New Age Music World

Archive for the ‘New Age Music World’ Category

Michael Stribling is a licensed family therapist who knows much about life’s transitions.  The Promise is his current album under consideration at ZMR, and this video of At the End of the Day from Another Day in Paradise shows an ocean sunset while giving another example of Michael’s appreciable ambient music.

Visit leela-music.com to read about Michael, then read my review of The Promise titled Promising Transitions in Music. 

Recently B.T. Fasmer and I have written articles about the 25 year anniversary milestone and upcoming events with M.G. Music.  Both of us are looking forward to these latest releases and writing reviews with our individual impressions about these albums on the MG Music label based in the United Kingdom.

Clifford White is one MG label artist in particular where his ASCENSION II – The Healing Touch, will be arriving soon, and where both reviews will be featured at this website and at NewAgeMusic.nu.
 

Before ASCENSION II  arrives, read B.T. Fasmer’s review of  The Gods Of Olympus, a recent release from Clifford White that placed 2nd in our Best Album of 2009 Awards.
 

If you are wondering what all the excitement is about at the MG Music label, you are one click away to sample / purchase ASCENSION II right here, and then read about the 25 year anniversary and every talented artist at medwyngoodall.com here.  

Just like an orchestra conductor standing on a podium, one New Age artist first held his raised baton in hand, and began to cue the first downbeat gesture for his debut album.  What emerged after the final cutoff gesture was made, led to an upbeat direction for his first album’s achievements, and proclaimed admiration for this relatively new artist.

David Wahler is the musician orchestrating Antiquus in a like manner, where his time signature expertly directed a unique phrasing in tempo, dynamics, and articulation, leading to welcoming salutations of praise during the final reception at the end of his first orchestration.

Antiquus  is a greatly applauded 2009 album surprising many by the paramount success granted to such a relative newcomer in the New Age music industry.  The consistent airplay and high ranking in Zone Music Reporters charts is widely recognized, along with pending nominations for 2009 in 4 categories, yet to be decided.  Likewise you will find Antiquus is held in high regard with our own NewAgeMusic.nu Best Albums of 2009 Awards, so these merits do speak quite clearly.

Music itself is not new to David since he began playing piano by ear at age 7, then formal music studies in college academics before directing several theater directing productions, performing with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra & New American Theatre, while also teaching music appreciation to disadvantaged and handicapped children.

David again steps onto the conductor’s podium for a second time.  With all eyes watching, and with several decisive taps of the hand baton, he confidently cues in his current 2010 release  A Star Dances, in an encore performance notably holding great expectations. 

Composed, performed, and arranged solely by David Wahler, this album represents a heartfelt narration surrounding his family circle past and present, where resolution of personal life challenges are reflected as a unique source of inspiration for his music’s identity, lovingly embraced by his close family heritage. 

A Star Danced is New Age, Contemporary, Electronic, Ambient, Neo Classical, and Orchestration, nicely displayed by his directing hands, where it becomes apparent this second release sharply manifests a sweeping one and two and timing, in relation to the precision delivery of his already admired discography.

The song Quest is the Epic alpha and omega heralding in 14 classics of A Star Danced, and perhaps a fine talking point of those like myself giving their own conclusions about his second release.  To me, this sensational wonder is a revelation to behold, given the heavenly virtuoso trumpet intonation with pronounced percussion taps unveiling moderate rhythms while keyboard and tenor vocals gently mesmerize.  Having these bold dynamics and a contrasting sheer ambience of lightly drawn out vibrato notes, it could be telling of a more calming and peaceful resolution made during some of our most challenging moments.

The atmosphere in the Title Song by soft soprano and tenor vocals echo nicely behind droplet-like keystrokes and percussion rhythms blending into one relaxing starlit entity.  The Seeds of Time are generously sown by guitar soloist Brent Gunter, where his evolving impressions are backed by moderate keyboards and celestial choir.

Come Gentle Night has a light sway led by beautiful keyboard bell tones similar to Peaseblossom & Reverie.  Sigh Away Sunday & Vespera are new images holding a conforming poise from the well conducted Antiquus album, giving fresh ambient patterns to the ensemble of songs.

Yvonne is a heartfelt rendition where harp and piano melody embrace to portray a most positive affirmation, and where keys changes bravely touch on an optimistic melodic tone.  It is in this song where piano, strings, and harp join in a tribute to a special person, and where the significance of someone very dear to David is personified.

Missing You is first composed in singular piano notes where a solemn melody gives a peaceful and serene placement of solitude in the earliest moments while nicely responding with a graceful tribute.  Piano notes resolve in a most dignified phasing, giving rise by a reverent conclusion, where ordained notes of respect and solidarity become intertwined in the loving arms of melancholy. 

Quest ( Reprise ) makes a return odyssey to the dynamic opening impressions, becoming the concluding exodus to again reveal the bold aesthetic testimonial of David’s second album.  Devoted to his unique signature which retains your interest and imagination from the first cue to the final cutoff note, I do expect honorable recognition will be given to David Wahler & A Star Danced, pending this album’s overall final reception.

Visit davidwahler.com to sample and purchase or at his CDBaby.com page.  You may read our own NewAgeMusic.nu Best Albums of 2009 Awards and my review of Antiquus on our pages dedicated to David Wahler.

Picture copyright Bigstockphoto – pressmaster

Today’s computer enhanced technology is amazing, and when skillful composing is combined with live performers and instrumentals, the resulting musical outcome can become a creation of natural beauty.

Timothy Crane is an artist title using a creative touch with the music technology of today by composing piano music, then adding key instrumentals along with orchestra effects that become full structured works of music he and his close friends enjoy creating.

Dragonfly is the second release where Timothy plays a leading role as pianist and co-producer of his second album, along with Jason Rowsell who also played bass and mixing. Friends Rick Henly performs on guitar and percussion effects, while Ryan Day engineered and mixed the album. Having one last credit I don’t want to miss, Jason Rowsell’s young daughter has a cameo role by quietly laughing on cue during the beginning of song, A Child’s Goodnight.

The Other Life I Dream is the first album I enjoyed equally from this talented group. When asking Timothy what was the primary objective on this current release, and what set Dragonfly apart from the first album. Here is his reply :

With Dragonfly, my focus was more on composition. Each piece reflects an attempt to craft an instrumental tune that is memorable, unique to the overall album, and noticeably piano-driven, produced by independent musicians who want nothing more than to continue to create and play music.   Timothy Crane

Dragonfly is where I discovered more natural forms of instrumentation become closely acquainted with an animated entity in 11 song classics. A few songs carry the rhythmic tones that might remind some of a highly recognized female artist at first glance, but I soon found each song is composed with a singular structuring in each melody belonging in a modern New Age, Piano, Instrumental, Cinematic theme.

Dragonfly indeed takes flight with first song 2×2. In a graceful piano based dance of the keys, a real beauty of a melody greatly captures your attention by the upper tempo modern rhythms. Well placed staccato notes from strings carry this steady motion while wonderful orchestration carries the appropriate rhythms that lead to a natural form of musical attraction.

Sylvan Grove holds much of the same beauty by piano leading in an upbeat theme while horns and strings inscribe a smooth blend into another most positive melody. Higher octave piano notes in Star Cross Moon are the first gentle indications of a nice correlation in melodic shades, and when numerous major to minor key changes make a full emotional presence felt during refrains, the result is gratifying.

A Child’s Goodnight is a playful theme that soon matures in a full chord and heartfelt movement, while Salish Sunset in again, a more moderate tempo, along with light recollections in piano phrasing, join with oboe to impart warm tones to the overall picture.

Theft in Eb Major is more of a classic thought in composition with major and minor chords extending vibrant hues while building momentum. Woodwinds warm breezy notes blend with background choral vocals to instill a more celestial feel with this song.

Theme of Rachel Scott is another focal point where medium range keystrokes give way to lower chords feel of depth and richness, blending nicely with orchestration to become one beautiful entity. Vasilissa the Beautiful entertains a most peaceful beginning only to be suddenly interrupted by an enthralling performance from piano, choir, and deep thunderous percussion, quickly taking flight as if suddenly startled from a comfortable resting place.

Title song Dragonfly is an impassioned piano solo signaling the finale of this lightly animated album, in a conclusion where I felt every colorful detail was closely examined while producing this incorporated album, becoming the right choice for many people desiring popular music creations having a natural attraction.

Visit timothycrane.com website to sample / purchase, or at his CDBaby.com page.

Picture Copyright Bigstockphoto – FOTOCROMO

Bill Wren is a composing songwriter where his recent One Day in a Life composition exhibits the very essence for each characteristic style of every performer on the album he can call a friend.

One Day in a Life does seem to facilitate a level of relaxation one person can easily enjoy alone, morning, noon or night, but with such an engaging album like this one, it is always best experienced in the company of good friends.

Recently I published a review about his release and there one song of many that stood out.  As it turns out there is a great video of Bill Wren’s song En Mai, taken from a concert in Jacksonville Florida last October. 

Bill’s good friend Frank Ralls produced and directed, edited the video, along with playing Keyboards and percussion.  Brittany Maroney is the cellist also giving a wonderful performance in front of a live audience.

It’s difficult to accurately describe great music in written text at times, so here is your chance to hear En Mai for yourself and below is my review quote.  Visit billwrenmusic.com to sample and learn more about Bill or visit his CDBaby.com page.  You can read my review at our page dedicated to Bill Wren.

Much like En Mai, lavish cello entries appear to drift and sway in time to gentle winds and deep sentimental overtones, with an emphasis on instrumental soloists as the chosen method to hallmark every occasion in this album of versatility.

NewAgeMusic.nu from the very beginning has brought its readers top articles, news, interviews, and reviews, about many defining artists in the New Age music industry, and you can expect us to continue the tradition at this website. 

NewAgeMusicWorld.Com had just begun online posting when, on Jan 1, 2010, NewAgeMusic.nu had announced our Best New Age Album of 2009 decision to our readers.  Since I was just beginning as a webhost here, the following article was not posted at my website.  I am proud to be a contributing member writing content for NewAgeMusic.nu and would now like to display the Best Album of 2009 article by B.T. Fasmer for my website visitors.

                                           NewAgeMusic.nu article on The Best Album Award of 2009.

                                                           By B.T. Fasmer on January 1, 2010.

2009 is history – and before we move on, lets take a look at the many new age music titles that have given us so much joy this past year.

New age music is not different from other genres; the myriads of home studios and the power of internet are transforming the music scene in a profound way. While the fan before had to rely on mainstream radio and the selection in the local music store, she now can choose from millions of tracks and just as many niche stations like New Age Stars. Music has never been this accessible, and we here at .nu enjoy every minute of it!

In 2009 we have been able to sample every album released under the “new age music” umbrella on Amazon and iTunes, without even leaving our living room. The quality of the titles is generally very high – and we continue to be amazed of the creativity and love the artists (and the labels) put into their work. We, the fans, can only say thank you, thank you, dear artists, for an amazing year of music!

The titles below are our favorites of 2009. We have without a doubt missed some titles here, but to our defense all titles mentioned below are for sure in the “best of the best” category.

1. Cadence Spalding – Save the World

It wasn’t hard for NewAgeMusic.nu editors to choose the top title for 2009. Rarely have we been presented for a title that answers the “what is new age music” question better. Cadence Spalding’s Save the world illustrates everything that is great about new age music. To quote John P. Olsen’s review: “Save The World is classical New Age pop, hosting a pleasant mix of ballads finely tuned to perfection in the purest sense. Classical touches of soft angelic vocals appears as lullabies at times, gently rocking you into a contented state, while anthem stanzas increase in momentum, rising above to greet the occasion. “

Save The World is, as the title implies, an album with a message. We all have to do our part to save mother Earth – it is a message that has to be repeated again and again. How to save the world? Trust in love. Cadence Spalding’s album is not to be missed.

Sample the album on CDBaby

2. Clifford White – The Gods Of Olympus

Clifford White is a true new age music legend. His album Ascension from 1985 is one of the finest albums from the 80s, and a “must have” for any NA music fan. After 14 years of silence, Clifford White this year returned with a massive release. The album The Gods Of Olympus is a journey of epic proportions.

BT Fasmer wrote in his review: “The Gods Of Olympus is really a new age music treasure chest. If this was a novel, it would have had more than 1000 pages for sure. In the world of literature it is not uncommon that a successful author returns after 10 to 15 years of silence with a brick of a book. This is the new age music equivalent of that phenomenon.”

The Gods Of Olympus has 14 extremely well made tracks, and is over 70 minutes long.

Sample the album here.

3. Kitaro – Impression Of The West Lake

I cannot think of a more magical and mystical album than Kitaro’s Impression Of The West Lake. On this Grammy nominated release Kitaro does what Kitaro does best; he creates an unforgettable world of music, that is both East and West, beautiful and magical, all at the same time.

There are two 12 minute long tracks on the album. They are like two separate albums, with a massive and interesting build-up. Hopefully Kitaro will get a Grammy this time – he sure deserves it!

Sample the album here.

4. Medwyn Goodall – Medicine Woman 4 – Prophecy 2012

It has become a tradition in the world of new age music. Every fifth year or so Medwyn Goodall’s many fans get a new installment in the Medicine Woman series. Since the release of the first album in the series in 1991, it has become one of the most popular in the genre. This year we saw the release of Medicine Woman 4 – Prophecy 2012.

BT Fasmer wrote in his review: “Prophecy 2012 has the good old Medicine Woman atmosphere, pure and simple. This sound should have been patented, put on a bottle and sold to a big pharmaceutical company, since it is truly a healing experience. But I guess that the Medicine Woman is more about herbs and spells, than pills and bills.

Medicine Woman 4 – Prophecy 2012 offers, like the previous albums in the series, almost endless replay possibilities.

Sample the album here.

5. David Wahler – Antiquus

One of this year’s most surprising and welcome releases was Antiquus by David Wahler. This debut can been described as New Age Ambient, Neo Classical, and Electronic – yes, even Orchestra and Chill Out.

John P. Olsen wrote in his review: “The mood is indeed very dreamlike and relaxing by a mod tempo rhythm that offers a positive connection by retaining your interest and imagination throughout the entire album. Shifting tempo and key changes are what I believe give this album an effective transition in thought and feeling, linking the valuable bond between our very distant past and our ever changing future.”

David Wahler is one of the new stars of new age music – and we feel confident that he will be on our best of list next year too! Antiquus is simply a marvelous album that any NA music fan must check out.

Sample the album here.

6. Paul Heinerman – Oases

The phrase Music can take you places might sound like cliché, but you will see the truth in it after listening to Paul Heinerman’s album Oases. This album will take you on an unforgettable musical journey to Ireland, Greece, North America, India, China and Native America.

Oases is hands down ethnic fusion at its very best, played with integrity and force – and, in the process, perfectly blending modernity in all its shades, illustrating the melting pot of East and West.

All in all, Oasis is an interesting and quite different new age music release – and one of the finest albums released in 2009!

Sample the album here.

7. Joel Kanning - Ubiquitous Frequency Oscillation

Another debut album that made 2009 into something special was Joel Kanning’s Ubiquitous Frequency Oscillation (UFO). BT Fasmer wrote in his review: “Albums are often released labeled as “sounding like Enigma and Deep Forest”, but this reviewer finds that these albums rarely are on par with masters such as Michael Cretu and Eric Mouquet (the men behind Enigma/Deep Forest) . Some of these albums are quite good, but hardly more than that.

But sometimes it happens that a new star is born, and one artist that deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as Cretu and Mouquet is Joel Kanning. His brand new album UFO, or Ubiquitous Frequency Oscillation, is a true feast for fans of the above mentioned artists.”

While Enigma and Deep Forest are big names of the past, Joel Kanning is a man for the future. This was the UFO-landing we all were waiting for!

Sample the album here.

8. Transcend with Time – A Haunting Presence.

Everyone always says that they are looking for something new, something different and exciting. Well, new age music fans – we urge you to check out the album A Haunting Presence by Transcend with Time/Mark Mendieta. This album truly is different and exciting in a whole new way; A Haunting Presence has the atmosphere of progressive rock and the sound of new age. Mark Mendieta takes everything that is great about new age and adds, what he calls, “a twist of Dark Progressive”. It creates a totally different atmosphere, unlike anything else you are likely to find in this part of the forest.

TwT is not easy listening, and that is also the case with the new release. But if you give is some time, you will for sure be amazed of the richness in sound.

Sample the album here.

9. John Adorney – The Fountain

One of the new stars in new age music is John Adorney. His albums The Other Shore, Waiting For The Moon and Trees of Gold are considered modern classics. This year John Adorney gave us the album The Fountain. John P. Olsen wrote in his review of the album: “The itinerary moves into Middle Eastern style keyboard navigation before boarding acoustic guitar verses reminiscent of India. Circling the globe by Southern route, Brazilian tempo celebrates the festivities before a final touchdown into John Adorney’s home country of America, arriving well relaxed by one of his more adventurous musical arrangements, in the luxurious comfort we have come to expect.”

If we were given the chance to create a trademark defining term for a new music genre that everyone could easily recognize for a new description reference, we would confidently term the compositions of John Adorney as Comfort Music.

Sample the album here.

10. Nexion Project – The Isle of Freedom

We are fond of island music here at .nu. This year we added a title to our “best of island music”- list. The title of the album is The Isle of freedom by The Nexion Project.

It is not entirely a new release (some of the songs have been featured on previous Nexion Project albums – but some new songs were composed to this compilation). BT Fasmer wrote in his review: “Is it possible to make something that already is perfect, like the dream of a tropical island, even better? Yes, the Nexion Project’s The Isle of Freedom is a proof of this. It takes the island theme to the next level, creating a dream sphere that is both relaxing and energizing at the same time. It is everything and more, just like paradise itself.”

So if you need some well deserved time off, why not take a trip to the Isle of Freedom?

Sample the album here.

AND NOW: 2010 here we go, with new age music in our ears and hearts!

Your friends in New Age Music,

B. T. Fasmer and J. P. Olsen, Norway and USA

See our Top New Age Music album of 2008 list here.

Michael Brant DeMaria, PH.D, is a recent Grammy Nominee making the news lately. Likewise, our recent interview together gave many people an in-depth look into the life of a clinical psychologist, composing musician, poet, author, and dedicator of his Healing Sound Series.

Knowing Michael better now, it’s clear to me his music is an instrumental model in itself, much like his art, books, and poetry, all of which have acquired U.S. recognition, along with international acceptance in Australia, Europe, Russia, and other parts of the world.

In his psychotherapy practice, Dr. DeMaria created ONTOS ( Greek for Being ) to help people live more meaningful and effective lives by ambient music interwoven as relaxation therapy. I feel The Series can be perceived much like a form of cognitive conditioning, becoming an audible portion of his personal inner message by design, helping one acquire a new perspective and begin a refreshing journey on a path to wellness through calming music.

The River first began the Healing Sound Series, with Ocean his second project based on over 25 years of personal and professional research in the fundamental principals of sonic healing techniques. Ocean was conceived to help hurricane survivors much like himself, begin anew and return to a more peaceful existence.

Where our rivers are a beginning source during their natural paths across the landscape, The River by Michael Brant DeMaria is like a template to discover a new direction, if even for a single day. In addition, while help customarily arrives in the form of understanding words from this highly educated man during his medical practice, Michael’s healing music has a similar philosophy. It is where gentle curves in The River now become the stimulus equivalent for discovering a natural direction in which to travel.    John P. Olsen

Siyotanka is the third story based narrative that won a Native American Music Award in the Native Heart category, and placed him on the Grammy ballot for Best Native American Music Album, also retaining the # 1 position on ZMR Top 100 charts in December 2009.

“The River is an album dedicated to all who listen from the heart” are words Michael used to analyze this first in series. More than familiar with his music, I find this a realistic concept.

Descriptive song titles likewise assist in what you will hear on The River, which relies on Native American Flutes, keyboards, piano, and indigenous percussion to form the reservoir, rising momentum, and infiltrating sunbeams heard in beginning ambient songs First Light, The River & Sunlight.

Journeying is one of the more intriguing songs to me, having a rhythmic percussion and keyboard enhanced xylophone effect, when left to the imagination, places one in a forest habitat, residing right beside gently lapping water’s edge in a restful moment of singular, peaceful solitude.

The Rain features an indigenous flute solo while a thunderstorm’s echoing claps can be heard in the distance as if releasing every negative thought from afar, along with dispersing light water droplets that transform to create a colorful sunset at dusk, leading into piano and woodwinds calming sounds in a quiet Night Fall.

Moderate keyboard sequences, along with single touches on the piano keys treble octaves make positive reflections in Moonlight & Stillness lightly glow by their conforming ambient phrasing, while indigenous woodwinds direct a more solemn indication to denote the threshold hour of Midnight.

The River’s 10 song origins instinctively find a natural pathway to The Sea where most rivers lead. In comparison to seas partially confined and bound by land, Michael’s directive of these rivers hope to point towards a new concept releasing everyone’s unlimited potential, in relation to the vast open horizons observed in our five greater oceans.

Visit ontos.org here and then sample / purchase on his music page, or CDBaby.com page. Read our interview on our page dedicated to Michael.

Picture copyright Bigstockphoto.com – WizData

Canada is a country currently making the news daily by hosting the XXl Olympic Winter Games and Like B.T. Fasmer said in his recent article, New Age Music for Driving, listening to calming music to relax with while driving in Vancouver or surrounding areas, is a great idea.

Julian Ray is understandably a proud Canadian citizen and member of SOCAN, Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada, active in theatre, psychology, and philosophy and award recipient as a design artist.

In addition to keeping up with current events in his country, Julian is independently promoting his current 2010 release In Flow of Light, placing well in a winners circle of New Age / Ambient / Meditative, categories.

This ambient music with a more casual tone of 10 uplifting melodies makes one relaxing album, great for travel or winding down right at home.  His prior releases Saga, Wonderful Life, & Seashell Stories give you much to choose from too, with all having an individualistic tone that indirectly tells you it was produced by Julian Ray.

In Flow of Light is a lighter form of easy listening ambient music, with the title song In Flow of Light and second track The Call, a mid tempo blend of synthesized ambient music, with abundant keyboard effects affable for relaxation while also exhibiting a more pronounced upbeat rhythm I would classify as distinctive.

Silence & Mountain Air are toned down in tempo to a more atmospheric level, in a more casual presence, keeping up a measurable level of his individual style, likewise felt in the abundant runs on keyboard based Soaring. 

Between Earth and Sky has a windswept beginning before keyboards entertain a lighter melody, and the synthesizer background gives an enticing angle in tone by the voice box impressionism. 

Towards the Sun reaches a higher peak of performance on percussion, along with upbeat rhythms, where New Morning takes off with a slower start, only to increase in speed, gaining momentum by the smooth flowing keyboard melody.  Percussion rhythms happily dance along with a more mid tempo theme as the song progresses, making a fine finish at the end.

New Age Music and Canada seem to have a natural presence, and music from Canadian teams has always made the grade with me.  Julian who resides in Toronto, likewise goes the distance with current In Flow of Light by providing a measurable amount of relaxation with his individual freestyle of ambient music.  Since several new projects are on the way, and I am now more familiar with his music, it should be easy to recognize his freestyle compositions at any event.    

Visit julianraymusic.com to learn more.  Sample / purchase on his website album page, or at Amazon & iTunes.

Cover design copyright Julian Ray Music courtesy of Katrin Ray 

Valentines Day is a super time to make one’s heart beat a little faster, and since February 14, 2010 was also the first phase in the annual Zone Music Reporter ( ZMR ) Award Category Nominees announcement, I can almost hear the rhythmic pace increase for the candidates we have been writing about at NewAgeMusicWorld.Com & NewAgeMusic.nu. 

Click here to see our NewAgeMusic.nu Best of the Best Album Awards for 2009.

ZMR has decisively placed many of the artists we write about as Category Nominees, so naturally we are happy to see many of the artists we have met and consider friends being placed on the ballot.  The next date to watch for is March 14, 2010, when ZMR makes their final decision.

My previous article about just some of the candidates can be seen by scrolling down our pages below or by clicking here.  Complete details and the entire list of candidates can be found at zonemusicreporter.com here.

Picture copyright Bigstockphoto.com – yoga heart

It’s pretty easy to get sidetracked from doing what we really want to do everyday, and a 25 year departure from songwriting was longer than what this musician had in mind, but his migration back to composing have many people moving to new heights.

Bill Wren is often referred to as the Rare Texas Songbird, in a declaration I thought appropriate having the surname Wren, yet it uniquely describes his musical aspirations and return flight to perfection. First playing bass in a Rock band, Bill realized after one stellar show in front of a crowd gone wild audience, music was his final destination.

One day in a Life is his release already gathering attention, having many songs winding up #1 or in the Top 10 at SoundClick.com & Broadjam.com, with songwriting awards in Indie & International Song Writing Contests. Reading everything I could on Bill Wren, I also learned that lifelong friends played a major role leading to an early formation of his musical biography that endures even to this day.

One day in a Life is like a beautiful bird of paradise and where Bill Wren excels the most, in heartfelt compositions that exhibit the very essence for each characteristic style given by every performing musician on the album he calls a friend.

Wren states the album’s success is due in part to the arrangement and production work of Frank Ralls, along with musical assistance of Terry Winch & Ike Strum, with a host of vocalists and instrumentalists who together, have assembled a refined album with a right at home presence.

One day in a Life answers the call to 11 songs in New Age, Orchestration, Neo Classical, along with structured blends of Jazz, Blues, and Rock, building a comfortable resting place to display his versatile compositions. The calm acoustic guitar strides heard in the title song characterize the overall attraction given to the entire album, giving a hint of the harmonious novelty waiting within each well rounded song.

Daybreak shows the smooth artistry of this album sporting a fragrant touch and vibrant flare, where rich orchestration plays the intermingled leading role while supporting soloist and softer vocals. Much like En Mai, lavish cello entries appear to drift and sway in time to gentle winds and deep sentimental overtones, with an emphasis on instrumental soloists as the chosen method to hallmark every occasion in this album of versatility.

Ocean Breeze features acoustic guitar giving the arrangement a moderate tempo and under closer examination, exhibits a form of poetry in motion while gently transitioning to a more complex guitar rendition, making the move during nice orchestral balance and light percussion effects.

I Will Waltz For You, with it’s descriptive title, glides right into motion filled pirouettes in time to dance rhythms, while Lovers Rendezvous has a moderate tempo with saxophone and piano adding an impassioned rendition, contributing to a pleasing sense of atmosphere.

Setting the ambiance again is Heart to Heart, in singular key piano melody and Night Fall, where piano, saxophone, and soft vocals maintain the beautiful colors perceived in this albums theme.

The song Old Friend provides the forethought in this lighter flute melody backed by a full symphony of warmth and sincerity, and since everyone is great as an individual soloist on the album, it does help me summarize with certainty.

The qualities I discovered in One Day in a Life, do facilitate a level of relaxation one person can easily enjoy alone, morning, noon or night, but with such an engaging album like this one, is always best experienced in the company of good friends.

The musicians and credits on this album are, Frank Ralls, Terry Winch, Ike Strum, Sandy Williams, Nick Curry, Janet Planet, John Gibson, Jim Farrelly, Kyle Wehner, Michael Houston, Kelly Willard, Tom Washatka, Patrick Harshbarger, and Chris Lieber.

Visit the Rare Texas Songbird at billwrenmusic.com to sample or CDBaby.com to purchase.

Picture copyright Bigstockphoto.com – Ardith

Classical Orchestral Harps can be thought of as divine or celestial instruments, having an origin dating to around 2500 BC, often reminding one of angels and religious cherubs poised in a statue.

Lizary Rodriguez Rios is the harpist I had in mind while writing this first sentence taken from an earlier review of her Harp Therapy album inviting listeners to relax by the soothing music this stringed instrument can provide.

Valentines Day is approaching and a great time to tell you about this music professional and bring up the celestial instrument, since the harps early origins are ironically thought to be modeled after an archery weapon.  Given this fact, even the romantic Cupid would like to own this instrument since it strongly resembles a bow and arrow.

Lizary Rodriguez Rios credits are quite impressive, securing a Doctorate in Musical Arts and 4 time awards winner of international harp competitions around the world, touring with the Grammy Award Nominated Harp Fusion Ensemble.

The recipient of a Centennial Achievement Award is a respected one of many, in an overall long list of awards and recognition she has achieved, drawing attention around the world as a harp soloist and composer, so expect a right on target delivery. 

The many concerts and festivals people have attended, like the prestigious Casals Festival in Puerto Rico, venues in the United States, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Spain, Russia, and other countries have certainly enjoyed the experience, so chances are good you will too.

Harp Voyage was her first album, and much like her Harp Therapy are specifically composed for relaxation, massage, and yoga, while also finding a comforting niche since the songs serve as the perfect auditory background music during church services, memorials, hospitals, and even weddings.  Lizary has informed me she is presently working on a Christmas album, so another fine project of her specialized music is expected in the future.

While Lizary’s harp CD’s are not exact centerline New Age music, her high level of expertise as a harpist is decidedly front and center by delivering a highly regarded level of comfort, from a natural talent who is devoting much of their life achieving the very highest in musical standards.

For your next special occasion or great classic music to relax by visit lizary.net here.  Sample at CDBaby.com here, and read our pages dedicated to Lizary. 

New Age Music is already an exciting genre to be involved with for many reasons and now the excitement is going to the next level since Zone Music Reporter ( ZMR ) has taken the first step in announcing their Annual Music Award Qualifiers.

Every musician in our genre has produced some outstanding music this year, and we have enjoyed writing reviews for some of the current Award Qualifiers at NewAgeMusic.nu & NewAgeMusicWorld.Com this past year, so we too  feel the excitement of hearing the final outcome of this years ZMR awards decision.

B.T. Fasmer and I know making a final determination is a challenge, and there is never an easy way to go about the task of deciding who will receive the highest recognition, having recently made our Top New Age Album Award of 2009 at NewAgeMusic.nu shown here.

There is no denying that every musician has made a significant contribution to our beloved genre and in our minds, has already become a winner simply by qualifying.  We wish everyone the very best in ZMR’s annual awards, and again thank every artist for producing music everyone can be proud to call New Age. 

Below is our select listing of 20 qualifiers we have been writing about this past year by our reviews or interviews, and is a nice sample of the many outstanding musicians now under consideration.  On a personal note, I deeply respect everyone I have met and have enjoyed getting to know some artists even more by our recent interview together, and only wish I had time to request an interview with everyone.  With that said, you may click on the links to visit the artist’s official website, and then our dedicated pages to 20 of the qualifying artists and my review of their current album or interview. 

ZMR will announce the Category Nominees on February 14, 2010 & the Award Winners on March 14, 2010.  You can see the complete listing of the categories & 2009 qualifiers at zonemusicreporter.com when you click here.

Picture Copyright BigStockPhoto – pkruger

    NewAgeMusicWorld.Com  &  NewAgeMusic.nu  ZMR Qualifying artists.  Albums shown in alphabetical order.

                               The click on Word Links are [ Website ]  & [ Review ] for each artist listed below.

                David Mauk / davidmauk.com [ website ]  12 Months Album [ review ]

                David Wahler / davidwahler.com [ website ]  Antiquus Album [ review ]

      Fiona Joy Hawkins / fionajoyhawkins.com [ website ]  Blue Dream Album [ review ]

           Arturo Mayorga / arturomayorga.com [ website ]  Cascades Album [ review ]

           9  Muses /  Sample at cdbaby.com [ here ]  Feel to Heal Album [ review ]

             Ciro Hurtado / cirohurtado.com [ website ]  Guitarrista Album [ review ]

             Paul Avgerinos / roundskymusic.com [ website ]  Love Album [ review ]

         Bruce Mitchell & Ron Korb. newearthgoddess.net [ website ] Album [ review ]

 Christopher Boscole / christopherboscole.com [ website ]  Presents of Angels [ review ]

       Christopher Boscole / christopherboscole.com [ website ]  O Christmas Tree.

                Michael Brant DeMaria / ontos.org [ website ]  Ocean Album [ review ]

            Michael Brant DeMaria / ontos.org [ website ]  Siyotanka Album [ pages ]

         Matthew Labarge / matthewlabarge.com [ website ]  October Album [ review ]

         Terri Liles Mason / omgaiamusic.com [ website ]  Om Gaia Album [ review ]

  Cadence Spalding / cadencespalding.com [ website ]  Save The World Album [ review ]

            Anewday / anewday.ca [ website ]  Summer Reflections Album [ review ]

   Lawrence Blatt / lawrenceblatt.com [ website ]  The Color of Sunshine Album [ review ]

          Nick Farr / nickfarr.com [ website ]  The Ever Present Now Album [ review ]

          John Adorney / johnadorney.com [ website ]  The Fountain Album [ review ]

   Paul Jensen / juancarlosproductions.com [ website ]  The Other Side Album [ review ]

        Michael Stribling / leela-music.com [ website ]  The Promise Album [ review ]

           Kori Linae Carothers / koritunes.com [ website ]  Trillium Album [ review ]

Fiona Joy Hawkins has just released a YouTube video with excerpts of her recent concert performance at the Q Theatre in Sydney Australia.  In this concert, Fiona is featured showcasing her talents as a pianist, and sings soft vocals.  The entire supporting cast of music professionals on the video are Rebecca Daniels playing violin and vocals, Trish McMeakin on cello and Andy Busuttil on percussion, clarinet, and reed instrument, saxillo.

I have watched this new video several times now, and found it gives an excellent sampling of her classic material with several excerpts from her recent Blue Dream album.  Fiona is also one of many currently under consideration with Zone Music Reporter’s awards ceremony taking place later in February and March. 

Speaking of the ZMR awards, we have a special post ready for this weekend displaying 20 qualifying artists and their albums currently under consideration that we have written album reviews on this past year at NewAgeMusic.nu & NewAgeMusicWorld.com.  We invite you to check back for a nice story about the ZMR awards ceremony this weekend.  You can go to zonemusicreporter.com for the complete details here.

The second YouTube video features Fiona on a popular Australian morning show in a live televised solo performance of Contemplating from her Blue Dream album.  You may read my review and then visit fionajoyhawkins.com to find out more about this music professional. 

The Piano as the leading musical instrument can be appreciated using just a few simple well placed notes. It’s the pianist who takes the leading role by their note by note delivery to determine the style and complexity of the note structure in hopes of creating a classic piece of music everyone can appreciate.

Ann Sweeten is one musician widely recognized for her classic style, setting a high standard in quality among many pianists in the wide range of genres employing piano music as the chosen manner for pleasing an audience. In a skilled full range delivery on a Steinway Baby Grand, her classic signature sound deserves respect in a natural way, lending itself to beautiful music that many have found, gives new meaning to the term music appreciation.

Just This Side Of Spring showcases her latest composing lead performance as a Steinway Artist and music professional, with several talented artists at her side. Will Ackerman for one, performs on acoustic guitar on the title song, along with co-producing the album with Ann, who also conducts vocals and synthesizers. Andrew Eng on viola & violin, along with bass performer Michael Miksis, and Trisha Craig on Flute are the accompanying musicians featured on several songs contained on this album, who do excel in terms of fluidity as a collective unit.

Having authored a number of Piano Solo reviews in the New Age genre, I promptly identified an admirable level of richness and depth in tone I rarely hear in many comparative piano solo albums. Stylish tonal qualities held in even the quietest patterns give complex sequences and a prolific feel of realism within every individual phrase. I likewise concluded the classic instrumentals supporting Ann Sweeten on Just This Side Of Spring clearly strengthen this opulent quality, validating my initial first impression.

In addition to her recognition as a Steinway Artist & Composer, her achievements are numerous, including voting privileges in the National Recording Academy of Arts & Sciences, ASCAP Popular Award Recipient starting in 2002, and continuing every year up to 2009.

The ZMR nominations and awards are just as numerous and her talents are not limited to music achievements and concert performances on piano. Ann is also a professional actress, singer, and ballet dancer, realizing many achievements in her diverse life.

Just This Side Of Spring is a thoughtful Piano Instrumental album that holds many elegant touches leaning towards the classical side of life, while shown in a natural realistic way too, becoming a great follow up for her previous Piano Instrumental album Grey Sky and Bittersweet.

I concluded that both Just This Side Of Spring & Grey Sky and Bittersweet make you feel a pleasant sense of comfort and enjoyment in a much desired way, given by a qualified pianist who delivers an admirable performance on a Steinway Baby Grand, in another new release of her music almost everyone can appreciate.

Visit annsweeten.com and sample / purchase here. Ann’s discography can be found at most music outlets, on-line and specialty stores. You can visit CD Baby.com here.

9 Muses has just announced a generous donation to Haitian Relief efforts by a 100 % donation from all sales proceeds with every CD or album download of their Feel to Heal album during the entire month of February.  This donation applies to individual tracks on the album and applies when purchase is made through CD Baby.

CD Baby will also donate $ 1 toward Haitian earthquake relief for every CD and download during the 1st week of February, so here is a chance to help and benefit by a music gift you can enjoy yourself, knowing you have helped people who need it most.

New Age musicians as a whole are a generous group, and many give to worthwhile causes.  This gift from 9 Muses by a 100 % donation from their Feel to Heal album only reinforces what many already know.  February is the month of love and we Thank You 9 Muses.

You may visit 9 Muses CDBaby.com page right here.  My review for 9 Muses Feel to Heal album is shown here.

Music is an important aspect in many people’s lives, with just one specific genre becoming their favorite form of musical entertainment. That’s fine really, but most realize it does limit the total music experience, and a vast range of enjoyment found in all forms of music.

Isaac Shepard from Southern California is like many of us who share the same philosophy when it comes to the unlimited resources for finding great music in other genres, becoming revitalized in the process, and similar to the way Isaac put it, just might make you appreciate your favorite form of music even more.

Isaac began playing piano by ear at an early age and this early love of music began as a family circle of musical talent while performing with his father during many community venues in California, including benefits for homeless shelters, social gatherings and church events. I am pretty sure this early introduction and appreciation of all music genres was a rewarding first step in the right direction as he began a well rounded approach into his individual projects as a piano soloist.

Exploring the musical space and taking in all that it has to offer is a universal calling and can be life-changing. You might discover a genre that pushes your boundaries and leaves you wanting more, or you might come away being that much more thankful for what you call your own.           Isaac Shepard

The Renewing is Isaac Shepard’s most recent stride into a nicely rehearsed form of expression as a solo pianist, where his individual composing performances offer relaxing ballads, classical progressions and beautiful melodies in each of the 10 songs composed with a pleasing source of renewal in mind.

Tears Can Fall is a peaceful balled where an extending range of emotion has a presence in both the keyboards and what you will find in your first sample song in new music discovery. Lead off phrasing is like a gentle question and answer session with treble notes asking the need to know questions and lower octaves blending in a responding reply that contrasts the upper octaves curiosity in important matters pertaining to harmonic togetherness.

Doors of Life has quieter moments in the earliest measures, moving into classic timed refrains before climbing to full heights in terms of the growing melody heard during this piece with steadiness like a soulful march. While piano keys move to greater distances in this song, the melody flows and sways by nice runs along the keyboard while sweeping notes trickle right in time with a more moderate background.

All Smiles like the name suggests is motion moving in an upward direction in an easy going natural movement shown by classic form, with strong stanzas recognizing a positive fullness in depth. The rich fullness of a quiet melody blossoms while reaching full cord progressions with classic touches filling in the outlining shades of color, giving a more dignified tone to the overall feeling of happiness in this pretty song of joyful contentment.

The Renewing tells of dancing rhythms resting beside moments of introspection, becoming a nice getaway from the pounding beats and winding guitars competing for your attention. Whatever your favorite form of music is, here is an opportunity to explore Isaac’s latest solo piano release and become pleasantly refreshed in the process.

Visit isaacshepard.com to sample his unpublished music, popular entertainment gaming soundtracks, and two prior solo piano albums, Swept Away & Deep Joy. You may also visit CDBaby.com to sample The Renewing.

Article © John P. Olsen 2010 – Picture © Bigstockphoto – Wilmy

No reproduction without prior written permission.

Mars Lasar is one of the first musicians many people recall when thinking of nature inspired music. His music with a thoughtful dedication to protection of the heartland is a constant reminder of this gifted artist and his ability to promptly place you there.

Mars has just released another nature inspired project that really puts you on location, in a sharp salute that is a natural acquisition with his large fan base, and for all who appreciate his artistic creations gently carved from our native habitat of woodlands and ecosystems.

The time enduring Eleventh Hour Series, Olympic National Park, & Yosemite: Valley Of The Giants, are all earlier landmarks of his dedication to conservation music that, sure as our world turns, are steadily becoming more relevant with each passing day.

Tahoe Spirit is his newest declaration into New Age / World / Nature genres to virtually guide you one heartbeat away from the Great North Western Sierra Nevada Wilderness, Lake Tahoe, and deep into Washoe Indian Territory, in a trail blazing musical expedition that nicely illustrates the territorial lands that are a vital part of our American Heritage.

David Rose is a distinguished talent from the band Painted Raven, and principal performer on Traditional Native Flutes, while divine song vocalist Cadence Spalding, likewise join Mars on piano, bass, keyboards, and programming. It is during their unparalleled journey together where everyone can become a part of, and be a witness to the vast open wilderness, monumental mountain horizons, and the pristine waters that reverently hold the secrets of this regional gemstone.

Mars Lasar employs a careful artisans approach while composing all of his inspired by nature music, making a lasting impression on you every time. The effective result of a delicate polish given to Tahoe Spirit results in a fine grain finish, directing you to an exceptional visit to the pristine beauty of our native woodlands all Americans can call home.

Tahoe Spirit makes a bold first impact of 10 song legacies known with a deeply moving and beautifully synthesized Tahoe Legends. Beginning with a grand opening, this Epic song makes one quickly realize the musical terrain is going to be firmly held on a plateau of picturesque beauty. The woodwinds David Rose provides are encircled by percussion effects and heart pounding stanzas that Mars expertly recreates during your guided visits to memorable discoveries in music.

The Great Spirit has more of a calming presence by woodwind interludes and echoing drum rhythms that noticeably accent an inherent note by note recollection about a past civilization of people who are an important part of our heritage and who once called it home.

Washoe Meadows has the attribute as a gentle song with a relaxing melody, articulating a pleasing sense of atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an adventurous ambiance where gentle streams and natural forestry are a realistic part of the visual beauty you will hear in this total music experience.

Lake In the Sky gives a peaceful moment of reflection by woodwinds gentle tones and dreamy melody shown in a breathtaking way, providing a soft tranquil flow between stanzas while bass and drums add a range of depth by the subtle undercurrents.

Alpine Meadows makes a heartfelt impression on me every time I listen to it, in an uplifting song where the bond of this trio shines so very brightly while standing together in musical unity. Mars places an Epic, yet comforting climate controlled feel on keyboards that instantly takes you there. David instills the calming winds with haunting flute passages recognizing the presence of the people living before us there, and Cadence gently vocalizes a soft radiant melody, glowing like the sun by her wonderful declaration to remind everyone why we become united there.

Tahoe Spirit greatly captures your attention by a bold testimonial about our native lands worth preserving, and is a wonderful presentation from talented artists united in heart, mind, and spirit, who give you the feeling that you also belong and can go there too.

Visit marslasar.com to sample here then see his photography pages. You can also read my recent interviews with Mars Lasar and NewAgeMusic.nu’s Top Album of the Year winner Cadence Spalding, on our pages dedicated to this outstanding musical team. You can find out more about flutist David Rose at painted-raven.com here.

Picture Copyright Bigstockphoto – mantonino