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The Silent Awakening
by Tina Malia
The Silent Awakening -- Tina Malia is a stunning
performer whose lead and backup vocals are the audio
equivalent of pure sunshine. So far she had only recorded
two CDs: the already classic "Shores of Avalon" and the
chant-filled "Jaya Bhagavan (w/Shimshai)". On "The Silent
Awakening" follows in the footsteps of "Shores of Avalon"
with multi-faceted world instrumentation yet features a
deeper rhythmic flavor with African drums, marimbas, Indian
clay drums and more. Malia's organic, peaceful messages come
through loud and clear on "Heal This Land", "Heaven", and
"Beholden", all of which would work well as themes dedicated
to world peace, conservation, etc. The pristine production
of any of these recordings is remarkable and paves the way
for her material to be heard far and wide. Her cast of
musicians includes some of the finest players in the fertile
west coast music scene: Darol Anger, Greg Ellis, Robert
Powell, Sasha Butterfly, MF Greenmountain (from Hamsa Lika),
as well as Shimshai, Lakshmi Devi, Kim Atkinson, Manose, and
co-producer John Alevizakis. So far, this CD looks to be a
top candidate for "Best of 2006", and lends itself
beautifully to repeated and wholly gratifying listening.
Nuages du Monde
by Delerium
Nuages du Monde -- With their 2003 album
“Chimera”, Delerium producers Bill Leeb & Rhys
Fulber presented their most pop-oriented album to date,
combining dreamy melodies with a set of songs that were
heavy on lyrics and female vocals. Nuages du Monde is in
some ways similar - the songs all possess the same sort of
dreamy vibe and several of the cuts have a very pop-oriented
structure. On the other hand, the album is also deeper and
moodier (a throwback to their “Karma” years).
Nuages du Monde's bookend tracks, "Angelicus" and
"Apparition," are the group's most ethereal to date, with
the floaty soprano vocals (including those of Isabel
Bayradarian, known for work on the "Lord of the Rings"
soundtrack) bathed in lush orchestral synths and
melancholy-tinged melodies. Katharine Blake and the
Mediaeval Baebes bring their velvety polyphonic vocals to
two tracks, including the sublime "Extollere." Rounding out
the guest list is Indian vocalist Kiran Ahluwalia, frequent
Delerium collaborators Kirty Thirsk and Kirsty Hawkshaw,
Jael & Zoe Johnston. Filled with rich atmospheres and
myriad moods, ranging from shadowed to bright, Nuages du
Monde embraces a surprising variety of musical styles that
shimmer and shift with great suppleness throughout the set.
This is vintage Delerium; fans will certainly enjoy it.
XOIO
by Klangwelt
XOIO -- After the successful and surprisingly
popular releases “Weltweit” and “The Age Of
Numbers”‚ Klangwelt is now presenting us with his
also surprising third album: Filled with modern electronics,
full of atmosphere and grandiose transitions, this CD is a
veritable treasure chest of great tracks, each with its own
delivery, and totalling what will likely prove to be a top
pick for 2007. On “XOIO‚” he combines the
popular Klangwelt features, such as pearling arpeggios,
brilliant sounds and dreamy harmonies, with exciting new
elements. Klangwelt fans will love this CD, as will fans of
Frank Van Bogaert, David Wright, and Ian Boddy... just to
name a few!
Enchanted Wind
by Suzanne Teng
Enchanted Wind -- Suzanne was once part of the
Angels of Venice, a trio of women who began in the world of
classical music and gradually expanded into the realm of
world music. Over the course of her three solo CDs, Suzanne
has found a similar journey, always flute-centered, which
spanned the globe for influences, cultural reference points,
and rhythmic elements that carried the songs to their
spirited realization. Prior releases, like her debut "Mystic
Journey," with Hans Christian, Dave Stringer and others on
hand, might be more suitable for flow yoga, while her recent
"Miles Beyond" is more of a rhythmic exploration from
various faraway lands on which Gilbert Levy plays all manner
of hand percussion. "Enchanted Wind" is the newest release,
subtitled "Flute Meditations for the Heart & Soul", and
it completes the circle back to music that finds simplicity
at its core by offering music for peace, love and healing.
These beautiful meditations are played on alto flute, bass
flute, bamboo flutes and the rare contrabass flute with
delicate arrangements on harp, dulcimer, harmonium and
zithers. Bobbie Jo Curley plays Celtic harp, Suzanne's
partner and co-producer Gilbert Levy plays harmonium,
tambura, bamboo wind chimes, kartals, and keyboards, and she
plays all the rest. The expression of this CD comes from a
deep place, yet speaks musically in reverence to all people
who become aware of the "breath of God". 'Above the Clouds,"
a track with Suzanne's alto flute and Bobbie's heavenly harp
playing, attracts accompaniment from a sweet little bird who
lends his song to the track as well! This is quiet music for
quiet times.
Dream Wide Awake
by Omnimotion
Dream Wide Awake -- After four years of recording,
producing and composing new music in his Ambium Studio based
in Stockholm, Sweden, Omnimotion is finally back with a
second album. Utilizing inspirations and knowledge he picked
up along his very diverse musical path, Stefan has created
“Dream Wide Awake.” The album contains the best
musical gems that were carefully chosen from the music that
accumulated in this four year period. It is a beautifully
mellow yet optimistic album, with a strong acoustic
presence. Now on the Aleph Zero label (Shulman,
Bluetech...), “Dream Wide Awake” is an incredibly
diverse album. It features eight different vocalists - from
a rapper to an opera singer- and many guest musicians with
an array of instruments including the violin, accordion,
guitar, drums, harp & flute. The outcome hovers between
the electronic and the acoustic, the hypnotic and the
melodic, between abstract ambient and mellow songs, between
dubby songs and IDM glitches. Omnimotion weaves and paints
here an emotional musical journey that must not be missed
and will leave you dreaming wide awake.
Already Shining
by John Astin
Already Shining -- Originally recorded live at the
Kuumbwa Jazz Center in November of 2005, Astin's new CD
features 8 new compositions by John along with live
renderings of two previously released songs, the classic
"Love, Serve, and Remember," and "True Emptiness." John
creates a musical vehicle of awesome beauty and pure
spiritual intention that delivers the listener straight to
the heart. He is a gift in the truest sense of the word- one
of those rare souls with the ability to reconnect us to the
Divine Source. In 1982 he released his first of eight
recordings of original spiritual and contemplative music.
His signature song, "Love, Serve, and Remember," has been
recorded by a number of artists and is used (along with much
of his other music) in workshops, spiritual retreats, and
healing seminars around the world. Along with his musical
work, John holds a PhD in psychology. He is currently a
research scientist at the California Pacific Medical Center
in San Francisco where he conducts cutting edge research in
the field of mind-body medicine. "Already Shining" points
the listener back to the simple light of awareness that is
taking in this moment right now. This is a light like no
other, a light that is self-luminous, self-sustaining, and
effortlessly present. It is the light of knowing that makes
everything visible and yet itself can never be seen. There
is no practice we can engage in that will keep the lamp of
awareness lit, no technique we can employ to keep this light
from going out, for there is no existence, no mind, or self
apart from it. The self and awareness&emdash;they are one
and the same thing. There is nothing that needs to be done
to make awareness shine. It is already shining. This is your
nature. It is what you have always been…
Anand
by Snatam Kaur
Anand - On her latest release, “Anand,”
layers of keyboard, harmonium, tabla, violin, sarod, guitar,
bass and the dancing flute of Manose create an incredible
landscape behind Snatam's ethereal vocals. Snatam Kaur
provides a selection of Sanskrit and English language songs,
similar to her usual style of East-meets-West music, that
promote peaceful living and inner harmony. Deeply beautiful
and inspiring, this album carries a mesage of
profound bliss and joy. "Anand is the state of bliss that
comes when every word that you speak and action you take
supports the light and journey of your soul. " - Snatam
Kaur
Trans Ukraine
by Bodhi
Trans Ukraine -- This project was conceived and
birthed in Ukraine in September, 2004, when Bodhi (aka Kevin
Setchko) met Dmitriy Ilyashenko, a producer living in Kiev.
With his wife, Natalia, translating (he spoke only Russian)
they recorded tracks for 2 of the pieces, "Kiev" and
"Odessa". Through an unusual series of events he was then
led to another producer, Igor Gromadskiy, with whom he
recorded the 3rd piece, "Crimea". Over the next 2 years the
vision was brilliantly realized and completed through the
masterful production skills of Alex Newman, an English
producer living in California while he was producing a CD
with the world dance electronica band, "Medicine Drum".
Finally, the CD cover graphics were done by Brigitte Behr, a
German graphic artist, living in Paris, France. This CD is
truly the fruit of an international collaborative effort.
Musically, this is a surprisingly brilliant recording that
similarly bridges several worlds, from the chill out mastery
of Newman (also part of Alcyone w/Suzanne Sterling), the
flute weavings of Bodhi (who released the classic "Cloud
Etchings" years ago…) and the collaborative efforts,
which were truly inspired, from all of the musicians and
artists involved. Those who have enjoyed Jeff Oster's
"Released" will flock to this one, as will world music
aficionados, and the entire "Chill" family!
Autumn Continent
By Between Interval
Autumn Continent -- A timeless new release, Autumn
Continent is a superbly crafted blend of Space Ambient and
Electronic Downtempo. As the follow-up to his awesome debut,
“Secret Observatory,” this 2nd effort may well end
up again in the number one spot for spacemusic release of
the year for 2007. Provocative subterranean explorations are
balanced with a sense of light from an otherworldly
perspective. Between Interval has created an atmosphere that
is organic, accessible, and thought filled without the
clichés of most electronic music today. His
brilliant use of rhythmic passages add another dimension to
his already impressive style, leaving him once again a cut
above the rest, and offering hours of satisfying listening
in a far off and deep yet earthy space.
Momentium
by Jeffrey Koepper
Momentium -- On his second CD, Jeffrey Koepper
comes up with a disc full of surprises. "Etherea" was one of
our favorite debuts a couple years ago, notable for its
ability to continually take the listener right up to the
threshold, and then to seemingly back off in ways that were
extremely effective. With "Momentium," there are still
subtleties in the music, but the tempos and rhythms are not
part of that aspect, Much more sequencer-driven, dramatic
and completely plugged into the electrical current at the
source of current electronic music. His cache of late model
gear including museum-grade synthesizers and sequencers
operates at the mechanical level today's virtual modeling
synthesizers attempt to recapture. Certainly Koepper's
diagnostic familiarity with this equipment underscores the
tracks on Momentium, which presents eight pieces ranging
from fluttering thought tones, to echoing synth pulses, to
cerebral powered beatbox. Koepper is ever reverential to
both the artists and engineers who pioneered the genre he
now navigates. His fascination with the sequencer, a device
meant to provide a steady run of predetermined notes, is
what dominates this disc. The interlacing patterns become an
animated force carrying reverb laden harmonic figures into
the foreground. In his music, Koepper is seeking a sense of
voyaging, and the ever-building momentum serves this well.
Yet, as in all quality spacemusic endeavors, we do not
travel so far as to leave the listening area. "Momentium" is
a stationary, and momentary adventure which is aimed at and
meant for the contemplative audience that enjoys ambient
space music, albeit with more beats than the norm, yet held
in a container that does not stretch beyond its own
self-imposed definition..
The Call
by Caryn Lin
The Call -- Electric Violinist Caryn Lin uses 5
string electric violin, singing, sound effects, and other
technology to transcend that "solo" sound by doing what is
called "looping," creating sound loops live that she adds to
and embellishes. Caryn began playing the violin at age 9 and
studied privately until age 18. While Caryn Lin started out
as a classical violinist, after hearing her instrument
through an electronic echo, she became wired. She plays a
space age-looking instrument with a guitarist's array of
stomp boxes. She can whip it out like Hendrix, or rev it up
like Ponty, but tends towards a more pastoral, chamber
orchestra sound, except the only person in the orchestra is
Caryn Lin, multiplied though her loops and effects.
High Rising
by Sounds from the Ground
High Rising -- With over a decade of sonic
seasoning under their belts, SFTG serves up more fresh
sounding and widely acclaimed ambient, dub, trip hop and
chilled electronic musical styles. We're proud to present
their fourth title in the growing Waveform catalog,
“High Rising” - a reflective and mesmerizing
future classic and yet another elevated effort - this time
more laid back, with welcomed guest contributions from long
time supporter Taz as well as fellow UK recording arttst,
Gaudi. After their solid return to form on "Luminal" with
its spinning and bouncy, dubby beats, and spacy noises,
their heady, good time vibes of “High Rising”
reveals some exceptional tracks, including, 'Rotorblade,'
'Slate Grey,' 'Viper Style' and 'Beautiful Feeling'
featuring smooth, sensuous vocals from Taz.
Rock Paper Scissors
by Michael Brook
RockPaperScissors -- Musicians' musician and sound
innovator Michael Brook has his highly anticipated third
solo disc "RockPaperScissors" now released on
bigHelium/Canadian Rational. Recorded in Los Angeles,
England, Scotland and Bulgaria, the disc features
contributions from renowned artists Richard Evans (Peter
Gabriel), Paul Buchanan (Blue Nile), Claude Chalhoub, Ben
Christophers and Lisa Germano, as well as an exquisite
posthumous collaboration with the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali
Khan. With several arrangements for full orchestra, and the
celebrated Bulgarian Women's Cosmic Voices choir, the album
is the culmination of three years' work -- which Brook has
described as "excavating your muse!" The sound is unique:
beautifully arranged, atmospheric and ambient elements
create the space for his self-described "deconstructed rock"
to flourish. Collaboration has been at the heart of Brook's
career, working with a diversity of international artists
such as Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois, Youssou N'Dour, Djivan
Gasparyan, Hukwe Zawose, Bryan Ferry, and The Pogues, to
scratch the surface. He invented the infinite guitar, as
played by U2's Edge. He has also contributed scores or
individual pieces to movies such as "Heat," "Albino
Alligator," and "Affliction". With his latest collection of
songs, Brook worked with co-producer Richard Evans and an
eclectic cast of talent. Lisa Germano's personal lyrics and
haunting vocal set the tone for "Want," while singer/
songwriter Shira Myrow's lyrical contribution to the
infectious title track was interpreted by beloved Blue Nile
vocalist Paul Buchanan. Brook feels that "RockPaperScissors"
is for him, relatively mainstream: "It is accessible music,
more accessible than what I've done in the past." He adds,
"the record is a kind of travelogue… so I hope people
find it evocative and that it takes them somewhere
intriguing." Brook debuted in 1985 with the critically
acclaimed Hybrid on EG Records. His 1992 follow-up Cobalt
Blue was released on 4AD along with the 1993 recording Live
at the Aquarium . Recent projects include production for
Jorane (Six Degrees), the music for the much lauded "Ashes
and Snow" exhibition, currently in L.A., and the score for
Paramount Classics' global warming documentary
"An Inconvenient Truth."
(great CD -- now in stock!)
Moonwater
by Rudy Adrian
Moonwater -- If Lotuspike is the "new Hypnos,{
then we can all be glad they have released the "new" Rudy
Adrian. While he hinted at this ambient style on past
releases, he had not brought it all together until
"Moonwater". Gone are the endless sequencers, as this is a
far cryt from his "sequencer sketches" series. This is
expansive, deep listening music, with sparse overdubs adding
a dimensional feeling to the basic tracks. The story behind
this album is that it began somewhat by accident. Due to
computer failure, Rudy found himself with the same set-up
that he had been using 15 years ago when creating his first
album. Originally, he set out to provide some backing tracks
for pianist Ruben Garcia, but they evolved into into
completed tracks with the use of multi-tap delays and
reverberation. The two closing tracks come from a different
time, space and era, called 'Three views of a Japanese
garden" (parts 2 and 3, live). It is a statement to Rudy's
artistry how well the whole recording and each of its parts
holds together so well, offering rewarding listening from
start to finish. I predict that pleasure will continue on
for years to come.
Pure Ganesh
by Guru Ganesha Singh
Pure Ganesh -- Journeying from intimate to
expansive, "Pure Ganesh" showcases GuruGanesha Singh's
signature guitar work and rich chant vocals. It also
features the soaring vocal improvisations of Snatam Kaur.
Both an expression of his devotion to God and a reflection
of the inspiration he has derived from his performances with
Snatam Kaur in their "Celebrate Peace" tour, GuruGanesha
Singh's "Pure Ganesh" is an album that was made with love in
mind. The album retains GuruGanesha's characteristic style
of blending Sikh spiritual chants with mild
Western-influenced instrumentation like guitar, violin and a
mixture of Asian and American-style percussion. Each of the
chants has a gentle, peaceful quality to it, as well as a
sense of joy that is echoed in the performances. Recording
the new album, Pure Ganesh, has exposed GuruGanesha to new
levels of musical and spiritual development. "A part of me
is expressed through this album that has been dormant since
1972 when I essentially started focusing on backing up
chanting with rhythm guitar instead of continuing to grow as
a lead guitarist. My creativity as a guitarist has really
come alive since I started playing with Snatam Kaur and has
particularly come alive during the creation of this album.
It's very exciting to realize that at age 55 my best years
as a guitarist and musician are still ahead of me. I am now
determined to realize my full potential before I leave this
physical body and I feel like the sky is the limit."
GuruGanesha is joined on this release by the sweet singing
of Snatam, alongside Thomas Barquee, Wynne Paris, Krishan
and Noah Gabriel.
Distance
by Marconi Union
Distance -- Marconi Union is a reclusive
electronic duo from Manchester, England. Their sound has
been described as "a post rock cinematic orchestra."
"Distance", their first U.S. release, is unique, individual
and timeless, fusing acoustic sounds, strings and pianos
with electronica, post-rock guitars and even occasional nods
towards jazz and dub. Described by the band as "a soundtrack
to a film that has not yet been made," listening to
"Distance" evokes the feeling of being driven silently
around an unknown city at night, observing the activity and
life of the urban sprawl in safety and isolation. This is a
CD that travels in cinematic melancholy and textural
malaise. Their songs build slowly, emerging out of a
flattened landscape of static and stillness to attain a
quietly triumphal beauty. Percussion is almost subliminal in
journeys that pulse more than groove. They generate a quiet
awe, like the slow build of "Sleepless."
Chakra Celebration
by Patrick Bernard
Chakra Celebration - Patrick's exquisite new
release employs various Mantras, some names of great gods
and goddess, specific tones, rhythms, spiritual sound
vibrations and Holy Vocalizations to interact with the
activities of our body-mind-spirit. The music is beyond
heavenly, and this CD reunites Patrick with his original
producer, Robert Lafond. Each chant is in direct relation
with each chakra, and while many are familiar mantras, they
are imbued with new life. Each tone and mantra is connected
to a definite function of the physical body through the
endocrine glands and the spinal system. The chants are used
to harmonize, balance and stimulate the flow of subtle
energies of the chakras system, clearing negative thoughts
and emotions which weaken the electro-magnetic emanations of
the body, thus eliminating blockages. This recording uses
the capacity of a sound vibration to reach out through
vibrational waves to set off a similar vibration in another
body. As a result, the focused use of the sound principle of
sacred resonance serves as the foundation for all healing
and enlightenment.
From the Cave
by Frank Harris
From the Cave - On his new CD "Music from the
Cave," Frank Harris offers a masterful blend of world music,
jazz elements, mantras, chanting and lush vocals that
transcend traditional forms of chant music, giving the
engaging mantras a rich and layered musical foundation. In
blending many musical genres, Harris takes the listener on
an ecstatic journey into the cave. Soaring vocals,
ethno-pop, and terrestrial electronics blend and meld into a
brew with intoxicatingly pleasurable effects. Whether your
interest lies in the fast-growing chant idiom, relaxation or
meditation styles, inspired world music or simply letting
your heart open in joyous abandon, this CD will lead you
into a wondrous world within. Intelligent, sophisticated and
full of heart, passionate Sanskrit chants are interlaced
with long instrumentals combining many musical elements,
along with traditional sounds from South America, Africa,
and especially India. Harris is a musician best known for
film scores, documentaries, and critically acclaimed
recordings that marry the jazz and world music genres. His
compositions know no national boundaries, though they serve
as a bridge between a variety of cultures. As one of the
world's earliest experts in digital synthesizer programming,
he has also connected the richness of ancient musical
traditions with modern computer technology sounds and
techniques. The tracks are arranged to work perfectly in an
energetic yoga class; the CD begins with a centering OM,
followed by chants to Govinda, Shiva, Rama, and others. Each
piece features lush, passionate vocals imbedded in a
masterful musical foundation; long instrumental interludes
act as bridges between the chants. The last three songs are
gentle and dreamy, allowing your body to relax and fall into
a quiet stillness.
Yoga Groove
by Soulfood
Yoga Groove -- Whether it's a Yoga groove, a
Yogurt salad, an Orange grove or some kickin' global tribal
smorgasbord, this CD cooks up a sumptuous and sizzlin' mix
of organics, electronica and soulful drum beats for one of
the most exciting and surprisingly cross-cultural
border-poppin' releases so far this year. Soulfood maestro
Gordy Schaeffer aka DJ Free is joined by drummer
extraordinaire Brent Lewis, plus Richard Hardy, Peter
Schimke, Jayson Fann and Andra Suchy in sculpting the sound.
It adds up to a rhythmic and melodic movement experience
filled with Eastern influences, ambient grooves and
downtempo beats which are all supported and enhanced by
Lewis' tribal percussion. And that ain't all, either! This
is a superb and excellent CD!!
Magic Sense
by Chilled C'Quence
Magic Sense -- 3rd release in the UK's Amboworld
catalogue is the long awaited debut album from Chilled
C'Quence, a bright new Portuguese ambient / downtempo band.
Two artists are behind the project: Pedro Matias (DJ
Fluxö) and Fernando Rodrigues (Psyjar), being both
connected to different aspects of music and technology.
"Magic Sense" is the debut chapter of the Chilled C'Quence
chill-out incursion. evolving voices & space melodies,
texturized with crystal sounds, to take the listener on an
emotional journey into ambient electronica. If you like
Pitch Black, Tara Putra, Phuture Primitive and the like, ,
this is your next destination, so take the trip and check
out this beautiful piece of sonic work.
Chicano Zen
by Charanga Cakewalk
IChicano Zen -- The lead singer of Charanga
Cakewalk used to be part of the Milwaukee rock band The
BoDeans - now there's an interesting little bit of trivia.
Now he immerses himself in contemporary, beat driven Latin
fusion music that blends styles like salsa, cumbia and tango
with trip-hop. A collage of neo-Latin sounds - spicy tangos,
amped up ethnic layers, trip-hop and even a scant lilt of
bolero, come together to form the musical stew that is
Charanga Cakewalk. Front-man Michael Ramos is no stranger to
performing - his resume includes a six year stint with the
BoDeans and support work for Paul Simon, John Mellencamp and
Patty Griffin. For his second outing on Triloka Records,
Ramos and company provide another celebratory selection of
Latin-edged lounge tunes that will give you the urge to
move. Lila Downs lends her exquisite voice to the opening
tracks, while Griffin, Ruben Ramos and Martha Gonzalez
provide vocal assistance on a few of the other cuts. If
you're looking for a fun album of Latin music, this is
it!
Vast
by Saul Stokes
Vast -- The music of Saul Stokes seems to have two
centers. The first accommodates the current ideas of tonal
and rhythmic organization while the other freely seeks
original timbres outside conventional sonant hierarchies. On
his previous several releases, Stokes has navigated the
paradox of using technology to express a wide range of human
feelings quite well. "Vast" is Stokes' most accessible work
so far, and strongly forges ahead on paths parallel to both
mainstream and experimental music. The seven tracks are
intermittently lazy, loose and open yet elsewhere
demonstrate a knowing affectivity in their tight arrangement
and harmonic contrast. Stokes ushers the concept of musical
indeterminacy down to the circuitry level. His hand-built,
self-designed tone generators often produce sonically
unexpected but esthetically welcomed results. The drifting
oscillators, distorting filters and general irregularity
inherent in his homemade devices produce a range of chaotic
characteristics honed out of commercially manufactured
keyboard synthesizers. As high-concept as this may seem,
Stokes manages to infuse a sense of wonder into his
compositions. Be it in dreamy melodic figures, expanding
harmonic progressions or basal body beats, the music of Saul
Stokes speaks the electronic infinite word. His work is an
exemplary fusion of experimentalism and electronica.
Oxycanta
by Various Artists
[ Oxycanta ] --This new compilation from
the Ultimae label will see the light of day in Spring,
embodying the works of French, Swedish and Japanese artists
on the theme of electro atmospheric glides amidst emotional
gardens. The artists who contribute (all exclusive) tracks
include Solar Fields, Between Interval, Aes Dana, Cell,
Asura, Sync24, Omnimotion and a couple others. This deep
floating compilation embodys the works of pioneers in the
exploration of a new wave of electro ambient music. [
Oxycanta ] is an expression of spatial density with the
constant presence of our natural environment at times in its
organic recorded form, others transduced into atmospheric
textures by advanced technologies. Its title derives from
Crataegus Oxyacantha, commonly known as the Hawthorn, a tree
whose leaves and berries are legendary for their
heart-healing properties. Compiled and mixed by Mahiane, aka
Sunbeam, co-manager of Ultimae, label artist and deejay,
[ Oxycanta ] presents various compositions gliding
into each other with intangible obbligato. Mastered by Huby
Sea at Ginger Cross Hill studio.
Asana 4: Ohm Shanti
by Bill Laswell/Various
Asana 4: Ohm Shanti -- The "Asana" series from
Meta Records is back with another incarnation after a three
year break. Like past entries, this edition features mainly
artists that create Indian-style music mixed with
electronica and techno, like Karsh Kale and Zakir Hussain.
This is a nice album for those who like their yoga music
with a contemporary spin. Bassist and producer Bill
Laswell's 30-year musical journey has taken him through the
wilds of rock, hip-hop, funk, electronica, ethnic fusion,
and hellacious noise, but in recent years it seems like he
keeps gravitating back to the ethno realm. There's always
been a thick vein of dark mysticism winding like a black
rope through his various musical projects. The degree to
which he buys into the reality of any of the transcendence
he peddles is an open question, but one thing is certain: no
one writes a prettier bassline, or delivers it with more
elephantine authority, or brings together more beautifully
matched singers and players. His latest under the group
moniker Asana (the core of which is a duo consisting of
Laswell and percussionist Karsh Kale, joined by a variety of
South Asian collaborators) finds him exploring Indian
classical and devotional themes as expressed by singers
Kiran Ahluwalia, Ustad Sultan Khan, Asha Puthli, and others.
The pattern is set early on: Kale builds a tasteful but
generally restrained rhythmic bed on which Laswell lays down
a bassline of dark, rich suppleness, and then someone starts
singing. When that someone is Ahluwalia, the resulting sound
is joyful and soaring; when it's Khan, the sound is grittier
and more earthbound. And when it's Vidya Shah, it's a sharp,
keening wail offset brilliantly by Laswell's meaty bass and
a juddering jungle breakbeat. Every track is brilliant, each
one in a different way. Highly recommended.
Electric Ladder
by Robert Rich
Electric Ladder -- On his new CD, "Electric
Ladder", Robert Rich finds a new voice for the vibrant
interlocking melodies that characterized his works such as
"Numena," "Geometry" and "Gaudi." With its seamless blend of
analog modular synthesis and acoustic tonalities, "Electric
Ladder" weaves a hypnotic spell - lush, ecstatic and
seductive. Its shimmering geometric lines grow more sharply
etched with the clarity of just intonation tunings and the
intelligence that typically pervades Rich's compositional
vocabulary. Contributors include reed player Paul Hanson and
guitarist Haroun Serang. The response to this CD so far
places it up there with the very best releases Robert has
done over his long and accomplished career.
Beneath the Surface
by Various Artists
Beneath the Surface -- From the Native State label
(that released “Left Coast Liquid, vol. 1”) comes
this cool collection that explores a mystical chill space
full of rhythms, new dimensions, and a captivating sound
that flows effortlessly from track to track. Less rhythmic
than the norm, yet rhythmically intact and compelling, this
is a journey conceived by Bluetech and Naasko, and it
delivers full-force the elements of stillness found below
the surface where life is comprised of grounded energy and
music in motion. Artists included are Sympath, Desert
Dwellers, Bluetech, Shulman, String Theories, Marconi Union,
David Last and other less familiar names who are nonetheless
essential to the mix.
Each of Us
by Ya Elah
This exquisite CD is like an
invitation to a lush musical realm beyond time and beyond
species. JaEach of Us -- Ya Elah's music combines the sacred
texts of many traditions with choral music and instruments
(Middle Eastern, medieval, and others) to illuminate the
beauty, mystery, and power of the world's diverse spiritual
paths. After 14 years directing the acclaimed vocal
ensemble, Kitka, Artistic Director Bon Singer felt a
calling in her heart to combine her musical talent with her
spiritual path. Her vision to create a group that would
blend the beautiful prayers of many traditions with the
Balkan and Middle Eastern musical styles she loved was the
seed that blossomed into Ya Elah. As each member
joined Ya Elah adding their unique voice or instrument, a
garden of song grew and blossomed. They offer you this
musical bouquet in celebration of hope and vision for our
planet. Produced by Grammy-nominated guitarist Alex de
Grassi (who also plays on track 7), this is the group's
debut CD.
Mystic Moods
by Michele Ippolito
Mystic Moods -- Michele Ippolito's "Mystic Moods"
CD is a can't miss for those who enjoy the music of Liquid
Mind. It's not a blatant carbon copy or imitation, but the
overall tone and motif is similar enough that if you enjoy
Liquid Mind's music, you can't help but like "Mystic Moods".
And there is a unique quality in this concise yet expansive
30 minute CD (that is what the repeat button is made for!)
that is so attractive in its gently inviting tones and
engaging feel. If you like lush flowing electronic music and
are seeking music for meditation, this music compels you to
listen attentively to your feelings, to sense your innermost
wishes and stay in that alone space with yourself. Discover
what may have been hiding somewhere deep in your
consciousness, and befriend your true self, without
far-fetched conventionalities and false masks? This music
expresses an access to everyday emotions and the depth of
human consciousness. Fresh and transparent, Michele's music
washes you with its warm waves. Her music sends you back to
the source, and with great care she is guiding you through
emotions like glimpsing pictures of a personal movie. This
is angelic music and "Mystic Moods" is a guide from the
divine to the world of humans.
Down Temple Dub: Waves
by Desert Dwellers
Down Temple Dub: Waves -- Here is a breakthrough
release from a group that has been heard on some very cool
compilations recently. On their first full album release,
Desert Dwellers meld elements of downtempo and psy-chill
with sinewy basslines, otherworldly guitar and an exotic mix
of organic instruments into an Indo-ambient mystical fusion.
Desert Dwellers endeavors to push the bounds of yoga music
on "DownTemple Dub: Waves" into a new realm of musical
fusion called "Yoga Dub": electronic devotional music
blending the boundaries of rhythmic ambience while
incorporating such traditional instruments as subahar,
tabla, udu, erhu, cello and voice. The emphasis is always on
the space between the music, allowing for a non-intrusive
soundscape to support rather than distract from the
listener's activity. While there are chill out beats galore,
and long, cohesive passages that flow one into the next,
this CD comprises an amazing audio journey to revisit over
and over. Group leader Amani joins forces with Rara Avis and
Craig Kohland of Shaman's Dream music ensemble, who also
serves as producer, in creating nourishing soundscapes to
accompany your meditations in movement. Pulsing with lush
rhythms and serene harmonies, "DownTemple Dub: Waves" is a
sonic odyssey into the soul of the global heartbeat. And
coming right behind will be the next in a series: "Down
Temple Dub: Flames"
Winter
by Kevin Kendle
Winter -- This long-awaited CD sees a return to
Kevin's distinctive landscape-inspired music such as on the
albums "Autumn," "Eventide" and "Spring." "Winter" is a
celebration of the season, featuring haunting sound
paintings reminiscent of the stillness and icy chill of a
winter dawn. At times tinged with melancholy, at times
joyous, the music on this album will move your emotions and
touch your soul. In production since 2003, Kevin has been
gradually crafting the soundscapes on this album until they
shine like the icy scenes they depict. Contrasting the
frosty chill of being outdoors against the warmth and
comfort of being indoors on a cold winter's day has been a
difficult balance to achieve, but Kevin has now realized the
music to perfectly reflect this. Featuring the stunning
musicianship of collaborators Nigel Shaw, Chris Conway,
James Asher, Brian Abbott and Sam Kendle, "Winter" is a
musical experience not to be missed, and one of the warmest
winters we can remember! All of Kevin's titles are now
available, including his earlier titles as well as the
recent "Deep Skies" duo.
Quiet Glow
by Chad Hoefler
Quiet Glow -- Chad Hoefler sprung upon the ambient
music scene last year with his surprising and acclaimed
debut, "Twilight in the Offing", on Hypnos records. This
year, Chad will be releasing his 2nd effort with Lotuspike.
“Quiet Glow” is baroque sonic alchemy with icy
overtones. Refined & robust, the music on "Quiet Glow"
challenges and engages the listener. This sophisticated body
of work is definitely not to be missed by fans of
exploratory electronic music. “Quiet Glow” was
mixed and mastered by electronic music veteran, Robert Rich.
Robert, who also mastered Chad's debut title.
Leap of Grace
by David Newman
Leap of Grace -- We have been very pleased to
offer the CDs by devotional singer and songwriter David
Newman. Recently he has teamed up on the first audio CD from
Pranamaya Music. "Leap of Grace" is a gorgeous rendering of
the sacred Hanuman Chalisa, one of the truly revered prayers
of the spiritual tradition of India. Newman, also known as
Durga Das, joined with producer Frank Wolf to create an
ambient soundscape nestling the Hanuman Chalisa in a radiant
atmosphere of soothing voices and delicate musical textures.
On "Leap of Grace", the Hanuman Chalisa is recited eleven
times, an auspicious number that is traditional for
bestowing Hanuman's blessings on sacred occasions. It
becomes a modern day CD prayer wheel&emdash;manifesting it's
message as it spins in your player&emdash;that both
maintains the beauty of its ancient heritage and speaks
elegantly to the sonic sensibilities of our time. It can be
used for chanting, meditation, yoga or to bathe in the
sounds of sacred healing vibrations, and the exquisite
packaging really does justice to the intention of the
project. Simply put, Leap of Grace is a lullaby for the
Soul!
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