Music and Media Focus

CD: New2theBrain
Artist: New2theBrain
Contact: http://www.new2thebrain.com/

New2theBrain has to be one of the most interesting and imaginative audio amalgamations I have heard in a while. Elements of pop, jazz, rock, R&B, hip hop, and world music provide a vehicle for lyrics that can be both poetic and profound at the same time, while covering a range of topics including social commentary, politics, personal growth, consciousness, and more. The characterization of it as: “sort of What the Bleep Do We Know (the movie) in musical form with exploration of how our thoughts impact our reality,” is a good comparison.

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CD: First Light
Artist: Craig Urquhart
Contact: www.craigurquhart.com

I love this story…
Moving to New York City after receiving his Master’s in Composition from the University of Michigan, pianist Craig Urquhart (pronounced “irk-hart”) left some of his music with Leonard Bernstein’s Manhattan doorman; the Maestro called Urquhart back, and the two became acquainted. In 1985 Urquhart was hired as Bernstein’s musical assistant, and worked for Bernstein until the composer’s death in 1990. View full article »

CD: Lovéren
Artist: David Arkenstone & Charlee Brooks
Contact: www./davidarkenstone.com

Ever since his debut album Valley in the Clouds back in 1987, David Arkenstone has been one of my favorite artists in the new age music genre. A three-time GRAMMY nominee, his grandiose style of musical story telling has encompassed diverse influences including ambient, Celtic, folk, world beat, electronic, acoustic, and more. His latest release is entitled Lovéren, and is a collaboration with operatically-gifted vocalist Charlee Brooks. View full article »

Album: For Our Children: A Benefit for Sandy Hook
Various artists
Contact: www.forourchildren.bandcamp.com

The Sound for Good record label has partnered with Healing Newtown (healingnewtown.org), a division of the Newtown Cultural Arts Commission, to help support the community by offering the new release, For Our Children: A Benefit for Sandy Hook available to everyone who donates just $1 (or more). View full article »

CD: Hidden Journey
Artist: Scott August
Contact: www.cedarmesa.com

Although Scott August began his musical training early in life on piano and cello, his interest in world music was sparked at the age of 10 when he was given an African kalimba. However, his instrumental direction took a distinct turn nearly 20 years ago when he visited the Acoma Pueblo in New Mexico and was deeply enchanted by the sound of the Native American flute. Since that time he has embraced the haunting sounds of this unique instrument and it has become a major part of his musical identity. Among players of Native American flute music, such as Carlos Nakai and Coyote Oldman, Scott August ranks as one of the foremost in the world.  He has been nominated and has won numerous awards including the Native American Music Award.

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CD: Red
Artist: Isadar
Contact: www.isadar.com

Given the meteoric success Isadar’s previous album Reconstructed has had – reaching the number 2 spot on the ZMR Charts (June 2012) and the extensive radio airplay, not only in the US, but literally all over Europe as well as Canada, Australia, Russia, and South Korea, I’m sure there are many listeners who will be eager to hear his latest release, Red. View full article »

CD: Rumbadoodle
Artist: Arun Shenoy
Contact: www.arunshenoy.com

Any description of Arun Shenoy’s current GRAMMY-nominated CD, Rumbadoodle would have to include the word “fusion.” Everything about him and this music is definitive of the term. Born, raised, and educated in India, and now living in Singapore, Arun’s music is an intriguing cross-cultural experience. As the title implies the predominate flavor of this mélange is Rumba flamenco, but is generously spiced with dashes of pop, rock, worldbeat, and new age that is sure to appeal to fans of artists like Santana, Ottmar Liebert and the Gipsy Kings. View full article »

CD: Omnitopia
Artist:  Sotiris Gougousis
Contact: www.cdbaby.com/Artist/SotirisGougousis

Maybe there is something in the Grecian waters or in the Mediterranean atmosphere, but it seems like some of the finest electronic musicians in the world, such as Vangelis, Yanni, and others come from Greece. Why this area has spawned a scintillating synthesizer subculture is a mystery, but the rest of the world is happy to enjoy the fruits of their artistic labors. One of the latest electronic artists to emerge from this corner of the globe is Sotiris Gougousis. View full article »

CD: Love’s River
Artist: Laura Sullivan
Contact: www.laura-sullivan.com

As we enter a new year, having survived the much-portended end of the Mayan calendar, I’m happy to begin a new cycle with a feature article on a sparkling new release by an accomplished pianist and composer in the Contemporary Instrumental/ New Age music genre, Laura Sullivan. Love’s River is Laura’s 6^th album and finds her in fine company with an all-star cast of accompanists, and four of the tracks being produced by Will Ackerman, the Grammy winning producer and founder of Windham Hill Records, as well as production by Eric Sullivan. View full article »

CD: Family Values
Artist: Craig Karolus
Contact: www.craigkarolus.com

While the term “family values” has taken on political connotations for some in our culture, Craig Karolus’ use of it transcends all of that and expresses its purest meaning. Family Values is one of the most intimate and personal musical tributes I’ve had the pleasure of hearing. View full article »

CD: Heart of the Universe
Artist: Peter Kater and Snatam Kaur
Contact: www.spiritvoyage.com/heartoftheuniverse

Some of the qualities of the Age of Aquarius that we stand on the threshold of are harmony, synergy, and people of diverse backgrounds working together to bring peace and beauty to our world. So it is not surprising that two well-known musical luminaries such as Peter Kater and Snatam Kaur would come together to create a unique artistic offering like Heart of the Universe.  View full article »

CD: Attuning to Oneness
Artist: Paradiso & Rasamayi
Contact: www.5thelementmusic.com

With today being the much-lauded 12/21/12, the end of the Mayan Calendar, and gatherings around the world marking the turning of an age, it seems like a most perfect and synchronistic time to be writing about the new music of Paradiso and Rasamayi. Entitled Attuning To Oneness – The Harmonic Ascension, it epitomizes the very essence of this global observance. The focus of their music is not as much on entertainment as it is on the healing qualities of sound and vibration. View full article »

CD: Sensual Journeys
Artist: Fiona Joy Hawkins
Contact: www.fionajoyhawkins.com.au/

One of my regrets in the past few months is that I wasn’t able to attend the rare California appearance of Australian pianist Fiona Joy Hawkins, when she performed nearby in Berkeley. But I was delighted recently to receive in the mail a copy of her stunning new CD entitled Sensual Journeys. As I looked beyond the music to the story behind this release, what I found touched my heart. View full article »

CD: Various titles
Artist: Danny Wright
Contact: www.dannywright.com

For many people around the world, the holiday season is a time of great joy and celebration. This is especially true for well-known pianist Danny Wright who has some very special gifts in his stocking this year, and much to celebrate. For one, 2012 marks his 25 year anniversary as a composer and recording artist. In that quarter of a century, he has released an impressive 36 recordings and has sold over 6 million albums worldwide! He is an award-winning Steinway Piano Artist who was twice named by Billboard Magazine as a Top 10 artist in the New Age genre. View full article »

CD: Pianoforte
Timothy Crane
Contact: http://www.timothycrane.com/ 

The late great folk-rock musician John Denver wrote his most famous song as a tribute to the intoxicating effect of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Having lived there myself, I can attest to the veracity of his claim. Someone else who I am sure will agree is pianist Timothy Crane, who makes his home in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Golden, Colorado. According to Tim, who previously lived near Aspen,  “once you live in the mountains it’s hard to go back.” Perhaps it is something in that rarefied air or the natural beauty that has inspired creative spirits for ages, and Timothy Crane is no exception. View full article »

CD: Chimes of the Spirit
Artist: Acoustic Ocean
Contact: www.acousticoceanmusic.com

As someone who loves both harp and guitar, the combination of the two is music to my ears as well as my soul. Celtic harpist Peggy Morgan along with long time musical partner Bette Phelan on guitar, who perform and record collectively as Acoustic Ocean, have released their third album of soothing instrumental music, entitled Chimes of the Spirit.   View full article »

CD: In the Season of Fading Light
Artist: Jeff Pearce
Contact: http://www.jeffpearcemusic.com/

Looking out my window at the sun slowly slipping below the horizon of the San Francisco Bay this mid-November evening, the music and the title of Jeff Pearce’s latest CD, In the Season of Fading Light, create a most appropriate soundtrack. As on the cover of his album, clouds tainted in muted yet luminous hues are breathtaking in their beauty, while they subtly signal the coming darkness of winter in this transitional time of year. And speaking of transitions, there is a major one to be found on this, the tenth album in Jeff’s extensive career as a recording artist. View full article »

CD: Embracing Winter
Artist: Jim Hudak
Contact: www.jimhudak.com

Jim Hudak, whose last name means “the musician” in Slovakian, was born into a family with a 500-year history of music and composition. In his own multi-decade career he has gained deep insight into the intricacies of the music industry, not only as a musician, but also as a music rights licensing executive for ASCAP and SESAC. However, what Jim Hudak is best known for, and rightfully so, is his work as a solo pianist. View full article »

CD: Somewhere In A Hidden Memory
Artist: Trine Opsahl
Contact: www.heartrecords.dk

The great American mythologist Joseph Campbell once wrote: “We must be willing to get rid of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” Such was the case for Norwegian-born harpist Trine Opsahl, who walked away from her career as a lawyer to devote her life to music. View full article »

CD: Between The Shores Of Our Souls
Artist: Mirabai Ceiba
Contact: http://www.mirabaiceiba.com/

Described as “a beautiful blend of Kundalini Yoga mantra, sacred chants and world music,” the sound of Mirabai Ceiba is a uniquely cross-cultural experience on a number of levels. Their latest album, Between The Shores Of Our Souls, also includes inspirational lyrics based on the poetry of Rumi and Kahlil Gibran. The album’s subtitle, “Songs of Love and Longing,” bears witness to the focus of their creative endeavors. It also expresses the energy that resonates between the two principle people in the group, Angelika Baumbach and Markus Sieber, who are a couple from different worlds brought together by fate.  View full article »

CD: O Christmas (solo piano)
Artist: Isadar
Contact: http://www.isadar.com/

Fresh on the heels of his highly acclaimed chart-topping CD, Reconstructed, Isadar gifts us with a sparkling new album of holiday-themed instrumental music for solo piano, entitled “O Christmas.” Given the proximity to his recent release, one might assume that this one was quickly produced, but in reality O Christmas has been 7 years in the making.  View full article »

CD: Believe – A Spiritual Romance
Artist: 2002
Contact: http://www.2002music.com/

Question: what do the words magical, visionary, and grandiose and have in common?
Answer: they perfectly describe the new album, Believe by 2002.

Debuting at number 8 on the prestigious Billboard Chart, the CD is subtitled: “A Spiritual Romance,” and is the latest of 14 albums by the husband and wife duo of Randy and Pamela Copus, collectively known as 2002. Now celebrating 20 years of recording together, they are one of the most enduring and highly regarded groups in the new age music genre.  View full article »

CD: The Maiden Of Stonehenge
Artist: Michael Brant DeMaria
Contact: http://www.ontos.org/

With this being the fourth CD by Michael Brant DeMaria that I’ve had the pleasure to write about, the one thing I’ve learned to expect is the unexpected. Michael, who is an award winning composer/ instrumentalist and three time GRAMMY nominee is not an artist who is easily pigeon holed. His music can vary stylistically from one project to the next – each reflecting a different facet of his seemingly endless and diverse creativity.  From the earthy ambience of his Gaia CD to the ethereal electronic explorations of his recent album Bindu, Michael never fails to surprise and delight.  View full article »

CD: Inner Voyage
Artist: John Paris
Contact: www.johnparismusic.com

When I wrote about John Paris’ previous solo piano release, Reflections, I ended by saying that I was looking forward to the next one he had planned. Here it is a year later and his Inner Voyage CD has just set sail. View full article »

CD: I Am Here
Artist: Paul Ellis
Contact: www.lotuspike.com

From the first blips, bleeps, and filter sweeps that signaled the dawn of the synthesizer age, Paul Ellis was enchanted by the spell of their analog alchemy. In1977 he had a musical epiphany after buying copies of the classic European electronic albums by Tangerine Dream (Stratosfear}, Klaus Schulze (Mirage), Jean Michel Jarre {Oxygene}, and Tomita {Snowflakes are Dancing) within a week’s time. This proved to be a profound awakening for him as to what was possible with musical expression and the fluid, flexible tonal qualities of the newly emerging synthesizer technology.

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CD: When The Earth Is Far Away
Artists: Craig Padilla /Zero Ohms
Contact: www.lotuspike.com

Having recently written a feature article about Craig Padilla’s CD masterpiece, The Heart Of The Soul, I was excited to hear of his latest recording project. Entitled When The Earth Is Far Away, the album is a collaboration with electronic musician and wind instrument virtuoso Richard Roberts, who records under the name Zero Ohms. View full article »

CD: Light Body
Artist: Peter Kater
Contact: http://www.peterkater.com/

In an illustrious career spanning three decades, multi-platinum selling pianist, composer, and producer Peter Kater is not one to rest on his laurels. Constantly traversing new musical terrain, his latest release, Light Body shines with ever evolving reflections of creative expression. Its been a long time since 1983 when Peter released his first album at the dawn of the embryonic new age music genre. Since then he has produced numerous recordings, which have sold millions of copies. In the last 8 years alone he has received 7 Grammy Award nominations. View full article »

CD: Glimmerings
Artist: Elika Mahony
Contact: www.elikamahony.com

While pianist, vocalist, composer, and artist, Elika Mahony considers herself a “world citizen,” the incredible diversity of her background is more like a United Nations of cultural influences. Although she was born in the US of Iranian parents, Elika was raised in Africa (Kenya). She also lived in Israel and Hong Kong, was educated at the University of California, Berkeley, and currently lives in Beijing, China.

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CD: Intuition
Artist: Dan Kennedy
Contact: http://www.dankennedy.us/

I would imagine that the bucolic splendor of the 1860’s farmhouse where pianist Dan Kennedy lives with his wife and two children in the country outside of Amherst, Massachusetts provides a creative sanctuary to compose the music that has appeared on his two CD’s. Dan’s current release, Intuition, is a follow up to his critically acclaimed album Lantern, which was produced by Windham Hill founder View full article »

CD: Floating On A Melody
Artist: Christopher Boscole
Contact: www.christopherboscole.com

Glancing out my window at boats gliding by on San Francisco Bay, it’s easy to appreciate the inspiration a tranquil image such as this can provide to a creative soul. One such artistic spirit is pianist Christopher Boscole, whose greatest passion in life besides music is sailing. It’s not just that the title of his latest CD, Floating On A Melody reflects this, but his music is imbued with a movement and flow that is peaceful yet exhilarating like a being out on the water with the wind in your sails.

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CD: Rapture
Artist: Michael Samson
Contact: www.michaelsamson.com

One of my greatest regrets about the current trend towards digital distribution and downloading mp3 singles is the loss of a physical product with liner notes, pictures, etc. that contextualize the music as part of a cohesive body of work and creates more of a sense of connection between the listener and the artist. A case in point is the absolutely spectacular packaging of music, photography, and poetry created by pianist Michael Samson on his latest CD entitled Rapture.

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CD: Zion and Bryce Canyon Soundscapes
Artist: Jill Haley
Contact: www.jillhaley.com/

Having listened to and reviewed numerous (and I do mean numerous) albums that listed Jill Haley as a session musician, its a treat to see and hear a CD under her own name showcasing the full range of her considerable musical talents. View full article »

CD: The Best Of Reviews New Age – The Piano
Artist: Various artists
Contact: www.reviewsnewage.com

Reviews New Age is highly popular website from Spain that features album reviews, news, biographies, competitions, and concerts. Also under the umbrella of new age music on the site are the genres of neo-classical, ambient, lounge, Celtic, and world music. The maestro behind this informative and entertaining enterprise is fellow music reviewer Alejandro Clavijo, who is an accomplished pianist as well. His dreamy and romantic music has been compared to George Winston, David Lanz, Jim Brickman and others. View full article »

CD: Beyond The Turning
Artist: Heidi Breyer
Contact: http://www.heidibreyer.com/

This new release by Heidi Breyer is one I’ve been looking forward to since I reviewed her previous CD in Awareness Magazine back in April of 2011. As outstanding as that one was, her latest recording takes it to the next level. View full article »

CD: Sacred Dreams
Artist: Tron Syversen
Contact: www.tronmusic.com/

While Tron Syversen and his nine albums of  “music for relaxation and wellbeing” are best known in his native Norway and northern Europe, he is poised for wider recognition as a rising star in the US and world markets. View full article »

CD: MASAKO
Artist: Masako
Contact: www.masako-music.com

It’s a long way from being a 5 year old sitting in a tree composing and singing songs in her parent’s backyard in Tokyo to living in the mountains of Vermont and releasing a critically acclaimed CD with credits that include a host of A-list musicians under the supervision of one of the top producers in the world. It was a long and winding road, but for a gifted composer and pianist named Masako, it is the story of her journey… thus far. View full article »

CD: Cycle
Artist: Takashi Suzuki
Contact: www.cdbaby.com/cd/takashisuzuki4

In a world where “more” is generally considered “better” and our senses are often overwhelmed with the glitz and glitter of modern living, one composer, Takashi Suzuki is taking an opposite approach and expressing in his music a level of unadorned simplicity and minimalism that is rare. Perhaps it is his Japanese heritage that gives him an appreciation for Zen-like serene spaciousness, but that is what the listener can expect in his latest release, Cycle.   View full article »

CD: Sounds From The Circle IV
Artist: Various artists
Contact: http://newagemusik.ning.com/

The New Age Music Circle is an online community with over 1300 recording artists and fans. For four years in a row, they have put out a compilation of member’s recordings and made it available to press and radio programmers on a 40 song MP3 disc as well as to the public as an iTunes playlist which they can download individual tracks from. The compilation is the work of new age music pioneer, Suzanne Doucet who is also the creator and organizing force behind the community. Also contributing to this project is Beth Ann Hilton, a well-known LA music publicist. View full article »

CD: Sacred Love: Feel the Journey
Artist: Shambhu
www.ShambhuMusic.com

While there are many musicians in this genre hunched over computers recording in home studios (myself included), there are few who have taken the music making process to the heights that Shambhu has on his “Sacred Love” CD. Sparing no expense to work with some of the top people in the music industry, Shambhu set out from California for the bucolic splendor of Vermont to record at the studio of Windham Hill Records founder and Grammy winner Will Ackerman. To say that the supporting musicians are an all-star cast would be an understatement View full article »

CD: The Gathering
Artist: Various artists
Contact: www.cdbaby.com/cd/thegathering5

While many musicians record albums, few are responsible for creating a music label with such a distinctively recognizable sound that it is practically a genre in itself. Windham Hill Records founder and Grammy-winning guitarist Will Ackerman is one of them. View full article »

CD: Surrender
Artist: Sat Nishan Kaur
Contact:  http://satnishankaur.com/

As a music journalist, one of the things I treasure the most is the opportunity to write about music that is uplifting to the body, mind, and spirit and that promotes positive energy, unity, and world peace. The music on the latest release by Sat Nishan Kaur certainly fits that description. View full article »

CD: Deep Alpha
Artist Steven Halpern
Contact: www.innerpeacemusic.com

A recent article in the LA Times described Steven Halpern as an “internationally acclaimed composer, recording artist and producer whose healing music put the field of sound healing on the map.  Halpern is known as “a founding father of the New Age music genre.”  He was also recognized in Keyboard Magazine as “One of the most influential keyboard artists of the past 35 years, who changed the way we compose, market and listen to music.”

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CD: Shape Shifter
Artist: Carlos Santana
Contact: www.santana.com

After 36 releases, 10 Grammy awards, and 100 million albums sold over a 40-year career, I’ll assume I’m safe in invoking that classic opening line: “My next guest needs no introduction…” And I’m sure that I’m only one of countless guitarists that has cited Mr. Carlos Santana as a major influence on their playing – for me he’s always been number one.* However, it is more than his music that has touched my life, it is his Being… as a spiritual warrior, which not only flows through his fingers, but through his words, his actions, and his Soul to promote love, understanding, and unity in the world. View full article »

CD: Turbulent Grace
Artist: Justin Taber
Contact: www.cdbaby.com/cd/justintaber

I remember when I lived in Denver many years ago, the license plates bore a slogan that said “Colorful Colorado” referring not only to the beauty of the state but the fact that the word “color” is inherent in the name “Colorado.” Interestingly, pianist Justin Taber lives near Boulder, Colorado and the word “color” takes on a special meaning for him. To call Justin’s music “colorful” is more than just a figure of speech. Color is actually an element in his compositional style. View full article »

CD: Reconstructed
Artist: Isadar
Contact: www.isadar.com

Although pianist Isadar, whose full name is Fabian Isadar Thibodeaux, grew up in Louisiana in a musical family steeped in regional Cajun sounds, he chose to follow his own path devoid of any of these traditional influences, including zydeco, country, Dixieland, blues, or gospel. Interestingly, he found early inspiration on the radio in conceptual British artists such as Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel, and Thomas Dolby, as well as multi-media musician Laurie Anderson. View full article »

CD: Lucid Dreams
Artist: Arturo Mayorga
Contact: www.arturomayorga.com

Arturo Mayorga has come a long way, literally, from growing up in El Paso, Texas to living in New York City, where he is currently making a name for himself as a recording artist. It’s also a long way from being a youngster where “piano lessons were not within reach,” to becoming an accomplished keyboardist playing along side some major league talent. View full article »

CD: Touched By The Sun
Artist: Todd Boston
Contact: www.toddboston.com

It was just about a year ago when it seemed like every time I turned around I was hearing the name Todd Boston being mentioned. Whether it was as a recording artist, solo performer, a member of an ensemble, a recording engineer, a co–producer, or the numerous accolades for his previous CD, Alive, which was named CD Of The Month for October 2010 and chosen in the Top 25 Listeners Choice Awards for 2010 by Public Radio International’s syndicated Echoes radio program. View full article »

CD: Panomorphia
Artist: Carl Weingarten
Contact: www.mphase.com

As one of ambient music’s most innovative guitarists, Carl Weingarten has been crafting his unique sonic tapestries for three decades. In fact, the San Francisco Chronicle referred to him as “one of the truly great indie musicians working today,” and his music has received praise in other media outlets such as All About Jazz, Muze.com, Musician, Music Web Express, Exposé magazine, and Allmusic, among others. Since 1980 when he founded his Multiphase Records label in St. Louis, Carl has released numerous solo albums, collaborations, and recordings of other artists. View full article »

CD: Whereas
Artist: Rebecca Oswald
Contact: www.RebeccaOswald.com

From an early age, music has played a major role in Rebecca Oswald’s life. Coming from a musical family, she began playing duets on the piano with her father when she was only four, and began taking piano lessons at the age of six. She continued on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Music Theory and Composition and a Master’s degree in Music Composition. Rebecca has performed throughout the US, Canada, and Europe, and has twice won a Women’s Philharmonic competition. But that is just part of the picture – View full article »

CD: The Heart Of The Soul
Artist: Craig Padilla
Contact: www.craigpadilla.com
Record Label: www.SpottedPeccary.com

It’s been said that our destiny is written in the stars, and for Craig Padilla, there is a particular ring of truth to that statement. It was as a youngster, on a school trip to a planetarium, where he became enchanted by the music that accompanied the astronomy program (Jean Michel Jarre’s seminal 1976 electronic music masterwork, Oxygene.) Craig knew then and there that he had found a musical direction he wanted to follow. View full article »

CD: American Impressions
Artist: Lisa Hilton
Contact: www.lisahiltonmusic.com

In the galaxy of contemporary jazz piano, one of the brightest stars to shine is Lisa Hilton. The highly regarded publication JazzReview even referred to her as “The Lioness Of Jazz.” View full article »

CD: Key Of Dreams
Artist: Galya
Contact: www.galya.fr

 A child prodigy is defined as “someone who, at an early age, masters one or more skills far beyond his or her level of maturity.” There can be little doubt that virtuoso pianist Galya grew up fitting this description. Although she is a young adult now with a number of CD’s and professional accomplishment’s to her credit, her extraordinary talents were recognized at an early age where she lived in her Ukrainian homeland close to Russia. View full article »

CD: Where I Belong
Artist: SAJJAD
Contact: www.sajjadmusic.com

It is rare that an artist releases a debut album that garners such critical acclaim that it not only receives a Best New Artist award and nominations for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album and Best World Music Album but is also compared to veteran super stars like Yanni and John Tesh. However, these honors are a reality for SAJJAD, whose Where I Belong CD debuted on the charts at #4 and reached #3 on the Top 100 ZMR chart before being chosen for the nominations and award. View full article »

CD: Many Paths
Artist: Lorrie Sarafin
Contact: www.lorriesarafin.com

People choose to play a particular instrument for a variety of reasons. For Lorrie Sarafin, it was the actual sound – the timbre and tonality, as well as the feelings it evoked that led her to purchase a Native American Flute and seek to unlock its magic. It was 16 years ago that she was captivated by the haunting melodies played by a master of the instrument, R. Carlos Nakai at the 1993 Scottsdale Arts Festival in Arizona and she knew right away that she had heard the call of the piper, the spirit of Kokopelli. View full article »

CD: Wires, Rosewood & Roots
Artist: Bob Ardern
Contact: www.bobardern.ca

I’m looking closely at the photo of guitarist Bob Ardern to determine whether he’s got more than two hands. Judging by some of the intricate fretwork on his Wires, Rosewood & Roots CD, I can’t help but wonder. Seriously though, this veteran musician who hails from Nova Scotia, is one talented picker. His acoustic fingerstyle playing draws inspiration from the likes of early Al Stewart, Leo Kottke, Doc Watson, and English folk guitarists John Renbourn and Bert Jansch, among others. Bob’s own unique style is diverse and combines elements of folk, classical, jazz, and Celtic. View full article »

CD: Patterns Of Reflection
Artist: Peter Sterling
Contact: www.harpmagic.com

If there is any instrument that has an instantly uplifting effect and the ability to evoke a celestial vibe, it is the harp. Perhaps it is the association with the angelic realm, but there is something about its’ ethereal ambience that speaks to the soul. For harpist Peter Sterling, it is a perfect vehicle to express his artistic and spiritual vision. View full article »

CD: Dawn of Peace
Artist: Lynn Yew Evers
Contact: http://www.lynnyewevers.com/

I can’t imagine what a difference it must be living in the Pacific Northwest after growing up in Malaysia – but Lynn Yew Evers can. However, it must have been an adjustment as well when she left her native land to earn her degree from Trinity Music College of London in Singapore and Hong Kong. Although she began playing at the age of four and first performed when six years old,  in her relatively brief career, this brilliant young pianist has had a number of distinguished experiences. At the top of her list was being invited to perform for the king and queen of Malaysia, as well as another performance for the Prime Minister and other dignitaries. She has also had a number of high level appearances in both Malaysia and the US as a solo artist and accompanist for choirs and ensembles. View full article »

CD: Soundscapes
Artist: Steve Bowe
Contact: www.bowemusic.com

After hearing all the tracks on Steve Bowe’s “Soundscapes” album, I’m reminded of the famous quote delivered byTom Hanks in the movie Forest Gump: “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” And so it is with this Whitman’s Sampler of a musical CD. There is an incredible diversity from one song to the next that makes for a most interesting and tasteful listening experience. Like a box of chocolates where each piece may be different on the inside yet all are similarly covered in chocolate, a unifying element in Steve’s varied music is the use of the latest technology, synthesizers, software, etc. that gives his music a contemporary electronic candy coating.

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CD: Awakening
Artist: F.E.D.
Contact: www.fed-music.com

When I first started listening to “Awakening” by Franz Eddy Daniel, aka F.E.D, I had to go back and look at the cover to make sure I hadn’t put on a Vangelis, Yanni, or John Tesh CD by mistake. This stunning debut album is by a young pianist and composer from Port-au-Prince, Haiti who came to the US to earn a degree in Architecture at the City College of New York, but never strayed far from his deep love for music.

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CD: Journey Around The Sun: A Mayan Odyssey
Artists: Bill Wren and Frank Ralls
Contact: journeyaroundthesun.com

If I were asked to write a one-word review of Journey Around The Sun: A Mayan Odyssey, that word would probably be “wow!” And perhaps followed by another exclamation point or two if space permitted. This new release by Bill Wren and Frank Ralls can best be described as epic on every level – including the concept, song writing, musicianship, arranging, orchestration, and even the packaging and promotion. But let’s begin at the beginning… the concept. View full article »

CD:Heavy As A Feather
Artist: Kathryn Kaye
Contact: www.kathrynkaye-music.com

As I mentioned at the end of my review of Kathryn Kaye’s excellent debut album Dreaming Still, plans were already on the drawing board for her next recording and that it would certainly be something to look forward to. Now, here it is, just about one year later, and it didn’t take a crystal ball to know that this sequel would be a fulfillment of that prophecy. Kathryn has done it again in grand style.

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CD: Awakening
Artist: Dan Blanchard
Contact: www.peacefulvibes.com

 I’ll never forget the first time I heard the haunting strains of Ravi Shankar’s Indian classical music while in college during the late 60’s. It was so radically different from the music of Jimi Hendrix, Santana, and The Doors that I had been listening to, and was totally exotic and alien to my ear. Yet there was something in it that spoke deeply to my soul and I kept coming back to it, allowing it to beckon me down a ancient mystical path to a place within.  View full article »

CD: Solitary Treasures
Artist: Darlene Koldenhoven
Contact: www.darlenekoldenhoven.com

While you may or may not immediately recognize Darlene Koldenhoven by name, there is a good chance you have heard her voice. It could have been in her appearance as the featured soprano soloist on Yanni – Live At The Acropolis which has been seen by over 1.5 billion viewers on PBS, or perhaps in her role as the tambourine-waving choir nun and real life vocal coach/choir director for Sister Act and Sister Act II with Whoopie Goldberg. Other possibilities include her multiple appearances on The Academy Awards and three American Idol specials. View full article »

CD:Light
Artist: Synthesist
Contact: www.synthesist777.com

Having reviewed “Dream Slate,” the previous release by Synthesist, I was looking forward to this latest album entitled “Light.” I enjoyed the first one very much and was certainly not disappointed by its successor. Chris Pearre, who records under the name Synthesist is a veteran electronic musician who has been playing keyboards since 1979. View full article »

CD: In the Wake
Artist: Ann Sweeten
Contact: www.annsweeten.com

In a recording career that has spanned 14 years and includes 9 best selling albums and 2 Italian compilations, Ann Sweeten has managed to achieve a level of success that many musicians only dream of. In addition to her music consistently placing high on the charts, receiving extensive radio airplay, and winning numerous awards, she holds the prestigious title of an official “Steinway Artist/ Composer,” placing her in the company of some of the most distinguished pianists in the world.

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CD:Marimba Dreams
Artist: Julia Harrell
Contact: www.juliaharrell.com

The marimba is not usually the first instrument that comes to mind when thinking of new age music – being more commonly associated with orchestral, jazz, or world music. View full article »

CD: A Delicate Joy
Artist: David Nevue
Contact: www.davidnevue.com/

In one of their most beloved songs, The Beatles sang of “a long and winding road” which serves as an appropriate analogy for the path David Nevue has taken in his creative journey. View full article »

CD: A New Horizon
Artist: Jose Luis Serrano Esteban
Contact: http://jlse.serarte.es/

The album being featured here, “A New Horizon,” is a re-released special edition with two bonus tracks by Spanish-born recording artist Jose Luis Serrano Esteban. Originally released in 2009, and titled “Un Nuevo Horizonte” in his native language, it is a follow up to his debut release, “Dreamland.” View full article »

CD: A Midnight Clear – Christmas In Mitford
Artist: Bill Leslie
Contact: www.billleslie.com

It’s not surprising that Bill Leslie’s latest CD, “A Midnight Clear – Christmas In Mitford” is inspired by a literary work, having won more than 80 major journalism awards himself, including five Emmy’s and two Peabody Awards for his work as an environmental reporter and anchorman for WRAL TV in Raleigh, North Carolina. This is in addition to his having produced eight music CD’s, five of which have made it to the top of the charts in their genre. View full article »

CD: Bindu
Artist: Michael Brant DeMaria
Contact: www.ontos.org

“Bindu” is the fourth CD in Michael Brant DeMaria’s Healing Sound Project and marks a subtle yet intriguing directional shift in his music. While his 30 years as a practitioner and teacher of meditation have always been reflected in his music, his previous releases have had an earthy connection with the natural world, in contrast to this album which explores our inner nature with a more introspective ambience. View full article »

CD: Christmas Joy
Artist: Fiona Joy Hawkins
Contact: www.fionajoyhawkins.com.au

Tis the season… when some of the genre’s finest recording artists apply their creative talents to craft innovative versions of holiday classics. One such songsmith is Fiona Joy Hawkins, whose award-winning “Blue Dream” CD I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing in Music and Media Focus. View full article »

CD: Reflections
Artist: John Paris
Contact: www.johnparismusic.com

From performing with the Minneapolis Symphony, to sharing the stage with the Moody Blues and other headlining acts, as well as appearing on the Merv Griffin Show and Jerry Lewis Telethons, John Paris has had a rich and varied career that spans four decades. View full article »

CD: Snow Angel
Artist: Michele de Wilton
Contact: www.micheledewilton.com

It’s been almost a year since I reviewed Michele’s excellent “Daydream” CD and I was happy to hear about her latest, and most timely release, “Snow Angel.” Timely in that having received it right around Thanksgiving, this is an album that is perfect for the holidays. However, what makes it special is that while there are indeed a number of traditional Christmas carols, the focus of the recording is actually the entire holiday season from Thanksgiving, through Christmas, and into the New Year.  View full article »

Artist: Dulce Vas
CD: Christmas Picante
Contact: http://www.dulcevas.com/

While Christmas albums generally conjure images of frosty windowpanes and chimney smoke wafting above snow-dusted pine trees, this holiday CD by dulce VAS is more evocative of red rock canyons and cactus-dotted desert landscapes. Not surprising however, given that the group who is based in Phoenix, Arizona, specializes in music that “embodies the breath-taking panorama of the Southwest.” View full article »

CD: Sanctuary ll: Earth
Artist: Sherry Finzer
Contact: www.sherryfinzer.com

The photo of Sherry with angel wings on the cover of her latest release is certainly appropriate, since the music contained within could well be described as “heavenly.” Entitled “Sanctuary ll: Earth” it marks the second in her series of new age relaxation music. I had the pleasure of reviewing the first release, “Sanctuary” here in Music and Media Focus, and I’m happy to spread the word about her latest offering. View full article »

CD: Touch The Hand Of Love
Artist: Andoni
Contact: www.inspirationalsinger.com

Andoni is a man with a mission. Gifted with impressive vocal talent, his quest is to use it in service to spiritual awakening and the uplifting of the human heart. One of his greatest passions in life “is to support inner and outer peace through music.” This sense of purpose is reflected in his website url: inspirationalsinger.com. And although his goal is one pointed, his paths to getting there are diverse. View full article »

CD: Red Leaf, Grey Sky
Artist: Catherine Marie Charlton
Contact: www.catherinemariecharlton.com

While most parents have to plead, coerce, and cajole their children to practice their musical instrument, Catherine Marie Charlton, who started playing piano at the age of eight, practiced so much that, incredibly, her parents sometimes had to ask her to stop. But all that practice and classical training came to fruition as she developed into a talented recording artist, composer, and improviser who has performed in Europe, South America, and throughout the US, and has even received an accolade from Grammy-winning pianist George Winston View full article »

CD: Star Eyes
Artist: John Fluker
Contact: www.johnfluker.com

 Question: What do as Gladys Knight, Dionne Warwick, Mavis Staples, David Hasselhoff, Boys 2 Men, Queen Latifah, and Jennifer Lopez have in common? Answer: They have all worked with John Fluker in one musical capacity or another. These are but a few from the long list of names that LA-based pianist, arranger, composer, vocalist, and vocal coach John Fluker has had the opportunity to be involved with professionally. View full article »

CD: Safely in the Arms of Love
Artist: Michael Stribling
Contact: www.leela-music.com

While Michael Stribling’s new CD portrays a fictional tale of life’s transitions, his own story reflects the real-life changes and cycles of human experience. Although he began piano lessons at the age of 7, he was swept up in the first wave of Beatle-mania and switched to drums where he became so accomplished that he eventually went on to play and tour with Johnny Mathis in the mid 70’s. He became even more deeply immersed in the music industry as a performer, composer/arranger, producer and engineer View full article »

CD: Soul 2 Soul
Artist: Danny Wright
Contact: www.dannywright.com

It must have been a day to remember when little four-year old Danny Wright reached up to the piano in the family’s living room and began playing the theme from Dr. Zhivago. After years of study and classical training with some of the finest teachers available, that child prodigy has matured into a world-class talent who has released a staggering 35 albums, which have sold over 6 million copies since his debut in 1986. And that’s only the beginning for this Las Vegas-based recording artist, who has twice been named by prestigious Billboard Magazine as a Top 10 artist in his genre. View full article »

CD: Reflections
Artist: Candice Night
Contact: http://candicenight.com/

As the “Night” in the Renaissance- influenced band Blackmore’s Night, lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Candice Night shares the spotlight with her husband Richie Blackmore, the former guitarist of Deep Purple and Rainbow. On “Reflections”, her first solo album, she ventures forth to explore diverse new musical territory that showcases her remarkable voice and stylistic range. View full article »

CD: Surrender
Artist: Jeff Oster
Contact: www.jeffoster.com 

Jeff Oster’s name, is one I’ve been hearing quite a bit recently – often as a session musician on a number of new releases produced by Windham Hill Records founder William Ackerman, which I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing. However, I’ve also heard about Jeff in connection with his own new release, “Surrender” when it was chosen by the Echoes radio program as the “CD of the Month” for September 2011. View full article »

CD: Sacred Alchemy
Artist: Devaa Haley
Contact: http://sacredalchemyalbum.com/

Although “kirtan” or Indian devotional singing has existed for centuries, it has been enjoying a renewed popularity, especially in the new age community. The music of Devaa Haley, which finds some of its roots in this ancient tradition, also brings a contemporary perspective to the mix. View full article »

CD: Spectrum
Artist: Hennie Bekker
Contact: www.henniebekker.com

The prefix “multi-“ will be well used in describing the work of Hennie Bekker, who is a multi-platinum-selling musician, a multi-genre artist, and most certainly a multi-talented composer and arranger whose expansive discography includes over 60 albums. He also has one win and six nominations for the prestigious Juno Award, a Canadian music industry honor that is similar to a Grammy, and he has been named “one of the most prolific and successful figures in contemporary Canadian pop music” by Billboard Magazine. View full article »

CD: Deep Still Blue
Artist: 2002
Contact: www.2002music.com

Having recently reviewed “Damayanti,” the stunning new release by the group 2002, I once again have the opportunity and the pleasure of shining a light on another of their exquisite earlier musical masterpieces entitled  “Deep Still Blue.”  While this is categorized under “Music Reviews” it is actually a multi-media presentation containing a CD plus a DVD of breathtaking underwater photography set to music. View full article »

CD: Crystal Keys
Artist: Lia Scallon
Contact: www.SoundsofSirius.com

In retrospect, after the release of “Crystal Keys,” her ninth album of sacred music, it must seem like another lifetime in which former actress Lia Scallon shared the stage with the likes of Cate Blanchett, Glenn Close, and Liam Neeson. However, a higher calling has led her on another path, devoting her life to spiritual pursuits and awakening consciousness. View full article »

CD: Damayanti
Artist: 2002
Contact: www.2002music.com

Perhaps it wasn’t Sgt. Pepper who taught the band to play, but it was just about 20 years ago today that recording artists Pamela and Randy Copus, known collectively as 2002, began their musical career together. Looking back over that time they have created an impressive legacy that includes 14 albums – 9 of which have been on the Billboard Charts for a total of 270 weeks during the past 10 years. View full article »

CD: Dream Slate
Artists: Synthesist
Contact: www.synthesist777.com

We’ve all heard the expression about “making dreams into reality,” well, that is exactly what Christopher Pearre (aka Synthesist) has done with this CD. It all began with a dream he had in which he was meditating by the ocean and heard music in the air and he opened his eyes to see it falling from the sky in prismatic colors and intricate geometric patterns. View full article »

CD: In The Flow
Artist: Michael Brant DeMaria
Contact: www.ontos.org
Contact: www.SoundsTrue.com

It is my great pleasure to welcome back to Music And Media Focus, Michael Brant DeMaria, whose magical “Gaia” CD was the very first review to grace this site when it was launched on 1/1/11. His latest release is a compilation of selections from three of his highly acclaimed CD’s: “The River.” “Siyotanka,” and “Ocean.” The music is timeless and each composition was selected for its soothing and restorative qualities. Subtitled “Music For Emotional Healing” it marks the beginning of a new series under that name on the Sounds True label. View full article »

CD: Circles Of Light
Artist: Peter Sterling
Contact: www.harpmagic.com

Over the last few decades, music in this genre has been recorded in a variety of interesting locations and power spots including the Great Pyramid, the Taj Mahal, Stonehenge, Mt. Shasta, Machu Picchu, Sedona, and others. For this album Peter Sterling traveled from California to Wiltshire, England to record in the famous crop circles that are found in that area. View full article »

CD: Resonance
Artist: Takashi Suzuki
Contact: www.cdbaby.com/cd/takashisuzuki2

Some musicians start out early in life, single-mindedly pursuing their artistic path and developing their talents into maturity. Others follow a more indirect path with a series of career detours leading to their musical blossoming. Takashi Suzuki is definitely a member of this second group. View full article »

CD: Sounds From The Circle III
Artist: Various artists
Contact: http://newagemusik.ning.com/

The New Age Music Circle is an online community with over a thousand recording artists and fans. For three years in a row, they have put out a compilation of member’s recordings and made it available to press and radio programmers on a 40 song MP3 disc as well as to the public as an iTunes playlist which they can download individual tracks from. The compilation is the work of new age music pioneer Suzanne Doucet, who is also the creator and organizing force behind the community. View full article »

CD: Something Getting Wrong
Artist: Michael de Salem
Contact: http://www.SonicBids.com/MichaelDeSalem

Although the translation of the album’s title into English by Swiss musician and human rights activist Michael de Salem may create an enigmatic air, his motivation as a recording artist is perfectly clear: in his view, we face a global crisis that can only be remedied by a major shift in human consciousness – and for him, music is one key to effecting that change. View full article »

CD: Angels of the Sun
Artist: Fred Thrane
Contact: www. fredthrane.com

“Angels Of The Sun” by guitarist Fred Thrane (a Norwegian name pronounced “Trana”) is a multi-faceted offering that reflects various aspects of his musical persona. His six-string sojourn began when he started lessons at the age of 17 and he received a flash of inspiration upon hearing Andres Segovia playing Granados’ “Spanish Dance #5.” That style and sound became a beacon, which illuminated his way through many years of formal study culminating in a master’s degree in music with a specialty in classical guitar from Cal State University. View full article »