The Isle of Innisfree by Shere Fraser & John Hamilton

 

The Isle of Innisfree

By

Shere Fraser & John Hamilton

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

It is always wonderfully blissful when a suggested duet comes up trumps and delivers a sublime composition for the listeners to revel within; the two musicians in question are flautist Shere Fraser and pianist John Hamilton, both of which I have written about on separate occasions with their own compositions, here they combine flute and piano and bring us a delightful Celtic refrain on their latest single The Isle of Innisfree.

This is indeed a beautiful part of the world as is Ireland itself, the combination of a gentle piano narrative by Hamilton paints the sky and clouds with a tonal fluency, whilst Fraser’s lush flute draws us into the entire locational environment with one of the most charming performances ever.

I have a lot of respect for the work of both artists and listening to this pairing they certainly suit each other’s styles, and it is also a pleasure to hear a little Celtic lilt in a single these days. The land, the country, its legends and its stunning beauty has led to many a colourful, musical composition over the decades; here Fraser and Hamilton bring their A game to the table with this new composition.

The Isle of Innisfree by Shere Fraser & John Hamilton maybe diminutive in duration at just over two minutes, but it is without doubt one of the sweetest and most heart-warming new singles I have heard in this style for simply ages, and thus I have a feeling that a big hit could well be on the cards for The Isle of Innisfree by Shere Fraser & John Hamilton.

Blissful and Beyond By Sharon Chen

 

Blissful and Beyond

By

Sharon Chen

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Sharon Chen is an instrumentalist who with each passing measure has improved, grown and expanded her world view of the genre, here on both piano and strings, she gifts us, the ever eager listener, her best release thus far with the album Blissful and Beyond.

Chen’s sublime touch on both violin and piano can be felt here with such a warm radiance of mood and energy, the opening piece alone is enough to literally raise you from any gloom that the day has dragged you into, and the title of that charm filled opus is beautifully called Beyond the Clouds.

Here the listener will find delicate and sensitive arrangements like the touching and pristine composition entitled Blissful Enchantment, whilst offerings like Sun Never Sets, will take you far deeper than you would have ever imagined, those plunging notes on the piano are so vast and all-encompassing, so much so that when the melody full engages, we are taken towards the sunset itself, to watch the glory of the moment on a true anthem of an arrangement.

This 8 track collection of fluent and heart felt musical narratives is summed up perfectly by my favourite piece off the release called River Runs Through. This melodic slice of reflective instrumental music has a tempo that is deliciously paced, whilst the main segment of the piece takes one on a ride down the river of reflective memories.

That easy on the ears manifestation brings us to our penultimate offering Waves of My Heart, where we can also remember our journey through pieces like the new age piano styled  In Your Heart I Stay, or the positivity of compositions like Hello Love Goodbye Rain.  Sharon then brings the project to a conclusion with her final offering to us entitled Eternity Tonite, this concluding short form narrative with its memory palace of a melody, is the perfect final piece for her extremely beautiful album, one which she should be extremely proud of.

Blissful and Beyond by Sharon Chen is a delightful collection of harmonious creations from the artist, combining synth sounds, and her trusty piano and violin, all of which bring to the listener a release of great colour and texture, one that any serious musical seeker should not miss out upon at all costs, and revere as a little something very special indeed.

12th - Treasures by Rada Neal

 

12th – Treasures

By

Rada Neal

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There are few pianists around in this genre today that are as descriptive and fluent as Rada Neal, her ability to manifest soothing musical narratives on her piano are palpable, and I can speak volumes about this encapsulating performance after having listened to the entire album and being totally spellbound by its creative beauty, so today we journey through the realm of 12th – Treasures her latest release.

I have known of Rada’s work now for some near on 20 years now, the first release I came across back in 2005 called Timeless Third still lingers long in my mind to this day. Here on her brand new creation she manifests comforting reveries like Come What May, a gentle narrative of acceptance perhaps, this is followed that up with the stunning eloquence of In the Silence, a track I could gaze out of the window in the middle of a quiet day too and simply lose all knowledge of time.

There is warmth to Rada’s style that reminds me of the late but great Annie Locke, she like Annie, brings a comforting cuddle along with her music, compositions that give such a feeling of tender warmth for me were Floating and Sweet Dreams, the latter’s sublime melody was truly special also.

Here fans of solo piano will find 12 tracks of absolute delight and pleasure, offerings like Time Stood Still will add a slight air of mystery into the proceedings, whilst the composition Passages added a dramatic flavour onto the plate of our musical table, perhaps an escape has been made from an unsavoury circumstance.

Rada then concludes the project with the penultimate offering entitled Story of the Night, a powerful performance can be found here, this was a personal favourite of mind, in an almost Phantom of the Opera moment, whilst the endeavour itself is brought to a close with the last piece called Sledding, something I haven’t done for too many years to count!

12th – Treasures by Rada Neal was one of the most pleasurable listens I have had of any album recently, its soothing pastiche of solo piano music was both enchanting and captivating, in my view this album contains some of her best work thus far, and fans of this genre worldwide really shouldn’t miss it.  12th – Treasures by Rada Neal is a musical panacea, a cathartic journey of tone and timbre to be truly valued. 

Ontogenesis By NTHNL

 

Ontogenesis

By

NTHNL

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

This is interesting; when I first heard Ontogenesis by NTHNL I was immediately struck by its meditative nature, I am the type of writer who likes to actually listen to the entire project first before setting my sails to compose, and as always I am glad I did, this is a wonderful body of work, one that reminded me in parts of Llewellyn’s Journey To The Temple at the turn of this century, with its aspect of working through the bodies Chakra system, but here is an album that is different and goes much further.

Here NTHNL (aka) Jacob Rudin delivers the first album based on Ontogenesis. Ontogeny (also ontogenesis), this is the development of an individual organism or anatomical or behavioural feature from the earliest stage right through to maturity.

The beginning of this breath taking compilation of stunning music is Welcome Procession, a mood of an increasing awareness can be found within this piece, offering the true beginnings of the one, this multi-instrumental moment is the foundation of the journey we are about to enjoy.

There is much about this release that reminds me of when I give myself a Reiki treatment, working from the bottom up, bringing balance and harmony to the body, the following musical narrative flows with a precise nature and is called Straightening, Dispersing. At this point we can allow our posture to be straighter, thus allowing the energy to flow naturally; the tones here are deeper in nature, the electronic vibrations create a sanctuary of sound to drift into, and the flute is our guide along the way.

The natural sounds of the ocean at the start of our next piece entitled Nourishing, Holding are a welcome addition; I could do with an oceanic voyage right now, bathing in the healing waters of our existence, the textures here are simply beautiful, and once more that meditative sense of tranquillity washes over me, in the same way as Temple in the Forest by David Naegele did back in 1982.

We now swim within the safe harbours of the album, and as we do so we come across the track Reaching, Striving, Praying. It is as if we have found a thermal to glide on within this sparkling composition, the energy here is invigorating and most assuredly palpable, an arrangement of breath, and focus. The electronic tapestry weaved here in combination with the artists flute is both compelling incredibly uplifting.

Approaching the tor of our musical delights, we now reach the mid-way juncture of the album; the keyboards manifest a dreamy sound, whilst NTHNL’s flute hovers like an early misty September morning. Processing, Detoxifying is our current port of call, and its warming and comforting musical caress is delightful.

The return home starts with the piece Assurance, Rising, here the artists gifts us the vehicle to gain determination and strength for what may be ahead, the swirling nature of the electronic elements here are beautifully held in an informal energetic structure by the flute, and the natural ambience of the piece manifests an arrangement that is utterly transcendent.

The depth on Heart is felt to the core, the keyboards drift after manifesting the initial tone and intent of the piece, from the engine room of the body here is a composition that pumps a true sense into life, creating its own musical tidal structures, the vocalisations within this track and the natural sounds most certainly keep the listener grounded.

This album works on many levels, on pieces like Aerating, Billowing, energies of drifting on the thermals of life can be felt, the meditative ambience here is felt with such serenity in the performance of the composition, a light and tranquil pastiche of peace and serenity is so very much appreciated.

We found ourselves in the deeper waters of the album now, and as the vibrational structures alter and increase in intensity, they are beautifully portrayed by the electronic wizardry of the composition entitled Transmitting, Unravelling, Communing. The synth work here adds a layer of pace and energy into the proceedings, whilst later pulling back like a departing tide, from the tones of the composition it feels like we are in the area of the throat, the release of speaking ones truth can be felt here, and the freedom to do so is also wonderfully catered for by this inspiring and invigorating arrangement.

Our penultimate piece is called Synthesis, Memory. A track again filled with multi-instrumental flavours, the flute of the artist brings an opportunity to reflect, acknowledge and most importantly let go. The higher we go the more ethereal and contemplative the creations become, this piece raises the vivacity of the moment in a most caring and expansive way.

Whilst here now on our concluding offering called Return to the Cloud, Thank You, a moment of gratitude can be felt through the tone and timbre of the piece. This is an all-encompassing last composition, one that is born from the electronic, bathed in meditative keyboard structures, and manifests a feeling of once more being grounded in one’s own personal reality.

Ontogenesis by NTHNL is an album that will become a timeless constant in a listener’s collections; there have been many of who compiled great works using the chakra system, or various healing modalities, but this is a unique collection of thoughtful intelligent unconstrained compositions, all which go to creating an exclusive experience for anyone sensible enough to purchase it, a thoroughly glorious release that will remain on my playlist of choice for many years to come. 

Open Doors By Michael Dulin

 

Open Doors

By

Michael Dulin

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

There is one thing that you can always count on, that the release of a new Michael Dulin composition is going to bring you the inspiration, excitement and joy you most need, and on this new manifestation entitled Open Doors he does just that and more, oceans of fluency and passion are there in abundance, and we can once again be most grateful that master of smooth piano structures is back and in full flow.

On Open Doors Dulin creates something of an anthem styled opus, one could see this being an ending piece at a concert with all the trimmings, it is certainly a glorious composition of great quality, one that has a delicious symphonic backdrop, a rhythm and melody that drives carefully forward leaving the listener filled with optimism and positivity at its conclusion.

There can be no doubt that over the years artists like Dulin have always brought their A game to this musical table of delights, and this new single is another splendid dish of textures, colours and tone, to thrill any hungry seeker of musical perfection.

One could also say that Open Doors is such an emotionally uplifting narrative that perhaps it’s also worthy of inclusion in a major movie, perhaps in a positive closing segment, regardless Dulin has once again done himself proud by bringing to us ever eager listeners another classic title to thoroughly enjoy, and surely very big things must now be on the cards for Open Doors by Michael Dulin.

Be The Change By Astrid M & Piano Lilium

 

Be The Change

By

Astrid M & Piano Lilium

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

A message of positivity can be found on the surface, in between and underneath the notes on this brand new single by Astrid M & Piano Lilium. The duet has excelled in bringing something fresh, new and unique to the world of what is now called the New Age Vocal genre.

The imploring vocals of Astrid are matched perfectly by Lilium’s passionate and vibrant performance on the piano. There is an energy that is emerging now in this genre, one that is turning the tide from the more reflective and mournful structures, to the more invigorating and inspiring creations of positivity and change for the good, and the wellbeing of oneself.

The driving tones of the piano here are undeniable and Astrid’s vocals a force for good and truth, thus the combination of that, means a mantra of empowerment is full, free and flowing within this new single, and the combination of a heart felt piano and lyrically empowering vocals, are simply intoxicating and should be embraced.

Be The Change by Astrid M & Piano Lilium is a new offering filled full of opportunity and possibilities, so much so that you really may want to check this new single out, and become the change you know you can be!

Nobody Knows By Andrea Sertori

 

Nobody Knows

By

Andrea Sertori

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

It might be that we are now heading into autumn, but the mood of the music I have been reviewing lately has been quite reflective, non-more so than this new single by Andrea Sertori entitled Nobody Knows. The pianist has always had a rich and full flavour within his compositions, but here on this new composition he gives us a really moving moment of piano creativity.

Nobody Knows flows with a late September breeze, as it waves farewell to another summer with the most sympathetic of musical gestures. A mood filled opus of a memorable moment can literally be felt within the compositional structure of this arrangement; and one could also sense a recantation of a time of perhaps confusion and sadness finally being resolved by the uplifting coda to this new single.

There can be no doubt that Sertori is a musical talent that has consistently produced one classy piano manifestation after another, and here on Nobody Knows he paints a philosophical piece filled with introspection and a thoughtful musical prose.

This new single is a fine example of what truly good solo piano sounds like, and as such I have a feeling that a good chart position may also be on the cards for Nobody Knows by Andrea Sertori.

A Beautiful Memory By Annie Locke

 

A Beautiful Memory

By

Annie Locke

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The beautiful memory of the wonderful Annie Locke will live forever in my musical heart; her style on the piano was one of the warmest I have ever known, the tones manifested from her constructions always filled one with such pleasant moods and feelings, and here on a single brought to our light by her partner Francis after her passing, is yet another moment to enjoy the sublime talent that was Annie Locke.

A Beautiful Memory is typical Annie, a soft and gentle pastiche of notes, a sweet melody, and a compositional flow like a river in June, full, rich, textured and colourful.

This new single is a testament to her performance ability and her musical structures; she always played with lush colours and qualities, and in doing so continuously manifested a tranquil tapestry of tone for us all to enjoy.

Over the years Annie gave us some splendid creations, and each and every one of them would always leave the audience with a pleasant smile and a sigh of contentment, and on A Beautiful Memory we find more moments of the pianist in that mode, and reminds us that while she may no longer be with us in our realm, her music is a timeless jewel that will shine its warmth over us for eternity.

Where Oceans Meet By Suzanne Herman

 

Where Oceans Meet

By

Suzanne Herman

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

In 2022 I remember being entranced and following the Path of the Sandpiper, and the next year my thoughts were sailing towards a sunset, it has always thrilled me when Suzanne Herman offers up a release for review, as in my view she is one of very few pianist who have that blissful ability to paint portraits of locations with her music, and today she is back at it, and has produced another beautify of a composition called Where Oceans Meet.

Those deep and meaningful tones of the artist’s piano on this piece are so sublime and deeply moving, one could literally be there with the artist, she has that ability to draw one in as she plays, and her presentations are always graphic, textured and colourful.

I see many locations here on my island that inspire me to create music about them, it’s not easy, but Suzanne has that magic about her constructions, she strokes emotions from the keys and plays with her heart on her sleeve, and whilst doing so that tapestry that she manifests literally comes alive with every passing measure.

Where Oceans Meet by Suzanne Herman has a delightfully soothing melody; it has a gentleness of composition that is deeply palpable and attractive, and the very tone of her coda signifies a delicious conclusion to a superb new single. This is one piece I personally hope does really well in the charts, it’s remarkably delectable reflective mood, makes this for me one of the best solo piano compositions I have heard this year, thus good things should be on the horizon for Where Oceans Meet by Suzanne Herman.

Rise Again By Matias Bacoñsky

 

Rise Again

By

Matias Bacoñsky

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

In his last album Epochal, Matias Bacoñsky narrates a musical story of a scenario that we all fear; the end of the world, here on this new single the artist takes that one stage further, and manifests a grand proud musical structure of hope and survival on the rather brilliant Rise Again.

This creation grandly illustrates our resilience as a species, how we reluctantly go into the night, but when we do, we fight like hell to get back into the light, this is all brilliantly juxtaposed by Bacoñsky, and adding in the dichotomy of that new hope with thoughts of loved ones and their circumstances which are unknown, is brilliantly illustrated by the artist.

Matias is a musical author of great tales to tell, he is rare breed of musician, but he is one that can make the imagination literally fly with his compositional narratives of excitement and intensity.

Rise Again once more sees the dramatic flair that Bacoñsky has in abundance, the soundtrack and neo-classical genre is all the better for it, and his performances, his elevations, his suspenseful presentations, always leaves his listeners and his audience wanting more and more, and trust me they will get it.

Symphonic in all its glory, a musical illustration of determination, hope, renewal and apprehension, it’s all here on Rise Again by Matias Bacoñsky, a guaranteed hit on the charts, and possibly even more glory might come his way, as this new single is most certainly award worthy.

Shaman Dream By Fabrice Tonnellier

 

Shaman Dream

By

Fabrice Tonnellier

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The echoes of a long ancient past echo from this new album from Fabrice Tonnellier entitled Shaman Dream. The album itself is an 11 track wonder work of music from the artist. It’s also interesting that when you research someone you find certain commonalities between you, both of us use Reiki, and both of us are inspired by Zen Philosophy.  Indeed as said by Shunryu Suzuki “Treat every moment as your last. It is not preparation for something else.”

With that in mind we have a treat of an album here today called Shaman Dream, a moment to just float with the intent to relax and be calm is before you, with this stunning new collection of beautiful compositions like the opener called Shaman Dream, a composition so vast and so deep it is incredibly powerful and deeply moving, the artists flute and hand drums pave the way through the forest on this brilliant opening foray.

Hand drums have been the biggest musical find of the last few years, and now we’re seeing this meditative instrument used widely in the industry and rightly so, tracks like Mysterious Path, can only aid this transition to a lighter style of percussion, whilst the ever onward motifs of pieces like The Source, bring nature to the listener and manifest a state of pure serenity to enjoy all things musical.

11 tracks can be found within this album and each one of them is a sublime arrangement for a tranquil experience, from the lush keyboard textures of Forest's Wisdom, to the haunting Gratitude, a solo flute creation of great quality, from the aerial and ethereal moods of pieces like Sacred Bird, to the natural love found in the manifestation of the stunning track Golden Heart, there is truly something for everyone on this amazing new release.

I have worked in this industry for nearly 30 years now and occasionally you find a total gem of a release like this, so it has been a pleasure to immerse myself within its comforting tones and vibrations for a while, offerings like Healing Nature helped remind me of the reality of life’s truth and natural meditative moments, it would be so very easy to get lost in a track like this one.

Whilst in the deeper waters of the release you will find the ambience is harmonised and increased beautifully on the lush tapestry entitled Flower of Life, a truly serene and soothing musical narrative indeed, whilst on the penultimate creation entitled Tranquillity we find a segment of time to just drift with the petals of windswept flowers, the flute within this track is both deep and heart felt.

The concluding composition is the charming musical narrative called Constellations and reminds me greatly of one of the legends of New Age music in style to a certain Medwyn Goodall, yet the flute here and keyboards combined create a perfect ending for the listener, one that with ease will leave them in a state of calm serenity, and fully satisfied of their overall experience.

This is a big thing for me to say, but I am going to stick my neck out on this one, I rate Shaman Dream by Fabrice Tonnellier to be one of the best new age styled albums released in the last decade, each track has been perfectly manifested and with the most delicate of touches, with much care and attention to detail, and with an honest and an open heart to what feels and sounds right, full marks to the artist, Shaman Dream is something very special indeed.  

Garden Vibes By The Song Gardeners

 

Garden Vibes

By

The Song Gardeners

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I was only saying the other day to my wife Chrissie Sheppard, it’s going to be nice to be able to sit in our garden and enjoy it again, now summer is drawing to a close, watching the bees do their thing, the butterflies drift on the winds the many colours of our flowers, and the scents of our herbs once again growing in the cooler conditions, this new single Garden Vibes sums up my aforementioned statement to a tee.

Musically The Song Gardeners are a new age band, who over the last few years has solidified their position in the genre to become one of the best acts around, many of their compositions have been huge hits and this one I truly believe will go the same way.

There is something very charming about this song that takes me, for some reason, back to the mid-nineties; it might be the accomplished guitar work from David Scheibner, it might also be the enticing James Butler on synths, or the magical hands of Dunn on the keys, regardless this is another pop classic from two ladies who are so very adept in producing one hit new age pop song after another, this time Garden Vibes gifts us a moment of serenity in a picturesque sanctuary to enjoy.

Written by Corrie M. Dunn, Garden Vibes is with ease another massive hit, one that has been grown organically by the band, and has now been served up to the listeners who will be more than happy to feast on its contents. Garden Vibes is a much needed reverie into peace and contentment that we all so desperately need right now, and one of the lightest and happiest compositions thus far from the New Age super band, The Song Gardeners.

Autumn By Fred Grenot

 

Autumn

By

Fred Grenot

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Fred Grenot is back with a vibrant new single called Autumn, and now I live in the country of Cyprus I can at last enjoy what to me, is now the most beautiful season of them all. However this new composition is far different from the more reflective and mournful tracks from other artists, this is a cheer filled reverie of happiness combined with an energetic glaze of contentment.

Autumn has within its tender weave a vast array of keyboard effects and a performance, so packed with musical nuances its worth multiple listens to pick them all out. Unique percussive patterns also join this vast array of instrumental magic, and then add in the synth strings, that makes this new single of Fred’s all that more impressive.

Autumn is indeed my favourite time of the year, when here temperatures drop below 30c and the possibility of much needed rain is but a few weeks away, indeed the reason I mention this isn’t just because it is a truism here, but it is seen here in Cyprus that autumn is a moment of cheer, similar to that of spring and needs to be celebrated, and for me this new single of Fred’s does exactly that.

One can feel through the musical notes the leaves falling and the happiness of life as it once more gets to renew and regenerate, and on this new single Autumn by Fred Grenot, the artist brings exactly that energy to the table, in one his most exciting releases as of yet, one that I am certain will hit massive heights on the charts.

Portraits By Laurence Furr

 

Portraits

By

Laurence Furr

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Laurence Furr is a musical artisan of great quality and style, and his reveries on harp have helped many during their time of need, during their desires to relax and seek a comforting sanctuary of music away from the craziness of the world, or perhaps to just listen to beautiful calming music that will take you on a graphic journey through sight and sound, this is Portraits by Laurence Furr.

Imagine yourself at the doorway to a vast art gallery of tone and timbre; imagine that those many pieces of glorious art work that adorn these clean white walls of this temple of artistic endeavour are simply waiting for you, and with it, each painting has its own musical tale to tell, today this voyage of musical delight is one we shall travel with the artist.

From the first portrait entitled The Chanter, we are gifted a pathway through instrumental music like none before, the delicate pastiche of tone here is amazingly soothing and allows us easy access to this gallery of perfect resonance with a wonderfully fluent and ambient construct.

As we move along we find a piece called The Traveler, this short form narrative is as pleasing as a May sunrise, and its milieu is a delightfully light and ever onward projection of ambience. Whilst offerings like My True Love have deeper waters with which to swim in, and offer a musical sincerity to enjoy and delight within.

The lyrical climate manifested by pieces like the humble and heart felt offerings of David's Harp, or the mournful and reflective energies of Rosemary may take one back to the early years of folk music and evoke many loving memories of easier times and brighter days.

The angelic and pristine vibrations of Fairy Lurr manifest an almost china doll of a composition, the upbeat tempo and uplifting musical narrative is a most pleasing and pleasant experience indeed.

However the longest composition from the album is up next at just under six minutes and entitled Brother, Sister, Parent, Child. This is an interesting arrangement, a piece that seems to grow as it goes and allows the listener to flow with their own memories of time and tide and family life, this presentation by Furr would be one of my personal favourites from the album.

Like the previously aforementioned track Rosemary, here is another song that took me back to my youth in the most strangest of ways, as I would find Will You Go, or Heather here on the B side of a single by the Strawb’s in ‘73, regardless this Celtic reverie still brings chills to the arms, in a song of great meaning and beauty.

Portraits is a 16 track master work of utter quality by Laurence Furr and contains something for everyone, with songs like the unforgettable and moving ballad of Rosie McCann, to the curiously entitled Debbie Under A Pink Sky, which I have just found out thanks to my wife’s research for the album show for this release, is a summer story of sunsets, Martini’s and happy days.

The next marvellous offering from the album is the haunting Molly's Ghost, take a careful listen here and see if you can pick out where you last heard it. This somewhat deeper musical echo of the past is a brilliant expression by Furr, who has taken the original and made a much darker and more relevant composition from its novel inception.

From composition to creation, Furr has brought into life a wonderful well of peace to drift off into, like the pieces entitled The Butterfly, an almost gig of a composition recreating the creatures fleeting gossamer moments, or the Six-Winged Seraph, a comforting configuration of fluency and harp mastery.

We can also travel back in time with this release and view a soundtrack of events on this next piece called Mary, Queen of Scots. Another Celtic musical moment that takes us back to the energies of around 700 years in the past, but the stone tape theory of those haunting days perhaps still linger on in the halls of Fotheringhay Castle, in another mysterious and evocative composition from the artist.

The penultimate portrait is entitled Silver Birch, and its memorable tones manifest a wonderfully gentle meditative moment for us to enjoy, while the project is concluded with the final manifestation called This Old Man, now I would defy most people to say they didn’t know this one, I think children to this day are taught this jolly folk tune, one which can be traced back as far as the late 1870’s.

Portraits by Laurence Furr is an album that captures all the emotions and moods one can simply have, indeed it is a veritable gallery of musical art that will display something for everyone. The 16 tracks within this collective accomplishment of Harp distinction are works of sublime peace and tranquillity. I defy you to listen to this album in full and not be totally chilled out at its conclusion. Portraits by Laurence Furr, is an album that the new age music genre has been waiting for, a sure fire hit with the listeners and a guaranteed success on the charts with ease. 

Mermaid Dance By Adel Shan Lee ft Yuki Matsumoto & Satomi Suzuki

 

Mermaid Dance

By

Adel Shan Lee ft Yuki Matsumoto & Satomi Suzuki

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

The wave’s crash upon the rocks, a glimpse of a tail swishes below the lapis coloured ocean, and magic creates its first spark. This brand new single from flute performer Adel Shan Lee is a sparkling new offering from the composer, and contains the skill sets of two other artists in Yuki Matsumoto on mid flute & Satomi Suzuki on piano, and what a symbiotic team they make on this new creation called Mermaid Dance.

It is also very pleasing to see a single release of over 5 minutes in this era of micro compositions; the beginning is a very tentative opening, a delicate tapestry of piano and flute, one which builds and manifests a splendid melody, and in so doing, allows Adel Shan Lee to once more set her stage with her delightful bass flute.

The combination of both flutes is brought to the fore with the inclusion of Yuki’s inspiring performance on the mid flute, its rising tones could easily be the crests of the waves to Adel’s oceanic depths, whilst the continuing strong narrative of piano is craft-fully arranged to enhance the overall structure of the composition, its tempo and its melody.

All in all this is a fine example of multi-instrumental music at its very best, perfectly balanced and radiating a fluency that was simply delectable and utterly compelling, this I have a feeling, could achieve a really good chart position and deservedly so and a composition that the artists should be proud of.

Melodiya By Hans Christian & Thomas Barquee

 

Melodiya

By

Hans Christian & Thomas Barquee

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Today one of the foremost musicians in the new age music industry joins forces with an artist known for his standing in the industry, as a sublime producer, and a splendid pianist too, as Hans Christian and Thomas Barquee create a symbiotic presentation that we shall remember forever called Melodiya.

There is something about this album that is deeply felt and passionately created, the melodious tones of the opening piece called The Gift is a fine example of this instrumental prowess, a smooth, yet reflective opus of sound that takes me back to the early years of new age music.

Melodiya is an 8 track album of splendidly beautiful compositions, with textured tapestries of magic in pieces like The Promise, and the uplifting vibrancy of the ultra-harmonious Persistence of Time, a track filled full of blossoming expectancy.

This is a bliss filled release, one charming track after another unfolds unto oneself, with compositions like the midway piece called Opalescence, a track with a delicious bass and a splendid percussive rhythm, and this would indeed be one of my personal favourites from the album.

The piano of Barquee drifts us into a track entitled Your Heart Remains, and upon it sits Christian’s supreme skill set of a multi-instrumentalist, gifting us a compelling moments of guitar and fretless bass on an arrangement that is both soothing and filled full of loving warmth.

The deeper waters of the album gifts us a more reflective nuanced moment of music on the piece That One Thing, whilst the penultimate offering of Do We Remember seems to hold an anthem like feel within its constraints, it builds and constructs musical sensations that are packed with such a melodious reality.

The concluding manifestation is called An Echo's Soul, this curiously entitled piece reminds me greatly of an old friend of mine from the UK in Phil Thornton, as bass and guitar are used here to create such a backdrop of mood and sound, and this final creation takes us on a calming journey with its ever onward motion and posture.

Melodiya by Hans Christian & Thomas Barquee was a delightful voyage through the realm of deep melodies and lush musical constructions of a multi-instrumental nature, and one must say, some of the finest I have heard for quite some time. Melodiya is a release that fans of instrumental new age music will not want to miss, the textures, tones and overall nuances are utterly delightful, and if justice is to be served, Hans Christian & Thomas Barquee should garner a good chart position and perhaps even more for Melodiya, it is superb.

Warriors of Light By Radhika Vekaria

 

Warriors of Light

By

Radhika Vekaria

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

It was very good to hear from Radhika Vekaria again, her music has created a plethora of tonal mastery over the years; she also has an impressive list of people she has worked with in that time, and her cultural heritage has brought her much colour and opportunity in her time. Warriors of Light is her new stunning album; one that will raise every single hair on your body it is so moving and hugely powerful.

We start with Asato Ma Sadgamaya (Purification Prayer), as we set our intent, as we focus our energies from the shadows of fear and into the cleansing light of truth. Vekaria’s vocals here reach the deepest part of our being with her imploring narrative, one that leads perfectly into the following composition called Liberate (Maha Mrityunjaya).

Before we can assist in helping liberate others, we must first set ourselves free. Liberate (Maha Mrityunjaya) is that track, that musical moment that leaves the listener with such a emotive response, such a genuine feeling of determination is grown at this juncture of the journey, and on a track that is so wonderfully composed, created and produced, it would indeed make a sublime single on any chart.

Kali, seen as the deity who delivers Moksha or the aforementioned Liberation in the previous track, is one of the main figures in Hinduism, the goddess that destroys evil to protect the innocent.  The rhythmic pastiche here is captivating, a veritable dance of freedom to the masses can be found in one of the most compelling offerings from the album.

Release Your Fears (Jaya Jaya Durge Ma), is our location of spiritual enlightenment, this is a truly vibrant almost pop styled arrangement from the artist, one that demands attention and contains some fascinating chord structures, elevations and rhythmic projections. The message is well made and indeed realising one’s own a fear is the only path that can be taken that will eventually lead you to success.

As we step over the half way marker on our voyage of inner education we come across a piece entitled Aganitha Tara (The Dance of Countless Stars). Here lies one of the most vibrant and fluent creations from the album, a composition filled with lush eastern beats, measures and cadences, this is one of those tracks that you will find yourself coming back to time and time again.

We can now knock on the door of our musical gallery and find the main canvas, the tile track, Warriors of Light. The mysterious beginning of tone and timbre is palpable and compelling; Radhika’s spoken words are an illumination of significance and this meditative construction one of my personal favourites from the album.

Hanuman Chalisa (feat. Shashank Acharya) is up next, now I mentioned the meditative qualities of this album before, but this specific track doubly so, this also happens to be the longest manifestation from the album at just short of 9 minutes. This 40 stanza ode to Hanuman gifts us insight, and talks about the strength, generosity, and intelligence of Hanuman.

So we have drifted into the ethereal realms of our penultimate offering called Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram. There is something deeply melodic in this track that I love, the piano here too is sublime in creating an extra dimension of tone into the proceedings, this is a fine example of a devotional song, one that I believe was popularised by Mahatma Gandhi back in the day.

Our concluding composition is entitled Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu (Peace Prayer). I believe this is one of my wife’s favourites, and we have a version of this by Grammy winner Paul Avgerinos and friends. Here Radhika adds her own depth, passion and compassion into this Sanskrit mantra, this is a powerful offering, one that I also support in its plea of, “I wish peace and happiness to all beings, may my actions and behaviour contribute to others in a way that brings peace and happiness”.

Warriors of Light by Radhika Vekaria has to be one of the most compelling and enjoyable albums of the genre I have heard for simply years. Radhika creates wonderfully warm vocals, ones that are so enchanting and gracious in there tone and timbre. From production and presentation to its cultural instrumentation, Warriors of Light by Radhika Vekaria is an album that merits the respect it will no doubt get, and to be graced by awards that it most certainly deserves.

Heart Bridge By Shambhu

 

Heart Bridge

By

Shambhu

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Take a musical instrument, take the finest in the land to play it and magic happens. I first felt this way when I heard the flute played both by Deuter and Nigel Shaw; I feel this way now whenever I listen to a Shambhu composition, and the sheer tapestry of calm and tranquillity that emanates from his guitar.

His latest single is called Heart Bridge and one can cross this with ease by embracing the lush colours, moods and consistencies of this quite mesmerising creation, and from the strings of one of the most creative and peace filled instrumentalists of his day.

From the very first note on this brand new offering serenity was achieved, it’s also the backdrop and the surrounding ambience that one feels from a composition of this elk too, and we can watch the notes that are literally caressed from the most willing guitar, and be in awe.

The structure is so lush that if it had been 10 minutes long I would have still be lost within its beautiful realm of calm. If you are one who seeks sanctuary from a crazy world, I would recommend anything by Shambhu, but especially this new and quite charming guitar reverie called Heart Bridge, this is a cathartic journey of instrumental majesty that everyone should have in their collections.

Helen's Willow Wind & Friends By Helen's Willow Wind

 

Helen's Willow Wind & Friends

By

Helen's Willow Wind

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

I think Helen's Willow Wind holds a rare and possibly unique title in releasing two debut albums at the same time; I have already reviewed her solo album called Notes From The Heart, so go and check that out, today I am taking a voyage of plenty with a remarkable collection of fine melodies on the second album, Helen's Willow Wind & Friends.

This is an 8 track creation that contains some of the best new age instrumentalists around, and joining Helen of manifesting one of the most compelling flute albums I have heard for a while, the opening foray finds none other than Randy “Windtalker” Motz, himself a flute performer of great skill and passion, but on synths and keyboards this time, and in doing so adding a whole new layer of tone to the offering, A Study of Intonation and Undulation.

Exploration ft Sherry Bunch is up next, and this mesmerizing piece could be turnabout is fair play as Helen features on her RAV drum to Bunch’s deft and stylish performance on flute, I remember this one in the charts last year and it was a soothing and healing music narrative of a composition.

An old friend returns on the next offering When Caves Sing and features none other than Lady Bird, the artists parrot, who indeed gifts us a fine performance, whilst this next opus features one of the finest flute performers of his day in my view, in the legendary Timothy Gomez, on the composition Northern Lights Wind, this is a stunning reverie, a true dichotomy is explored as we juxtapose the cause and effect of the Northern Lights themselves, Gomez is supreme on his trusty flute, whilst Helen’s drum poses a lush melody to enjoy.

Time Is a River ft Jim Bellows on drum is a truly meaningful composition, whilst the flutes of Helen draw us to this moment of poignancy. Bellows rhythm is a reminder that a river always flows, unceasing, unabated by time, always onwards, this is a beautiful piece as a dedication to a dear friend now gone, the heartfelt sense of that creation is also not lost on the following one called The Dream, a sublime slice of flute magic that not only contains the talents of the aforementioned Gomez, but also the multi-instrumental skill set of Tommy Graven into the mix as well, in a totally blissful slice of instrumental magic.

We now draw into orbit of the penultimate manifestation from the release and this gem is called Out There, Lady Bird in Outer Space, she is back folks, and beaming into a home near you, the sheer enjoyment one can have by having a pet (or as I call them) a family member upon one of your recordings is simply great, our dog has been on our radio shows many times, and his contributions add a certain organic flavour to the proceedings!

It’s time to take on board our concluding piece and this magical moment features the illustrious Timothy J P Gomez once more on the offering Conscious Meditation. This fluent and charming manifestation is simply idyllic, and leaves one with a true meditative energy, the breath work, the drum and gentle flute, creates the best ending creation on an album you could ever wish for.

Helen's Willow Wind & Friends by Helen's Willow Wind does exactly what it says on the can, and features a whole host of multi-talented flute performers and instrumentalists alongside the artist herself. This release is an artistic and creative collection of wonderfully orchestrated compositions, showing many sides to not only the musicians skill sets, but also her abilities as a composer too, it’s a celebration of all that is good in the world of flute and instrumental music, and one that should yet again see Helen and her friends back on the charts.  

Notes from the Heart By Helen's Willow Wind

 

Notes from the Heart

By

Helen's Willow Wind

Written by

Steve Sheppard

 

Never has a title been more accurate, as this music is without doubt from the place of truth called the heart. Helen’s Willow Wind has been on my musical radar now for a couple of years, and ever since the release of A Call to the Divine back in 2022, a track that also appears on this debut album, since then the flute has called to her constantly, and here for us to enjoy is her first personal album of 12 sublime tracks entitled Notes from the Heart.

The album is a deeply soothing musical narrative in its entirety, and one that starts with the gentle and respectful opener entitled End of Summer Lament, a mournful glance over the shoulder at a season past, it’s strange for me this one, as our autumn will not start until October.

Helen has that touch of sensitivity to make her flute sing such tender tones on the solo piece A Call to the Divine, she produces a musical prayer of great tenderness and respect here, whilst on tracks like Out There - Lady Bird in Outer Space, and we have a horse, or should that be a lady bird of a different colour, this is a really fun track with some superb spacey effects that come courtesy of her parrot, this is most certainly a track that I hope will live long and prosper.

Short form musical narratives are also catered for with the compositions Divine Call Answered, When Caves Sing, the natural textures of Convergence, a special sanctuary of water on Mournful Rain, and the harmonic conjunction of one amazing creation called Above And Beyond, each of these have their own personal story and add much to the overall manifestation of the album.

Once the penultimate track is reached we have attained a level of tranquillity that is most soothing indeed, and we can enjoy that through the refrains of the arrangement called Time Is A River, a soft pastiche of serenity that is so beautifully played on her flute by the artist, the hand pan drum a symbiotic choice without doubt is added to the mix.

Now I must say this makes a pleasant change as the longest composition from the album is our concluding piece and called Drumming Rain, this is a clever call from the artist as the listener has plenty of time to simply float with the hand pan, and enjoy the reverie that it brings, this instrument is very entrancing and so is this track.

Notes from the Heart by Helen's Willow Wind is one of two, yes two debut album releases given to the world by the artist on the same day, more about the other in an alternate review, but here on Notes from the Heart we have an album that is filled with serenity and calm, and one that enhances feelings of peace and tranquillity, and that cannot be a bad thing, this is going to be an album that will be embraced by all as an instrumental album of great quality, and as such a truly exceptional chart position should follow for it.