Album Review: Ethereum by Joseph L Young

Joseph L Young is a world-flute master and keyboardist whose fourth album, Ethereum, is comprised of twelve beautiful compositions that showcase his multi-instrumentalist talents and keen ability to tap into the essence of music from various cultures. Among the instruments Joseph plays are Native American flutes, Chinese flutes, South and Central American clay drone flutes, Irish pennywhistle, and even Saxophone on one track. These exotic elements are deftly interwoven among indigenous percussion and atmospheric synthesizers, thereby lending an overall shamanic and trance-inducing quality to several of the compositions.

“Wavelength” opens the album with hazy tones and suspended chords that envelope a subtle flute melody. Serene and warmly-lit from the very first note, this piece brings images to mind of an afternoon sunset casting its beautiful glow over a rocky desert terrain. The title piece, “Ethereum”, follows next with a native-style flute that seems to echo throughout a vast canyon. This hauntingly beautiful and slightly forbidding ambient flute piece is likewise accompanied by droning synths, rainstick sounds and washes of chimes, which seem to evoke a sacred semblance of channelling an ancient wisdom or unveiling of hidden secrets. The comparatively lighter and more gossamer “Shimmers” ensues with Celtic harp and Irish pennywhistle, a delicate piece that conveys a fairytale-like medieval or renaissance flair. Changing scenery once again, “Boundless” begins with a low rumble and slithering sounds that introduce native-style flute and reverberating, slow-paced percussion, as hypnotic vocal intonations are echoed among its cavernous ambient soundscape. It is followed by the notably intriguing “Illumination”, a radiant piece that evokes images of a watery cave illuminated by sunlight pouring through. Here, piano and flute exchange dual melodies among a backdrop of chimes, Udu drums and atmospheric synths. Exuding both Celtic and Chinese overtones, “Free” is another piece particularly worth noting, which features vocals by Lenise Redding who sings a bewitching and mystical melody. Concluding the album is the beautifully nocturnal “Sapphire Moon”, which is guided along by subtle percussion and occasional shooting star effects, as a chorus of flutes seem to gently serenade the moon.

Brushed by colorful hues of various cultures throughout, it’s easy to slip into a deep zone while listening to this album. I’m especially fond of the many echoing effects and intricate textures throughout these beautifully relaxing and soulfully rejuvenating passages. With similarities that could be drawn to works by Scott August and Al Jewer & Andy Mitran, Ethereum is a wholly rewarding excursion into ethno-ambient flute music! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album is available at Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby.

Review originally published on Journeyscapes Radio on 11/30/16.

Spotlight: II by Andy Iorio

II is the second album by pianist and composer, Andy Iorio, who debuted with After the Rain in 2010. Comprised of twelve compositions having one word titles, each capturing a mood, moment or emotional expression, the album features a mix of both piano and strings courtesy of Matthew Johnson on violin and viola, as well as solo piano pieces throughout.

“Opening” is carried along by a brisk piano melody underscored by viola, which are eventually joined by violin in a sorrowful serenade. Seemingly inspired by another era, the piece bears notable neoclassical signatures along with a bit of a gothic semblance. Continuing in this mode is “Burn”, which likewise exudes a certain cinematic quality that brings to mind an old black and white film. “Descent” follows next and is easily my favorite composition herein. Characterized by hauntingly ubiquitous chord progressions in which suspended strings hover above a flowing piano melody that repeatedly rises and falls throughout, the mood of the piece almost feels a bit noir, bringing to mind images of passer-byers on cobblestone streets of an old city. The waltzing “Silhouettes” is among a handful of solo piano compositions of which are generally less forlorn than those accompanied by strings. Whereas the album’s piano ensemble pieces skew more towards the melancholic and neoclassical, their solo piano counterparts possess more contemporary melodies that are comparatively brighter and more sentimental. The final piece, “Closing”, opens with an encroaching fog of strings that soon introduce somewhat languid piano notes and a flute-like instrument. An extended pause of silence occupies the middle part of the track, before revealing a hidden solo piano piece towards it’s seemingly daybreak conclusion.

Capturing an elegant balance of shadow and light, Andy Iorio has demonstrated a keen ability to convey often dramatic emotional expressions within a generally subtle and perfectly understated musical framework. Overall solemn and purposeful with lighter moments of hope interspersed throughout, II is a superbly crafted album that will appeal, especially, to many fans of Phillip Glass, Ludovico Einaudi and piano-based soundtrack music! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album can also be purchased at Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby.

This review was originally published on Journeyscapes Radio on 11/17/16.

Spotlight: In the Company of Clouds by Erik Scott

Erik Scott debuted with his first album in 1969, later working with a number of pop and rock artists, including having toured and recorded with Alice Cooper in the 1980’s. He has since co-written for and collaborated with a number of other recording artists, as well as embarked on an instrumental solo career. On his latest album, In the Company of Clouds, the intriguing and hypnotic lure of melodic fretless bass is Erik’s key instrument, accompanied throughout by keyboards, percussion and mandolin, as well as other innovative sound effects. Comprised of nine tracks total, In the Company of Clouds additionally features an amazing lineup of guest musicians and vocalists, including John Pirruccello who lends steel guitar to all of the compositions.

“Nine Lives” immediately lifts the spirits with its beautiful sound collage of melodic bass, tribal percussion and soulful wordless vocals. They collectively lend the piece a notable African flavor, effectively bringing to mind that of sailing down the Congo River on a breezy sunny day. The equally mesmerizing “Seven Veils” continues in this mode, as it’s similarly guided along by exotic percussion, dreamy synthesizers and sitar scattered throughout. Soulful wordless vocals intoning soothing “ooohs” return for “Women of Avalon”, another lovely piece that features Steve Hunter on guitar, as John Mader lends congas and cymbals. Warm and enveloping throughout, this piece seems to convey a celebration of the distant past. Another notable highlight, “Breathing Room”, features Jeff Pearce on ambient electric guitar. Here, Erik perfectly injects plenty of ‘breathing space’ between the notes, as Jeff’s guitars ethereally float across a seemingly liquid and nocturnal soundscape. “Victory”, featuring Kevin Haynes on drums, is perhaps the brightest piece on the album and characterized by a comforting, peaceful elation. It’s followed by “Open Door”, which likewise welcomes all of the now familiar instrumental elements – sans the percussion – along with a touch of piano courtesy of Chris Cameron. Closing out the album is the notably warm and leisurely “The Long View”, which additionally features Rick Barnes on acoustic guitar.

Seemingly taking its listener on a magical sailing journey, notes and chords often bend and sway in suspension throughout these melodically structured yet often liquid-like compositions. Exuding an overall mood and atmosphere that reminds me at times of works by Mike Oldfield, Pink Floyd and James Hood’s Moodswings project, In the Company of Clouds is an enthusiastically recommended album of impeccably beautiful ambient instrumental fusion! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album is also available at Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby.

This review was originally published on Journeyscapes Radio on 11/16/16.

Album Review: Rendezvous by Kelly Andrew

Kelly Andrew is a musician and composer whose latest album Rendezvous was produced by Will Ackerman, Tom Eaton and himself, as well as recorded at Will’s Imaginary Road Studios in Vermont. Centered upon themes of romance, reflection and passion, Kelly contributes keyboards, synthesizers and programming to these twelve and often jazzed-up contemporary instrumental compositions. He is joined variably throughout by a talented musical ensemble of which includes Duke Levine and Randy Chavez on guitar, Tony Levin and Bijoux Barbosa on bass, Charlie Bisharat on violin, Eugene Friesen on cello, Premik Russell Tubs on sax and woodwinds, Jill Haley on English horn and oboe, Steve Holley and Christian Teele on drums, Jeff Haynes and Christian Teele on percussion, Gus Sebring on French horn, and Noah Wilding on wordless vocals.

“Chasing Twilight” leads the album with sultry electric guitar and drifty piano notes over a slick bassline and infectious groove, collectively lending this beautifully bold opener a jazz-funk vibe. “Hand in Hand” follows next and is comparatively more sentimental, additionally featuring woodwinds, violin and acoustic guitar set to a moderately-paced rhythm. “Painted Butterfly” continues in this mode, where a warmly-lit ensemble of piano, strings and guitar seemingly capture the essence of an afternoon sunset. “Awake in a Dream” is perhaps my favorite track on the album and seemingly perfect for late-night listening. Imbued with a romantic chill-jazz vibe, the intimate and lush atmosphere of this piece is sensually enhanced throughout by a melodic interplay of piano and sultry sax. The title track, “Rendezvous”, easily paints an image of a dancing couple beneath the moonlight on an evening pier, which is seemingly illustrated by its soulful sax and chic piano riff accompanied by a lively smooth jazz groove. I’m also particularly fond of “Looking Back”, a leisurely-paced number that bears hints of nostalgia and reflection. It comparatively captures a more rural essence with its down-to-earth rhythm and acoustic multi-instruments. “Lonely Road” is another favorite in the chill-jazz vein, likewise conveying a nocturnal sultriness with its lounge-like ensemble of piano, sax and sumptuous rhythm. Closing out the album is the aptly-titled “Hope”, a positively inspirational piece featuring piano, cello and French horn.

A thoroughly rewarding album of sleek sophistication, Rendezvous seems to tell a lover’s story which moves through the course of evening, dawn and sunset. Colorfully enhanced throughout by its contributing instrumentalists, Kelly Andrew musically paints images of both scenic rural landscapes and chic metropolitan venues. Listeners, especially, who enjoy contemporary instrumental music with notable chill-jazz flavors are sure to savor the romantic spices of these delectable compositions! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album is also available at Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby.

Spotlight: Immortelle by Deuter

Born in Falkenhagen, Germany, composer and multi-instrumentalist Deuter (pronounced “Doy-tur”) is one the earliest pioneers of new age music. Having recorded is first album in 1971 and with over sixty releases to date, his music is especially popular in the spa and wellness industry – long heralded as being among the best of its kind for massage, reiki and various relaxation therapies. Inspired by nature and dedicated to healing, Immortelle consists of eight compositions that are each named after a medicinal plant. Deuter plays a variety of instruments throughout the album, including flutes, keyboards, piano, guitar, cello, violin, harp, strings, harpsichord, chimes and hand drums.

Named for a mint plant that exudes a spicy fragrant essential oil, “Monarda” leads the album with celestial chords and earthy cello, which are eventually joined by an arrangement of strings towards the end of the piece. I’ve long found Deuter’s music to be generally well-suited for early mornings, and this composition aptly brings to mind images of the sun’s rays peering upon the horizon of an early dawn. The mesmerizing “Sonnenbraut” follows next and is my absolute favorite track on the album. Just over ten minutes in length, delicate flute and icy bells dance among layers of ethereal chords in an almost circular pattern, as hypnotic percussion gently guides this enthralling composition along. The exotic nature of this piece combined with its frosty atmosphere feels evocative of the Himalayas, bringing to mind images of an ancient temple hidden among the misty snow-capped mountains. Named for a flowering herb, “Traubensilberkerze” is led by an arrangement of harpsichord and woodwinds, which are accompanied by synthesizers and East Asian musical instruments. Possessing a harmonious juxtaposition of Far-Eastern and medieval European elements, the piece exudes an almost folkloric and mythical quality. The watery “Lily of the Valley” is another favorite, which highlights a subtle piano melody throughout. Entrancing hand percussion gently guides the piece along, as it’s accentuated by crystalline chimes and suspended synth-tones. “Binguga” is perhaps the album’s most heavenly moment; it gets its title from a plant listed in the 12th writings on healing plants by the mystic nun Hildegard von Bingen. The composition’s mysterious swell of angelic synths seems to capture a vision of the sky opening up to reveal a beam of light pouring through. I’m also especially fond of the closing piece, “Cumaru”, with its drifty piano, softly swirling tones and wordless vocal intonations. This dreamy composition seems to paint a picture of evening, as it lulls the listener into a restful dream state.

Deuter is unquestionably the gold-standard of new age healing music and Immortelle is no exception to his excellent body of work. Easily one of his best in recent years, this is a landmark album for him, which is certain to join the ranks among some of his most notable and outstanding recordings. A gently moving album full of ‘high vibration’ signatures, Immortelle is not to be missed by anyone looking to heal, connect and relax – or bring the same to others! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album is also available at Amazon and iTunes.

This review was originally published on Journeyscapes Radio on 10/25/16.

Album Review: Beyond Words by Dan Chadburn

Dan Chadburn is a pianist and composer who has appeared on several compilation albums dedicated to various charitable causes alongside other notable and well-established pianists in the music scene. His sixth album, Beyond Words, is comprised of fourteen solo piano compositions, with each piece capturing a moment in time.

“Awakening” begins softly with high-register notes, where Dan initially lends a gentle touch to the keys before lower-register notes soon join in accompaniment. An emotional tenderness and graceful sentimentally is felt throughout the composition, likewise characterizing much of the album. Picking up the pace a notch is “Joyful Morning”, which exudes a distinct air of buoyancy and innocence like that of children playing and skipping about in the sunshine. Following next is the more contemplative “Healing Waters”, a piece that was inspired by an early morning swim at the seashore. One of my favorites, bolder mid-to-lower register chords provide a steady undercurrent for its delicately flowing higher register notes, perhaps to musically illustrate the ocean’s waves gently rolling in and out. The likewise intriguing “Crossroads” is about life’s journey and the varying paths to choose from, which is musically conveyed by its unpredictable melody that gently ebbs and flows throughout, with a subtly changing and evolving pace along its course. My absolute favorite composition herein is “Tears of Angels”, which was composed in memory of those killed and wounded at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando on June 12th, 2016. This unforgettable tragedy occurred in my hometown and directly affected the lives of many people in my community. Beginning in a solemn tone, sparse notes and spacious chords impart a sense of sorrowful comfort along the composition’s beautiful and perfectly understated melody. Interestingly, to say the least, its melody caught my attention even before I learned of the song’s inspiration. I’m also particularly fond of “Falling Forward”, which possesses a certain air of mystery and unknowing. The subtly waltzing and classical bent of the composition brings to mind that of a lone ballet dancer. Also especially noteworthy is the emotionally tender “Kal-Boy”, which was written in memory of Dan’s twenty-year-old cat on the evening he crossed the rainbow bridge. Conveying both the sorrow felt for his beloved pet’s passing along with the celebration of his life, this piece perfectly captures the emotions experienced during that most heartbreaking moment. Closing out the album with a peaceful optimism is “Lullaby for Peace”, which Dan has offered as “a prayer of hope for all of humanity to learn to live together”.

Inspired by “the people and events that shape our world”, Beyond Words is a deeply sincere and sentimentally imbued recording that subtly varies from gently uplifting to peacefully contemplative moods. Fans, especially, of the solo piano genre will likely find the characteristically non-intrusive and simple elegance of these compositions to be as overall lovely and comforting as I did! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album is also available at Amazon, iTunes and more.

This review was originally published on Journeyscapes Radio on 10/24/16.

Spotlight: Whispers from Silence by Tom Moore & Sherry Finzer

Whispers from Silence is the collaborative project of multi-instrumentalist Tom Moore and international flutist Sherry Finzer. Comprised of eight compositions spanning just over an hour, the duo blend synthesizers with wind instruments to create a deeply immersive and meditative soundscape that feels ancient, sacred and enchantingly exotic, with subtle earthy rhythms underscoring several of the pieces.

“Awakening Breath” opens with the toll of a Tibetan bell followed by an exotic flute solo, evoking a spirit of reverence and solitude that sets the mood for a serenely soulful and mystical journey. “Towards the One” follows next with an opening chorus of crickets and nocturnal sounds, before transitioning into an enveloping and warmly-lit soundscape of flute, sitar and synthesizers that are soon accompanied by a flowing organic rhythm. It’s one of my favorite compositions on the album, bringing to mind images of a sacred sensual dance being performed amidst an enthralling haze of candlelight and incense smoke. “Infinite Space” is another gorgeous piece that invokes a blissful and dreamlike state, as breezy flute ethereally floats among a bed of gossamer chords like clouds passing slowly across the sky. Also particularly noteworthy is the beautifully hypnotic closing piece, “An Ancient Presence”, which effectively conveys the notion of standing in the presence of an ancient sacred temple. Here, droning chords merge with deep vocal intonations before introducing a mesmerizing flute melody, as earthy percussion subtly guides the piece along in a meditative mode that seems to fuse an eastern mystical vibe with a Native American essence.

Deeply entrancing from beginning to end, Whispers of Silence is an impeccably outstanding album of perfectly executed artistic vision as well as utmost professionalism. Grounding, earth-centered, and ceremonial in nature, its compositions beckon the listener to step into a sacred space that allows the mind and spirit to feel unrestrained by time or geographical location. Easily one of the best albums of its kind to emerge in recent memory, Whispers from Silence is especially and enthusiastically recommended for yoga, meditation and shamanic journeying! ~Candice Michelle

For more information please visit the artist's website. This album can also be purchased at Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby.

This review was originally published on Journeyscapes Radio on 10/05/16.