to let go to and simply the perfect way with which to leave the album.

There can be no doubt that this is one of the best new age styled releases I have had the good pleasure to listen to for simply ages, Sonic Calm - Part One by Alexander Sussman is a total gem of an album, one that contains some of the most relaxing and soothing musical narratives you will have heard for a life time, this is the album that will bring your life back into balance, and I rate it that highly that I can easily see a top 5 placement in the charts, and possibly an award as well, it is that good.

An Awakened Heart By Fred Grenot

 

An Awakened Heart

By

Fred Grenot

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Fred Grenot has been in such a rich vein of form since his return to the music scene, that when a new composition comes on offer, one eagerly awaits its contents like a child hoping for his favourite sweets. However Fred has not only produced something remarkable on this new single called An Awakened Heart, but I believe he has produced something timeless and free of musical boundaries.

The listener can feel the build and progression here in this dominant composition, there is a true sense of grounding here as well, one that is beautifully portrayed by the artist, he has truly become a master of his keyboards, and the synths he uses to great aplomb.

Also within this creative arrangement one can hear the greats of ambient electronic music, as filtering energies of Eno, Laraaji and Budd all seem to be in the weave of the creation somewhere. There is indeed more, the repetitive chimes in the back ground of this amazing musical narrative reminded me of one of my favourite tonal distractions, in an almost church bell peel around the 90s second mark, that continually repeats throughout this quite stunning composition.

When all is said and done Grenot has built something here that is both demanding of attention and sublimely and artistically manifested, as such I can see no other outcome other than a the number one spot on the charts, and perhaps even more for An Awakened Heart by Fred Grenot.

Natura By Michael D. Tidwell & Piscean Daydreams

 

Natura

By

Michael D. Tidwell & Piscean Daydreams

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The subject of nature has always been one of the constants in my life, from childhood to now, I always felt most at home in the forests, hillsides and woodlands, so listening to this brand new album called Natura was something of a guilty pleasure for me, and I can relate that the artists Michael D. Tidwell & Piscean Daydreams did not let me down.

Our first footfalls in this musical escape into nature comes via the medium of the first track entitled Chapter 1 Nature, this growing opus of sound is the perfect place to start, and akin to the dawn breaking in the wildness of the Earth, as we get to watch everything become in tune with the day ahead, wonderfully layered keyboards can be found here, and they create such an impressive and immersive experience too.

The combination of these sparkling composers offers much for us to enjoy, for example the power and intensity of Chapter 2 Commodity is an incredible manifestation, reminding me greatly of the work of artists like Thom Brennan in their evocative and powerful soundscapes. The electronic mastery here is deeply felt, and extremely distinct in bringing to the listener a sense of an outer worldly reality, the swirling synths give us energies of an efficacious nature.

The more gentle side of the recording is shown here with this delicious creation called Chapter 3 Beauty. There is a steady progression of keyboards here that is truly palpable, one that allows layer upon layer of tonality to fall down like rain upon the listener, then to flow back like the tide and reconstitute itself again later on. However there is a textured depth to this piece that is not to be ignored.

The entire album has an essence of a philosophical nature about its construction, after some research things began to make perfect sense, as the entire release Natura is a contemplative eight-track album inspired by the transcendental philosophy of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s ground-breaking essay, Nature.

The depths that this next offering called Chapter 4 Language went to were very impressive; the performances on synths reminded me in style of US artist Forrest Smithson in texture. This veritable collage of tones and layers truly encapsulated the moment entirely, and in doing so manifested a meditational moment of true profundity.

Once more into this musical maelstrom we go with this next offering entitled Chapter 5 Discipline, but this is no vortex of confusion and randomness, this is exactly the opposite. The whole composition reminded me of the flow and style one gets from a really good Tai Chi master, the mood of this piece was dominant, but in the way of orders and instructions, thus bringing harmony and balance into the proceedings.

Chapter 6 Idealism I would have to say is the most beautiful track from the album, at certain points of construction reminding me of the most meditative works of artists like the UK’s master synth artist Kevin Kendle, a lush deception of perceived realities maybe found here, the synth pads are vast and this gives the listener space to brush away the tonal clouds allowing them to see the truth below, and then the slow acceptance of realisation can be felt too.

I can see myself using this album for my reading projects on those chilly autumn and winter evenings, especially so tracks like this next offering entitled Chapter 7 Spirit. The sense of searching to find meaning is experienced, its juxtaposition to a reality of that you are that meaning, is an interesting find indeed.

Whilst the concluding musical narrative Chapter 8 Prospects, is a sincerely felt opus of sound with an acutely electronic vibration, one that is partnered almost symbiotically by a haunting reverie of drifting angelic and ethereal synth arrangements. This is an utter master class of how to go out of an album in style, and leave the listener wanting even more, a sublime conclusion to a superior album indeed.

Natura by Michael D. Tidwell & Piscean Daydreams may have spawned a new genre in the world of electronic music, perhaps philosophical ambience; it is certainly an inspirational body of work. With deep tonal musical brushstrokes I believe that we have an album here that could attain the mantle of becoming an eternal and timeless classic, and any serious ambient music lover would do themselves a favour by making Natura by Michael D. Tidwell & Piscean Daydreams part of their musical lives as well.

American Anxiety EP By Zishi Liu

 

American Anxiety EP

By

Zishi Liu

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This latest ep brings a whole new dimension of music to me on this sunny morning; the cadence of my day is further enhanced by the inventive manifestations within this realm of Progressive Jazz entitled American Anxiety by Zishi Liu, I must admit the title can also be said to be relevant right now with regard to that country and the confusing turmoil that surrounds it.

However the acclaimed jazz saxophonist and composer Zishi Liu looks at his narrative from a perspective of an arrival into the boundless realms of this massive continent, and all the complexities that swirl around one like the never ending tornado it truly is, and the opening track portrays that perfectly, its insightful yet slow moving overtones and rapid changes, alter grow and expand into one of the most impressive and artistic opening tracks within the genre on the opening piece Breathe.

American Anxiety reminded me of my first time travelling to New York City, it’s a location where everything is, everything was, and will be, constantly, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, the driving saxophone from Liu is enhanced further by this large band his has assembled, but in my view the guitar of Eric Hofbauer was simply outstanding, whilst in the engine room the percussive talents of Francisco Mela brought a level of Jazz symbiosis to the party like non before, proving to us all that this is exactly how to make a title track stand out for all to see and enjoy.

The mournful refrains of our penultimate piece are gifted to us next on the composition entitled The Death of Yue Fei.  This slightly short form manifestation builds on a two dimensional mood and has both a level of anticipation weaved into a clever juxtaposition with its somewhat reflective and emotive nuances.

The final part of this artistic endeavour comes in the guise of the track Lotus, a meditative testament to the past perhaps; it’s gentle and enticing Zen-like opening leads us perfectly into a land of plenty, and is a fine example of East meets West with utter ease, if ever the term global fusion could be used in the world of Jazz, this track could be held up as a prime example of it.

The single performances from each member here were incredibly inventive and fluent to boot, whilst the overflowing narrative from the master musician would draw a musical painting that would progress, pick up tempo and bring us one of the most addictive compositions that I have heard in this style for simply ages.

There is no doubt that any serious Jazz aficionado should have a copy of American Anxiety by Zishi Liu in their media player of choice, this 4 track release is outstandingly crafted, well thought out and inelegantly performed by the artist and his accomplished collective of musical cohorts. Here within lies a timeless collection of cogent perceptive Jazz, and many hours of immersive, thoroughly captivating and thrilling musical dramas is on offer here for you, on American Anxiety by Zishi Liu. 

Dancing Shadows By Christophe Goze

 

Dancing Shadows

By

Christophe Goze

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Christophe Goze is a composer of great quality and style and here on this brand new single entitled Dancing Shadows he teams up with vocalist Skeb, and the result is one of the best vocal tracks I have heard for years. This also has to be one of the most haunting reveries I have heard from the master guitarist and composer, normally known for his smooth Jazz compositions.

Goze has indeed broken new ground in what must be classified perhaps as a pop ballad, but for me and my vast years in this business, this could easily slide into the narrative that is known being known as New Age Vocal perhaps. Compositionally speaking this reminded me of another favourite track of mine called Lughnasad by Andy Pickford released back in 2002, he also was an instrumentalist who unusually used a haunting female vocalist to add flavour to his classic opus, and it worked brilliantly.

The production quality of this new song is utter perfection, and it is this textured and layered progression of tone and vocal superiority that makes this new manifestation so enticing. Skeb on vocals adds so much, the juxtaposition of Goze on guitar equally so, and I feel like sticking my neck out here, I would rate this to be one of the greatest singles in this style that I have had the good pleasure to listen to for the last decade at least, and if it doesn’t win an award and top the charts I will be completely floored.

Humanity's Silent Cry By Alejandro Clavijo

 

Humanity's Silent Cry

By

Alejandro Clavijo

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

A new artist to me came my way this morning via the medium of a brand new single entitled Humanity's Silent Cry, and its creator the ever so talented Alejandro Clavijo. I must be honest and say that I have never been a fan of felt piano, but here on this creative new release Clavijo gifts us a haunting theme, and the composition, methodology and choice of instrumentation works brilliantly.

The piece itself is a haunting reverie, something you may see on a Tim Burton movie perhaps, the back drop of a gentle synth pad is masterful in manifesting a mysterious and mist filled veil over the musical landscape that escapes from it. Whilst Clavijo’s piano builds on a clock like structure, and then bursts into life to create a fluent melody and direction.

This has to be one of the most captivating piano based compositions that I have heard for some time; it’s one of those tracks that you cannot help continuously playing, and a track that embraces the listener, taking them through the narrative of a new day filled with both hope and apprehension, Alejandro Clavijo has manifested something special here, and as such I predict a huge hit single is on offer for the artist with Humanity's Silent Cry.

The Presence of Love By Rick Sparks

 

The Presence of Love

By

Rick Sparks

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Rick Sparks is a composer and performer of some of the most beautiful piano and keyboard music around in this day and age, whilst that might well be a truism of sorts, nothing can be taken away from this man who has manifested such a stunning array of fine music over many years, for me that journey started with an album called Endless back in 2014 and continues to this day with this sparkling new single entitled The Presence of Love.

Here Rick brings to our attention the most perfect form of love within his music, the honest, truthful, and only real love, unconditional love, this then forms the musical narrative of The Presence of Love, the performance lays down a gentle tender tone, the soft touch on the keys and the gentle progression brings us all a sense of deep peace and contentment.

Within this comforting refrain there can be found a few slight chord changes that brings about a sense of confidence calm and serenity, overall this new manifestation has a palpable cathartic energy about its arrangement too, so all in all, there is simply no reason not to make this new single from Sparks part of your lives as well.

One has to finally add that on the world’s stage and in this genre, Sparks’ stands out as one of its top creators and composers, this new song totally emphasises that aforementioned statement, and even takes it further, so without doubt The Presence of Love by Rick Sparks is destined to become a massive hit, and maybe even more!

Talking to Whales By Ilka de Gast

 

Talking to Whales

By

Ilka de Gast

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This New Age music revival is now full on and this time around its narratives seem to be far stronger in the production and creational aspects of the genre, whilst back in the day, many would release albums about whales and dolphins, fairies and trees, but this time around it is very obvious that a lot of intelligence, thought, sincerity, consideration and topical awareness has gone into this well of bountiful musical pleasure, and that aforementioned statement can certainly be said for one of the best new age singles I have heard for years called Talking To Whales and performed by composers Ilka De Gast and Tommy Graven.

Utilising the harmonic craft of flautist Tommy Graven, vocalist De Gast manifests a contribution to the genre of a single that is not only utterly beautiful, but must surely have been channelled by the whales themselves, at her spiritual sanctuary known to her personally as “The Vortex”, just to add a little more context, we have a few special locations here in Cyprus, where we are sure that time and energy operates in a totally different way to all other places.

We can add further to the description of this stunning reverie that it contains a meditative quality like no other, the song is not just redolent of the subject matter, it is the subject matter, and personally I must state that I believe Talking to Whales by Ilka de Gast is easily one of the best new age releases I have heard so far this decade, and as such deserves to top the charts and perhaps more!

Silence By Lisa Cullum

 

Silence

By

Lisa Cullum

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The slow and gentle refrains of this brand new single by Lisa Cullum called Silence speaks volumes for its brilliant arrangement, this new manifestation starts in a deep dark well of tone and pulls itself into a position that allows it to survey all, in a fine melodic and flowing way, and whilst doing so she has captivated the listener with a simply spell binding performance on piano.

The symphonic gestures of this neo-classical masterpiece then blend into an almost eastern European flavour, and its silent pebbled streets are only washed clear by the rain and the notes struck from one of the most impressive piano presentations I have heard for decades, there is indeed a tale being told here and this piece draws the listener in, to never let them go!

There is also something about this new single that screams film soundtrack score to me, perhaps if Tim Burton is reading this he should contact the artist with regard to any new and haunting movies he has coming up, this new manifestation is of that quality, and I fully expect it to be a massive hit on the charts and who knows, perhaps an award or two as well.

Echoes of Light By Lisa Cullum

 

Echoes of Light

By

Lisa Cullum

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The London based neo-classical composer Lisa Cullum has been on my musical radar now for some years, four to be exact, and since then her talents as a composer and pianist have grown exponentially, here on this brand new five piece EP she expands her skill set even further on one of the nicest collections of piano based musings you would ever wish to have, and called Echoes Of Light.

The journey starts with From The Darkness, a track that must be classified as beautiful in its compositional structure, it truly is a creation that guides one from the dark and into the light, the gentle build, slow progression and superior piano and string segments, make this one of the most impressive opening pieces I have heard for years in this genre.

The following narrative has what could be described as a sensitive, almost pristine energy to its essence; there is a sense of mystery and curiosity here that is not only wonderfully crafted, but deeply compelling on the piece entitled Into The Light. The classical element here is incredibly palpable and one can through the cello string sections and careful piano, find a way out of the webs and mists of a darker past perhaps.

Clarity has something that I adore in any music, that hovering sense of intent, Vaughn Williams used to do it so well with those delicious violins, and here Cullum joins that club in manifesting one of the most heartfelt offerings this genre has seen for decades on Clarity. A track that floats with the fresh air of a new May morning, and in doing so brings a beautiful cadence to the day for any listener.

The penultimate narrative is a piano based creation of great texture and quality and called The Last Moment, there is something so very moving about this performance, that matched with the string segments brings a true sense of a mournful texture to the heart and mind on this emotive creation.

Our last and concluding piece is called Silence, the tale starts from a deep place, and its tone and timbre slowly build, to pick up tempo which in turn brings forth an almost meditative structure with which to float within, a composition that has a duality of a haunting reverie, and one that could easily be used as a film soundtrack.

Echoes of Light by Lisa Cullum in my view is the best work of the artist thus far, here on this sublime new EP she has taken many musical moments and shaped them into six very listenable and captivating creations, here is a release that any listener will be happy to fall in love with, and as such I can only see good things on the horizon for Lisa Cullum and Echoes of Light.

Days of Gypsy Nights By Doug Wyatt

 

Days of Gypsy Nights

By

Doug Wyatt

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This new release by Doug Wyatt has to be one of the most enjoyable for me personally that I have had the pleasure to listen to this year so far, and that says a lot, as I get gifted a fair amount of Jazz based albums for review, there was something so fluent and smooth about this creative pastiche of compositions within the realm of this new album entitled Days of Gypsy Nights.

This release contains 9 bliss filled reveries, the first of which is entitled Iroquois, a charming full flowing narrative that has a delightful symphonic sense to its construction. I remember the name from my Native American studies, and the piano of Wyatt here created a spectacular backdrop of sound that perhaps could take us vicariously to that very location, a tip of the hat must go here to the saxophone of Michael Rosen, and the crafted percussion from Marcello Pellitteri on drums.

The following creation is called As I Am, As I Dream to Be, its combination of colours and textures brought a pleasant sanctuary of peace to fill my musical soul. One of the most important parts of a Jazz band is the engine room, or the rhythm section, and among the rising notes of the sax and layered piano, we were treated to a sublime performance by Giuseppe Bassi on double bass.

Days of Gypsy Nights is such a beautifully created and produced album it is a simple pleasure to behold its great graces, like the heart felt opus of Afraid to Love, or perhaps the symphonic partnership of piano and strings on Katy's Spring.

Then the masterpiece takes centre stage as we listen intently to the title track itself Days of Gypsy Nights, we can enjoy the sumptuous performance on piano by Wyatt, we can travel with the tonal delights of the New Zealand String Quartet as they manifest a bed of sound to allow the piece itself to pick up speed and move ever onward, whilst the supreme talents of both Michael Rosen & Michael Waldrop on sax and drums take us to Jazz heaven on what must be one of the most complex yet incredibly listenable offerings from the album.

Composer Wyatt must be elated with his musical creations, all of which are bursting with life and create a fine tapestry of tone and timbre, like the gentle piano reverie of The Pseudo-Iterative, or perhaps the outstanding Mythaka, a song which utilises the sublime talents of Francesco Ponticelli on double bass, and with the simply picturesque string driven short form narrative of Ulysses, we are literally driven right home to our door, and the concluding creation from the album.

Return to the Sea Beyond as a final narrative is lush, smooth and beautifully performed, the opening foray by Wyatt is some of the most artistic and tender piano I have heard for simple ages in this genre, with the inclusion of strings the listener can feel totally fulfilled at the coda.

For me, I would recommend Days of Gypsy Nights by Doug Wyatt in a heartbeat, this isn’t just a Jazz album, this is a sublime example of perfectly created, presented and produced instrumental magic, with a team of incredibly talented cohorts who each in their own add so much to this breath taking album, as such I predict with great confidence that Days of Gypsy Nights by Doug Wyatt is going to be a huge chart hit, and maybe even more!

Hush (Extended Version) By ENILSounds

 

Hush (Extended Version)

By

ENILSounds

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

ENILSounds have been on my musical radar for some 3 years or so now, today as new single flies across my desk which is possibly the best so far, we can feel the mood of this new creation Hush (Extended Version), which in my view is somewhat surprising, as for me I personally found it quite emotive, but overall it is one of the most beautifully performed works from her thus far.

A gentle childlike ballad can be found here, as indeed the title may give a hint to the eager listener, but there is so much to enjoy here, with the vocals at times reminding me of Kate Bush, the keyboards were a key point to, manifesting a truly moving backdrop of sound.

This as a song that could be classified as almost anthem in style, but the key changes and drops down to a more minor refrain, these were simply awesome and utterly made my day whilst listening to it and it is this that created a powerful and emotional arrangement for us all to enjoy.

Hush (Extended Version) by ENILSounds I would say is the artist’s seminal work so far, everything is pretty much perfect here, pitch, tempo, construction and compositional textures all sublime, and as such I have a feeling that this could well be the biggest hit yet for the composer and performer, and deservedly so. 

Fleeting Struggle By Samer Fanek

 

Fleeting Struggle

By

Samer Fanek

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I must admit a happy smile drifted across my face as soon as saw a new release by pianist Samer Fanek was on offer, and even more so when I found out that I was going to be reviewing it, this brand new offering, the first since 2022 is called Fleeting Struggle, and is a timely reminder of just how very talented this composer actually is.

The opening foray to this latest master creation is steady and very moody; a sense of apprehension is also built into its crafted narrative, one that is soon elevated to a wondrous level with added percussion and an almost Middle Eastern flavour into the mix as well.

The mid part of the composition pulls back slightly then builds again into a more symphonic creation; from then onwards this classy new manifestation flows like a full flowing winter river, with added guitar included into its inventive narrative, and contains one of the most intelligent codas to conclude this brilliant new single as well.

There can be no doubt Samer Fanek is back, and will no doubt be riding the wave of the instrumental genre whilst doing so. This new powerful piece Fleeting Struggle is the breath of fresh air we all needed, and for me a guaranteed hit in the making for the artist.