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by Mark Maxwell Abushady, NYC Film ETHOS Wow . . . wow. Ethos is a very powerful film that, for some, may up-end their worldview. For others it will confirm beliefs. For still others, it will introduce new concepts regarding behind-the-scenes socio-political-economic machinations on a scale beyond imagining. The power of the media, of corporations, of banks, the birth of ‘Public Relations’ and the use of psychological principles to control the masses are discussed, both historically and as they exist today. The power of the Media in shaping and controlling public opinion, both in advertising and politics is particularly disturbing. How we came to be a society of desire-based consumers (buying the latest and greatest of everything when the old is still functional) from a society which purchased products based upon need is well illustrated, as is the effects of this consumerism upon our world environment and its peoples. The film is presented in a non-partisan way, with excellent quotes warning of these entities’ overriding power over the public good coming from Ron Paul, John McCain, Noam Chomsky, Robert Monks and, historically, Woodrow Wilson and Dwight Eisenhower. We’ve all heard that freedom isn’t given: that it’s earned, it’s fought for, and that it requires constant vigilance. Anyone who has ever doubted this, felt complacent, or assumed the stance that our freedoms here in The United States are ‘set’ must see this film. This survey of the seemingly unchallengeable powers of the political system, corporate entities, banking cartels and the media is very well put together and clearly stated. It isn’t pretty, but the filmmakers wisely end the film by pointing out how we hold the key, ultimately, to changing business as usual. I cannot say enough about the importance of this film. A must see for everyone. Music
Laura Sullivan’s delicate and sensitive piano, interwoven variously with guitar, cello, English Horn, Trumpet, Flugel Horn and Oboe presents a beautiful sound tapestry, pleasing to the ear, rich in emotional depth and subtlety. This is especially evident on ‘Awakening to Love’ on which the interplay of trumpet (Jeff Oster) and piano is absolutely haunting. All cuts, however, are soothing and peaceful – dreamy even – in nature. Ms. Sullivan is also joined by Will Ackerman, Eugene Friesen, Jill Haley and Nancy Rumbel on this very nice offering.
Paradiso is a master didjeridoo artist; Rasamaya is a singing bowl “master alchemist” and singer. Both are deeply involved in healing music. Transformative is the word for this album. Unearthly, for lack of a better word, yet familiar in some way, the sounds are absolutely and arrestingly beautiful. The didjeridoo is at times reminiscent of Tibetan monks, at other times unclassifiable. The singing, and the singing bowls of Rasamaya are often indistinguishable . . . impossible to tell what is a human voice and what is the sound of ringing crystal. Suggested for meditative, healing and yoga work, this offering goes beyond the standard musical work in those genres. An excellent album, and highly recommended for inducing peaceful, contemplative, and healing states.
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Love’s River
Attunning to Oneness – The Harmonic Ascension