Music &
More
by Mark Maxwell Abushady New York City
Personal
Meditations
Richard F.X. OConnor
www.audiorenaissance.com
Personal Meditations is a well-written collection of meditative lessons
by author Richard F.X. OConnor. Included are meditations to meet
the day, to close the day, to relieve stress, to be in the moment, to
be healed and revitalized. Spoken by Rick Kleit in a deep, masculine
voice, he gives a pleasant, spirited reading, and is sometimes accompanied
by pan flute or other unobtrusive musical element. There is a bonus
CD of some very fine meditative music for ones own personal journeys.
A nice offering, my only suggestion to the author is that an index of
the discs (there are 3) would have been helpful.
KÀ Cirque du Soleil
René Dupéré
Music has always been an integral part of any Cirque du Soleil performance
and KÀ is an offering with the familiar theatrical, cinematic
feel of prior Cirque du Soleil releases, yet it is not redundant. KÀ
has some beautiful, musically intimate moments but, have no fear, there
are also some of the dramatic, tribal/warrior cuts we have come to expect
from the Cirque as well (check out Pursuit and the passionate Love Dance).
With additional song titles like Storm, Flight,
Threat, and Deep, KÀ demands attention!
A fine addition to the Cirque du Soleil series.
Reiki Whale Dreaming
Kamal
www.newearthrecords.com
Lets face it, music utilizing Whale sounds is nothing new. Quite
a few recordings are available, orchestrated by different groups. What
can make the difference is the quality the human component brings to
the mix. I like Reiki Whale Dreaming. I really like it. And though
the album is suggested for use during Reiki sessions or meditation,
I think simply sitting and allowing the sounds to wash over and through
you might be justification enough for this offering. The musical instruments
partner with the whale songs in a way that doesnt always occur
on similar offerings. One feels a part of the great womb of Mother Earth
that is the ocean with this very sensitive, amazingly peaceful CD.
The Nine Worlds
Achillea
www.sequoiarecords.com
Achillea is a group whose name has crossed my desk several times and
I am happy to have the chance to review. From the unearthly voice of
Helene Horlyck on the opening cut Achillea Prelude
the group sets the tone for a musical adventure into Norse mythological
lore. Achillea has been categorized with Enigma, and though I can see
the comparison and hats off to Enigma for practically creating
this genre Achillea takes the elements and runs with them, bringing
a sophistication to both instrumentals and vocals . . . especially to
the vocals. Helene Horlyck is a marvel in the opening cut. Just when
youre sure shes hit the ceiling, she soars even higher.World-beat,
dance, tribal, electronica, and new age are just a few of the colors
which Achillea uses in its palette to paint this successful musical
offering.
A Place In My Heart
Jim Wilson
www.jimwilson.net
A Place In My Heart is a collection of songs by contemporary solo pianist
Jim Wilson. Pleasant, thoughtful and oftimes introspective, Jim has
provided us with an uplifting album, the energy of which grows with
each passing cut. His compositions are beautifully melodic and romantic.
Jim also sings, showcasing a very pleasant voice (Foolish Me). He is
joined by the popular Chris Botti for a particularly moving number (Eagles
Flight) on which the two of them really do soar! A wonderfully positive
collection of music.
Paths of Healing
Jennifer Howard, Ph.D
www.DrJenniferHoward.com
Paths of Healing, subtitled Meditations for Relaxation & Healing,
is four meditations, including a whole body healing meditation of over
25 minutes long. Jennifer Howards voice is pleasant, and her choice
of musical ambience (composed by Mario E. Sprouse) is unobtrusive and
a positive addition. Along with the body healing meditation, there are
practices in breathing in light, creativity, and essence.
A nice collection of fully guided meditations.
Mark
Maxwell Abushady is an actor, singer, designer and photographer based
in New York City.