New Age Music World

Archive for the ‘New Music in 2012’ Category

With the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games, so begins the opportunity to purchase the official music for the athletic games. The 18 songs total is now available as a complete digital album or as individual digital song downloads.

Enlightenment – Music for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games is the title given to the 18 songs total by Various Artists. Celebrating the spirit of the Olympic Games, the 18 songs on Enlightenment and accompanying digital booklet were made available for sample or purchase at iTunes on August 30, 2012 thru Decca Records.

You will find the official soundtrack is mainly songs by the London Symphony Orchestra, with British physicist and author Stephen Hawking starting the album by narration on the song Prologue. In addition to the songs by the London Symphony Orchestra, there are single songs by Barts Choir, The London C, Orbital & Graeae Theatre, Beverley Knight, and Rihanna.

Paralympic officials for now are keeping the Closing Ceremony Songs playlist for 2012 a secret, but there is the likelihood that celebrity superstars Coldplay and Rihanna will be among the artists performing during the Olympic Closing Ceremony. Sample or purchase the official Paralympic album Enlightenment – Music for the Opening Ceremony at iTunes.

Official Paralympic Music – Artists and Songs:

1. London Symphony Orchestra and David Charles Abell – Song: Prologue

2. London Symphony Orchestra and David Charles Abell – Song: Jasmine’s Theme

3. Barts Choir, The London Chorus, Hackney Singers, London Gay Men’s Chorus, Lewisham Choral Society, Hackney Empire Community Choir, London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Principia

4. London Symphony Orchestra, David Charles Abell & Denise Leigh – Song: Spirit in Motion

5. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Declaration of the Games

6. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Hymne a l’avenir

7. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Brave New World

8. London Symphony Orchestra, David Charles Abell & Elin Manahan Thomas – Song: Eternal Source of Light Divine (featuring Phil Cobb)

9. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Navigation

10. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Storm.

11. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Gravity

12. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Masque

13. Orbital & Graeae Theatre Company – Song: Where Is It Going? (Paralympics Mix/Spasticus Autisticus)

14 London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Glass

15. London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: Entry of the Flame

16. Beverley Knight – Song: I Am What I Am

17. Barts Choir, The London Chorus, Hackney Singers, London Gay Men’s Chorus, Lewisham Choral Society, Hackney Empire Community Choir, London Symphony Orchestra & David Charles Abell – Song: National Anthem

18. Rihanna – Song: Umbrella (featuring Jay-Z) (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Radio Edit)

New Music Review: Americana Album Badlands by Award-winning Guitarist, and Cheshire Studios Record Producer Eric Tingstad.

GRAMMY® Award-winning recording artist and producer Eric Tingstad, renowned for his expertise as a songwriting guitarist in a variety of genres, strides into new territories on a vibrant follow-up to his GRAMMY® nominated album Southwest.

Eric Tingstad’s newest release Badlands is Americana album said to honor the traditions of American roots and Western culture. With that byline description I couldn’t agree more. I have to admit the 12 songs on Badlands is not what I first expected, but on the other hand, I knew Eric Tingstad is an established, well-known artist who has produced many fine albums in a variety of genres. Tingstad’s diverse range of music influences include Americana, alternative country, ambient, blues, jazz, rock and of course, new age music.

With this far ranging diversity of influences, and Eric Tingstad’s reputation as an artist led to the prospect of something grand. It didn’t take long before I found the direction he would choose, and distance he was prepared to travel on Badlands. Akin to his Southwest album, Badlands is a moving example of Americana music at its finest, beautiful in every vivid detail from start to finish.

One characteristic I heard right away was the cinematic latitude Badlands conveys to the listener. It’s an attribute where colorful illustrations paint a picture of the desert Southwest with vibrant transparency. It’s a moving portraiture of a bygone era, yet before you lay a stylish, modern day representation of contemporary Americana music. Most songs are ingrained with a casual and upbeat atmosphere, while several songs are shaded with light country and Native American influences.

Badlands is unique to most instrumental albums by the use of lap steel and pedal steel guitar implemented in unison with a variety of traditional instruments, performed by a group of talented artists. Among the group is co-artist and award-winning artist Nancy Rumbel, who has her own solo career and equally starring role with Eric as the GRAMMY® Award-winning duo Tingstad and Rumbel.

On Badlands you will discover a pronounced Southwestern style of Americana music, made more apparent by the pedal steel guitars and pairing of more traditional instrumentals of English horn, bass guitar, organ, violin and percussion. It can be said Eric Tingstad approached a fork in the road, and had a choice to make when producing Badlands. By all accounts taking a road less traveled by others has clearly turned out to be a winning choice.

Musicians performing on Badlands include Cindy Cashdollar (dobro, steel and lap steel guitars), Ben Smith (drums), Byron Metcalf (frame, bass and buffalo drums, clay pots, djembe and udu), Garey Shelton (bass), Terry Lauber (pedal steel guitar), Andrew Joslyn (violin), Eric Robert (organ), Nancy Rumbel (English horn, oboe and ocarina), Petra Stahl (voice), Narayan Baltzo (trumpet).

Visit the homepage of EricTingstad.com and sample or purchase Badlands at his music store or find his albums at major online retail stores including Amazon.com, CDBaby and iTunes. Photos are courtesy Frank Blau and erictingstad.com.

Badlands Song Sample: New Americana Album by Eric Tingstad.

Eric Tingstad is a GRAMMY® Award-winning guitarist and record producer with a new Americana album for 2012. Famous for his aptitude as a songwriting guitarist, Eric Tingstad is a record producer and artist capable of producing songs in a variety of genres like ambient, blues, country, folk, rock and new age music.

Badlands is Eric Tingstads new Americana album said to honor the traditions of American roots, music and Western culture. This is a characterization in close relation to the definition given by the Americana Music Association (AMA). Bandlands is a vibrant new follow-up to his nominated album titled Southwest.

Eric Tingstad’s new album is a deep rooted Southwestern style of Americana music, made more apparent by the pedal steel guitars union with more traditional instrumentals of English horn, bass guitar, organ, violin and percussion. There are a number of top recording artists joining Eric on his brand new album for 2012.

I have an interview with Eric Tingstad and album review of his Americana album soon. Here is an official song sample from Badlands called Jornado. Badlands is available as a CD album or buy individual mp3 downloads at EricTingstad.com.

New Age Album: Patterns of Reflection by Peter Sterling.

With beginning origins of the harp dating back to around 2500 B.C., some might believe the heavenly instrument of ancient times may have fallen out of favor in today’s modern instrumental music scene. Even by today’s standards the acoustic and electronic harp as a stringed solo and orchestral instrument is as popular as it ever was. The celestial harp, with strong religious ties throughout history is legendary for producing beautiful melodies with peaceful, uplifting harmony.

Peter Sterling is widely accepted as one of today’s best harpist in the new age music genre. For over 20 years Peter Sterling has immersed himself in attaining leading prominence as a top professional harpist, who also performs live tours in ensembles and as a premier harp soloist in the United States and countries overseas.

Founding his own Harp Magic Music recording label, Peter Sterling’s twelfth album Patterns of Reflections embraces harp and instrumental music with a pronounced celestial effect as earlier releases The Sands of Time, Harp Magic & Harp Dreams.

Releasing some of his best harp music to date, Patterns of Reflections is a beautiful instrumental album marketed like any other release, but harp music is also tied to a niche market since harp melodies are often used in weddings, memorial services, and other special occasions where relaxing music is requested and appreciated most.

Patterns of Reflection, composed and produced by Peter Sterling, is an expertly layered 16 song collection featuring a contemporary array of peaceful and uplifting harmonies by way of a celestial stringed instrument born centuries ago.

Performing on a contemporary electronic acoustic harp, Peter Sterling and a talented group of artists employ a modern day technique that portray harp and instrumental music with vision and above all, divine inspiration.

Visit HarpMagic.com and buy songs and albums at the Harp Magic music store. Photos are courtesy harpmagic.com.

World Music Album Review: Festa by Tribali.

If lively World music rhythms and ethnic percussion sound like a fine way to celebrate your day, look no farther than the newest music by international band Tribali from Malta. Placing a strong emphasis on cultural multiplicity in every project, the group Tribali intertwines traditional ethnic music of the Maltese islands, with festive World Music rhythms. It is by all accounts, an arrangement that gives one a reason to celebrate.

Tribali is one of the most famous groups of Malta, if not the most famous. Either way you look at it there is a good reason they are celebrated locally. Tribali is first of all, a major headlining band at live concerts and music festivals in the Republic of Malta. The nationwide Ghaxaq Music Festival, Ta Qali National Park, and Byron Bay Blues fest are several of their recent concert venues, in a country immersed in a rich history and significance regarding traditional Maltese band music.

Festa by Tribali is a new release for 2012. The Festa album, with 13 songs has a level of energy that is off the chart in terms of the lively atmosphere in which they cross blend influences ranging from world music, new age, folk, reggae, rock, and jazz. The variety of instruments is equally broad by incorporating didgeridoo, electric sitar, murchunga, guimbri, cahon, hang and tabla, with more traditional guitars, keyboards, vocals, violin, trumpet and percussion.

The international ethnic tradition of the group Tribali is a great way to revel any time, any place, and any day. There is even discussion in local Malta newspapers and among their fan base about the group Tribali representing Malta during the annual worldwide Eurovision Song Contest. With Tribali’s loyal fan support, and intense blend of lively World Fusion and traditional Maltase music, I am among those who believe Tribali’s festive music can indeed give the rest of the world a good reason to celebrate.

The Traveller By Tribali is another excellent new album due for release in 2012. Currently available in Malta, The Traveller will be available worldwide later this year in September 24, 2012. The Traveller is another exotic blend of 13 festive songs by Tribali you can sample right now prior to release at Amazon. Everyone will have their favorite song on the album naturally, but I really like the songs Rickshaw Ride & Yamasai.

Visit TribaliMusic.com and purchase Festa by Tribali at Amazon.com. The Tribali Concert video below displays the excitement Tribali generates during their live shows. Cover artwork courtesy Daniel & Reuben (Kuluri).

A Symphony of British Music and Isles of Wonder – The Official Olympic Closing & Opening Ceremony Songs by the Artists available for online purchase at Amazon.co.uk and DeccaRecords.com.

With the London 2012 Olympic Games nearing its conclusion, anticipation is building for the Official Closing Ceremony Show and music, set to begin on Sunday evening August 12, 2012.

It stands to reason after the brilliant theatrics displayed during the Opening Olympic Ceremony from Danny Boyle, the upcoming Closing London Olympic Ceremony Show, produced by creative director and choreographer Kim Gavin is expected to be equally extravagant as the opening ceremony.

The Closing Olympic Ceremony for the London 2012 Games in part is said to include a spectacle of 4100 performers, a parade of 10,000 athletes and a victory ceremony with videos highlighting inspiring segments of the athletic games. Popular British artists and their songs from the past 50 years are going to set provide the theme music for the closing show. There is also going to be an official Olympic Flag handover to Rio De Janeiro, the city selected for the 2016 Olympic Games.

In regards to the official Olympic Closing Ceremony music, the lineup of artists and complete playlist of songs during the Olympic Closing Ceremony is known in part, but as organizers have previously stated, the final lineup of artists and songs can change. The London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) is of course keeping many aspects of the closing ceremony a secret so we can expect many surprises during the final hours of the London Olympics.

Like the official Opening Ceremony Music release Isles of Wonder, available on CD/mp3 Amazon, iTunes and Decca Records, music for the official Olympic Closing Ceremony Soundtrack with songs in digital format, can be sampled and purchased, but only in digital download format at DeccaRecords.com.

Isles of Wonder is a top selling compilation album, and having secured the #1 album on download charts in the UK, Belgium, France and Spain, reaching the #5 position as a top-selling album in the U.S.

A Symphony of British Music – Music For The Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is the title given to the 30 digital songs to be made available at Decca Records right after the closing ceremony on August 12, 2012.

Music director David Arnold will host the music entertainment festivities anticipated to feature live stage performances by popular British acts like Annie Lennox, Elbow, Elton John, Emeli Sande, Kate Bush, Madness, George Michael, One Direction, Paul McCartney, Queen, Ray Davies, Rolling Stones, Spice Girls, Take That, The Clash, The Pet Shop Boys, The Who, plus a variety artists performing popular cover songs. During the evening of entertainment, songs by lesser known, up and coming artists will be placed in the spotlight too, while highlighting British music’s cultural influence on the world.

Songs performed by a variety of artists during the closing ceremony are expected to include Read All About It, Our House, West End Girls, What Makes You Beautiful, Waterloo Sunset, One Day Like This, Open Arms, Freedom, White Light, Little Bird, Should I Stay Or Should I Go, We Will Rock You, Rule The World, and many more. British superstar group The Who is likely to close the show which ends with a fireworks display from atop the Olympic Stadium.

A Symphony of British Music – Music For The Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is again, a digital album only that will be released and made available at Decca Records right after the games end on August 12, 2012. A Symphony of British Music is currently available by pre-ordering at Amazon.co.uk.

The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) was selected to score the official Olympic Soundtracks for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the London Olympics, and the equally exciting Paralympic Games that run August 29, 2012 – September 9, 2012.

A Symphony of British Music Soundtrack by a variety of artists is sure to be a popular item like the opening album Isles of Wonder available at Amazon.co.uk, iTunes, and Decca Records. You may also purchase A Symphony of British Music at DeccaRecords.com after the formal closing events on August 12, 2012.

Purchase A Symphony of British Music at Amazon.co.uk by pre-ordering, and you may purchase Isles of Wonder at iTunes, and purchase A Symphony of British Music at iTunes.com. Big Stock Photos – Pressmaster & Gary718.

A Symphony of British Music – Music for the Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is now available for purchase pre-orders at Amazon.co.uk & Decca Records on August 12, 2012.

With the London 2012 Olympic Games nearing a conclusion, official music for the Olympic Closing Ceremony songs is just beginning. If you would like to sample or purchase the official London 2012 Olympic Opening and Closing Ceremony Songs you may do so at a number of online stores.

A Symphony of British Music – Music For The Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is available for album pre-order purchase at Amazon.co.uk. Buy A Symphony of British Music at Decca Records on August 12, 2012.

The Opening Ceremony music Isles of Wonder became available at iTunes and Amazon on July 28, 2012. The 2 disc Olympic Opening Soundtrack of 36 songs by various artists, with digital booklet is available at iTunes and Amazon.com.

A Symphony of British Music – Music For The Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is the long, but official title given to the Olympic Closing Soundtrack of 30 songs scheduled for release on August 20, 2012.

You may purchase the Closing Ceremony album titled A Symphony of British Music at DeccaRecords.com on August 12, 2012. You may now purchase the Opening Ceremony music Isles of Wonder at Amazon.co.uk.

It is expected to be a playlist of 30 songs by popular British acts like Annie Lennox, Elbow, Emeli Sande, Madness, George Michael, One Direction, Queen, Ray Davies, Take That, The Clash, The Pet Shop Boys, along with some new acts. Music group The Who is expected to perform the closing song.

Pre-order purchase A Symphony of British Music at Amazon.co.uk, which will be made available as mp3/digital downloads (only) on August 20, 2012. Purchase the London Closing Olympic songs at DeccaRecords.com, after August 12, 2012. Albums cover artwork courtesy amazon.co.uk.

Best New Albums from the London 2012 Olympic Games Composer Vangelis – The Collection & Chariots of Fire (The Play).

Vangelis fans will be pleased to know there are 2 albums of new music by Vangelis in 2012, and the possibly of another new movie soundtrack by the famous Olympic composer Vangelis. For the millions of fans who can’t get enough new music from the legendary musician, the year 2012 has already turned out to be an exciting year by the international publicity derived from the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Vangelis – The Collection is a 2 disc selection of 31 songs total. Many are the most popular songs recorded from earlier movie soundtrack scores. It can be said this collection is the best songs from the best Vangelis albums available.

Vangelis – The Collection has the best soundtrack songs from popular movie scores like 1492: Conquest of Paradise, Blade Runner, Alexander, and Academy Award-winning movie score Chariots of Fire, plus additional film scores.

There are 4 Jon & Vangelis songs when recorded with former YES vocalist and lyricist Jon Anderson too. The four Jon & Vangelis songs are So Long Ago, So Clear, I’ll Find My Way Home, State Of Independence & I Hear You Now. Another song favorite on this special 31 song collection album is Anthem – 2002 FIFA World Cup Official Anthem (Synthesizer Version).

Chariots of Fire (The Play) by Vangelis, is another new album brought into news publicity by the release days prior to the London 2012 Olympic Games. It is an exemplary release too, but I would say Vangelis – The Collection can be rightly called the ultimate selection of the greatest hit songs by Vangelis. Whether you call it instrumental music, electronic, orchestral, or new age music, Vangelis is a masterful film composer whose classic songs have endured throughout the years.

Vangelis fans and movie goers alike will also be pleased to know there is confirmation of a brand new sequel to the classic science fiction thriller movie Blade Runner. Thirty years after it first was released, the official Blade Runner Trilogy Soundtrack is still one of the best movie soundtracks ever produced by Vangelis. Now there is at least, an opening for another new Vangelis film score made specifically for the new Blade Runner movie sequel.

While a Warner Bros. based Alcon Entertainment press release confirmed they are indeed featuring the 1982 cult movie classic sequel, again with director Ridley Scott, there is at present no confirmation of who will be providing the movie score for the Blade Runner sequel. Another aspect to consider is that Vangelis may not agree to compose music for the sequel. However the possibility of another new Vangelis soundtrack has given fans another reason for enthusiasm in 2012 and 2013.

One thing certain to me and millions of Vangelis fans however. The original Blade Runner movie score by Vangelis is an integral part of the movie that in part, drove the Blade Runner motion picture to its present day cult-like status. There are many proponents who would agree that a Blade Runner movie sequel simply wouldn’t achieve the same phenomenal success without a new Vangelis Blade Runner soundtrack.

There are some people saying that even Vangelis himself, couldn’t compose a superior music score than the original soundtrack, but I tend to disagree. Only time will tell the answer to that question, and the primary question of whether there we will be rewarded with another new soundtrack by Vangelis in the year 2013, and the years ahead.

You can find Vangelis – The Collection at Amazon.com.uk and the London 2012 Olympics Games inspired newest Vangelis soundtrack Chariots of Fire (The Play) at Amazon.com. Both are available in digital audio CD or mp3 format at U.S. and UK Amazon stores.

Race To The End by Jon Anderson, with Christophe Lebled. Tribute Song to Olympic themed Chariots of Fire by Vangelis.

Even with the London 2012 Olympic Games moving full speed ahead, official Olympic music scores for the ceremonial events appear to have taken on a life of their own. First by the record breaking interest given to artists producing Olympic songs with official ties to the London Games, and secondly a number of equally exciting tribute albums and songs produced by various artists.

Original YES vocalist and lyricist Jon Anderson of the United States, and artist Christophe Lebled from France, have produced a wonderful Olympic tribute song of the famous Vangelis composition Chariots of Fire. Jon’s new mp3 single shown in the song video below is aptly titled Race To The End.

Jon Anderson as you may know has performed live concerts with Vangelis for years, and together they have produced a number of great singles and albums as the team (Jon & Vangelis). The albums Short Stories, The Friends of Mr. Cairo, Private Collection & Page of Life, are highly regarded classic albums. Two of the most popular Jon & Vangelis singles/songs with an inspiring theme are I’ll Find My Way Home & State of Independence.

Christophe Lebled has in turn has worked with Jon Anderson a number of times over the years, more recently providing instrumentals for Jon Anderson’s prized concept album Survival & Other Stories. Christophe Lebled is again working with Jon Anderson in 2012. Their newest project is the Olias of Sunhillow – Live in 2012 sequel titled Zamran. This newest project is a re-creation of Jon Anderson’s original Olias of Sunhillow, which was Anderson’s first solo album.

Race To The End by Jon Anderson, with Christophe Lebled is a brilliant new song revision on Vangelis’s original composition Chariots of Fire. You can sample the new Race To The End single yourself, but I thought the lyrics and vocals by Anderson, and the keyboard soundscapes by Lebled is a fine song version of Chariots of Fire, itself with an inspiring theme song of the Olympics Games.

Jon Anderson is due to perform in the UK during the Earth and Peace Concert at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, England. Jon Anderson’s concert performance is going to be at Sadler’s Wells Theater in London on August 8, 2012.

People attending this special concert event at Sadler’s Wells Theater will hear Jon Anderson and the Slovakian Chamber Orchestra perform favorite song classics from YES, Jon & Vangelis songs, plus new songs specific to the Earth and Peace Concert, timed with the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Ticket information for the Sadler’s Wells Concert will be posted when available at JonAnderson.com. Currently the former front-man of YES is also scheduled to perform live concerts in Uruguay and Brazil this September.

Christophe Lebled himself has produced an entire album to compliment the orchestral works of Vangelis. The release from 2011 titled Tribute to Vangelis has 11 songs total, and is comprised of a variety of Vangelis soundtrack songs including Antarctica, The Bounty – Closing Theme, Pinta Nina Santa-Maria, Pulstar & Abraham’s Theme from Chariots of Fire.

Tribute to Vangelis by Christophe Lebled is an admirable tribute album to the Greek composer. In every respect, Christophe Lebled’s Tribute to Vangelis release is unequaled to any other interpretations I have ever heard to date.

While keeping within the same melody and intricate harmony structures of Vangelis compositions, the sound and atmosphere is uniquely his own, which makes a masterful re-creation to compliment the graceful soundscape of composer Vangelis. Christophe Lebled not only re-creates the sound of Vangelis, but rivals the composer in effect with some areas on this fine tribute release.

Jon Anderson and Christophe Lebled each have their own original albums to check out, in addition to their new tribute single for Vangelis’s Chariots of Fire. Below is the Race To The End song video. Check back for Anderson’s new album Zamran, featuring Christophe Lebled later in 2012.

Sample or purchase Race To The End at iTunes, and visit Christophe’s website at ChristopheLebled.com. Photos courtesy jonanderson.com & christophelebled.com.

Isles of Wonder – Official Music for the Olympic Opening Ceremony.

If you are one of the nearly billion persons expected to watch the opening ceremonies and 2012 London Olympic Games, then you would probably agree the official Olympic songs performed by a variety of artists, played an important role in the overall impression felt by the grand theatrical exploits of artistic director Danny Boyle, who engaged a cast of over 10,000 stage performers.

It leads to the important question, where to buy the official Olympic songs performed during the opening ceremonies, and the official music for the Olympic closing ceremonies, which will follow August 12, 2012. The music directors for the opening 2012 Olympic Games Ceremonies, British music duo Rick Smith and Karl Hyde of Underworld and other representatives have already released the mp3/digital downloads of the Olympic opening music, made available on July 28, 2012 at iTunes.

Isles of Wonder – Music For The Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is the official title of the Olympic opening ceremonies. This album was made available at iTunes following the opening ceremonies. The physical audio CD of the opening ceremony music is soon to be released through the Decca Records Label website shown below.

A Symphony of British Music – Music For The Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is the official Olympic soundtrack for the closing ceremonies to follow. The closing Olympic soundtrack will be made available as mp3/digital download release (only) on August 12, 2012 at the Decca Records website.

Isles of Wonder is itemized in the soundtrack category at iTunes. Some may be more familiar with the songs than others, but for those who would like to know, the first opening album by a variety of artists has an equal variety of music genres too.

Many songs are instrumental, rock or pop music, plus there are songs in the electronic, dance and techno music category too, with a lot of familiar vocalists. Many are popular songs including several in the new age music category. The song playlist varies from the actual stage performance, but it’s a fine music collection.

Purchase the official Olympic opening soundtrack of 36 songs total by various artist entitled Isles of Wonder – Music For The Opening Ceremony at iTunes. Along with the album at iTunes, there is an accompanying digital booklet available too.

Visit Amazon.co.uk to sample or purchase the opening ceremony and closing ceremony Olympic soundtracks when available. Album cover art courtesy iTunes.

Isles of Wonder – Official Opening Ceremony Song Playlist:

First Track Song List:

1. Frank Turner song – I Still Believe.

2. Four Nations Choirs songs, Jerusalem, Flower of Scotland, Danny Boy, Bread of Heaven.

3. LSO On Track song, Nimrod.

4. Underworld song, And I Will Kiss (featuring Dame Evelyn Glennie).

5. Mike Oldfield songs, Tubular Bells, In Dulci Jubilo.

6. London Symphony Orchestra song, Chariots of Fire.

7. Blanck Mass & London Symphony Orchestra song, Sundowner.

8. Dizzee Rascal & Armand Helden song, Bonkers (Radio Edit).

9. A.R. Rahman song, Nimma Nimma (featuring Jaspreet Jasz).

10. Emeli Sande song, Heaven.

11. Emeli Sande song, Abide With Me.

12. Arctic Monkeys song, I Bet You Look Good On the Dance Floor.

13. Arctic Monkeys song, Come Together.

14. Underworld song Caliban’s Dream (featuring Dockhead Choir, Dame Evelyn Glennie, Only Men Aloud!, Elizabeth Roberts, Alex Trimble).

Second Track Song List:

1. The Chemical Brothers song, Galvanize (Beginning).

2. High Contrast song, Moon Watcher.

3. Underworld song, Always Loved a Film (Instrumental).

4. Underworld song, Dark And Long (Dark Train).

5. Pet Shop Boys song, West End Girls.

6. Underworld song, Minneapolis (High Contrast Remix)

7. High Contrast song, Reach.

8. High Contrast song, Ghost Dance.

9. Underworld song, Confusion the Waitress (Darren Price & High Contrast Remix).

10. Wretch 32 song, Traktor (featuring. L – Radio Edition).

11. F Buttons song, Olympians (High Contrast Remix).

12. High Contrast song, Can’t Stop This Fire.

13. Underworld song, Moon In Water (Instrumental).

14. Underworld song, Crocodile (High Contrast Remix).

15. U2 song, Where the Streets Have No Name (High Contrast Remix).

16. High Contrast song, For Years.

17. Underworld song, Dirty Epic (Darren Price & High Contrast Remix).

18. High Contrast song, The Long Way Home.

19. Underworld song, Dark and Long (Darren Price And High Contrast Remix).

20. Underworld song, Rez (High Contrast Remix).

21. David Bowie song, Heroes.

22. The Chemical Brothers song, Galvanize (Ending).

Olympic Themed Music – Chariots of Fire (On Stage) by Vangelis.

With the London 2012 Olympic Games starting on July 27, 2012, official music for the Olympics will be an equally significant component for the historic athletic games that will be viewed by millions of people worldwide.

The song Chariots of Fire by Greek composer Vangelis was played during the Olympic opening ceremonies, and named the official 2012 Olympics theme song. The London Philharmonic Orchestra has 5 new song recordings (remixes) to be played during every medal award ceremony and Olympic Flame relay.

Chariots of Fire (On Stage) is an Olympic themed theatrical movie score with 11 songs of new orchestral music by Vangelis with a release date of July 23, 2012.

The stage adaptation of the Oscar-winning Chariots of Fire movie that was partially inspired by the 2012 London Summer Olympics premiered on May 9, 2012 at the Hampstead Theatre in London, England.

The Chariots of Fire Original Movie Soundtrack claimed a victory for famous composer Vangelis, who won an Academy Award for Best Original Music Score for the film based on the inspiring story of two British athletes competing together at the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris France. Below is the Chariots of Fire song video from the original motion picture.

Official Music for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London:

Another official song to be performed during London Summer Olympics for 2012 is the song Survival by the British group Muse. The theme song by Muse, which has the lyrics “Life is a race. And I’m gonna win” is also going to be aired on TV worldwide as athletes enter the stadium and prior to the medal award ceremonies.

The London Olympic Soundtrack to the opening ceremony is going to be released as an audio CD and digital release. This music release entitled; Isles Of Wonder: Music for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games will contain music by Paul McCartney, Underworld and other artists performing during official athletic events and ceremonies.

Another planned release is A Symphony of British Music: Music for the Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. There will be additional concerts and music with direct ties to the London Olympics, plus some songs by artists are being kept secret until the official opening ceremonies.

Olympic theme song Chariots of Fire, composed by Vangelis will get you into the spirit for the historic sports event. Find the audio CD or digital downloads for Chariots of Fire (On Stage) at Amazon.co.uk. Big Stock Photo – Jimbarber.

World Fusion Album Review: New Music by Todd Boston.

If you happen to be in the mood for summertime songs with an impressive blend of instrumental world fusion music, acoustic guitarist Todd Boston has a brand new 2012 multicultural follow-up to his 2010 release Alive. In close balance with Alive by flowing acoustic guitar and percussion melodies, Touched by the Sun heralds in a noticeable international, world fusion blend of Eastern and Western music.

Todd Boston is a brilliant guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist performing international tours in 2012, as a soloist and in a number of ensembles including a tour with the world renowned American singing songwriter Snatam Kaur.

After my interview with Will Ackerman last week, I have to say it is by coincidence that tomorrow on (July 20, 2012) Will Ackerman will be among other musicians at a concert celebration for Todd Boston’s Touched By the Sun album. This special concert event will be in Mill Valley, California at the Throckmorton Theatre.

The concert artists in attendance with Todd Boston to help celebrate the launch of Touched by the Sun are guest artist Will Ackerman on guitar, and other top ranked instrumentalist and vocalist.

Most are award-winning artists, and several are artists who have been featured at this site. They include vocalist Snatam Kaur, GRAMMY® nominated bass guitarist Michael Manring, percussionist Ramesh Kannan, cellist Matthew Schoening, violinist Emily Palen, trumpet and flugelhorn specialist Jeff Oster, and guitarist Shambhu.

Touched by the Sun studio album, which has 12 great world fusion melodies, is a refined instrumental with vocals album, likewise comprised of an impressive team of music professionals. Many of whom you are sure to recognize. There are a number of studio session artists who often provide instrumentals on Will Ackerman productions at Imaginary Road Studios, so the contributing members are indeed a select group of musicians.

Artists on the studio album joining Todd Boston on guitars, dotar, flutes and base are female vocalist Snatam Kaur, cellist Eugene Friesen, violinist Charlie Bisharat, percussionist Jeff Haynes, drums Aaron Sterling, bass guitar Tony Levin, fretless bass Michael Manring, hand clapping Tom Eaton, whispers Tina Malia and Ramesh Kannan on tabla and cajon.

There are other strategic elements about Touched by the Sun that isn’t by chance. Given the fact that Todd Boston is a great performer, and the quality of artisanship delivered by other top-ranked artists, this new Imaginary Road Studios production has every component needed to reach the upper limits of success. Stated more precisely, I expect Touched by the Sun to be an award-winning album in 2013.

Touched by the Sun made the #1 Top Recording for June 2012, with the Top 10 & Top 100 Radio Airplay Charts at Zone Music Reporter. The Brightest Night is a song by Todd that has made its way into the elite 22 artist and 22 instrumental song compilation album in 2012 by Will Ackerman entitled The Gathering.

Once more, Touched by the Sun was created in the care of GRAMMY® Award-winning producer Will Ackerman, and co-producer Tom Eaton and Todd Boston, so every component of Todd’s album was given the attention it deserves by a team of specialists. Comprised of elements that make a great recording, decisive actions taken by Todd Boston has lessened the mystery of whether this is a quality album or not. The question now is where to sample or purchase Touched by the Sun.

Visit the homepage of ToddBoston.com and visit Todd Boston’s music page, where you can sample or purchase at several popular online music stores including Amazon, CDBaby, and iTunes. Cover artwork & photo courtesy toddboston.com.

Best Instrumental Songs Review: The Gathering by Will Ackerman.

When deciding on a review title for Will Ackerman’s collection of contemporary instrumental songs, the first caption that came to mind involved the word best. There are several reasons why I gave The Gathering a desirable best instrumental song collection title, and I am prepared to give the reasons why. Synonymous with quality music, the name Will Ackerman alone seems to shout excellence! This is apparent, whether it is his own music recording, or one of the 20 plus gold and platinum albums he produced throughout his 35 year professional career.

The Gathering is the newest 2012 instrumental music compilation album from the acclaimed, GRAMMY® Award winning guitarist and producer Will Ackerman. Featuring an exclusive music collection of 22 top-quality songs by 22 great artists, The Gathering is a decisive who’s who of the best quality artists Will Ackerman selected for this release, out of the many fine musicians who had their album produced at his state-of-the-art Imaginary Road Studios.

Will Ackerman is famous worldwide for his production talents as founder Windham Hill Records, and his strong influence in the instrumental music recording industry yesteryear and today. In addition to his role as producer, Will Ackerman is an award-winning composer and guitarist, having performed a vital role in launching the careers of many award-winning artists. Over the past 35 years Will Ackerman has produced albums for over eighty four artists. Some of the most notable artists are Alex de Grassi, Michael Hedges, Michael Manring, Shadowfax, Liz Story and George Winston.

The Gathering by Will Ackerman is an excellent compilation album with 22 of the best contemporary instrumental songs on Will Ackerman’s West River Records label. Famous for founding Windham Hill Records, the legacy of the highest quality artists endures on Will Ackerman’s West River Records label.

The Imaginary Road Studio today engages the expertise of producer and engineer Tom Eaton. Taking the high road in quality studio productions, William Ackerman and Tom Eaton’s expertize help artists embolden their music compositions with grace, elegance and imagination.

Visit WilliamAckerman.com and the Imaginary Road Studios. You can sample or purchase The Gathering at CDBaby.com. Listed below are the 22 artists and 22 song credits for The Gathering 2012 compilation release.

There are a number of new age and contemporary instrumental artists whose music I have reviewed over the years. The 13 artists with album reviews at this site are listed first in the credits. Photos courtesy willackerman.com.

The Gathering Credits – 22 Artists and 22 songs:

1. Ann Sweeten song Dawn on Red Mountain, from Grey Sky And Bittersweet album.

2. Devin Rice & Erin Aas song Thyn Ayre, from The Arrival album.

3. Fiona Joy Hawkins song Feeling Sunshine, from Live At The Q album.

4. Jeff Oster song Serengeti, from True album.

5. Kathryn Kaye song Mountain Laurel, from Heavy as a Feather album.

6. Kori Linae Carothers song Carpe Diem, from Trillium album.

7. Lawrence Blatt song The Color of Sunshine, from The Color of Sunshine album.

8. Masako song Glastenbury, Vermont, from Masako album.

9. Paul Jensen song Taoist Winds, from The Other Side album.

10. Peter Jennison song Anthem, from Longing From Home album.

11. Shambhu song Hide and Seek, from Sacred Love album.

12. Todd Boston song The Brightest Night, from Touched by the Sun album.

13. Will Ackerman song The Wheel, from New England Roads album.

14. Dean Boland song Intimacy, from Soul Whispers album.

15. Denise Young song Livia’s Song, from Something You Dream Of album.

16. Frank Smith song Porch with a View, from Earth Spring album.

17. Ken Verheecke song Forever, from A Place Called Home album.

18. Patrick Gorman song Shades of You, from Chasing Tornados album.

19. Rhonnda Cadle song Shalom, from Will’s Embrace album.

20. Rocky Fretz song Kim’s Song, from The Path Ahead album.

21. Rudy Perrone song The Prophet, from The Language Of Spirits album.

22. Stanton Lanier song Bread of Angels, from A Thousand Years album.

Newest Music by Original YES vocalist Jon Anderson.

International music celebrity, and original YES vocalist Jon Anderson, is nearing completion of two new music releases for 2012. Jon Anderson’s newest music opus is titled Ever, and a second release of new music is titled Zamran.

Jon Anderson’s newest recording Ever, is a part two sequel to his 21 minute download composition OPEN, a brilliant recording he released in October of 2011. Jon is in the final stages of recording Ever, so his new release will be available soon.

Zamran is Jon Anderson’s sequal to his popular, first solo album Olias of Sunhillow. It may take more time to complete Zamran, but it’s great news to know Jon Anderson is constantly finding creative new ways to express himself musically.

New songs for a special “Earth and Peace” concert timed during the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, England are another source for new music by Jon Anderson.

The new songs are to be performed live by Jon Anderson at the “Earth and Peace” concert taking place during the Summer Olympic Games in 2012. There hasn’t been an official press release about this special concert event starring Jon Anderson, but once the concert information is announced, I will provide more details when available.

I may have another opportunity to interview Jon Anderson for the second time before long. During this interview I plan to have specific questions about the “Earth and Peace” concert and his role in relation to the Summer Olympic Games later this year, so do check back for this exclusive interview.

Visit JonAnderson.com for news and find the newest albums and songs by Jon Anderson at iTunes.com. Portrait photo is courtesy Glass Onyon PR & Big Stock Photo – Ackley Road Photos.

Oceans by 7and5 – Pre-release New Age Album Review.

The advance in technological innovations has made an impact on everyone, including new age artists who create ingenious compositions of electronic music with computers, keyboards and the latest music software programing. In some cases, it’s a real challenge to determine whether instrumentals are produced by live performers, or an electronic orchestra created by one talented artist.

7and5 is the name in which independent artist John H. Nixon creates inspiring new age electronic music. Identical to fans who admire 7and5 music, the new age electronic albums In A Moment’s Time, Trading Stories & Hope, Destiny, & Choice, have been some of my personal favorite electronica albums for years.

The soon to be released Oceans by 7and5 is the newest collection of 10 new age electronic songs. Oceans ascends to new heights by an increase in dynamic energy, a characteristic quality that first began my admiration for 7and5 music.

Oceans by 7and5 is a new age electronic album due to be released next week on June 19, 2012. After listening to Oceans over and over again this week, the 10 vibrant songs on Oceans easily made my favorite album list in the new age electronic/chill out/techno category. Plus, I can tell you the cinematic qualities of 7and5 music generates excitement that never grows old, and the songs on Oceans advance an already present characteristic of quality music made for the cinema.

7and5 albums are a source of admiration for new age artists, and music recording giants David and Steve Gordon of Sequoia Records. A favorite artist with David and Steve too, the quality minded Gordon Brothers selected 7and5 songs for their Sequoia Records compilation albums Celtic Lounge 3, Buddha Lounge 6 & Buddha Groove 5.

The Weather Channel, with millions of television viewers nationwide is a place where 7and5 songs have been some of the best music to make their popular playlists over the years. Two songs in fact made The Weather Channel’s Top 10 Viewer’s Best Music of 2011 list. Songs by 7and5 are broadcast throughout the world on internet radio stations, making another best song list with Mystic Radio, and radio airtime on a number of popular online stations worldwide.

Everyone has the natural capacity to appreciate quality music originating from a variety of sources, and expertly layered electronic new age music is no exception, even for music purists who favor actual orchestrations by musicians performing on real instruments. Created by the natural talents of a single artist, Oceans is an inspiring source for some of the best new music everyone can appreciate.

Visit 7and5Music.com to sample or purchase, and when release at Amazon, CDBaby, ITunes, and major online stores on June 19, 2012. You can find mp3 song downloads at iTunes, and visit John H. Nixon’s social sites at Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and YouTube video page. BigStockPhoto.com photo copyright – Karmaamarande. Cover artwork and banner are courtesy 7and5music.com.

New Age Piano Music: Masako Album Review.

It’s a fact that every artist is characterized as a debuting artist upon the release of their first album. To some, the term debut may suggest negative connotations or a lack of experience, but I believe the majority of people know an artist’s debut simply means they have made available, and distributed their first album to the public.

Masako is the name of a composing pianist making a debut with her first, self-titled piano with instrumental album called Masako. Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, composing pianist Masako is a perfect example of a music professional with decades of experience prior to the first official introduction of her music. In fact, if I hadn’t known firsthand the original piano with instrumental music on Masako’s 2012 album was a debut release, I never would have guessed it.

Composing pianist Masako has released an extraordinary instrumental album with every hallmark of a seasoned professional. In fact, two highly respected artists, Will Ackerman and Liz Story themselves have release press comments about Masako’s abilities affirming her skill level is equated to that of a virtuoso. And I agree.

The Masako album was produced by Will Ackerman at his Imaginary Road Studio. Recognized for the excellence in his talents, Will Ackerman produced this album at Imaginary Road Studio, but needless to say, a producer can only enhance by bringing out the best of an artist’s talents. It’s clear, composing pianist Masako herself gives a magnificent performance, and her arrangement design of piano with instrumental music deserves to be characterized as a world-class release.

There are 12 songs total on the new Masako album, which easily passes the litmus test, in regards to the quality of music she produced, and alike in comparison to those who have rose among the top ranking artists that are associated with Will Ackerman’s Imaginary Road Studio. Masako’s song titled Glastenbury, Vermont was also selected for the top playlist of songs on the newest 2012 compilation CD by Will Ackerman entitled The Gathering.

Masako’s first introduction album is an impressive one and the term debut artist no longer applies. The only instance of where her status as a debuting artist applies now is perhaps when categorized, as the highest rated debut artist or for a best new artist of the year award. In either event, I believe Masako would be pleased to have her first release designated as a new debut album in either category.

The majority of the 12 songs on the Masako album are solo piano arrangements, or duets and ensemble, with an emphasis on piano. Top raking artist selected for the Masako album are Eugene Friesen (cello), Tony Levin (bassist), Jill Haley (English horn), Premik (wind synthesizer), and Jeff Haynes (percussion).

Visit Masako-Music.com to sample or purchase and find Masako album at iTunes. Portrait courtesy beltramistudios.com.

Legendary keyboardist Rick Wakeman, former keyboardist of the progressive rock group YES, has released a new live concert CD for 2012. Rick Wakeman’s newest album is an archival live concert CD titled In The Nick Of Time.

Recorded during a concert tour in 2003 to promote his current studio album at the time Out There, the new 2012 album is a recording of his performance with the group New English Rock Ensemble. In The Nick Of Time is an archival concert recording, commercially released for the first time.

Celebrating 40 years as a legendary keyboardist, Rick Wakeman throughout his career, has joined forces with some of the most prevalent artists in the music business including famous artists Cat Stevens and David Bowie.

There is also the front man for glam rock group T. Rex Marc Bolan, the original YES singer songwriter Jon Anderson, and a host of other music greats. Some may not know that many of the best hit songs produced by a lengthy list of popular artists involved Rick Wakeman’s masterful performance on keyboards.

Rick Wakeman is famous as soloist, and for his albums with progressive music group YES. The immensely popular albums Fragile, Close To The Edge and live album, Yessongs are just a few. Then there are countless fans like myself who admire Rick Wakeman’s studio and live collaboration albums with YES vocalist and lyricists, Jon Anderson. The two artists as a team are a wildly popular duo during their concert tours together in both the U.S. and UK.

Rick Wakeman’s new album In The Nick Of Time, is a signature style, progressive rock album with 7 songs performed live with the New English Rock Ensemble. The 7 identifiable in style songs on the release are Catherine Parr, Out There, No Earthly Connection, Dance of a Thousand Lights, The Cathedral In The Sky, White Rock & Wurm.

Rick Wakeman’s Biography titled Caped Crusader – Rick Wakeman In The 1970’s by Dan Wooding, with forward written by Elton John is also available at Gonzo Multimedia.

Visit the Rick Wakeman Communications Centre at RWCC.com. To purchase Rick Wakeman – In The Nick Of Time CD and his biography, visit gonzomultimedia.co.uk or Gonzo Multimedia U.S. store. Sample songs at Amazon U.S. store. Cover artwork is courtesy rwcc.com.

Award-winning producer Will Ackerman has released a new compilation CD featuring great songs by some of the best artists today. They are an elite group of instrumental artists who enlisted Will Ackerman to produce their albums at his Imaginary Road Studio.

The Gathering is a compilation album of 22 songs on Will Ackerman’s West River Records label. I plan to write a review for The Gathering once I receive the new compilation CD, but I can tell you a little about this release right now since I have already reviewed many of the complete albums in the song list. In the future I will be reviewing more artist’s with albums produced by Will Ackerman at Imaginary Road Studio.

The Gathering is a “best of the best album” since many of the songs selected by Will Ackerman are designated songs from a number of best albums, composed by top-ranked artists in the music recording industry. Famous for the highest quality in music productions, the tradition continues on Will Ackerman’s West River Records label. The artists with reviews at this site, and whose songs are in The Gathering are shown below.

Visit WilliamAckerman.com and find more about these select artists, and purchase The Gathering at CDBaby.com.

Ann Sweeten song Dawn on Red Mountain, from Grey Sky And Bittersweet album.

Devin Rice & Erin Aas song Thyn Ayre, from The Arrival album.

Fiona Joy Hawkins song Feeling Sunshine, from Live At The Q album.

Jeff Oster song Serengeti, from True album.

Kathryn Kaye song Mountain Laurel, from Heavy as a Feather album.

Kori Linae Carothers song Carpe Diem, from Trillium album.

Lawrence Blatt song The Color of Sunshine, from The Color of Sunshine album.

Masako song Glastenbury, Vermont, from Masako album.

Paul Jensen song Taoist Winds, from The Other Side album.

Peter Jennison song Anthem, from Longing From Home album.

Shambhu song Hide and Seek, from Sacred Love album.

Todd Boston song The Brightest Night, from Touched by the Sun album.

Will Ackerman song The Wheel, from New England Roads album.

Kitaro music fans are sure to be excited about the newest Kitaro album in 2012. Even if they have already heard the Kitaro album entitled The Light Of The Spirit in its original recording format back in 1997, the newly remastered audio CD or mp3 is worth looking into by its superior musical qualities.

If you haven’t sampled The Light Of The Spirit, you are in for a surprise. The 8 cinematic songs by the international new age superstar Kitaro happen to be co-produced with the rock legend Grateful Dead percussionist Mickey Hart, who is a music innovator himself, and during studio recordings and concert performances with his tour group the Mickey Hart Band.

Kitaro and Mickey Hart are GRAMMY® Award-winning artists revered individually for producing releases that explore a wide range of music influences. One example of their diversity is The Light Of The Spirit. The 8 songs on Kitaro’s new album The Light Of The Spirit are; Mysterious Encounter, Sundance, The Field, The Light of the Spirit, In The Beginning, Moondance, Howling Thunder, Journey To A Fantasy. Visit the Domo Music Group page to sample the newest album by Kitaro.

New Album: Wires Rosewood & Roots by Bob Ardern.

Finger-style Folk guitarist Bob Ardern brings new harmony to the forefront in his novel 2012 acoustic album arrangement entitled Wires Rosewood & Roots. Finding inspiration from a number of impromptu events that occurred in day to day life, his newest album reveals the improvisational passion in which he composes.

In many ways, Bob Ardern’s new album Wires Rosewood & Roots, transcends the ordinary into an extraordinary blend of 12 beautiful song melodies you will simply have to experience for yourself.

Bob Ardern is an accomplished Folk guitarist, songwriter and singer, but his mastery of finger-style guitar music is the manner in which Wires Rosewood & Roots begin a new form of expression for the talented artist who is skilled on a variety of music genres.

Bob Ardern is a finger-style guitarist with over 25 years of experience as a popular concert musician performing in venues like house concerts, coffee shops, and Folk music festivals especially in Canada where he lives and is widely recognized. There is also a possibility for a U.S. tour in 2012, and into 2013, so a concert announcement will be made once confirmed.

Wires Rosewood & Roots covers 12 original songs, with some songs on the latest album incorporated as new arrangements from two earlier albums in the accustomed Bob Ardern style entitled Come From Away & Returning Home.

Some of the songs feature Bob Ardern as soloist on a Beneteau acoustic guitar, with the balance of instrumentals on various songs by guest artists. Unlike the unrehearsed events that spawned the concept for his newest album, Bob Ardern is always prepared to perform his finger-style acoustic guitar music with the knowledge and familiarity of a seasoned performer. It’s one attribute about Bob Ardern you can always anticipate.

Artists on Wires Rosewood & Roots are Kev Corbett (upright bass, bodhran, cabasa), Alyssa Wright (cello), and David Findlay (drone, bass, piano, and percussion).

Purchase music at BobArdern.ca or find Wires Rosewood & Roots album at iTunes. Photos are courtesy Bruce Dienes & bobardern.ca.