# albums

name: JS Bach Inventions and Sinfonias
sku: jjohnson-inventions
upc: 876809007911
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/js-bach-inventions-and-sinfonias/id339083507
description:
Despite the sophistication of the Inventions and Sinfonias, and their value as teaching pieces of performance and compositional technique, these works were not published in Bach's lifetime, but rather in 1801, 51 years after his death. The "simple" version we are all presently accustomed to comes from this 1801 publication (Neue Bach Ausgabe), though we now are aware of other handwritten copies, including by Johann Sebastian Bach himself. Begun as teaching pieces for his own son, Wilhelm Friedemann, they were likely finished in Leipzig, where he moved in 1722.

Perhaps "finished" is not quite the right word, as Bach continued to tinker with them. It is evident to me that as teaching pieces, personal instruction by Bach would have been invaluable to his pupils, as improvised ornamentation would have been encouraged, hence the varying versions that have come down to us. It is my opinion that the simpler versions were kept as such to allow for the freedom to exercise one's own taste in regards to ornamentation (within reason). Unlike Francois Couperin, who was annoyed at anyone's altering of his text, Bach expected it.

In the pupils' versions I am working from I find it interesting that in many, suggested ornamentation of the main subject only appears at the beginning. I would think the student was expected to extend the logic through the entire piece, though in my performance, I mostly stick to the text, so that you, the listener, can hear what was passed down to us. In a few cases I do carry the ornamentation a bit further, (see above) but am pretty discreet. In several of the later Sinfonias, the students' ornamentation is heavy throughout, as is also true in Bach's final versions.

The two most radically different works, in Bach's hand, are Invention #1 with triplets, and Sinfonia 5, highly ornamented in the French style. In the case of Sinfonia 5, I wonder if my simple performance is even remotely correct. I suspect not.

In this performance, I also do not play every conceivable ornament. Sinfonia 12, for example, has some appogiaturas in the subject (appearing only once), that I personally don't care for, though I suppose one could get used to them, and maybe even like them if they were carried out in all voices. The same holds true of an appogiatura in the opening subject in Sinfonia 14, which to me sounds like an interruption. It all eventually boils down to taste.

I hope you enjoy this, and those of you who play, I hope this inspires you to be more free and creative with these pieces. I also feel that sticking to these pupils' versions is not essential, nor was Bach's true intent, though they are quite instructive to us now.JJ


name: Spain
sku: jjohnson-spain
upc: 876809002909
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/spain/id370471843
description:
No one casts a larger shadow over eighteenth century Spanish keyboard music than the Italian Domenico Scarlatti (1685-1757). His sonatas written after 1729 are full of imitations of the guitar, and folk tunes with their distinctive rhythms, harmonies and shifts between major and minor. Scarlatti's genius is that his music preserves the intensity of its provincial elements while raising them to the level of high art. Before Scarlatti, Spanish keyboard music was mainly in the sacred contrapuntal tradition inherited from Cabezon and Cabanilles. After Scarlatti, the spinning out of contrapuntal material or sets of variations were abandoned for the Scarlatti model of secular sonata in binary form, often in sets of two or three by key.

Two of the most remarkable Spanish keyboard composers of the generation after Scarlatti are Padre Antonio Soler (1727-1783) and Manuel Blasco de Nebra (1750-1784), while the music of Juan Sesse (1736-1801) represents the sort of Spanish keyboard music that escaped the influence of Domenico Scarlatti.

The harpsichord used for this recording was built by John Phillips in 1993 and is based on mid-eighteenth century Florentine models, the cousins of the lost Spanish originals.


name: Suites - Op 22 24 and 29
sku: jjohnson-suites
upc: 876809005962
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=267136550&s=143444
description:
Janine Johnson's original suites showcase her considerable composition talents as well as the thoughtful harpsichord playing for which she is known. Janine is one of those artists who puts enormous quantities of consideration and attention to detail into her work, and it all comes out in the music. Rich tones, reflective work.


name: Telemann Harpsichord Solos from Der Getreue Music Meister
sku: jjohnson-telemann
upc: 876809005412
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257823037&s=143444
description:
Der Getreue Music Meister was German music periodical edited by George Philipp Telemann, and it featured actual sheet music-brand new compositions by contemporary composers of the day. This album showcases twenty-eight particularly nimble selections from this journal, many by Telemann himself as well as several other composers. It's Janine Johnson's most exuberant and agile work to date.


name: Cinematic Piano Works Vol 1
sku: jhietanen-cinematic
upc: 847646005422
description:
Music with meaning. Emotion in its purest form poured into each track. Piano being the carrying power, other instruments let it breathe and tell the stories it tells. Sad, hopeful, motivational, peaceful, dark, tender. From the heart of one human being to another, unconditionally.


name: Datacube
sku: jhietanen-datacube
upc: 847646000069
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/datacube/id423030954
description:
A decade worth of electronic soundscapes. Diving into the depths of melancholic and dark atmospheres full of electronic tension, yet in a serene manner at times. The music that was created, forgotten, lost and found again. Never ceased to exist, merely lingered in the dark corners and waited. Take the journey a man once took, and feel every emotion as your own. You will make it, promise. He did.


name: Acoustic Levitation
sku: jasmineb-acousticlev
upc: 847646000137
description:
The sonic equivalent of rich chocolate cake for piano lovers. A guilty pleasure that won't help you lose weight? Certainly. Irresistibly delicious and so worth it? Absolutely.

In physics, acoustic levitation is a process whereby scientists can cause objects to float / hover / levitate using the medium of sound. In music, acoustic levitation occurs where a musician lifts your spirits using the medium of, you guessed it, sound. Which makes perfect sense, and that is the aim of this album.

From soothing, reflective pieces that evoke powerful emotions, all the way to virtuoso piano pieces that make you want to break into spontaneous applause, the 23 tracks on the album will surprise, inspire and dazzle you, and every now and then put a big smile on your face.

You can find out more about the album at http://jasminebrunch.com and see some interesting visuals at the Jasmine Brunch Youtube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/jasminebrunch.


name: Lucid Dreams
sku: jasmineb-dreams
upc: 847646000403
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/lucid-dreams/id432568528
description:
This music is perhaps best described as cliche-free New Age instrumental music that lovers of piano sounds will find particularly interesting.

Lucid dreaming is what drives the creative process that leads to Jasmine Brunch music. In those dreams, movement, shapes and colours blend into a stream of dazzling, multidimensional imagery.

In the album A Definitive Collection of Lucid Dreams, that imagery is distilled into hauntingly beautiful, evocative melodies over a wonderful variety of acoustic arrangements, for you to keep and enjoy.


name: 4
sku: jasmineb-four
upc: 847646000380
description:
The 4 album presents you with a beautiful and life-affirming sonic kaleidoscope, with a colour spectrum that ranges from New Age music to neoclassical music, from boisterous uptempo piano solos to laid-back minimalist music, from quiet easy listening pieces to Jazz-influenced tracks.

The album is the ultimate treat for lovers of piano music; music that is varied and interesting with real emotional depth, and which is pleasant to listen to at the same time. The music is lovingly mastered to maintain its full dynamic range so that the wonderful acoustic depth of the pieces is preserved, giving you a uniquely enjoyable listening experience.

"Excellent!! The impressionistic, emotional piano work takes you to a place where you can escape, indulge. A brilliant, creative work of music."
Jay Bush - composer and executive producer of Laserdog's Music Hour


name: Marbles
sku: jasmineb-marbles
upc: 847646001134
description:
A fusion of many facets of New Age music, the songs are united by their expression of a sincere and profound love of rewarding music. A wonderfully diverse collection of intriguing acoustic music in which every song crafts fresh sonic textures. The album is home to a great range of instrumentations, from solo piano to a variety of acoustic ensembles featuring acoustic guitars, accordions, mandolins, ukuleles, soprano saxophones and more.


name: Mews
sku: jasmineb-mews
upc: 847646002681
description:
Mountain dulcimers, ukuleles, guitars, accordions, mandolins, pianos and others doing some of the things they do best: acoustic fusion with a "subtle" (well...) Celtic slant.

The Mews album is a modern tribute to the space between Celtic folklore and Bluegrass music. The music pays tribute to the traditional sounds of Jigs and Reels, as well as fusing different styles and taking the musical ingredients of Celtic-American folklore one step (sometimes two steps) further. The result that you have in front of you is a collection of intriguing acoustic fusion that will delight your ears and make it almost impossible not to smile. Have a listen.

New sonic textures
In the eternal quest for new sonic textures, I teamed up with Gary "Wurzle" Cogg, prolific purveyor of handmade acoustic instruments, who graciously let me go to town on the prototype of a novel instrument he is currently developing: a three-string instrument (a "Pickin' Pedal") the fret pattern of which is inspired by a mountain dulcimer, usually tuned in D-A-D or similar.

Its sound is strong in the high-mid frequencies and blends particularly beautifully with the concert ukulele that I have been using - a stellar piece of handiwork, with a beautifully balanced low-mid frequency body.

You can hear the two instruments combine on the "Poetry In Motion" track and also on "Grace", together with a larger acoustic ensemble. The concert ukulele has a solo on "Symmetric Circles", featuring the usual no-effects approach of recording two identical takes of the same instrumental part into the Left and Right stereo channels respectively.

A further chapter in dynamic range
Jasmine Brunch devotees will already have noted my mild obsession with dynamic range in audio engineering - see for instance the notes on the "4" album at http://jasminebrunch.com/4.php. In this regard, the "Mews" album introduces a slightly different spin: the tracks overall are higher in loudness since most tracks feature either (a) instruments with a naturally lower dynamic range, e.g. the accordion bass, or (b) a creative approach to recording techniques, e.g. recording one of the acoustic guitar parts less than an inch away from the microphone with extremely gentle picking, leading to longer decay times relative to the peak of the acoustic signal. As a result, it was possible to retain the full dynamic range of all other instruments while giving the overall mix sufficient loudness.

Easter Egg
Alongside the usual musical subtleties that are just a little too subtle for people to realise, I wove a fairly obvious Discrete Shepard Scale into one of the tracks and will award a prize to the first listener to get his nerd on and spot it. Prize ideas include a pack of smokes or a bottle of wine or a home-cooked supper, depending on who wins.


name: The Story of What Happened
sku: jasmineb-storyrain
upc: 847646000397
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/the-story-of-what-happened/id440535823
description:
Electro-acoustic fusion; an instrumental soundtrack to an imaginary movie.

This album is a journey through a day and its events, as seen through the eyes of the girl standing in the rain. The songs are points on that journey - dots that you connect in your mind with whatever narrative, trajectory or squiggly line feels right to you. As this is a concept album with a narrative arc, the sound clips can't really do it justice but they give you a rough idea of the sound. Musically, it's extremely homogeneous by my standards and I had to resist a number of tantalising temptations, ditching several VERY experimental tracks at the last minute. In terms of style, there is no attempt to reach any qualitative merit whatsoever (which is just as well since previous experience indicates that the latter acts as a prohibitive deterrent). It's simply soundtrack music for an imaginary movie.

This is an album designed to lose yourself in, and listen to it over and over again, so it was quite important to me, quite apart from the music being sufficiently interesting, to keep your attention, that from a sound engineering perspective, its dynamic range would be as high as humanly possible. By way of a two-word synopsis: it is.

This album is born of my (selective) quest for dynamic range in audio engineering. It's special in that regard since it's the first album where I set out to create an album with extreme dynamic range before starting the recording sessions. The album is officially a DR14 album, and even more strikingly, this is my first album without any dynamic compression whatsoever. This means that every note on every instrument resonates exactly as it would naturally. What amazed me on the first listen is that the acoustic guitar melody part in Covering Cold Feet With Warm Sheets sounds so crisp that hearing it strike the few notes it does is an entirely different experience from the way it would sound in a dynamically compressed mix. So it was great fun to lean into every note knowing that the smallest subtleties in playing would come across.

The piano part was also a special experience. A good chunk of the piano parts I write, in terms of level of difficulty, is pitched well towards the upper limit of feasibility (for me), so I'm quite grateful when in a compressed mix, I can peel away a lesser layer of difficulty by not having to pay quite so much attention to the relative volume of each key stroke. On this album, however, the differences in volume of different key strokes are utterly exposed, which has the effect of (a) sorely reminding me of how rubbish my piano playing is, and (b) sounding quite pristine in those rare moments when I get the keys to balance exactly right.

So there. I hope you like it.


name: Elementary
sku: jaxbros-elementary
upc: 847646007419
description:
The music of Jaxbros is a roots based, melodic, mix of singer songwriter goodness. Reminiscent of Dave Mathews, Counting crows, and The Smiths, the Jaxbros rely heavily on solid songwriting and melody to win over their audience. The Jaxbros are an acoustic act out of the Dallas Fort Worth area.


name: First Congregational Church Concert
sku: kishor-church
upc: 876809004446
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257908022&s=143444
description:
If you don't yet have any Indian Classical music in your collection, the simple but nuanced Ragas of sitar virtuoso Jay Kishor are a great place to start. Kishor is known for exanding the boundaries of traditional music through collaboartion with Western artists, yet he's also considered a master of the austere Dhrupad style-one distinguished by its slower tempo, slower melodic development, and lack of unnecessary ornamentation. This live recording of two traditional Ragas (each about 30 minutes long) captures Kishor's deeply poetic approach to this enduring form of "music as prayer."


name: CD1 The Sowebo Concert
sku: kishor-sowebo1
upc: 876809004583
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257794335&s=143444
description:
Contemplative, spare, and spiritual, this live recording of sitar virtuoso Jay Kishor is a perfect example of the specialized style of playing for which he is known. Traditionally, ragas are meant to be performed at specific times of day, and the three ragas of The Sowebo Concert (on two separate volumes) are prescribed for evening and nighttime recitals. Consequently, The Sowebo Concert progresses from a subdued, vespertine beauty to deep, nocturnal mysticism. Perfect for meditation or just relaxing.


name: Stories from my Grandfather's Village
sku: kishor-storiesgrandfather
upc: 847646005231
description:
Master Sitar player Jay Kishor's debut as a guitarist, "Stories from My Grandfather's Village", is a collection of stories set in the language of music, in the dialect of Raga.

Stories form the very fabric of our being, of our existence.

From the parables and fables that teach us, to the histories and analogies that we study, to the tales that fire our imagination, to our own experiences that further define who we are.

In all countries and cultures, villages and families, stories shape how we look at the world, at each other, and at ourselves.

Jay Kishor - guitar
Darren Swift - recording engineer

Cover photograph courtesy of Ahron de Leeuw
All music is live and improvised in the Indian tradition.


name: The Gandhi Memorial Concert
sku: rajdhani-memorial
upc: 876809000462
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257818764&s=143444
description:
Combining the two great musical traditions of the subcontinent, The Gandhi Memorial Concert merges the improvisational and mystical nuances of Hindustani Carnatik music. The result is a uniquely lilting form that meanders gently in a natural, even organic way. Delicately detailed circular patterns are overlayed with thoughtful, narrative melodies (there's even violin), and there are lots of little gem-like solos between the ensemble playing. Features India's foremost tabla player, Subhash Karmarkar as well as Jay Kishor on sitar, Subhash Vinjamuri on violin, and Dr. P.K. Swaminathan on mridanagam. We particularly like this album in the morning, while still warming up to the day.


name: Happenstance
sku: touchinggrace-happenstance
upc: 876809000233
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257964634&s=143444
description:
Sitar and Surbahar virtuoso Jay Kishor describes TouchingGrace as more "vision" than band, yet the sound on Happenstance makes for a remarkably full-bodied and accessible listening experience. Happenstance combines the best elements of Western pop-melodicism with the intricately circular song structures of Eastern music. Soothing yet savvy, Happenstance a wonderful album to have on in the background at work.


name: Panacea
sku: touchinggrace-panacea
upc: 876809000226
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257820079&s=143444
description:
Everything about Panacea points heavenward-from the liquid, spacey lines of "Jupiter Suite" to the dawn like progression of "Eastern Sky" to the pretty cloud shapes of "Sitar Study." A reflective, beautiful album, and one of our favorites by this sitar virtuoso Jay Kishor/TouchingGrace.


name: The Reformation Sessions
sku: touchinggrace-reformation
upc: 876809000202
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257930102&s=143444
description:
Jay Kishor has a wonderful ability to blend a sense of the mystical with worldlier musical elements, and the result is The Reformation Sessions, The most subdued and reflective of TouchingGrace's albums. Jay's work is a lot more grounded and engaging most music that features sitar, but it always has one eye on the heavens as well, so there's an overall feeling of transcendence and hope. The perfect album to have on hand for rainy days, reading, relaxing, and peacing-out in general.


name: Submission
sku: touchinggrace-submission
upc: 876809000219
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257930101&s=143444
description:
Submission by sitar and surbahar virtuoso Jay Kishor alternates between a dreamy, otherworldly mood and a mellow, social one. "Last Night's Dream," "Hawk, and "Sitar Study" are more subdued, reflective pieces while "Wild Spring Apples," "Sunday Driver," and "Stick Dance" are subtly groovy, more pop influenced pieces. "Watching Clouds" is the perfect amalgam of the two different sensibilities; it perfectly blends eastern contemplativeness with western languor.


name: Fiddle Down
sku: mcauley-fiddledown
upc: 847646010044
description:
1. Out Of The Woods - Scored for nine cellos with a tenth cello that has something to add for only a handful of bars, this shimmering new work for cello ensemble was inspired by overcoming adversary.

2. Forlorn - Forlorn is a sombre and hypnotic minimalistic work scored for five cellos. Many harmonies are implied and a variety of textures/colours revealed, however the piece really goes nowhere like a bicycle travelling round and round in a tiny circle, unable to escape on to another direction, or forlorn if you will.

3. Dream Chest - Dream Chest is a lullaby scored for six cellos and percussion.

4. Tribulation - Tribulation is a reflective, somewhat sombre work with a dance feel scored for six cellos and percussion.

5. Wama Bama - Wama Bama was inspired by the recent ridiculous and cruel actions of the Governor of Alabama, regarding the abortion ban in the state.

6. Dear Flora - Dear Flora is scored for five cellos and was inspired by the Roman mythological deity, Flora. She is a Sabine-derived goddess of flowers and of the season of spring. This musical work is meant to strike a sad but beautiful tone within the listeners heart as this is very much how the composer feels about the real flora of this planet

7. Corona - Scored for up to seven cellos, Corona - as in coronation, is a mixture of romantic, classical writing, with funky, rhythmic, bluesy improvisation.

8. Dectet - Scored for ten cellos and percussion this work has a title for what it is a detect,Dectet!

9. Giving Down - Scored for five cellos, here is a recording without a true solo cello a bed to climb into, one might say!

10. In Flight - Scored for eight cellos and percussion, In Flight is a joyous, dancing work that seems to be stuck on one chord, happily so

11. Eleven - Journey Through Space is scored for you guessed it, eleven cellos. This homophonic entity stretches the imagination by warping the listeners very perception of both time and space.

12. Death Of The Sirens - The Death of the Sirens is a tone poem scored for eight cellos based upon Greek Mythology. It was said that the Sirens were fated to die if any mortal should hear them sing and live to tell the story. So, once Odysseus passed them unharmed, disheartened by their humbling defeat, the Sirens hurled themselves into the sea and bothered no man ever again.

13. Chicken Neck - Chicken Neck is scored for eight cellos and percussion.

14. Eastern Clock - Time being relative Eastern Clock is scored for cello solo and eight cello accompaniment with lite percussion.

15. Kundalini - Kundalini - Meditative and intimate cello ensemble music to help provoke the opening of ones kundalini

16. Fiddle Down - This fast paced, joyous, rustic, arrogant, and flamboyant work was composed for five cellos. It is a bit classical, a bit jazz, a bit Turkish, and more!

17. Mind State - Mind State is scored for five cellos and is intended to take the listener on a transparent journey through their own mind whatever that means!

18. Penitent - Penitent is scored for three cellos and is a sombre, dance-like piece intended to depict regret or a great want to turn back the clock and do things over again.

19. Rail Riders - Rail Riders is a bouncy, folk inspired work scored for three cellos which tends to lean a bit towards the dark side.

20. Kind Reservations - Kind Reservations is a reserved, energetic, and reflective singing work scored for six cellos.

21. Indomitable - Indomitable is a blues inspired improvisatory work scored for cello quartet.

22. Naked Fall - Naked Fall is a melancholic dance-like work scored for five cellos and percussion.

23. Reflection - Scored for cello quartet, Reflection is a mixture of jazz and french impressionist influence. Even its meter and rhythm fall victim to an impressionist style.

24. Revenant Dance - This crying, hypnotic dance features five cellos, a few effects, and percussion.

All music was composed, performed, and produced by Jeff McAuley at cellobandstudios in Binghamton, New York.


name: Christmas Guitar
sku: wahl-christmas
upc: 876809008888
description:
Christmas has become a pretty loud holiday. To me, Christmas is a celebration and recognition of the power of simplicity. This album is a collection of solo guitar arrangements of classic Christmas songs that reflect this belief. I believe that beauty of these songs shines forth even stronger in these simple, quiet arrangements. There are no overdubs on this album and all songs are played in standard tuning.

-Jeff Wahl


name: Guinevere
sku: wahl-guinevere
upc: 876809001902
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=258047844&s=143444
description:
Guinevere is a collection of solo acoustic guitar pieces that may remind the listener of guitarists such as Leo Kottke or Will Ackerman. Standard fingerpicking pieces sit comfortably alongside slow, contemplative meditations as well as some two handed tapping.


name: Guitarscapes
sku: wahl-guitarscapes
upc: 876809001896
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257909656&s=143444
description:
This album features primarily Jeff's solo jazz guitar compositions which bring to mind guitarists such as Joe Pass and Tuck Andress. The album also features classical guitar favorites such as Spanish Ballad as well as an Indian Raga for solo guitar titled "India". Fans of jazz guitar, classical guitar, and world music should enjoy this album.


name: A Light in the Darkness
sku: wahl-light
upc: 876809007690
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/a-light-in-darkness/id306203202
description:
While most of Jeff's albums focus primarily on one style of guitar, "A Light in the Darkness", showcases all of Jeff's compositional styles. The listener will find 6 string, 12 string, and nylon string selections on this album. Styles range from standard fingerpicking to meditative lullabies to ambient guitar compositions. This album brings all of Jeff's styles together on one album.


name: Meditative Guitar
sku: wahl-meditative
upc: 876809005443
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=267131922&s=143444
description:
Hushed, contemporary, and so lovely, Meditative Guitar is the perfect introduction to Jeff Wahl's engaging compositions and thoughtful performance style. Played on nylon string guitar with open tuning, the sound here alludes to the depth and authenticity of Jeff's musical knowledge but in a subdued, deeply reflective way. Quite simply a beautiful album. Highly recommended.


name: Playing with Silence
sku: wahl-playingwithsilence
upc: 876809000912
description:
A beautiful album of originals, classical guitar, and traditional melodies, all arranged and performed by in a very relaxing and unique style that always defers to silence as the canvas that music is painted on. Let it take you somewhere very special.


name: 12 String
sku: wahl-string
upc: 876809005887
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/12-string/id210999107
description:
Like the title suggests, all pieces on this album are played on solo 12 string guitar. The songs utilize a percussive guitar technique where Jeff plays melodies on the guitar while also accompanying himself by playing percussion on the body of the guitar. It sounds like a band, but it's just one track of one guitar.


name: Symmetry_
sku: wahl-symmetry
upc: 847646010679
description:
Jeff Wahl's latest album, "Symmetry," brings all of the styles that Jeff plays in together on one album. Classical guitar, 12 string guitar, world music, modern guitar, tapping, and folk music all live side by side on "Symmetry." There's something for fans of all of Jeff's different styles on this new album.


name: The Hymns Album
sku: wahl-thehymns
upc: 847646010174
description:
On The Hymns Album, Jeff Wahl plays all original arrangements of the most well-known traditional hymns and spirituals on solo classical guitar. Since the performances are all instrumental without lyrics, you don't have to be religious or a regular church goer to appreciate these timeless melodies played in Jeff's unique, meditative classical style.


name: Hell Then Divine
sku: lucas-divine
upc: 876809005870
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=267135673&s=143444
description:
From West Coast Performer: Jeffrey Luck Lucas is the downcast balladeer in A Touch of Evil's lost cantina scene-an honorable stoic bearing witness to border town badness even as his own demons hatch. Between attempts to drink himself blind, Lucas manages to find solace in the stately, carefully crafted songs of Hell Then Divinean obsidian mix of traditional and alt-country, plus echoes of the Mexican folk music with which he was raised. Every tune is bathed in the steep shadow of romantic sorrow, and Lucas' running themes of rain, spilled water, and unnatural thirst are great metaphors for the raw emotional material of the album. Lucas' voice has an appealingly weathered quality, and it stands out nicely against a big night sky of instrumentation provided by friends and fellow troubadours. Chris Mulhauser's (Aphrodesia) electric guitar is soulfully rippled, and engineer Desmond Shea (Tarnation, Court and Spark, Dieselhed) brings in everything from an Optigan to a dulcimer. Lucas' cello and violin arrangements deserve special praise as a particularly beautiful presence in the music. Warm and ascendant, they're the lantern we need to see our way clear of such cavernous regret, and they show unexpected but deep sympathy for Adam Anderson's lap steel. Standout tracks too many to mention, just listen.


name: What We Whisper
sku: lucas-whisper
upc: 876809005474
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=267132689&s=143444
description:
Known as a "musician's musican" and one of San Francisco's best kept secrets, Jeffrey Luck Lucas is an incredibly well-rounded composer and songwriter who has lately been recording these gorgeously burnished folk albums with elegant little hints of his West Texas upbringing in them. Upon hearing What We Whisper, Performer Magazine described Lucas as "the downcast balladeer in A Touch of Evil's lost cantina scene," while one listener called him as a cross between Johnny Cash and Frank Sinatra. Features an absolutely otherworldly performance on pedal steel by David Phillips of Tom Waits' crew, as well as performances by Tim Mooney (American Music Club), Wendy Allen (The Court and Spark), Chris Mulhauser (Aphrodesia), and Desmond Shea's stellar studio craft. Standout tracks include "The Pills," "Just Like Moths," "Grifos Muertos," and "In The Stars' Whirling." "Darkly gorgeous, unexpectedly uplifting" ?Dusted Magazine.


name: The Last of Old England
sku: melia-lastengland
upc: 876809004224
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257909753&s=143444
description:
Lutenist Chris Goodwin said that when he met Jeni Melia, he thought she had the most incredible voice he'd ever heard, and he decided then and there that he had to do a recording with her. We think you'll agree that the purity and tone of Melia's voice is something special, and her collaboration with Goodwin gives us some completely fresh interpretations of early music.


name: Sister Awake - music only
sku: melia-sister1
upc: 876809006273
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Soprano Jeni Melia and lutenist Christopher Goodwin perform Elizabethan-era songs specifically chosen to reveal what a woman's life was like in that time. Melia's crystal clear voice is perfectly suited to the simple, pared down production style, bringing a vibrancy and immediacy to the selections. On the full version, Kathryn Hamilton-Hall contributes some readings of Elizabethan era poetry, including some verses ascribed to the Queen herself. This version of the album omits these readings found on the full version.


name: Sister Awake
sku: melia-sister2
upc: 876809006280
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Soprano Jeni Melia and lutenist Christopher Goodwin perform Elizabethan-era songs specifically chosen to reveal what a woman's life was like in that time. Melia's crystal clear voice is perfectly suited to the simple, pared down production style, bringing a vibrancy and immediacy to the selections. On the full version, Kathryn Hamilton-Hall contributes some readings of Elizabethan era poetry, including some verses ascribed to the Queen herself. This version of the album includes brief readings of poems from the era as well. For a music only version of the album, click here.


name: The Lost Art of Wooing
sku: melia-wooing
upc: 876809005214
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Melia and Goodwin give us a delicate paean to a subtler age on The Lost Art of Wooing, the followup to their highly successful Last of Old England. Elizabethan England produced some of the most beautiful love songs ever written, and Melia's finespun soprano makes them sound especially lovely, as does the trio's preference for a natural, straightforward recording style. Together, they effortlessly rekindle a culture that was in love with love...one in which serenades were so common that city ordinances had to be passed banning singing beneath windows.


name: Own the Pow'r of Harmony! - hidden vocal and instrumental gems of Handel
sku: jennifer_harmony
upc: 876809001544
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/own-powr-harmony-hidden-vocal/id370488752
description:
This stunning new album with mezzo-soprano Jennifer Lane commemorates the 250th anniversary of George Frideric Handel's passing (1685-1759). It contains lesser known vocal and instrumental gems from throughout Handel's career. From the much adored but rarely performed cantata: "Udite il mio consiglio," composed at the court of Cardinal Ruspoli in Rome during the Vatican's ban on opera, to glorious excerpts from the English oratorios Jephtha, Hercules and Saul, composed during a similar ban on Italian opera in England, these works of genius are unjustly overshadowed by Handel's new testament sacred works, particularly Messiah, and those few of his operas regularly offered by the world's opera houses. Also included on this album is the rapturous Sonata in D Major for Violin and Continuo two arias from the opera Atalanta, and an aria from one of Handel's earliest Italian operas, Rodrigo. For many years, it was believed that the cantata: "Udite il mio consiglio," the centerpiece of this recording, ended with the Rodrigo aria "Allor che sorge." Handel's 19th century editor, Karl Friedrich Chrysander, found ending the cantata with a recitative too radical and was certain an aria had to be missing. This recording allows the listener to hear the cantata either way. You be the judge!

Some of Handel's most complex women are portrayed here as well as some of his most endearing boys, according to the 18th century tradition in which sopranos and mezzos took leading roles of both genders: Hercules' wife Dejaneira's jealousy; Jephtha's faithful wife Storge's shock at the news of their daughter's impending sacrifice; David's love for Jonathan; and Meleagro's youthful love and passion for Atalanta.

Full texts and translations and the orchestra list for the album are included in the artwork documentation that accompanies the download.


name: Chinese Bicycle Stories
sku: jeremymoyer-bicyclestories
upc: 847646010181
description:
Chinese Bicycle Stories is a poetic musical journey using the language of Chinese musical instruments and folk traditions. All the music is composed and performed by Jeremy Moyer. On this album he plays Chinese 3-stringed banjo - Qinqin (ĸ06;ĩ48;), Erhu (É08;ŉ93;), Gaohu (ƌ40;ŉ93;), Taiwanese Coconut Shell Fiddle - Kezi Xian (ē80;é76;ó58;), Cantonese Coconut Shell Fiddle - Yehu (č28;ŉ93;)，Sanxian (Ç77;ó58;), Guitar, Percussion and Kalimba. There are guest performances by Kevin Ramessar on Guitar, Shawn Mativetsky on Tabla and Renaud Gay on Flute. The album was recorded in Shanghai.

Credits
All music composed, arranged and performed by Jeremy Moyer

Guest performances: Shawn Mativetsky - Tabla on Spirit Wind; Kevin Ramessar -
Guitar on Spirit Wind; Renaud Gay - Flute on Bringing in the New Year

Recorded by Jeremy Moyer in Shanghai (Except Spirit Wind - recorded by François Lapointe in Montréal)

Mixed and mastered by J. Richard Hutt at Cedartree: Kitchener, Ontario, Canada Cover art by Moyang

Produced by Jeremy Moyer

Contact: jeremy@jeremymoyer.com

Album release date: 1 February 2018


name: A Year of Living
sku: jdarling-ayearofliving
upc: 847646005613
description:
These songs were all written between a 12 month span of time. It seemed like all the people around me who I cared about were suffering beyond what they could bear: divorce, infidelity, drug addiction. My only response was to decide there, in those moments, that I would never succumb to those things and confirm in my own heart a desire to never inflict those diseases onto my own family.


name: The Great Upset
sku: jdarling-greatupset
upc: 847646005637
description:
Mostly dealing with death, this EP tried to address the reality of an afterlife and how that affects the way we live, the way we treat other people and the way we treat ourselves.

These songs were selected from a full length EP I put out with my band, The Great Upset, in 2007. After the band folded I decided I wanted these songs to live on.


name: The One The You Loved
sku: jdarling-theonethatyou
upc: 847646005620
description:
Somewhere between birth and death you begin to look deeper, to ask the big questions. Every civilization since the beginning of time has worshipped some sort of deity - almost as if it's written in our DNA. This is an album of conversations, rants, curses and longings for a God that repairs, that fixes all the broken parts.


name: Alter Echo Original Soundtrack
sku: birdy-alter
upc: 876809007287
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/alter-echo-original-soundtrack/id6311522
description:
John writes: this album by "Birdy" is more epic and thematic than his other album "Evenings At The Microscope", which was more bleepy and quirky.


name: Evenings At The Microscope
sku: birdy-evenings
upc: 876809007188
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/evenings-at-microscope/id336056870
description:
John writes: Jerry writes game music professionally, having contributed to the games for 'Spider-Man', 'Call of Duty' and 'James Bond'. His music is very idiosyncratic, reminiscent of the 8-bit Atari days, with lots of bleeping and blooping and plenty of good-natured energy.


name: Blue Guitar
sku: jpalmer-blueguitar
upc: 847646000359
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/blue-guitar/id432569916
description:
Since the early 80's, guitarist Jerry Palmer has been recording guitar to showcase this original music. For those individuals who appreciate solo guitar music and its intricate nature, you will love this recording. Jerry's music is deeply reflective, and speaks of his passion for melody and the beauty of simple solo acoustic guitar music!


name: Cherry Picking
sku: jpalmer-cherry
upc: 876809008260
description:
The Album "Cherry Picking" is a recording of acoustic guitar based compositions interweaved with piano, accordion, violin, percussion, drums, bass, and soprano sax. There are several different styles of music represented hear to keep the listeners appetite satisfied and desiring more. These compositions are very subtle, like the lush, moving sounds of "The sculptor" featuring guitar, accordion, and violin, to the rhythmic flamenco strains of "Little Nevada", and the experimental sound of Harp guitar and soprano sax featured on the piece, "Falling".


name: Nevada Winds
sku: jpalmer-nevada
upc: 876809009588
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/nevada-winds/id423030457
description:
The instrumentation on the recording consists of steel and classical guitar, as well as flute, piano, cello, and oboe. If you are in the mood to relax or meditate, this is a great collection of compositions written to evoke a mood of reflection and emotion. Jerry has masterfully written pieces on guitar and piano that are tender reminders of images from past and present.


name: Soul Gardener
sku: jpalmer-soulgard
upc: 876809008857
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/soul-gardener/id409600178
description:
The recording "Soul Gardener" is a collection of guitar compositions that range from ambient to Celtic and rock. Jerry is a multi-instrumentalist and is featured performing with steel string guitar, 7-string guitar, classical guitar, bass, keyboards, and vocals. The music glides effortlessly from the beautiful classical guitar stylings of "Esta" and "Margaret's Lullaby" to the ambient 7-string guitar work on "Deeper" and "3 windows".

The Celtic flavored song "Fresh Aire", is a fun uptempo song that attempts to emulate Celtic dancers using percussive guitar and violin. "Air Guitar", "Zeppelin" and "Soul Gardener" are percussive solo guitar pieces that will be a delight to guitar lovers!

This album will soothe you, excite you, and revive you.


name: Songs from the Second World
sku: manno-second
upc: 876809006006
description:
Benford, Manno and Jones serve up an "East meets West" tour de force: a collaborative feast in which each composer brings three pieces to the table to be infused with each other's ingredients and spices. This rhythmically charged blend of instrumental pieces ranging from festive to introspective features Jesse Manno on Oud, Bouzouki, saz, Flutes and Vocals, Peter Jones on Piano, Accordion and Harmonium and Tigger Benford on Tabla, Drum set and Frame drums.


name: Traces
sku: jesus-traces
upc: 876809008871
description:
More than a simple collection of compositions, Traces represents an attempt by the artist to convey subtle and sometimes complicated emotional states. Each composition is a trace, an impression of experience on the mind. To appreciate mere traces, the mind must be quiet, so these pieces are quiet. This album is the culmination of several years of work and self reflection.


name: Funk Factor
sku: jiveasssleepers-funkfactor
upc: 876809009939
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/funk-factor/id426773308
description:
Jazz Funk lovers rejoice, album number four is packed full of more laid back funk grooves and soulful jazzy moods. Blending a retro seventies vibe with a modern twist, infectious melodies on guitar, horns and keyboards are served over toe tapping rhythm sections. Tight production with a gritty edge this is the perfect album for all Acid Jazz fans who dig music from artists such as The Crusaders, Brand New Heavies, Ronny Jordan, George Benson and Jeff Lorber to name a few.


name: New Jazz Galaxy
sku: jiveasssleepers-galaxy
upc: 876809007577
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/new-jazz-galaxy/id336074982
description:
Jazzier than the Gettin Down to Business but just as funky we find another collection of tracks featuring catchy horns, vintage keyboards, funky bass-lines and even a touch of swing. This album is both classic and modern in its sound so relax, pour a glass of wine and enjoy some time in a new jazz galaxy.


name: Gettin Down to Business
sku: jiveasssleepers-getbiz
upc: 876809006785
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/gettin-down-to-business/id336080272
description:
70s infused jazz-funk meets contemporary production in a set of danceable grooves and chilled out moods. With an emphasis on simple catchy melodies, jazzy improvisation and a funky beat, the sound is crisp and tight so put it on and groove on down the highway.


name: Scratch
sku: jiveasssleepers-scratch
upc: 876809002312
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/scratch/id369479543
description:
Album number three sees further adventures into jazz and funk, this time also exploring elements of reggae, latin and even some turntable scratching. The grooves are mostly laid back but still funky enough to make you want to dance. Electric guitar is predominantly featured, weaving jazzy, melodic lines over some solid drums, bass, keyboards and horns.


name: Piano Colors
sku: jheimbaecher-pianocolors
upc: 847646008560
description:
My music is to tell stories and the language in music is the center of my work. Occasionally dissonance or rapid changes within the formal structure make the melodies appear sometimes gloomy and at other times gentle.

Structures bring developments in motion and create melodies. These relationships are constantly rediscovering and therefore always creating new stories.


name: Before You Go
sku: jpalese-beforeugo
upc: 847646001981
description:
The music on this album was originally inspired by a question from a friend, "Why don't you combine your Yoga practice with your music?"

With that I set out to compose music that would be a nice back drop for a Yoga practice but at the same time just interesting, mellow instrumental music. Using sounds, harmonies and melodies from various parts of my music and yoga background this album was a joy to create.


name: High-Fidelity
sku: joesmith-highfidelity
upc: 847646008843
description:
Denver-based vintage jazz group Joe Smith and The Spicy Pickles present High-Fidelity, an album of all original swing music inspired by the classic small group sounds of the late 30's and early 40's. The concept behind "High-Fidelity" is to provide a smart recording of new, danceable tunes for the swing and blues communities.

The album aims to give dancers and listeners alike more of what they love, but haven't heard before. The band leader and self-admitted purist, Joe Smith, deliberately cut out all of the excessive noise that detracts from the album's primary objective: delivering quality music. Devoid of crowdfunding, pretentious artwork, and politics, the music speaks for itself.

With the debut of "High Fidelity", the Pickles bring forth the band's identity. They do not intend to merely mimic the greats, but aspire to create new tunes that celebrate the refined spirit of pre-war swing and entertainment. Written with historic acumen in composition, arrangement, tempo, rhythm, and sound quality - along with true vintage instruments and set-up - the band crafts an accurate and authentic sound that reintroduces American swing to a new generation.

As a group, the band honed their recording process and musicianship to provide a pristine sound that is decidedly unique. The album opens and closes with the band's theme song "Slow Cookin'" in an homage to the big band era's days of radio shows. "The Pen is Mightier" pays tribute to the small group Goodman sound featuring a melody played by Elijah Samuels on clarinet, Joseph Chudyk on vibes, and Al Scholl on guitar. Featuring Prescott Blackler on trombone and Adam Sammakia on bass, "The Baltiquerque Stomp" is a fast, driving number with a nod to early jazz. "Benny's Blues" is an ode to current New Orleans trumpet player, Ben Polcer, and "It's Alright for a Night" pays tribute to Cole Porter. The band takes inspiration from Billy Strayhorn and the Duke Ellington Orchestra for "The Gherkin Train", which features Elijah Samuels on tenor sax. All tracks on the album were composed and arranged by horn players, Elijah Samuels, Prescott Blackler, and Joe Smith.


name: Enchanted Daydreams
sku: jbwallach-encdaydreams
upc: 847646001196
description:
Enchanted Daydreams: gracefully beautiful neo-classical solo piano, united with the refreshing healing vitality of the new age. Enchanted Daydreams awakens the magnificent worlds within us with iridescent harmonies and vividly flowing melodies.

Joel creates an absorbing sound world that pleasurably enlivens our waking dreams. These enticing musical gems cultivate the sparkle in our hearts and help us re-discover our feelings of delight, hope, and inspiration.

Enchanted Daydreams encourages us to bring our awareness to our daydreams. We feel the evocative waves of musical harmonies as they shift. We notice our inner fanciful reveries. As we befriend our inner world, it shares its wonders with us, and this enlivens our body, nourishes our heart and mind, and enjoyably awakens our soul to the most satisfying universal truths. And as we gaze at the world around us, we realize that we are experiencing that world in a special new way.

Our daydreams might seem to be innocent diversions amidst our daily life, and yet daydreams can be profound pathways to our deeper self. When we touch our potential through our daydreams, we access the inner magic and power of our inner living wellspring. And in our modern world, where everything has become a chaotic mosaic built of countless fragments, our daydreams may be the gentle healing call from our deeper essence - a source within that always seeks to comfort, guide, and even transform us.


name: Heartstrings, Call of the Harp
sku: jbwallach-heartstrings
upc: 847646005262
description:
These evocatively ethereal and emotional harp works were originally created as dreamy piano pieces. And yet, this modern impressionistic style was actually inspired by the sparkling sound-world of the classical harp. I had the sense that if this music could speak, it would ask to be presented with the timelessly magical sound of the solo harp.

The sweet sound of the harp helps the music touch rare and subtle feelings within you with healing sound vibrations that harp uniquely shares. Let these heart-inspiring harmonies sweep gently through your body and soul. May these harp-songs bring you peace, tranquility, and the refreshing aural scent of wonder and delight.


name: In Moonlight
sku: jbwallach-inmoonlight
upc: 847646004180
description:
These elegant neo-classical solo piano works evolve at a graceful pace that cultivates your wellbeing at every level.

The moon is subtle, and though it doesn't generate its own light as the sun does, the moon offers its own distinctive subtle and mystical gifts for you to explore. Let the magical piano works of In Moonlight support your heart in feeling safe, peaceful, and glad to be alive.

Take a nice slow breath,
Let yourself contemplate and dream,
Hear the whisper of eternity, echoing through all of time,
Resonating through your consciousness...
And peacefully explore the delicious beauty of this moment with In Moonlight.


name: Magical Tales
sku: jbwallach-magicalt
upc: 847646002001
description:
Magical Tales - Sagas For Solo Piano

Magical Tales features beautiful neo-classical solo piano that transports you to wondrous subtle dimensions rarely felt consciously.

Your heart and aura will harmonize with the magical possibilities that this music evokes in your deeper being.

A portal opens... there is room for you to breathe... you allow yourself to float freely and as far as your imagination takes you... rediscovering places within you that are given permission to flourish freely.

The seahorse expresses the universal truth in its mystic spiral tail, and reminds you of your own inner treasure, which is your capacity to dream and to create from your essence.


name: Memories Midnight Scented
sku: jbwallach-mmscented
upc: 847646004173
description:
These elegant neo-classical solo piano fantasies help you peel away the stress of the day, and help you relax into your essence - that meaningful inner realm rarely accessed amidst the bustle of daylight hours.

Whether you're wanting to discover peace in your heart, find balance in your mind, or just revel in the delightfully sweet aroma of musical fantasies, the rare beauty of Memories Midnight Scented can help you nourish the deepest essence of your being.

Let the music gently waft its enjoyably delicate fragrance into your space, and let yourself be inspired by these magically serene flights of musical fancy that resonate within your heart and soul.


name: Passions and Fantasies for Solo Piano
sku: jbwallach-passions
upc: 847646000366
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/passions-fantasies-for-solo/id432545560
description:
Neo-classical new age solo piano.

For those of us with a taste for quiet reflection.
We breathe in the fragrant delight that lives within this gloriously full moment.
And we are inspired by the sacred space that opens up within us. Welcome.

Passions And Fantasies is a deliciously subtle sensory feast of enchanting solo piano harmonies, in a flowing neo-classical new-age style. This music inspires us with inner peace and delight, and even helps manifest our sacred space within. Inspired by the elegant neo-classic fantasy miniatures of Chopin, Satie, Faure, and Debussy, Joel's sound world awakens and delicately nurtures the rich space of timeless beauty that exists within our soul. We discover delicious atmospheric delights flowing as a musical stream within our heart - a rippling breeze that gently awakens and liberates the scent in the flower fields of our mind.

When we let the harmonies gently activate those rare, yet subtle essences within us that have been forgotten amidst the chaos of daily modern life, we breathe a sigh of relief. This music lets time expand in a curiously wonderful way, as the spiritual gift of each song resonates within our heart and soul. This music frees us to embrace the infinite sacred space that truly exists within each enchanted moment in time.

We tend to think of passion as being extravagant or ungrounded, but passion has a centered and balanced expression as well... Ancient mystic sages have said that passion, joined to spiritual awareness, becomes a unifying mystical experience. We discover this by gently breathing into the richness of this moment, enjoying it, and feeling our heart and mind savor the taste of this subtle experience. As we become gently focused and centered in each wonderful musical moment, this reveals the sacred divine space within us. Our sacred space within includes our living individual self, and also includes the infinite universe... a paradox that brings a smile to our heart.

When the 19th century neo-romantics and impressionists were expressing their flights of musical fantasy, they were gently extending the musical language from the structured classical musical principles that came before them. They were revealing how freely flowing fantasy can be passionately expressed within a stabilizing - yet flowing and evolving - musical structure. This shows us how passions and fantasies can flourish within the balanced presence of mindfulness and harmony. These are not contradictions, but give us hope that we can learn to be peacefully centered and passionately alive to our highest ideals in each moment.

And so it is that we can unite the neo-classic ideals of balance with the loftily expansive impulses of the new age. Just as the yin-yang symbol expresses the unity of polarities, so too can neo-classical new-age music be its own living yin-yang symbol that heals us with its unifying and expansive harmonies.

May we let our passions find delightful expression within the sacred space of each mindful breath we take. And may we discover that our fantasies for a peaceful and enlightened world are more than fantasies, because they are the true impulses of our soul, seeking to express the timeless realities and infinite possibilities of peace, happiness, and harmony in this world.


name: Don't Wake Me
sku: joeyfehrenbach-dontwakeme
upc: 876809009953
description:
Don't Wake Me is the follow up to Joey Fehrenbach's successful Mellowdrama album. This album is every bit as intoxicating as the previous album, but perhaps on a more upbeat note. While Mellowdrama was a bit moodier and melancholy, Don't Wake Me is very emotionally uplifting.


name: Mellowdrama
sku: joeyfehrenbach-mellowdrama
upc: 876809009946
description:
Mellowdrama captures what it sounds like to fall in love, to remember old friends, to feel lonely, and to feel at peace and safe indoors on a rainy day. Joey Fehrenbach uses intricate melody and atmosphere to create sonic backgrounds that capture the essence of the human soul. This is the one thought-provoking laid back electronic album not to miss.


name: Elements
sku: holowach-elements
upc: 876809005627
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=267133443&s=143444
description:
John Holowach leads us into his assemblage of cleanly elegant downtempo electronic tracks with some spare, astringent strings, then opens things up significantly with trip-hop influences, haunting echoes of classical, and a wonderfully airy, spacious feeling overall. Elements is a beautifully chilled out album, but also a subtly crisp and energizing one-a great choice to play at work.


name: Bad Things Happen All The Time
sku: jjackson-badthings
upc: 876809004897
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257796701&s=143444
description:
What is it about Bad Things Happen All The Time that makes it seem both instantly familiar and totally original? Maybe it's how relevant Jackson's writing is, with genius lyrics that reference war, history, and the frustration felt with those who turn a blind eye to these. Or maybe it's how sophisticated the melodies are; they stick after just one listen, like a less elliptical Radiohead or something Bono might have written had he become a solo performer instead of a stadium rock god. Though bitingly critical, this music is never dispassionate or cynical. There are layers here, countermelodies, instrumentation...heart. The title track, "Bad Things Happen All the Time," is a brilliantly subtle critique of the misguided optimism of political leaders, and is an absolute must-hear.


name: JH
sku: johnnyhouse-jh
upc: 847646005859
description:
This album incorporates its own blend of electronica, house and techno with some jazz, easy listening and rock influences.

Notes on the songs:

A scattering quantum of light finds that....(1)

.... Like dewdrops we watch this morning sky as it comes by (2) Such shimmering beacons of delight, traveling the distances of our own hearts (4) It's a marvelous journey, to take us safe home (6) ....

... But the thundering night has made its call (3) Man is but a bleeding shadow, to the sea of the light (5) And our shrieks resonate into immensity, longing for the flight (7) ...

Will you join it through the memory of your mind? (8)


name: Bent Oh Man
sku: jonswift-bentohman
upc: 847646009130
description:
Bent! Oh Man by OreJon Swift

Instrumental.
Experimental.
Improvised.
Mostly Pretty Sounds.
Acoustic and electric sources.

Drums, Horns, Synths, Guitars, Muchos Effectos.

Moods created or possibly disturbed.
Excellent for painting, dishwashing and woolgathering.

Full spectrum from Crashing, Crazy Freakouts to Zen, Lullaby-ish Softness.


name: Travelog
sku: jonswift-travelog
upc: 847646007280
description:
Soothing Acoustic Guitar Instrumentals; "....a rare and beautiful album....great melodies and guitar playing set in haunting arrangements." Owes more to pop, classical, and eastern music than jazz. Natural sounding instrumentation.......a nice contrast to noodling new-age synths and saxophones. An unique soundtrack in search of a movie, a good movie.

Swift excels at creating melodies and embellishing them with subtle supporting arrangements. Layers of additional guitar, piano, and percussion give many of the pieces an ensemble sound but it is all the work of an individual.

Though well produced, the album has a quasi low-fi aesthetic that lets the melodies speak for themselves and gives the album a more intimate feel than the mass of contemporary instrumental music that tends to be hyper-polished and without soul.

Travelog is a soothing and intriguing album that works well as a backdrop to your relaxations but is also clever enough for intent listening.


name: bachconnections
sku: jfa-bach
upc: 876809001940
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/bach-connections/id370503168
description:
'Bach Connections' celebrates the kaleidoscopic art of Johann Sebastian Bach in an invigorating recital of concerto movements, chorale preludes and fantasias. Framed by two exceptionally ebullient concerto allegros, the programme neatly juxtaposes Bach's mentor Buxtehude with a distinguished 19th-century performer-composer (Sigfrid Karg-Elert), alongside a famous re-working of a Venetian work (Alessandro Marcello) and a supremely lyrical essay by a highly-regarded student of Bach's (Johan LudwigKrebs). The modern transcriber-performer finds his own peculiar connection with J.S. Bach in original new repertoire for the thrilling combination of organ and trumpet. In the words of Gramophone, 'the present disc can hardly be bettered'.


name: Sonatas For Trumpet And Organ
sku: jfa-sonatas
upc: 876809002121
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/sonatas-for-trumpet-and-organ/id370502117
description:
'Baroque Trumpet and Organ' is a dazzling display of quintessential, early eighteenth-century sounds at their most resonant and instantly harmonious. Including some of the period's most celebrated figures, such as Girolamo Frescobaldi, Tomaso Albinoni, Georg Philip Telemann and Georg Muffat, this opulent and expressive programme explores some of the period's finest canzonas, sonatas, suites and concertos in rejuvenated arrangements for these two 'kings of instruments'. The BBC Music Magazine described this disc as 'a project whose every facet declares itself handsomely devised and superbly realised'. Beware the gunshot in one track!!


name: Reflections
sku: josephnimoh-reflections
upc: 876809005849
description:
This album was inspired by a season of stillness in my life. These beautiful melodies and harmonies paint my thoughts and reflections during that time in my journey through life. Blending elements of classical, jazz, and contemporary music, Reflections is a stunning collection of solo piano melodies soaked in genuine emotion. This album highlights the power of the piano to evoke a spectrum of emotions. Gentle and meditative, the music presents a wealth of harmonic as well as melodic character and nuance. I do hope to convey to my audience that though the vicissitudes of life may at times cause despair and pain, there is hope and restoration in Jesus.


name: Rebirth
sku: juansanchez-rebirth
upc: 847646009970
description:
My name is Juan Sánchez and I am a composer. I started taking piano lessons at the conservatoire when I was 14 and during the end of the 80's until the end of the 90's I played keyboards with different bands. In 1995 I went to London to study music and technology, and I lived there for five years.

In 1999 I started making instrumental Ambient electronic music and since then I have been creating music for multimedia and sound libraries for music producers.

I have been very grateful with my job as an Ambient music composer and sound designer, but I did not feel completely fulfilled with this as I always dreamed about becoming a professional pianist and composer. However, I didn't have the confidence to pursue a career as a professional piano music composer. I felt that this was only for very talented musicians and I did not see myself this way.

One day, I discovered the music of Max Richter and Ludovico Einaudi and I felt in love with their compositions. I've always been a fan of Ambient music, and this is the music I was creating at that time. But after listening to the music from these artists, I loved the way they were mixing classical music with electronic sounds, with the piano as the main instrument. I then started discovering other artists, such as Nils Frahm, Olafur Arnalds and others called Neo Classical composers and I was very inspired by all of them. So I started composing music in this style.

The first piece was a Neo Classical/Ambient piano composition called "Rebirth". In March 2019, I released "Rebirth" as a single on Spotify and other music streaming platforms, and to my surprise, it was very well-received. People started adding it to their playlists, and I was receiving very good feedback from listeners and music bloggers who gave me some very positive reviews.

This gave me the confidence to start creating more Neo Classical/Ambient piano focused music and I was releasing each composition as a single on Spotify. My audience was growing and the feedback was incredible, I was happy and also very surprised as I had never thought that my music could be so well received.

I was also very lucky to have the support of New Age/Neo Classical music promoter BT Fasmer who runs the popular New Age Music Guide blog. He recommended me to release all of the singles as an album. So I followed his advice and released the album "Rebirth" in September 2019. Thanks BT for your support!

The positive response I am receiving for this album is just incredible, every day I receive comments on Twitter and Facebook about how beautiful the album is. Some people have told me that the album has created an impact in them in a way some other albums don't. Some other people said that they cried when they listened to it as it touched their souls. I am very happy for how things are evolving with the album and very grateful with the people's reaction, this for a composer is such a great achievement.

Some people have asked me why I named the album "Rebirth", they wanted to know what was the meaning behind this title so here is the explanation:

During the last two years I've started to learn how to reprogram my brain and overcome my self-limiting beliefs that were hindering my growth by taking personal development courses, now I feel that in some way I am becoming a new person hence the title of the album "Rebirth".


name: Thankful
sku: judsonhurd-thankful
upc: 847646006054
description:
Love is the universal language and the thing that binds us all together. It comes in many forms and has given me much of my inspiration over the years. Love is beautiful and can be a difficult feeling to describe.

I hope that my music does it justice and that anyone who listens will feel what I felt when composing each song. I dedicate this to my wife because she has stood by my side, encouraging me to keep writing. Hopefully I am able to express what words cannot describe as I continue on my journey.

This album is dedicated to my strong and beautiful wife. I composed the album over a span of seven years, encompassing my experiences with personal growth, life, and the most important is love.


name: Parlour Cornet Solos
sku: juliafindon-victorianacorent
upc: 847646009314
description:
An album of 16 nostalgic melodies from years back, beautifully performed as cornet solos with a variety of backings, including brass band, saxophones, piano and harmonium. Some more well known than others, they're all presented and played with great style by London cornet player Julia Findon.


name: Essence Vol 1
sku: julianblackmore-essence
upc: 847646006740
description:
Electronica meets ambient, and fuses with spirituality, in this exciting new project by New York based composer and producer Julian Blackmore.

Deeply hypnotic pads and pulsing textures ebb and flow to create a soothing soundscape, reminiscent of Tangerine Dream or Brian Eno's ambient work. Each 20 minute track is carefully structured to take the listener into a deeper state of relaxation before returning to the surface.

Take a moment...

Essence Vol.1 is a 40 minute sound journey in two parts, ideal for use during meditation or yoga, guided hypnosis, or simply for relaxation.


name: Solitude
sku: julianblackmore-solitude
upc: 847646006795
description:
Dark electronica meets ambient in this exciting new project by New York based composer and producer Julian Blackmore.

Deep hypnotic pads and pulsing synthetic textures ebb and flow to create a dark and eery soundscape, reminiscent of Tangerine Dream or Autechre. If you like your ambient music on the darker side, this EP is for you.

'Solitude' is a one-track, 20 minute EP.


name: L'Insulaire
sku: justinstpierre-insulaire
upc: 876809008086
description:
Justin St-Pierre released The Insular in late 2015. Essentially composed in Montreal, it has been finished in New Caledonia, a small pacific island, dreamed land on the other side of the world.

The Insular is the artist's third album, after Rafiot (2009) and La Faille (2012). For a year now, Justin St-Pierre has been traveling the world, looking for inspiration and multicultural sharings. His music is an invitation to travel, inspired by the feelings and the places he came across over time. Full of emotions, the instrumental pieces have to be listened to with attention, because they touch the heart and soul in such subtle ways. Let yourself go...


name: La Faille
sku: justinstpierre-lafaille
upc: 876809008079
description:
La Faille (The Fault) is Justin St-Pierre's second album, which he published in 2011 as a tribute to his native land, in which gold mining still constitutes an important industry. Dedicated to his father, who died in the mines, this album also is a way to say goodbye to this region. Deep and soulful, La Faille will make you dream of vast landscapes and lead you into the depths of Mother Earth.


name: Rafiot
sku: justinstpierre-rafiot
upc: 847646009574
description:
Justin St-Pierre started fingerstyle techniques in 2003 and explored this way of playing guitar while owning a cultural bar in North Quebec called "Rafiot". The guitarist built his album thanks to the many artists that played there and inspired him. Rafiot is the story of all the people that sat at his bar, all the legends and the discoveries.


name: Kaila Flexer and Friends, Original Music Inspired by Far-Flung Fiddle Traditions
sku: kflexer-kflexerfriends
upc: 847646007501
description:
Kaila Flexer is a violinist, composer and music educator. In addition to founding acoustic groups Third Ear and Next Village, which showcase her original compositions, Kaila has performed with violinist Shira Kammen, KITKA Women's Vocal Ensemble, violinist Hollis Ashby and the silent film band Club Foot Orchestra.

Kaila is half of the duo, Teslim (with multi-instrumentalist, Gari Hegedus), who have collaborated with Ross Daly, Kelly Thoma and Miles Jay, Hamed Nikpay and Tobias Roberson.

From the panoramic "Lucid Dreaming" to the Slinky "Bride's Knot", Flexer's first two CD's showcase her love of Balkan and Brazilian music, bluegrass, klezmer and jazz - she gathers inspiration from the gardens of the traditional and vernacular to sow new and expansive musical landscapes.

This is a musical gold mine: so many fiddle traditions are seamlessly drawn into a series of mysterious songs, with humor leaking from many corners. These musical short stories fly all over the globe, often coming to rest in some indeterminate but vivid urban ethnic enclave. The uncannily entwined folk styles spin out each tale like a hummingbird's life, full of unexpected turns, asides, and sudden direct flight.
Darol Anger, violinist

Deadly serious musicianship leavened with a buoyant, wink-and-a-nod spirit, Next Village is a spicy, protein-rich repast of regional tastes combined into a plucky fusion cuisine that's anything but the flavor-of-the-month.
James Rotondi, musician/journalist

All songs by Kaila Flexer except the following:
Trapeze Secrets by Flexer and Jovino Santos Neto
Tune of Choice by Flexer and Mike Marshall

Musicians on these tracks:
Kaila Flexer, violin
Nikolai Prisakar - accordion
Joel Davel - marimba and percussion
Cindy Browne - double bass
Julian Smedley - violin, octave violin
Mike Marshall - mandolin
Matt Eakle - flutes and apple juice jug
Rob Ickes - dobro
Tom Miller - percussion
Aaron Johnston - drums and percussion
Brian Rice - percussion
Jovino Santos Neto - piano
Andy Narell - steel pan


name: Looking There
sku: kaissa-lookingthere
upc: 876809008802
description:
LOOKING THERE is an album of modern African music with elements of rhythm 'n' blues, pop, and jazz. Showcasing various rhythms from Cameroonian Makossa to reggae, Afro-beat and R'n'B, Kaissa's music connects with the listener without artifices. Kaissa has drawn from her country's cultural vibrancy and her family's musical tradition. The themes are love, loss, sociopolitical issues, women's rights, hope, optimism, poverty, war, unrest, honoring ancestors and immigration. Holding it all together is the focus on her hauntingly beautiful voice, powerful yet silky. She still entertains by delivering downright fun dance songs for the pure party enjoyment!

Kaissa says, "I strongly believe that my mission as an artist is not only to entertain and bring joy, but also to offer an artistic and cultural understanding of each other by creating a cultural bridge over racial, cultural and ethnic differences."


name: Cello Circles
sku: kalyansam-cellocircles
upc: 847646006689
description:
Cello Circles is an album of improvised cello and acoustic guitar with rich musical textures and beautifully crafted original compositions. Hear the many colors and nuances of the cello, the Emperor of the Orchestra.

Kalyan's playful approach to the cello merges with eight compositions that celebrate the music and sound of one of the most loved instruments of the classical orchestra. With tones of depth, beauty and joyous spontaneity, Kalyan's cello soars higher and higher on the rich textures of Sambodhi Prem's guitar.

Recorded between 2001 and 2008 Cello Circles has taken its own time to come to a point of completion. Started as a fun project between friends living on opposite sides of the globe, this album organically grew into a richly orchestrated ode to the many colours and nuances of the cello.

Sambodhi Prem has been a recording artist with releases dating back to the mid-eighties, mostly guitar-based instrumental music and introspective titles for relaxation.

Kalyan is a classically trained cellist and multi instrumentalist, with skills on stringed and wind instruments. This album has his cello in the main role, but there are also plenty of minor roles for a host of interesting instruments that he plays.

The Indian dilruba is heard on two pieces, plucked on the intro of 'Leaving Space' and bowed on the last piece 'Spring Water', the Japanese kyotaku flute can be heard on 'This Moment'. And there are the more familiar sounds of the fretless bass and the recorder, all played by Kalyan.

By no means is this an album of world-music mishmashes, the tone is focussed on the cello but there's enough breathing space for many other sounds to have a place. Most pieces are 'down-tempo', but with a constantly changing landscape of sounds.

The compositions were written by both players - Sambodhi did most of the production and the recording of the backing tracks. You can hear that lots of thought went into the compositions, as the music is never repetitive and it holds your interest even after repeat listenings.

Sambodhi Prem says:

"My collaboration with Kalyan has been a wonderful journey of reaching across physical oceans, but with a musical closeness and creative richness - resulting in 8 compositions where the sound of the cello merges with my guitar, the textures of my studio, and the range of other instruments that Kalyan plays.

During the recording of Cello Circles I was mostly living "down-under" in Australia and New Zealand, while Kalyan lives in Canada. We collaborated from afar, working together for the love of music, for our own entertainment, until we found that music had emerged which we felt to share with more people than just our closest friends.

At the heart of this music is improvisation - the starting point that guides us when we create. Add a little bit of musical luck and a few blessings from the gods of technology, plus a heavy dose of work to bring things to completion - making music is a bit like cooking - timing and tasting is everything.

Over the course of this recording, which started in 2001 and was released in September 2008, I've fallen in love with the sound of the cello. Kalyan's approach towards the instrument is playful, yet deep. His meditative energy makes the instrument the perfect vehicle for his musical expression. Being an experienced musician on Indian instruments like the dilruba and the rudra veena gives him a point of reference very few cellists have. He brings so much to the instrument and to this project, I feel truly honored to be working with him.

I love the cello because it's able to express great depths of sadness and is equally able to reach the heights of joy - expressing a special kind of joy - a joy that has a depth unique amongst musical instruments.

I also want to mention that I've been fortunate having Sandipa help me with the delicate process of making music long-distance and receiving her great support. She created a beautiful painting, Harmony in Lily Flat Major, while this album was being recorded which you can see on the cover.

One of the best things in my life is to create music with a friend and feeling the connection and shared understanding when all the pieces fall into place and there is an expression of both our uniqueness, merged into one flow. I have experienced this while playing in a live setting, but to have that same feeling on a recording has been a most wonderful gift."

What people are saying about Cello Circles:

"A big and hearty congratulations on your orchestral and sonic triumph of sound and soul with your gifted as well colleague Kalyan. You are both genius of creating a sonic tapestry that is masterful. Each of you give us so many voices to listen to and as a cellist I would have to say that Kalyan is a first rate modern jazz and world music cellist and like you exhibit gifts as a multi instrumentalist. You are both stunning and profound, congratulations."
David Darling, Grammy Award Winning Composer and Cellist and Founder of Music For People, USA


name: Kara Nomadica
sku: kara-kara
upc: 876809007430
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/kara-nomadica/id336088817
description:
Kara Nomadica is a fusion of ancient and exotic instruments from the Middle-East, North Africa, and Australia. This album captures a fresh new sound that is driven by traditional iqaat (rhythms) and maqamat (micro-tonal scales) of Turkey and the Arab world. The band's original compositions attain a truly unique synergy while also breathing new life into a select repertoire of traditional Middle-Eastern classics.

Denver music reviewer John Zwick says, "Kara Nomadica is what happens when you bring together a mess of overqualified music geeks with Middle Eastern instruments you've never heard of...it's a damn captivating sound."


name: A Better Picture
sku: katwebb-betterpicture
upc: 847646005552
description:
A Better Picture is Kat Webb's sophomore album of original soul music. It draws on the numerous musical styles in Webb's background, including some folk from her home state of Texas, some blues from the South, and some New Jack Swing from her new home on the East Coast.

It was co-produced by world-class musician and veteran producer, Christian Ver Halen (Maya Azucena, Kendra Ross), and musician and band leader, Jesse Fischer (Soul Cycle, Gretchen Parlato).


name: Delicatessen
sku: semmensdevine-delicatessen
upc: 847646005576
description:
A beautiful selection of English Restoration and Baroque song, performed by the radiant clear soprano of Kate Semmens. Famous pieces such as Henry Purcell's Music for a While and If Music be the Food of Love are presented alongside a gem of a cantata by John Stanley, Pleasure Garden songs by William Boyce and Maurice Greene and other repertoire by John Blow, Henry Purcell and William Croft.

There are also harpsichord solos by Henry Purcell, John Blow and Maurice Greene, played by Steven Devine.


name: Vol 1 - Well Tempered Clavier Book 2 'Sharp Keys'
sku: kperl-clavier1
upc: 876809006297
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Johann Sebastian Bach's pure polyphony gets along grandly with Katherine Roberts Perl's improvisatory spark for a recording that is fresh and fluid, yet also skillfully precise. Many musicians are intimidated by the complex, cerebral nature of the fugues, but Perl's expressive gifts and masterful sense of timing mean that she took great pleasure in these compositions, and her delight definitely comes through in the recording. Perl chose to performs these pieces in related key groups, which she describes as "a much more organic choice for the player." Here she starts with the sharp keys of book two, going around the circle of fifths. The other installment visits the flat keys, progressing through the other side of the circle. Her choice makes for a more natural, and highly rewarding listening experience. Says Perl, "It is with great reverence and humility that I attempt to communicate the awesome breadth, not only of Bach's compositional skill, but the power of his emotional and spiritual expressions."


name: Vol 2 - Well Tempered Clavier Book 2 'Sharp Keys'
sku: kperl-clavier2
upc: 876809006303
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Johann Sebastian Bach's pure polyphony gets along grandly with Katherine Roberts Perl's improvisatory spark for a recording that is fresh and fluid, yet also skillfully precise. Many musicians are intimidated by the complex, cerebral nature of the fugues, but Perl's expressive gifts and masterful sense of timing mean that she took great pleasure in these compositions, and her delight definiely comes through in the recording. Perl chose to performs these pieces in related key groups, which she describes as "a much more organic choice for the player." Here she starts with the sharp keys of book two, going around the circle of fifths. The other installment visits the flat keys, progressing through the other side of the circle. Her choice makes for a more natural, and highly rewarding listening experience. Says Perl, "It is with great reverence and humility that I attempt to communicate the awesome breadth, not only of Bach's compositional skill, but the power of his emotional and spiritual expressions."


name: JS Bach French Suites
sku: kperl-french
upc: 876809004972
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257797584&s=143444
description:
This amazing harpsichordist is known for shaking up the conventional rules of playing by emphasizing the instrument's expressive aspects over its formal ones. Her performances are positively brimming with charisma and passion, and her sense of timing is influenced by the American idioms of blues and jazz, so it's bold, urbane, and full of natural asymmetries that let Johann Sebstian Bach breathe.


name: JS Bach Keyboard Works
sku: kshao-jsbach
upc: 876809008956
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/js-bach-keyboard-works/id411989143
description:
Johann Sebastian Bach's harpsichord music perfectly embodies the sometimes contradictory nature of the instrument. From the languid lute-like textures borrowed from the French clavecinistes, to the abstract clarity that made it the supreme vehicle for the rigor of his counterpoint, Bach's music blends these elements with such mastery that it achieves a timeless crystallization of the sensual and the intellectual, the antique and the modern. His compositions define the harpsichord at least as much as the harpsichord, above all other instruments, defines Bach.

Commentators have pointed to French influence in many of Bach's works; but the style and spirit of the great French harpsichord tradition is perhaps best expressed in the Partitas, in spite of their Italianate title. The form of an overture followed by a suite of dances has its roots in the operas of Lully; by Bach's time, this framework had been so thoroughly appropriated by German composers that one may speak of a distinctly German style of suite. Here, however, the dances are so ethereal and textural that they could have come from the pen of Couperin. Only the counterpoint of the Overture and the muscular gravity of the Capriccio are unambiguous in their provenance.

The youthful Toccata in E minor harkens back to the models of Italian masters like Frescobaldi. Improvisatory sections alternate with abstractions of the recitato style before giving way to a rhythmically driven three part fugue on an unusually busy theme.

The Fantasy and Fugue in A minor does not appear in any of Bach's published collections and follows the model he would later exploit so kaleidoscopically in the Well-Tempered Clavier. The Fantasy is based on a descending tetrachord, which gives it a nostalgic, harmonically static feel, while the long, dense, chromatic double fugue that follows balances the work with unmatched severity.

The Prelude, Fugue and Allegro in Eb major may have been originally composed for lute, and the long sections on pedal tones of the Prelude are at the very least imbued with the spirit of that instrument. In the following double fugue, Bach employs a unique compositional tactic: a full "da capo" recapitulation of the opening page, giving the listener a rare second chance to appreciate his deft juggling of the thematic material. The rollicking finale in triple meter completes and complements one of his sunniest keyboard compositions

- written by Gonzalo X. Ruiz


name: Kathleen McIntosh plays Bach
sku: kmcintosh-bach
upc: 876809006570
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/kathleen-mcintosh-plays-bach/id441996238
description:
Beautiful playing and superb recording team up to put the listener right on the bench beside the performer in this second recording from the Maricam Studio. McIntosh essays some less frequently played Bach works, emphasizing the lyrical and expressive, the wonder and the endless variety of Johann Sebastian Bach.

"The playing is fresh and insightful, eager and probing; its artistic skies are sunny with discovery...The French Overture proceeds with perfect poise...while the Fantasy and Fugue in A minor is like listening to McIntosh build a palace of sound...Highly recommended."
Craig Smith - The Santa Fe New Mexican


name: JS Bach (Inventions and Sinfonias)
sku: kmcintosh-bachinvsin
upc: 847646000748
description:
JS Bach - Inventions and Sinfonias - these are small works of art, beautifully crafted in two and three parts and exploring a variety of tonalities. They were written by Johann Sebastian Bach for his son, Wilhelm Friedman, when the child was only nine years old, and today they are often undervalued as simple teaching pieces.

McIntosh makes a convincing case otherwise, exploring the artistry and imagination of each individual piece beyond its technical demands. Also included are Bach's "Little Preludes".


name: Boismortier (Harpsichord music)
sku: kmcintosh-boismortier
upc: 847646000731
description:
Boismortier: Harpsichord music

Joseph Bodin de Boismortier was born in 1689 in the Age of Enlightenment, a period of enormous optimism. By 1724 he had begun to self publish, and he achieved great financial success without having to rely on the largess of patrons. His music is elegant, witty and charming - but mostly written for players of modest technical ability, his amateur customers. Nonetheless, his near contemporary, Jean-Benjamin La Borde, wrote of his work in 1780 that "whoever takes the trouble to search through this abandoned mine will find enough bits of gold to make an ingot."

The four suites on this album are the only works for solo harpsichord in Boismortier's huge output. The music fits the instrument so beautifully that it surely counts among the gold. Each movement bears a feminine title, many of which call to mind specific ladies in the composer's circle. La Choquante, for example, is the one who loves to shock!

The album ends with five keyboard transcriptions from the last scene of Boismortier's ballet-comique, Don Quichotte [chez la Duchesse] of 1743. Drawing on example of his close contemporary, Jean-Phillip Rameau, the artist has arranged the aird and dances of the final scene. In keeping with the French craze for things exotic - and having nothing at all to do with Cervantes' story - a contingent of Japanese people arrives, singing "Vole, Amour, regne sur nos ames!" - Fly, Love, reign in our hearts!


name: Antonio Soler Sonatas
sku: kmcintosh-soler
upc: 876809006648
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/antonio-soler-sonatas/id441992114
description:
"Padre Antonio Soler" - Sonatas for Harpsichord

The eleven Soler sonatas move from the intimacy of "cante" to the fire of flamenco, capturing the color and drama of Spain. Beautiful playing and a superb recording put the listener right on the bench beside the performer.

"This is probably the finest recording of selected sonatas of Soler that I have heard; indeed, I find it even more satisfying than the fine performances on a modern piano by the esteemed Alicia de Larrocha." - Victor Hill, "The Diapason"


name: Kora
sku: kkahra-kora
upc: 876809008338
description:
A mix of world music and contemporary electronica. Kato Kahra is an independent musical project which was formed in 2007 by two music producers, Tomas Hradec and Kamil Kavecka, who colaborate with various artists from all over the world. Kato Kahra mixes electronic music with any interesting live instruments and vocals.


name: One Music
sku: kkahra-onemusic
upc: 876809008833
description:
A mix of world music and contemporary electronica. Colourful music filled with multiform ideas which paint routine days with daydream imaginations. Feel unique, exotic and non-bored rhythms which will surround you during playing this album.


name: Add Viola and Stir
sku: katrinawreede-addviola
upc: 847646008782
description:
Stir up a tasteful mixture of humor, wit, drama, and passion from one acoustic viola with a few good friends. Katrina Wreede, a former Turtle Island String Quartet violist and composer, creates unique and compelling jazz, blues, tango, classical, and swampy, swingy, pulsing sound collages in her trademark "California Eclectic" style.

Flow from a "martini and melancholy" cool jazz blues into a jazz waltz blend of Bill Evans and Dave Brubeck, including an eastern European "Take Five" section. There's a Latin jazz melody inspired by French Impressionist composer, d'Indy, an ebullient tango with accordion, the elegant and introspective "Scenes" for harp and viola, a blindingly fast, Baroque-flavored groove called "Romp", and the powerfully intense cry to the heavens, "Invocation #3", accompanied by giant chimes.


name: Cirque Montage
sku: kavanah-cirmontage
upc: 847646001370
description:
This soundtrack to the hit traveling circus show, Cirque Montage, is an eclectic mix of World Music, Electronica, Jazz and Cirque. Composer Martin St-Pierre and vocalist Kate St-Pierre are both Cirque du Soleil and Dragone (Le Reve) alumni.


name: Legacy
sku: kenbonfield-legacy
upc: 847646009765
description:
Legacy, Bonfield's fifth solo CD and second all solo-guitar album, is a retrospective collection of some of his finest compositions. Recorded on Alan Carruth's custom baritone and harp guitars, it's an incredibly rich and diverse collection of music. The tonality is amazing. Recorded live in the studio by Tom Eaton, this is a true audiophile recording capturing Bonfield's finest recordings at the height of the guitarists career.

1. Renaissance: An upbeat folk tune performed on long-scale baritone.

2. Angela's Ashes: A moody piece inspired by Frank McCourt's Pulitzer prize winning memoirs of the same name.

3. Centerline: Inspired by a scene from the movie Pulp Fiction-highly textured, and performed on Harp Guitar.

4. Mirage: A rhythmic dance through the dunes of an Egyptian desert.

5. The Passing: Originally composed for a dying mother many years ago, this is one of Bonfield's most heart-tugging compositions; performed this time for those lost in the Newtown, CT massacre.

6. Nightfall: Bonfield's favorite time of the day is the 'gloaming' hour-that time between night and day that is somehow filled with magic, promise, and occasionally doubt.

7. The Water is Wide: This traditional piece finds rare depth and angst while performed on Bonfield's short-scale baritone.

8. Homage: This up-tempo romp is dedicated to one of Bonfield's first fingerstyle heroes, Leo Kottke.

9. Summer Rain: Bonfield's masterpiece, originally included in his debut CD, Mystic Morning has grown substantially over the past 20 years. Just listen to the thunder of those sub-bass strings from the Harp Guitar!

10. Longing for the Day: a prayer for peace, a prayer for love, and a prayer of hope.

11. Wismean's View: Bonfield's song of a hawk soaring over a canopy of trees may be one of his strongest melodies.

12. The Name of the Wind: Another piece inspired by literature. This time it's the writing of Patrick Rothfuss and his Kingkiller Chronicles: The Name of the Wind and Wise Man's Fear.


name: Hope
sku: kspringer-hope
upc: 876809008659
description:
Lyrical piano music to lift your spirits.

Hope, that elusive yet ever present thread in all of our lives... this solo piano album explores many different facets of hope.

Starting with the title track: Hope, an original neoclassical song exploring the theme and setting the stage. The songs are both original material and with an eclectic mix of old folk songs, hymns and classical themes flowing seamlessly through the music .

The lyrical piano melodies sing and explore the ever rising and falling cycle of life, joy, pain, happiness, disappointment, but ever present hope.

"I hope you find your cares gently soothed away and your troubles eased as you listen. No matter where you are or what you are going through let your soul be stirred. May it bring you hope." ~ Kendra


name: EPIC
sku: kenji-epic
upc: 876809001780
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=284217781&s=143444
description:
Traveler, documentary filmmaker and musician Kenji Williams makes beautiful music aimed at the mind, body, and spirit. With tracks previously released through Flying Rhino and Bedrock, ABA Structure's sound could be described as progressive or trance. But Kenji steers clear of all the usual tricks on EPIC, employing electro beats, dynamic arrangements, sparse but devastatingly effective melodies, and flashes of emotional clarity, while Irina Mikhailova provides soulful, otherworldly vocals. On closer listen, Williams's original sound is more in tune with the great experimental techno of Dave Moufang, Russ Gabriel and the Black Dog. From the ambient skank of "Luna Dub" to the gorgeous tech-house of "Houseboats" and the deep breakbeats of "Yelo", Kenji unassumingly activates the imagination and takes us deep into a world of animated spirit.


name: Faces of Epiphany
sku: kenji-faces
upc: 876809001773
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=284217782&s=143444
description:
e.piph.a.ny (n):
1. A revelatory manifestation of a divine being.
2. A sudden manifestation of the essence or meaning of something.
3. A comprehension or perception of reality by means of a sudden intuitive realization

"Faces of Epiphany" is a 9 track album by artist Kenji Williams of ABA Structure. There is perhaps no other musical release that integrates such rich violin orchestration with intoxicating/progressive techno, tech house, and tech trance. From track 1 - Spirit Walker's hawking arabic vocal, to track 3's pre-released #1 hit track - "Illusion" (released on a Bedrock compilation, but never released on CD until now), to track 4's straight up sexy vocal house track "Never look Away", to the deep violin-electro track 5 "Death and Rain" to the track 6 dark tech-house anthem "2K1", track 7's ecstatically uplifting "Tokyo Story", and closing with track 9's Underworld style tech trance of "Soul Captain". This album re-defines the "exotic - cutting edge" across a wide spectrum of music from 126 bmp to 140bpm. Already getting critical acclaim, this album is not your typical electronic dance album. It is high quality art. Timeless, long lasting, and trend setting with an untouchable violin element that can be found nowhere else, "Faces of Epiphany" will be a global hit from underground DJs, to mainstream licensing projects.

"I have heard nothing comparable. An outstanding release and timeless classic"
Mushroom Magazine


name: Worldspirit Soundtrack
sku: kenji-worldspirit
upc: 876809004095
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=284219260&s=143444
description:
A live recording of the sold-out "Worldspirit" performance given at historic Sweet's Ballroom in Oakland, this album features Kenji Williams' airy, futuristically floating compositions, written and performed specifically to accompany the life-sized paintings of Alex Grey that were projected during the event. Grey's paintings combine traditional Buddhist imagery with brilliant depictions of human anatomy, and the music Kenji Williams wrote to accompany it is both peaceful and hypnotic, serene and radiant.


name: Still Waters
sku: knewdigate-stillwaters
upc: 847646003374
description:
Music to soothe your soul, soothe your nerves, soothe your child... Music to help to you relax, unwind, meditate, go to sleep, recharge your batteries, refresh your inner self, rejuvenate your spirit, think, ponder, wander, meander, remember.

If your life is busy and you feel bombarded by noise, images or deadlines, Still Waters will help you unwind, de-stress, relax and find a peaceful sanctuary. Suitable for massage, reading, creating, work, quiet times, before bed or to calm your children.

Listeners' comments:
"Mesmerizingly beautiful; "thoughtful, meditative, centred"; "enriching, soothing, uplifts me to a different spiritual level"; "it helps my body to relax"; "I use it to study."

ABOUT THE MUSIC
This music is still - the movement is slow and gentle and has an innate tranquillity and slowness. In our sometimes overwhelmingly busy and stressful lives, Still Waters creates a quiet haven of serenity, a cool spring of peacefulness where your weary body and beleaguered spirit can be restored and feel refreshed. Some pieces have a slow, rocking movement, reminiscent of a mother rocking her child. Others are circular, returning to a familiar theme. Some have a deliberately slow tempo, to lower the heartbeat and blood pressure. Others make use of a 'pivot note' - one note around which others move - with the analogy of one steady point from which we take our bearings.

Keri Newdigate says: "I like to think of some of the pieces as tone poems, where there is a simple melody, but the music is atmospheric and has a sense of narrative. There are some intervals which almost have a physical effect on me, eg octaves. They make me feel strong and connected to myself. When I use other intervals like the fourth or fifth, it feels 'pure' to me, as well as stable and solid, as if standing on firm ground. "I love to sit and meander musically at the piano, listening to the overtones of the piano, and allowing the music to be 'called out' of me. As I explore intervals and tone combinations, a musical motif often arises, and I follow it to see what emerges.

My compositions usually surface organically, especially when I am 'tuned in' to the piano, and my soul is engaged in the listening process. In this state of flow and contemplation, I often feel deeply spiritually restored and refreshed and am aware of a sense of inner healing taking place. "I like to think that my music will assist lateral thinking, that there would be a sense of spaciousness, an opportunity to 'go anywhere', to allow the mind to float where it will and take you on an inner journey. The music is not meant to interrupt or interfere with the flow of thought, but to enhance your experience and create a sense of peace."

SOOTHE YOUR CHILD
Mothers have used it to calm their children. Cindy says "we always use it at the end of the day when we're driving home. It helps the children to chill". Kerryn and Sunelle, both Music Therapists, used it to settle their children down to sleep at night. Kerryn: "This CD was my lifeline! I used it almost every night (and day) for the first 2 years of my son's life. It is the most peaceful bedtime music... and best of all, it is not electronic! It soon became his sleep association and after a long day, it was soothing for me too! It is now my baby shower gift of choice."

Sunelle: "The music on Still Waters became a very special part of the bedtime routine with my baby, Ben. The beautiful music contributed to creating a calm and soothing atmosphere - perfect for settling a baby. Even today, at 18 months, Ben still loves the music. It takes both of us back to that very special time and it has become our special music to cuddle to."


name: Blue in Blue
sku: kpolitzer-blueinblue
upc: 847646001509
description:
I believe that after listening to Kerry Politzer's latest offering, Blue In Blue, listeners will be wondering why they've never heard of her before. I believe that she should be a household name (at least in households where people listen to jazz). Hopefully this recording will put her closer to that.

Kerry Politzer has everything you would want in a jazz pianist: chops, invention, tone, emotion, rhythm and originality. She has influences and depth in her improvisation and her composition, but she clearly has her own sound and her own unique thought process. "Desolation or Hope" is representative of this. It's essentially a tone poem, harmonically and compositionally advanced and yet it has a simple message and a singularity which makes a great improvisational vehicle. On "Early Spring Chill", Kerry shows her magnificent ear for melody but also her ability to use harmony to give us an emotional journey.

"November" is such a simple melodic idea but it sets and mood so perfectly. This tune might become a standard jazz tune in the future. Kerry shows off not only her marvelous playing but her comping skills behind the incredible saxophonist Donny McCaslin.

"Washington Park" is a great trio tune: deceptively simple sounding but the form is irregular. Kerry is able to make this irregularity seem natural in her composing and improvisation. Bassist Paul Beaudry provides the perfect balance of solid support and loose playful interaction. You can clearly hear Kerry's love of Brazilian music on "Shifting Clouds"; again, she makes it seem easy. 7/4 time can seem lopsided, but not on this performance. This is a really nice quartet version of the song. A lot of rhythmic drama occurs. "Brazilian Accents" obviously shows the influence of Hermeto Pascoal, but it actually started out as a compositional exercise during her study with Charlie Banacos. And "Sing" is a beautiful samba melody, very typical of Jobim or Chico Buarque. Kerry's solos show her understanding of the samba feel, so organic and distinctive. "What Will Be" is another potential jazz standard. The tune is masterfully constructed, taking simple ideas and tossing them around in a highly artistic and unpredictable way. The rhythmic interplay is on a very high level on this track. It's kind of in a Chick Corea's" Now He Sings, Now He Sobs" vein, but dare I say even more rhythmically advanced. "Blue in Blue" and "Left Unsaid" are two very intense ballads which show a brooding emotionalism which is wonderful to witness. This is where the listener will hopefully forget about whether this is a jazz record or what have you, and just revel in the moment, and ultimately be moved by the music of Kerry Politzer.

by George Colligan


name: Labyrinth
sku: kpolitzer-labyrinth
upc: 847646000427
description:
"Labyrinth" takes the listener on a maze of harmonic twists and turns. The edgy saxophone of Andrew Rathbun counteracts Politzer's lyrical piano lines, and both soloists are featured in a program of Brazilian-influenced modern jazz. Upbeat tunes like "Rhodes Rage" and the title track balance moodier tunes like the 9/11 tribute "After The Smoke, Memories" and the solo piano "Waltz for Charlie," named after Politzer's late mentor, jazz guru Charlie Banacos.


name: Watercolor
sku: kpolitzer-watercolor
upc: 847646000410
description:
Watercolor is an impressionistic jazz piano trio album that features many colors, emotions and tempos. Each piece evokes a different mood. Although this album is obviously influenced by pianist Bill Evans, one can also catch glimpses of Thelonious Monk, Keith Jarrett, and traditional bossa nova. Recorded on a dark, rich-sounding Steinway D, this is an album for jazz piano aficionados.


name: Bullfrog
sku: kettleblack-bullfrog
upc: 847646003381
description:
Bullfrog is the second release from blues/rock band Kettleblack. The album features the debuts of Aaron Barnes on bass, as well as Brian Lara on drums. The new players, coupled with Sam Sasso on lead vocals/guitar and Jon Siembieda on guitar, combined with the unique setting of recording the album in the home studio of Aaron Barnes (self recorded, self engineered, and self-produced by Kettleblack), creates a rootsy earthiness to the rock and roll tones on this album.

The spectrum of influences for Kettleblack can be heard on this album, from throwback-sounding songs like "Oh Well", to more modern rock such as "Wait For It", power ballads like "Same Day", and pop rock with "Wake Up (Norma Jean) and "Free Love".


name: Kettleblack
sku: kettleblack-kettleblack
upc: 847646002537
description:
The vibe that Kettleblack gives off is of a throwback to the jammin' bluesy rock bands in smoke-filled roadhouses that the band's influences all got their starts in. The fact of the matter is though, that Kettleblack has a larger sound conducive to bigger theatres and arenas, with hook-filled singalongs from song to song. The Faces, Black Crowes, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix would all be proud.

This first Kettleblack album (self-titled "Kettleblack") is a mixture of originals written by Sam Sasso and Jon Siembieda over the past several years. Both songwriters (and guitar players) brought their talents together to combine into this EP.The album was tracked at the Lincoln Lounge in Venice, CA by Steve Refling. In addition to lead guitar, Sam Sasso sings lead vocals on all of the songs.

Kettleblack hopes you enjoy listening to this music as much as the band enjoyed making it.


name: Kettleblack (instrumental)
sku: kettleblack-kettleblackinst
upc: 847646002544
description:
An instrumental, loud, gritty, wild, dark and dirty blues album!

The vibe that Kettleblack gives off is of a throwback to the jammin' bluesy rock bands in smoke-filled roadhouses that the band's influences all got their starts in. Kettleblack has a larger sound, more conducive to larger theatres and arenas, with hook-filled singalongs from song to song.

The Faces, Black Crowes, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix would all be proud.

Kettleblack hopes you enjoy listening to this music as much as the band enjoyed making it.

The first Kettleblack album (self-titled "Kettleblack") is a mixture of originals written by Sam Sasso and Jon Siembieda over the past several years. Both songwriters (and guitar players) brought their talents together to combine into this EP.The album was tracked at the Lincoln Lounge in Venice, CA by Steve Refling. In addition to lead guitar, Sam Sasso sings lead vocals on all of the songs.


name: 40 anos de Musica
sku: kimribeiro-anos
upc: 876809008550
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/40-anos-de-musica/id385586082
description:
This is a Jazz record of many experiences, meetings, an album full of rich sounds, brilliant instrumentation, unusual melodies, tempo changes and delicate textures. Flautist and composer Kim Ribeiro wanders across varied genres, from traditional jazz, jazz fusion, Brazilian jazz, and aspects of both early 20th century classical as well as minimalism.


name: Diverso Universo
sku: kimribeiro-diversouniverso
upc: 876809001438
description:
The name of the group refers to the universe of classical music, revisited by a typical jazz quartet (Kim Ribeiro - flute, Valéria Mendonça - piano, Berval Moraes - bass and Roberto Rutigliano - drums) with liberty in rhythm and expression, but with complete respect for the original pieces. The arrangements are by Valéria.
The work shows the evolution of occidental music from two voices in Baroque to Romanticism and the contemporary tendencies.


name: Majestic
sku: kimribeiro-majestic
upc: 876809004187
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/majestic/id371576909
description:
Brazilian flute player and composer Kim Ribeiro performs his own pieces with his ensemble (with flute, acoustic guitar, fagot and percussion), as well as works from the Brazilian and Classical repertoire. You'll find a major emphasis on Brazilian rhythms such as the 'choro' or 'little lament' (which is actually characterized by a fast and happy rhythm, virtuosity and improvisation).


name: White Noise
sku: kinkyatoms-whitenoise
upc: 847646004944
description:
White noise is a heterogeneous mixture of sound waves extending over a wide frequency range. The first album of Kinky Atoms reflects the desire to cover the noise of the outside world. Noise represents the unnatural and exhausting pace of life, but it's also the actual acoustic pollution in certain areas of the planet. White noise covers the noises of the world, and Kinky Atoms find themselves in their natural dimension: the music. How far is the inner peace if the human body is besieged by the noise of the busy society today?


name: The Ice Castle
sku: hawkshaw-ice
upc: 876809006181
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=277014648&s=143444
description:
In her extraordinary career, Kirsty Hawkshaw has collaborated with some of the world's top electronic artists including Delerium, BT, Orbital, and DJ Tiesto. Her latest album is a sublime work of ambient electronica that reflects a serenely modern sensibility and a quietly cosmic perspective on the genre. Her foray into ambient started in the 90's with "Pulusha," a collaboration with Global Communication's Mark Pritchard, and her talent has been evolving ever since, resulting in an incredible piece of minimalist heaven.


name: Nectar
sku: kitka-nectar
upc: 876809001759
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=258047985&s=143444
description:
Mysterious yet joyful and celebratory as well, the close harmonies of the Eastern European women's vocal music ensemble, Kitka, provide a moving and deeply satisfying listening experience. Nectar features eighteen earthy and ethereal Balkan and Slavic folksongs including Kitka fan favorites such as "Shto Mi E Milo," "Dumai Zlato," "Tsintsharo," and "Hopp Ide Tiszt-n."


name: The Rusalka Cycle - Songs Between Worlds
sku: kitka-rusalka
upc: 876809000301
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-rusalka-cycle-songs-between/id219176699
description:
In Slavic folklore, Rusalki are the restless spirits of women who have died unjust, untimely or unnatural deaths. They inhabit the waters, forests, and fields, luring people to them with their mesmerizing songs and wild laughter.

Performed by the eight powerful vocalists of Kitka, The Rusalka Cycle is a riveting dream-like journey that weaves traditional Eastern European folk song together with original music by Mariana Sadovska. This CD features Kitka singing as you've never heard them sing before. With stirring accompaniment by cellists Moses Sedler and Elaine Kreston, and percussionist Kevin Mummey.

For more information please click on their press release at:
Kitka press release


name: Sanctuary - A Cathedral Concert
sku: kitka-sanctuary
upc: 876809001148
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/sanctuary-cathedral-concert/id275388340
description:
This recording is a collection of sacred and secular songs performed by Kitka, Tzvetanka Varimezova, and some very dear musician-friends in a series of cathedral concerts that took place in resonant spaces throughout California and the Midwest. The tracks on this CD were recorded live in the exquisite natural acoustics of St. Stephen's Church in Belvedere, California. Kitka offers these songs with the intention of creating a sonic sanctuary, a place of refuge where the spirit can soar.


name: The Vine
sku: kitka-vine
upc: 876809001742
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257909806&s=143444
description:
The third album release from internationally-renowned women's choral group KITKA, The Vine represents a further excursion into the musical traditions of Bulgaria, Russia, Hungary, Bosnia, Albania, Ukraine, Macedonia, Croatia and Georgia. This American 8-voice ensemble, based in the SF Bay Area,, performs the enchanting harmonies of the Balkan region "with flawless intonation, rhythmic precision and consistent beauty of tone...The melodies' unusual harmonies, rooted in village cultures ancient and earthy, include striking juxtapositions and rhythmic sophistication." (Jason Serinus, Bay Area Reporter) Recorded in the sublime acoustic environment of Skywalker Ranch in Marin County, California, The Vine also features well-known instrumentalists Peter Maund (percussion), Shira Kammen (rebec and vielle), Linda Tillery (cajon and djembe) and Cheryl Ann Fulton (lever harp).

The Vine begins with a beautiful arrangement of a Bulgarian song Subrali Sa Se Subrali , which tells the mysterious story of a group of young women spinners who lie down to sleep. Upon awakening, they discover various pieces of clothing and jewelry missing. An interplay between the quotidian and the symbolic, the particular and the universal, haunts many of these songs, bringing a poignancy that is heightened by KITKA's haunting harmonies. The songs express the range of women's experience, from love and heartbreak, healing, motherhood, a deep connection to nature and spirit, as well as women's particular experience of wartime strife, as in the Bulgarian lament Dor Tri Mi Pushki Pukama:

Three rifles fired, three heroes fell.
Three heroes fell, three mothers wept.

Recorded at Skywalker Sound, San Rafael, California in March 2001.

Kitka: Leslie Bonnett, Shira Cion, Catherine Rose Crowther, Deborah Dietrich, Juliana Graffagna, Janet Kutulas, Ann Moorhead, Lily Storm. On this album, Shira Kammen and Cheryl Ann Fulton also play.


name: Wintersongs
sku: kitka-wintersongs
upc: 876809001735
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=258048587&s=143444
description:
Kitka's popular wintersong concert forms the basis of this album of ancient seasonal songs from Eastern Europe. The ensemble's layered, richly harmonic sounds lends itself perfectly to the Carol of the Bells (""Shchedrik," track 17) and there are several a cappella tracks like "Shen Khar Venakhi," "Otche Nash" and "Dontojno Jest" that are so profoundly beautiful and peaceful that you'll want to play them over and over again. This is one of those albums where we'd definitely recommend purchasing the highest quality audio files (WAVs) over MP3s so that you can really hear all the incredible layering in the arrangments and performances. They take longer to download, but in this case?it's completely worth it.

Kitka has been featured on A Prairie Home Companion, Performance Today, Crossroads, John Schaeffer's New Sounds, Hearts of Space, Harmonia, and the Putumayo World Music Hour. Accompanying Kitka on this album are guest artists Rumen Shopov on tambura and bouzouki, Peter Maund on percussion, and Dan Cantrell on accordion. The Kitka singers also accompany themselves on bells, percussion, violin, flute, and tamburas.


name: Mischief Reigns
sku: kiwi-mischief
upc: 876809008819
description:
Kiwi's 2010 effort Mischief Reigns is the kind of album that reveals new layers of itself each and every time you listen. Themes such as life, death, love, and loss are set to a rich fabric of roots rhythm and bass, punctuated by killer horn arrangements and delivered in sultry harmony by a male/female vocal duo. Adding to the unique sound are a variety of percussion and keyboard instruments. With sharp songwriting and lyrics in both English and Portuguese, this up and coming 9-piece from Jersey City NJ is guaranteed to have you hooked.


name: On the Move
sku: kiwi-onthemove
upc: 847646005323
description:
Infusing the Northeast with reggae-rock is the Jersey City-based group Kiwi. After close to a decade of performing, Kiwi has hit their stride. Featuring a new lineup, the group is now set to release their second full length album.

Rooted in reggae rhythms and tropicalia-inspired melodies, Kiwi dynamically fuses jazz and soulful grooves into a uniquely uplifting sound. Following the release of 2010's Mischief Reigns, and tours around the Northeast and Brazil, the 8-piece outfit have released their much anticipated album, On the Move.

Recorded at New Jersey's Homefront Studio, the album was mixed and mastered at Moresound Studio by the infamous, Jocko. Formally of John Browns Body, Jocko was the soundman entrusted for years with John Brown's Body's signature sound.

When asked about the experience Kiwi front man Alex Tea explains "working with Jocko is really what brought out the sound of the record and made it shine. In addition to being a true wizard in the studio, he's the most warm and humble person, we got some class A hospitality while we were up in Syracuse for the mix."

Commenting on the sound of On the Move, Kiwi described the record as expansive with brass-heavy arrangements that echo the classic reggae and RandB of the late 60s and early 70s.

The new record features influences from Tea's extended stay in Brazil, as Brazilian instruments play a large role in shaping the sound of the record. The group also included an original love song sung entirely in Portuguese called "Aprendiz".


name: Over Seven Seas
sku: koshanin-oversevenseas
upc: 847646006238
description:
On the album "Over Seven Seas" Koshanin blends musical traditions from the Balkans and Mediterranean with contemporary Western music styles. Music on this album features original solo piano compositions and unique piano arrangements of traditional folk tunes.

Koshanin treats piano as a modern-day folk instrument and creates music that resonate with the subtle sounds of ancient world, disguised in modern arrangements. Characterized by an abundance of odd time signatures, classical and jazz techniques, as well as a minimalist approach, these delicate musical tales stand at the meeting point of the East and West, reflecting Koshanin's own journey.


name: Under the Sacred Tree
sku: koshanin-sacredtree
upc: 876809009175
description:
"Under The Sacred Tree" is Koshanin's second solo piano album. This collection of piano pieces features original compositions as well as his unique arrangements of select traditional folk songs from the Slavic lands, including Russia, Serbia and Macedonia. Koshanin further explores these folk melodies and the odd time-signature characteristics of the music from the Balkan region, reviving them in a new, non-traditional context. His continuous search for beauty and simplicity in music gives this album a peaceful, reflective mood.


name: April 13, 2013
sku: dini-aprilthirteenth
upc: 847646005569
description:
Live performance by Kourosh Dini:

1. "Moonlit Rocks" - A very relaxing piano/synth combo starts the performance. It's the only real ambient piece of the entire work.

2. "Moon Patrol" - Fun synthesizer playing with echoes, arpeggios, and interweaving melodies.

3. "Startled by Dawn" - Usually a quietly played piece, this version finds much more energy and power before drifting off after a collision into the moments where the notes begin to fray. Written in A Aeolian mode.

4. "Alight - Burden" - First part is a strong, brazen piano and clear structures. The second part transitions to synthesizer. Grungy with echoes, some ethereal, some crushing. F Aeolian mode.

5. "Unwritten - Unsung" - A piece that has been evolving for at least 20 years now. C Aeolian mode. Unwritten is the first of pieces in which I transitioned from writing by way of notation into writing through an iteration of improvisation. Neither is right or wrong, though I do seem to have a readier access to the sense of play in the live medium.

6. "Dandelion (Synth)" - More recent work written in Bb ionioan mode. Generally, I play this as a pleasant piano piece. Here, I decided to go with the synth, having built its momentum throughout the performance and wanting to return to it before wrapping up.


name: Live At Bliss Gardens
sku: dini-bliss
upc: 876809006792
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/live-at-bliss-gardens/id281868564
description:
The music for Live at Bliss Gardens was recorded as a live performance from within a virtual world. Kourosh Dini has been performing as his avatar, Kourosh Eusebio, within Second Life weekly for the last 3 years.

The performance venue was a unique place where a piano could sit by a waterfall and people could listen in the shade. For an example of the experience, watch the second life YouTube video on Kourosh's homepage.


name: Calm
sku: dini-calm
upc: 876809001803
description:
The mind's natural rhythms are reflected in its sounds, symbols, and words. Calm brings a soothing and relaxing state of mind by following the mind's ebbs and flows and invites the listener into a meditation of mind.


name: Legends' Mist
sku: dini-legends
upc: 876809007553
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/legends-mist/id346386542
description:
Legends' Mist is a series of stories and mythologies of a hidden village isolated from the world. No known paths exist to this village and the village knows of no world outside it. These works are their hopes, desires, fears and dreams.


name: Ontogeny
sku: dini-ontogeny
upc: 876809001858
description:
Ontogeny is a conceptual work designed to represent the sequence of life from conception to death. It is entirely composed in the medium of one synthesized voice as a symbol of the journey of any one person. It is the most artistically unified piece of Kourosh's works to date.

Mark Lush, Midwestbands.com gave it the following review.
"I am a musician, but after listening to Kourosh Dini's latest release Ontogeny, I have come to the realization that I am not an artist! There is no way that I can imagine how he was able to conceptualize and create this project! I mean, it's one thing to have an idea to create a soundscape representative of life from birth to death; it's another to actually put pen to paper, fingers to keys, and sound to tape, and come out with a finished project that is believable and convincing! Like a sculptor or a painter, Kourosh saw a void, and filled it with something beautiful!


name: Sun and Earth
sku: dini-sunearth
upc: 847646001646
description:
In youth, we find play nearly anywhere and any time. Caregivers bring us playgrounds by way of security and opportunity to explore.

As adults, we find success by building and thriving in playgrounds we make ourselves. Success is in the moments we fill work with play.

Play is a relaxed focus connecting the world and ourselves in mutual discovery, transformation, joy, and fulfillment.

It is in play where we find our own meaning.

It is without play where we risk depression.

Depression is a cloudy, listless world where meaning is empty. Relationships ring hollow, work is tortured, and confusion reigns as the playgrounds collapse.

The mountains, rivers, and canyons drawn as our emotional landscapes begin early. Their grounds continue to form, shift, and become throughout life.

When mired in sadness, we can find meaning in exploring and cultivating the landscapes towards a hope that they will one day again foster and inspire play.

Water, Sky, Sun and Earth present these emotional landscapes in quiet contemplation.

Water and Sky reflects depression through notes of sorrow and occasional moments of awed beauty appearing from behind the clouds.

Sun and Earth offers a peaceful, contemplative play bringing to mind a toddler in a simple and relaxed focus of play.

by Kourosh Dini, MD
Musician - Author - Psychiatrist


name: Zen and the Piano
sku: dini-zenandthepiano
upc: 847646009680
description:
Zen and the Piano is a suite of pieces composed as a relaxing set of solo piano works that functions well either for foreground or background music. It can be used at the spa or while working.

Several pieces are long-standing works that have evolved throughout the years. Others are compositions created over shorter spans of time and will likely never be performed again. The mix creates a broad ecology that holds together well.

Zen and the Piano began as a soundtrack to a course on developing workflow skills called Zen and The Art of Work, but has since evolved to be a stand-alone album of instrumental piano music.


name: Peaceful Planet
sku: zolani-peaceful
upc: 876809001728
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257910029&s=143444
description:
Koroush has received numerous awards for his performances and compositions. His CD album, Peaceful Planet was awarded the Best Solo Instrumental Album of the Year among 10,000 albums from 85 countries in the Just Plain Folks International Contest of 2004. His CD was also selected as the winner of spring's contest by jurors of 2003 Call to Arts Festival in the category of Aesthetics and Harmony.


name: Clouds
sku: kristiantaus-clouds
upc: 847646005019
description:
A moodful collection of mainly solo piano pieces. This collection musical constellations, carefully sneaks around a wide array of emotions in the form of a calm, and sometimes melancholic soundscape.

Using the music as a form of emotional communication, as it is done with movie scores and the like, Kristian Taus attempts to communicate the sights, sounds and moods experienced in everyday life, and draws inspiration for this album from childhood memories, travelling or just a walk in the forest.


name: Lights
sku: kristiantaus-lights
upc: 847646005026
description:
Lights is a moodful blend of beautifully crafted ambient and minimalistically tracks. Utilizing every instrument from modded pianos, string sections, glockenspiels, accordians and various altered string instruments makes up the unique sound that this album contains. Using the music as a form of emotional communication, as it is done with movie scores and the likes, Kristian Taus attempts to communicate the sights, feelings and moods in the reflection of hectic modern day life.


name: Movements
sku: kristiantaus-movements
upc: 847646005033
description:
A beautiful collection of tracks ranging from a rhytmic soundscape to the ensnaring minimalistic ensemble pieces. Movements is the result of Kristian Taus taking his first baby steps outside the melancholic soundscape and including hope and wonder in the inspirational foundation for the creation of tracks. While still remaining within the unique sound that Taus has build up over the years.


name: Up Too Late
sku: kurthunter-uptoolate
upc: 847646003978
description:
An album of catchy, upbeat pop tunes you'll be singing all day, brought to you by a refreshing blend of acoustic and electric instruments. Each song brings a new flavor, vibe, and a set of unforgettable lyrics everyone can relate to.


name: Up Too Late (instrumental)
sku: kurthunter-uptoolateinst
upc: 847646004005
description:
An album of catchy tunes you'll be singing all day, brought to you by a refreshing blend of acoustic and electric instruments. Each song brings a new flavor and vibe everyone can relate to.

This is the instrumental version of the album by the same name.


name: For Commercial Use Only
sku: kyven-forcommercialuseonly
upc: 847646007297
description:
Kyven's "For Commercial Use Only" brings a whole new set of upbeat pop, inspiration, 'go for it' attitude songs. Complete with constant melodic vocal hooks, rockin' piano and synthesizers over punchy drum machines, each song takes the listener on a journey of soul searching, independence, and wanting more.

The title came about while Kyle and Steven were poking fun at their own incredible success of licensing their music to television, film, and radio..."for commercial use only" seemed to sum up their musical experience with Kyven.


name: For Commercial Use Only (instrumental)
sku: kyven-forcommercialuseonlyinst
upc: 847646007303
description:
Welcome to the instrumental version of Kyven's "For Commercial Use Only" where you can add your own lyrics to a whole new set of upbeat pop, inspiration, 'go for it' attitude songs. Complete with constant melodic vocal hooks, rockin' piano and synthesizers over punchy drum machines, each song takes the listener on a journey of soul searching, independence, and wanting more.

The title came about while Kyle and Steven were poking fun at their own incredible success of licensing their music to television, film, and radio..."for commercial use only" seemed to sum up their musical experience with Kyven.


name: Hands Down
sku: kyven-handsdown
upc: 847646002476
description:
On Hands Down, Kyven aims to bring the male voice back into the dance hall mix by channeling New Order, Pet Shop Boys and Duran Duran, while giving their audience the electro beats, melodies and grooves it craves.

The boys exude a mix of strength and humility through driving tracks interwoven with moments of levity and contemplation. Kyle and Steven's stories of excitement, loss, friendship, longing, hardship and letting loose spring directly from their experiences in New York's urban landscape - a landscape that for too long has been awaiting the return of strong male vocals in irresistible anthemic pop.


name: The Singles
sku: kyven-singles
upc: 847646003503
description:
The Kyven Singles album is a unique blend of thee group's signature catchy melodies, lush vocal harmonies, and throw back synth beats.

Each song on the album has a life all its own from upbeat summer dance tune "Higher Love" to the darker club sound of "My Mistress", all pull different emotions but all are undeniably Kyven.

In addition to the ear-candy synths and hooky leads, the messages in each song are clear and true. Falling in love, finding power within to overcome, willing to lose it all, and living it up in the music. Kyle and Steven cover it all with these four singles.


name: Summer 2014
sku: kyven-summer
upc: 847646006955
description:
Kyven's Summer 2014 album is a nonstop energy rush full of memorable vocal hooks and catchy synth leads. The songs are all full of passion, determination, and drive. The creative pop lyrics share a story of blazing one's own trail while the beats keep you dancing and craving more.

Strong songwriting and production come to life in Kyle and Steven's work, exemplified in the slick vocal harmonies by Kyle and Steven's piano and keyboard playing throughout every song.


name: Tracks for Film and Television Vol 1
sku: l2a2-filmmusic
upc: 847646011249
description:
This album pulls no punches. As a composer, I have written these instrumental songs to easily invite the listener in and get to the point - be that an epic emotional or motivational dramatic narrative - they will drive you through a range of emotions.

These songs will enhance visual settings.

You can expect to hear full orchestration stratospheric Epic cinematic style cues ranging from modern to ancient emotional viking female/male distant ethereal vox style storytelling to full on orchestrated and electronic synth interventions. It is all here.


name: Il Circolo Di Giulio Caccini
sku: nuova-caccini
upc: 876809006259
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Countertenor David Bates formed the chamber music group La Nuova Musica, and here he is joined by some of Europe's most talented Baroque specialists to perform the works of Italian composer Giulio Caccini and his disciples. As a composer and singer, Caccini took part in the sumptuous "intermedi" of the time, the elaborate dramatic and musical spectacles that were one of the precursors of opera. He was hugely influential, training dozens of musicians to sing in a new style, and here that style and influence are both explored and celebrated. Exquisite.


name: English Renaissance Music
sku: primavera-english
upc: 876809001674
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
La Primavera, features talented players from Canada and the U.S.A. performing the repertoire my group La Primavera performs. Most of the songs are in English, two are in Italian. The instrumental pieces feature viola da gamba, recorder and lute.


name: Ancient Mosaic with Guitar
sku: reverie-ancmosaic
upc: 847646000564
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/ancient-mosaic-with-guitar/id441970348
description:
The guitar is related to the repertoire of the lute and the vihuela as the piano is to the harpsichord or organ. This magical instrument, as Stravinsky said (referring to Andres Segovia's guitar) "sounds little, but goes far".

The guitar has given me the opportunity to immerse myself in the works of great and historical composers such as those recorded in Ancient Mosaic with Guitar. I consider it a privilege to be able to receive through their scores, the sensitivity of such maestros.

The works of Esaias Reusner, Luis de Milan, Ludovico Roncalli, etc, sound good on the modern Spanish guitar, a direct descendant of all those old instruments for which they were written. I just had to play them freely and with respect, feeling them as part of the guitar and without trying to make them sound as anything other than what they intrinsically are. The recording of Ancient Mosaic with Guitar was made several times over the last few years. I never consciously set out to make an album like this, I was simply interested in a particular piece, and so studied and recorded it. Finally, I found I had enough stylistically homogenous material to produce an album.

Two musical friends participated: the soprano Palmira Irisarri, who sings on tracks 3, 5, 7, 10, 13 and 15, and the percussionist angel Martin, who plays on track 16. My thanks to both of them.

It was very gratifying for me to work with Palmira Irisarri, an excellent soprano and musicologist. Her singing is distinguished by her sweet, natural timbre and the perfect tuning of her voice. No doubt her style is perfectly suited for these Spanish Renaissance pieces, so often interpreted with later centuries' approaches.

Track 16, "Improvisation about Quand voie", deserves a separate paragraph. It is not an old piece, but is based on a familiar melody in the repertoire of the troubadours "Quand voie la flor nouvelle", anonymous. This is a recreation of the original, but with a completely modern interpretation, adding parts of my own composition.

Esteban Canyar


name: Cantica
sku: reverie-cantica
upc: 847646007310
description:
This album, entitled Cantica, is an unusual mixture of early and Spanish music. Most pieces include spurious parts - as it were. They are our own compositions and arrangements, whose purpose is to comment on the pieces from the present time, holding a conversation with that old music.

The idea is to recreate the music of other times from a modern perspective with music instruments, connecting both worlds, old and new, mixing sounds from both of them in the same piece of music. This composition technique is what unifies our repertoire, making it homogeneous.

The members of La Reverie - musicians with long artistic careers - have performed with renowned and diverse music groups and institutions, such as the Symphonic Orchestra of Malaga's Higher Conservatory of Music (Spain), Inocu (Italy), El Sombrero del Alquimista (Spain) and El Tercer Ojo (Bolivia). Their music has been heard in various cities and festivals, such as the International Music Festival in Cadaques (Girona), the Salon de los Espejos (Hall of Mirrors, the elegant performance venue in Malaga's Town Hall) or Granada's prestigious International Festival of Music and Dance.


name: Alma de Cuerda (Soul of String)
sku: reverie-string
upc: 876809008246
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/alma-de-cuerda-soul-of-string/id385580217
description:
La Reverie have extensive experience in Early and Eastern music, in this album they propose an improvised take on a selection of pieces by European composers of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, namely Manuel de Falla, Erik Satie, Edvard Grieg, Federico Garcia Lorca, Claude Debussy and Francisco Tarrega.

La Reverie work the sounds of the guitar, the santur and the oud for the magic and timbric novelty with which they recreate this repertoire. Enhancing the oriental flavour which underlies pieces like Gnossienne No. 1 or Dance of Anitra, and along with the guitar, achieve a dreamlike atmosphere.


name: Ladislav Jelinek plays Beethoven
sku: ljelinek-beethoven
upc: 847646001172
description:
The Piano Sonata No. 21 in C major, Op. 53, also known as the Waldstein, is considered to be one of Beethoven's greatest piano sonatas, as well as one of the three particularly notable sonatas of his middle period. The sonata was completed in the summer of 1804. The work has a scope that surpasses Ludwig van Beethoven's previous piano sonatas, and notably is one of his most technically challenging compositions. It is a key work early in his 'Heroic' decade (1803-1812) and set the stage for piano compositions in the grand manner both in Beethoven's later work and all future composers.

A bagatelle is a kind of brief character piece. Beethoven meant the six bagatelles to be played in order as a single work, as the keys of the pieces fall in a regular succession of descending major thirds,
- (the above text is quoted in part from wikipedia)

"his interpretation is distinguished by a deep intellectual access to the work, an extraordinary nobleness and excellent presentation...perfect technique, tonal well-balanced and fluid play of L. Jelinek.
PhDr. Ludvik Kasparek - Press spokesman of Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, Prague

"his interpretation is strong in expression and winged by the perfect technique...a remarkable CD production"
Frankfurter Neue Presse - Germany


name: Ladislav Jelinek plays Liszt
sku: ljelinek-liszt
upc: 847646001226
description:
Ladislav Jelinek plays Liszt... brilliant pieces by Franz Liszt (1811 - 1886).

Ladislav Jelinek's splendid interpretation is distinguished by a large dynamic span and radiates a wonderful poetic charm. This is a brilliant experience for the listener yet continues also in the well-known paraphrase of Verdi's Rigoletto. The composer taxes the pianist severely, without any hesitation we can denote this piece as one of the highest summits of pianistic virtuosity. This is an exceptionally demanding task, which Ladislav solves with a perfect result. He plays absolutely relaxed and self-assured, with an astonishing easiness as he glides over all of the numerous technical cliffs.


name: Ladislav Jelinek plays Smetana and Dvorak
sku: ljelinek-smetana
upc: 847646001233
description:
Ladislav Jelinek plays Smetana and Dvorak - a completely different atmosphere unfolds with the Silhouettes. Ladislav interprets these intimate, graceful little works with an exceptional sense of detailed fine work, weighing the dynamics as if on an absolutely exact balance - each piece in his performance is a little world in itself. His interpretation is strong in expression, winged by the perfect technique.

As an interpreter of deep inner enjoyment Ladislav Jelinek appears likewise in the popular Humoresque No. 7 from the homonymous cycle of piano pieces op. 101 by Dvorak.

With his interpretation of "Macbeth and the Witches" from Bedrich Smetana, Ladislav Jelinek became the winner of the first Smetana Piano Contest in Hradec Kralove (Czech Republic).


name: Laetoli Steps
sku: laetolis-laetolis
upc: 847646000991
description:
Laetoli Steps' album is about movement, whether physically or spiritually. Moving home, moving on, moving to. The songs are influenced by a wide array of music, most notably indie-folk and alt. country. This album features musicians from Cornershop, Thunderclap Newman, Debutant Hour and My Rocket 88.


name: Bach Violin Concertos
sku: lara-bach
upc: 876809001667
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=65045873&s=143444
description:
One of today's most exciting and bestselling classical violinists celebrates her favorite composer. Need we say more? Probably not. But perhaps you'll be interested in what some others have said: "I felt as though I were hearing the music for the very first time." -American Record Guide. "St. John's approach to these demanding works is a combination of supple grace and power." -Strings Magazine "She makes the most ordinary passages come to life. Strongly recommended." -Gramophone Magazine


name: Vivaldi - The Four Seasons
sku: lara-fourseasons
upc: 876809007959
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/vivaldi-the-four-seasons-piazzolla/id306363056
description:
Here comes Lara St. John's newest recording, featuring the Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela and Eduardo Marturet. The disc features Antonio Vivaldi's seminal work, the Four Seasons, which is the top-selling classical work of all time. There is tremendous interest in this orchestra, and this is the first time it has recorded with St. John following successful recordings with the Deutsche Grammophon label.


name: CD1 - Bach - The Six Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin
sku: lara-sonatas1
upc: 876809006136
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=263260360&s=143444
description:
Her first Magnatune release is our all-time best-selling album, and now Lara St. John's "awe-inducing" recording of Bach's Sonatas and Partitas for Violin Solo is here as well. When most classical artists record technically challenging works like this one, they typically have to repeat certain phrases over and over during the recording process, but when Lara St John recorded this album at Skywalker Ranch, she played only complete versions of each movement, so the resulting music sounds incredibly fresh and alive. Her approach is especially appropriate for Johann Sebastian Bach's Six Sonatas because they're known for their musical freedom of movement. "Breathtakingly beautiful," says Allmusic.com.


name: Mysterious Encounter
sku: ldreyer-mystencounter
upc: 847646000755
description:
Laura Dreyer and "Mysterious Encounter" is a highly original mixture of Brazilian rhythms and textures combined with the exciting spontaneity of jazz improvisation and catchy lyrical melodies. Featuring the compositions of saxophonist/flutist Laura Dreyer, the band's infectious grooves and sensuous harmonies will appeal to audiences on many different levels.

Laura formed "Mysterious Encounter" in 1989 out of a desire to explore Brazilian musical idioms in a jazz context, both as an improviser and a composer. She has performed with such noted Brazilian musicians such as pianist Dom Salvador, guitarist Romero Lubambo, drummer Portinho, vocalist Leny Andrade, percussionist Helcio Milito and pianist Weber Iago, and many other well known jazz musicians. The other band members have performed with Sivuca, Tania Maria, Andy Narrell, Paquito D'Rivera, Claudio Roditi, Toots Thielemans, and many more. Their combined talents produce a rich mixture of Brazilian jazz that is fresh and distinctive!


name: Hang
sku: inserra-hang
upc: 876809007263
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hang-collections-works/id341663292
description:
John writes: my always-interesting friend Chris Allen started taking lessons in a newly-invented percussive instrument called the "Hang". He introduced me to his teacher Laura, and this is her first album dedicated to this instrument.


name: Musical Incense - volume one (Hang and Guitar Duets)
sku: inserra-incense1
upc: 876809007904
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/musical-incense-volume-one-ep/id339047650
description:
Musical Incense is an ambience, a feeling, a mood, a sonic tapestry, an atmosphere that doesn't demand attention. Sounds drift in and out of awareness, like the scent of nearby incense...

Join Laura Inserra (Hang) and Darren Gibbs (Electric Guitar) for the release of these captivating musical dialogues. Special guest Pauchi Sasaki (Violin).

An enchanting evening of cross-fading musical pictures, of risk-taking coupled with the patience to listen and evolve. Because this is music about listening and experiencing each in our own way, the room will be set up for you to get comfortable and enjoy the spacious and nurturing sounds however you wish.


name: Leda Atomica
sku: leda-atomica
upc: 876809002602
description:
Leda Atomica's self-titled follow up album has just been released. With singles like, "PURE" and "WITHOUT YOU", this record really thrusts it up a few notches and shows the power and rawness that this band can exude. Recorded at the famous Swinghouse Recording Studios in Hollywood, this is solid L.A. Rock and Roll!


name: Aisle7
sku: lehtmojoe-aisle
upc: 847646002667
description:
This album sees LehtMoJoe confronting the seemingly difficult challenge of pairing the nostalgic synth-pop from his youth with the more updated polish and electro sheen fans of his music have come to expect.

What Leht did with the more club-oriented trait of Justice/Daft Punk/SebastiAn in 2009 he's attempted to do with the wistful sounds of Joe Jackson, Julian Lennon, Phil Collins and Vanity 6 that he first began recording onto cassettes from the radio back in the late 80's. "Growing up, we were remodeling our house and would frequent Home Depot and Payless Cashways for materials on the weekends, and outside of my brother cutting his finger on a razor blade we found in the store, or picking up the phones in the aisles and making noises into them, it was pretty boring," says Leht. "The one constant that would amuse me however was the song selection that was played in the stores. Hall and Oates, Phil Collins, and Billy Ocean dominated back then. So this is a throwback to that kind of music, sonically interesting with memorable melodies."

Helping LehtMoJoe accomplish this task on Aisle 7 were musicians like Max Brown, Sedrick Stylez, Xavier Marquis, and Sara Dean whose distinctive personalities played a large part in shaping the album's characteristic attitude. In short Aisle 7 is full of those rare powerful instances that will one day be remembered, no doubt, as some of the genre's defining moments.

"I think this album is some of my best work, incorporating techniques from the electronic based music I am very comfortable with, alongside a more traditional approach to songwriting," says LehtMoJoe. "For me, there is a greater feeling of accomplishment creating these kinds of songs. Taking a random lyrical melody in my head and turning it into a complete track is a bit different from my previous album, which is more rhythmically driven."


name: Hindsight
sku: lehtmojoe-hindsight
upc: 847646010723
description:
LehtMoJoe's Hindsight sees the artist and producer expand his musical vision into an increasingly exciting territory. From the other worldly and spacey "Absolute Zero" to the hard charging electronic singed rock anthem "Forever and a Day", Leht deftly handles the angsty overlap of neighboring genres without overwhelming the listener. Noticeably less playful than previous releases, Hindsight is very much a product of the times, highlighted by the standout track "Cancelled". "It's a critique of the omnipresent narcissism in culture, which goes well beyond just social media's sanctimony." says LehtMoJoe. Expect more trademark synth work punctated with crunchy guitars and guest vocalists on his latest release.


name: Nofilter
sku: lehtmojoe-nofilter
upc: 847646007037
description:
LehtMoJoe's third album corralls enough effects and trickery into a single frame to make a pepperoni hotpocket look totally amazing. As scattered as the flood of images that bear the ubiquitous hashtag, so too is the spread of Leht's music.

Featured in mixes by Grammy winner Mark Ronson, a major motion picture starring Kevin Durant, and multimillion-view YouTube videos of beagles mating, LehtMoJoe is acclaimed for his versatility and dynamic range. With #nofilter, Leht continues this propensity, bravely tossing melody and heavy beats at the electrified Jurassic Park fence.


name: Spaghetti Western
sku: lehtmojoe-spaghetti
upc: 876809005719
description:
An energetic and skillfully executed disc with influences ranging from electro to hip-hop to pop, rock, and beyond. LehtMoJoe's full length solo album "Spaghetti Western" pushes the boundaries of today's music with fresh sounds and remarkable ingenuity. Showcasing impressive range, it is sure to engage a wide variety of audiences. Guest spots by Anonymous and Anthony Sass.

"Spaghetti Western" remains a disc that smartly combines various rock, hip-hop and electronic elements into an impressively cohesive unit or, in simpler terms, a prepackaged dance party, ready made for rump shaking."
- Dallas Observer, July 2009


name: Liamkins
sku: liamkins-liamkins
upc: 847646007174
description:
"The Liamkins album has a very clean and distinctive style that combines a lot of old classic blues yet sounds upbeat and modern - very unusual but very attractive to the ear."
Paul Tostevin, engineer, motocycle builder, music lover


name: Reason Softly Speaks or Just Makes It Louder
sku: liamkins-reasonsoftly
upc: 847646007389
description:
"I was really impressed by the album. It was well produced and arranged. I especially liked "Breath Of Spring", "Forever And A Half", "I Wanna Get You Back" and "Countryside"
Paul Romaine, Broadcaster, Writer, Radio Show Host

"Yury (George) Liamkin is an amazing artist and songwriter. His addition to the roster of Respectable Artists Management and Publishing is one that is irreplaceable. Yury's songs are melodic and detailed. If Paul McCartney had somehow been born in Russia instead of the UK, he would have ended up being Yury Liamkin.

Both his acoustic singer/songwriter songs and his rockers heavily reflect influence by The Beatles, in particular, Paul McCartney in both his Beatles and his Wings tenure and solo career as well. He is nothing short of honest and brilliant as a songwriter and a performer.

Previously, Yury was a member of the Russian band Updivers and they were signed to a deal with Warner Records Germany. As a solo artist, his songs scream movie and television adaptation! Melodic, reflective, emotional compositions that capture the heartstrings of the listener. What a talent! I am sure you will agree!"
Geoff Eaton President Respectable Artists Management and Publishing, Inc


name: Severed
sku: liebig-severed
upc: 876809007171
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/severed/id256411026
description:
Brooding, heavy, melodic uncompromising post grunge metal. Like wading through a sludge of heavy riffs, crunching guitars and haunting vocals. Think Alice In Chains, Soundgarden and King's X in a blender full of dirt.

Lie Big have more to offer than just the huge wall of sound and anger that is "Overcome". Take the measured attack of "Last One Standing", the drifting harmonies of "When" and the complexities of the title track, this is far from a one trick alligator. The album bristles with energy and anger from start to finish. "Underside" drags you under with it, then pummels you into submission, "Substitute Lovers" disturbs you and "I Am I" delivers its message like a note attached to a melodic house brick........

Growing up in a small town tastes pretty much the same wherever you are in the world. Smoke too much. Drink too much. Get your heart broken; maybe even break someone elses. Feel alone until you find a song or a band that speaks to you. Feel less alone when you pick up an instrument and meet others who feel the same. Form a band, rehearse drunk, rehearse straight, laugh a lot, swear constantly, sweat; bond.


name: Play Loud
sku: lillywolf-playloud
upc: 847646006474
description:
"Play Loud is a pretty straight-forward album title, but the motivation and song contents go deeper than just partying. This was my first dance album. Prior to this I'd put out an LP of indie pop songs, some of them very pretty and sparse, but the response was always muted at live shows. I got tired of people just sitting and watching me and not really participating. So for a change, I wrote several songs that could be played at a party, you know, 4-on-the-floor dance music, but I kept writing lyrics about things that are important to me.

'Everybody On Your Block' epitomizes the album's style, with lyrics about depression and failure over an irresistibly catchy synth-driven beat."
-Lilly Wolf


name: This Painted Life
sku: lillywolf-thispaintlife
upc: 847646006467
description:
The title for This Painted Life comes from a quote in Nabokov's Invitation to a Beheading: " ...in my dreams the world would come alive, becoming so captivatingly majestic, free and ethereal, that afterwards it would be oppressive to breathe the dust of this painted life."

The inspiration for the songs and lyrics mostly came from screwing stuff up in my personal life, and by examining the ways I felt trapped inside the lifestyle I'd adopted. Or that had adopted me. Id become kind of a spectator to my own life, like I'd wake up and do the things that were there to do, and it was eating at me in way I didn't notice until well into my twenties. Dr. Nu once suggested calling the album "'Fear and Loathing in Your Twenties" cause it's about a bunch of the things that can mess you up at that age. Things like materialism and greed, or getting hung up on a person who's bad for you.

- Lilly Wolf


name: Duel
sku: lwood-duel
upc: 847646000779
description:
Although Australia-based singer-songwriter Linda Wood has been compared to Kate Bush, Tori Amos, Rickie Lee Jones, and even a bit of Doris Day, she is a true original with her own style - described, perhaps tongue in cheek, but somewhat accurately, as "quirk pop." In truth, her music is a melting pot of divergent spices and flavors that come together in one of the most unique sonic blends that I've heard in a long time.

Threads of jazz, blues, Latin, hip-hop, techno, pop, and cabaret, create a musical tapestry on which her diverse vocal stylings are embroidered. On the title track an ambient synthesizer sound and slide guitar open the album, providing a brief intro reminiscent of Pink Floyd, which soon dissipates into a groove of bongo drums and a funky hip-hop beat, with subtle flourishes on accordion providing a surrealistic touch. At this point, you know you are in for something out of the ordinary.

The rest of the album doesn't disappoint. Besides being an extraordinary vocalist, Linda Wood is a talented and imaginative songwriter and storyteller, with her compositions and arrangements enticing the listener through unexpected twists and turns. Choosing a few highlights on the album is difficult, because there are so many worthy choices, and I genuinely loved everything on it. From the Santana-like vibe of "Goodbye Perfectionist", to the jazzy Stray Cat Strut jive of "Get Out Of My Life" with it's Andrew Sisters style harmonies, to the driving techno tribal beat and middle Eastern-inflected vocals of "Peter Pan", there is so much to like. There's also an unlisted bonus song at the end - a poignant ballad about loss and healing.

One of the most quirky, yet endearing songs is "Bittersweet," a psychedelic carnival ride of a tune, complete with yodeling, triangle, and tuba that would not have been out of place on an early Frank Zappa record or Fellini soundtrack. While there are some offbeat combinations of instruments and elements on the album, they are artfully integrated and add textures that put a stamp of originality on the music. But it is clearly the vocal talent of Linda Wood that is the shining star here and illuminates an emotional gamut from sassy and sultry to longing and vulnerable. She is seemingly capable of handling any style with ease and grace, as well as having done an outstanding job of multi-tracking background vocals and harmonies in interesting ways.

"Duel" is a very professional sounding and extremely well produced CD with a lot of obvious attention to detail in the musical production as well as in the album's artwork, which has a bit of a Stevie Nicks ambience. Some of the arrangements are intricate yet accessible. The deeply expressive and artistic nature of "Duel" is no surprise considering Linda's extensive background in musical theatre, having been involved in productions in Australia, England, and New York. This album reveals an impressive talent with great potential, and one that will, I'm sure, develop a loyal following as listeners discover the genre blending alchemy of Linda Wood's music.
Michael Diamond - ReviewYou.com


name: Return
sku: lwood-return
upc: 847646006078
description:
Over the course of its eleven songs, Wood embraces pop mixed with an assortment of different flavors, including singer/songwriter, rock, Latin, and jazz. All of it is tied together with Wood's strong, pop sensible voice and stellar musical performances from her backing musicians. The subtle and unusual addition is, of course, a ukulele. Rather than colouring the entire album it is blended beautifully into the instrumentation in a way that represents the ukulele-wielding songtress' style very well. The gentle upbeat feel of the album is definitely easy listening.

An honest album that is both nostalgic and fresh, Return is, for the most part, a reminiscence about the choices Wood has made that have in turn made her. These reminiscences are personal and universal, such as a first kiss, body image struggles, love hoped for, loneliness, and frustration in relationship.


name: The Blue EP
sku: liquidrainbow-blueep
upc: 847646010129
description:
BLUE
With the sound from the blue EP, you will be finding yourself in a place beyond the clouds, your mind will be drifting from the deepest ocean to the bluest skies Blue is a very special colour that means a lot in our quest the sound coming from the kaleidoscope is getting closer and closer.

FRANK WIZARDD: Vocals & Lyrics, Backing vocals, Keyboards
DUBMASTER CONTE: Bass, Drum programming, Synth
ROBY B: Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Mixing and Mastering by Dubmaster Conte @ Magic Garden Studios


name: 8 x 8
sku: liquidrainbow-eightx
upc: 847646005415
description:
Let your mind swim in the musical vibrations of "8X8", an experiment in Electronic/Rock/Dub music by Liquid Rainbow from Italy with a psychedelic touch.

"8 x 8" is made from 8 original songs and 8 dub versions reimagined and dubbed by their producer and bass player Stefano. The tracks were recorded and mixed after touring and lots of rehearsals to transmit a "live band touch" in every song.

All the rehearsals, recordings, mixings and album mastering were taken in the band studio "Magic Garden". With this album Frank, Stefano and Roby welcome you into their musical experience that will drive the listener to new landscapes, oceans, magic gardens, black fires and even entities from space. So layback, open your heart, wake up your soul and enjoy this genuine musical Journey.


name: The Green EP
sku: liquidrainbow-greenep
upc: 847646010112
description:
GREEN
A new colour and a new step to understanding the sounds coming from the kaleidoscope. Green is the colour of nature with all of its shades and complexity.
It corresponds to a new chapter that will bring you into nature, woods and green fields.
RELAX and lay down on the clean and pure grass, listening to the Liquid Rainbow sound.

FRANK WIZARDD: Lead and backing vocals, Lyrics, Melodica, Keyboards, Rhythm Guitar & Tape Echo
DUBMASTER CONTE: Bass, Drum programming, Synths
ROBY B: Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Mixing and Mastering by Dubmaster Conte @ Magic Garden Studios


name: The Indigo EP
sku: liquidrainbow-indigoep
upc: 847646010136
description:
INDIGO
Our quest is on the right path, the sound coming from the kaleidoscope is getting closer and closer and it sounds much clearer now. This EP is a journey that brings back deep and lost memories; the indigo colour reveals the deepest thoughts and memories of our history, something now clear to us.
Now only one piece is missing...

FRANK WIZARDD: Vocals & Lyrics, Melodica, Keyboards, Vocals Fx's
DUBMASTER CONTE: Bass, Drum programming, Synths
ROBY B: Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Mixing and Mastering by Dubmaster Conte @ Magic Garden Studios


name: Landscapes and Treasures
sku: liquidrainbow-landscapesntreasures
upc: 847646008003
description:
Music Fragments from rock to dub

Lose yourself in the different dimensions of music, Landscapes and Treasures is structured around the themes of Love, Friendship, Nature, Space travelling and the fun of three people that make music to communicate at higher level.

The songs of the album are small windows on different state of reality or alternative futures and come from a melting pot of life experiences and explorations, the band took a different approach to the music for this album re-recording and expanding old demos and refreshing the sound for "Ambient Spaces" and "Souls and Frequencies". Some tracks were recorded at the Magic Garden Studio, others in a special session recorded on the italian Alps.

Stefano Contini and Francesco Allegro performed as multi-instrumentalists with special contributions by long time band friends, Stefano Truini ("The Unseen Power") and Piero Marchesi from Entheogenic Sound Explorers (beats for "Love not Fear" and "Dreams from an Alternative Future). Roberto Beretta played most of the guitar parts with his Liquid Rainbow touch.

You will be surrounded by the trees and travelling at the speed of light, you will find yourself walking under the stars and enjoying the nature around you and suddenly you will be looking at the landscapes of an alternative world on a parallel universe

Welcome to a Place beyond the clouds.

The Album is dedicated to our beloved mascot "Geppa", the great dog and Friend who was always in the studio with us during our jamming and recording since and before the beginning of the adventure called "Liquid Rainbow" (you can hear her voice in some of our new tunes), for sure now she found her special place in another dimension but here on Planet Earth we will always miss her.

Liquid Rainbow are:

Stefano Contini (aka Dubmaster Conte): Bass, Production, Arrangements, Beat-programming, Percussions, Keyboard, Sampler, Synths, Fx's and Dubs

Francesco Allegro (aka Frank Wizard): Vocals, Backing Vocals, Lyrics, Arrangements, Keyboard, Sampler, Synths, Acoustic Guitar, Slide Guitar, Beat-programming, Tambourine

Roberto Beretta (aka Roby_b): Electric guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Bass on "Colorful mountains"

A very special thanks to Marta, Geppa, Re Nee, Families and Friends.

Dedicated to Geppa.


name: The Orange EP
sku: liquidrainbow-orangeep
upc: 847646010099
description:
ORANGE
In this second chapter, we find new clues that allow us to better understand the sound coming from the kaleidoscope.
The orange colour bring us to a warm and energetic realm with a mood that guides us in this very peculiar journey.
In this ep, you will find a live version of the band's classic "the Magic Garden".
Enjoy!

FRANK WIZARDD: Vocals & Lyrics, Backing vocals, Keyboards
DUBMASTER CONTE: Bass, Drum programming, Synths
ROBY B: Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Mixing and Mastering by Dubmaster Conte @ Magic Garden Studios


name: The Red Ep
sku: liquidrainbow-theredep
upc: 847646009819
description:
How does a kaleidoscope sound? What kind of music emerges from the synesthesia? In this series of seven eps named after the seven colours of the rainbow, you might find some answers.

The first volume (The Red) is here: strong tunes where you can get lost in a forest of groovy patterns, surrounded by electronic and acoustic instruments. This music connects you to something deep and fun.

Nice to see you again. This is the first chapter of our journey: "The Red Ep"

More infos: https://liquidrainbow.bandcamp.com/ https://www.facebook.com/liquidrainbowofficial/ https://www.dubmasterconte.com/


name: The Violet EP
sku: liquidrainbow-violetep
upc: 847646010143
description:
VIOLET
We need one more colour to end our quest; violet brings with it an energetic vibration that concludes our journey of discovery into the sounds coming from a kaleidoscope. This release is full of pure energy and power that make us remember that there's no beginning and no end. On this EP, you will hear live versions of three of the band's classic "rock" tunes.
We can see the entire kaleidoscope now and listen to its beautiful sound. Thank you for following us in this colourful musical journey. See you in the next musical Trip

FRANK WIZARDD: Vocals & Lyrics, Backing vocals, Keyboards
DUBMASTER CONTE: Bass, Drum programming
ROBY B: Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Mixing and Mastering by Dubmaster Conte @ Magic Garden Studios


name: The Yellow EP
sku: liquidrainbow-yellowep
upc: 847646010105
description:
YELLOW
The colour of the third chapter is Yellow: the colour of the Sun and of the energy that transports the music into a magic realm with tropical rhythms and new musical explorations, filled with positive vibrations and creative emotions.
You can hear this energy in the live versions of three of the band's classics. Have fun with us.

FRANK WIZARDD: Vocals & Lyrics, Backing vocals, Melodica, Keyboards
DUBMASTER CONTE: Bass, Drum programming, Synths
ROBY B: Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Mixing and Mastering by Dubmaster Conte @ Magic Garden Studios


name: Mixter One
sku: debenedictis-mixterone
upc: 876809004323
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=258054161&s=143444
description:
The synth pop heaven of the "Structured Emotion" track alone is worth the price of admission here; it's an exuberant, tender, and appropriately enough, a perfectly structured remix of "Below" by Magnatune favorite Lisa Debenedictis, whose coolly beautiful voice lends itself perfectly to every style represented on this album?from the sleek, downtempo fare of Deutscheunschuld and CallMeYang to the savvy jazz doubletakes of OakHonour and Teru.


name: Tigers
sku: debenedictis-tigers
upc: 876809003425
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=258051460&s=143444
description:
Here are some very mellow, "ethereal, shimmering textural pop" songs by Lisa DeBenedictis for your enjoyment.

Lisa is one of the most remixed artists on the 'net, because she kindly posts her a capellas with Creative Commons licenses for others to remix. One of those remixes of her voice, "Brilliant Daze", by professional hip hop musician and producer Pat Chilla the Beat Gorilla, even found its way onto a lonelygirl15 video.


name: Welcome to Our World
sku: debenedictis-welcome
upc: 876809009731
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/welcome-to-our-world/id422966266
description:
WELCOME TO OUR WORLD: Lisa DeBenedictis and Friends

"Welcome To Our World" features new songs by Lisa DeBenedictis remixed by the best remix artists on the web. Most the vocal samples and some of piano samples used are taken from tracks recorded for Lisa's upcoming full length release, "Easy Killer," which is due out by Summer 2011.

During the songwriting process, Lisa uploaded many of her vocal tracks to ccmixter.org for remixing (visit http://ccmixter.org/people/lisadb to hear many other fine remixes that did not fit the mood of the CD).

Remix Artists Featured:
oldDog a.k.a. Ross Lorraine (Tracks 1, 7) Ross is an accomplished composer in the UK as well as an innovative remixer. Both remixes included on this CD won "Editor's Pick" at ccmixter and have inspired several YouTube videos.
http://olddogsmusicblog.blogspot.com

johnathon_data a.k.a John Souter (2, 5) One of Lisa's favorites at ccmixter for his mesmerizing backing tracks.
http://ccmixter.org/people/johnathon_data/profile

Magmavander (3) Hailing from France, the "frenchy but chic" Magmavander offers up a sexy, sophisticated, jazzed up interpretation of "Easy Killer."
http://ccmixter.org/people/magmavander/profile

Vidian a.k.a Geodessia Gallant (4) From Toronto, Canada. One of the best House artists on ccmixter.
http://ccmixter.org/people/Vidian/profile

The Extreme a.k.a Christian Bohlke (6) "The Extreme was born in Koln/Germany on 13th December 1974. Today he lives in Weingarten/Pfalz which is between Speyer and Landau. Since the good old Commodore Amiga was born, music is his passion."
http://extreme-chillout.de/cms

WeirdWired (8) "Lonely As The Moon is a special song inspired by the real story of a women burning down the house of her family. This was the first collaboration between WeirdWired and Lisa Debenedictis dating back to a time where Garageband was still "online" and WeirdWired published their first album, "Time." The original track will appear on the album "Displaced" (coming 2011).
www.weirdwired.com

Rayhan Khan (9, cover art) Not just a great musician but also an Animator (3D/2D) plus Motion Graphic Artist. Khan contributed the beautiful "Fruitless" remix, and also did the cover art for "Welcome To Our World."
http://ccmixter.org/people/rehankhan/profile

Durden a.k.a. Daniel Moreno (10) Durden is "a self-taught musician and producer exorcised by music. My music is produced mostly by that "dark side" inside every one of us; that's the reason for the sad, nostalgic or even aggressive sound in my songs." No wonder I like him.
www.reverbnation.com/durden

The B. (11) A member of WeirdWired, "The B." is a producer/engineer/musician living near the Swiss/German border.
www.weirdwired.com

JSP a.k.a Simone Perone (12) From Rome. "20 years ago I bought a Fender Stratocaster, nowadays I use synths, samplers and some software. To make music is a need, and I love it."
http://ccmixter.org/people/jsp/profile


name: Lisa Lynne and the Elfin Love Tribe, Instrumental Songs of Good Cheer
sku: lisalynne-elfintribe
upc: 847646008058
description:
The Elfin Love Tribe plays with a bountiful collection of instrumental tunes to lift the spirit and celebrate life. Celtic Harps, World flutes, Swedish Nyckelharpa, mandolins and dulcimers weave and exquisite and festive array of musical delights.


name: Hope and Dreams
sku: lisalynne-hopesdreams
upc: 847646007808
description:
I really love this new recording. People often ask me which album is my favorite, and its a question that's impossible to answer. Its like trying to choose favorites between your children. Even though I don't have any children, I can relate to the fact it takes about nine months to make one, and several more to recover from delivering it. This album is all new music written from my innermost and simplest heart. When I hear it, and I've heard it a lot, it still takes me to a whole other place, and if I'm driving I will miss my exits. So if I had to say my favorite of the moment, "Hopes and Dreams" would be it. Mostly for sentimental reasons though.

This past year I have been spending a lot of time developing a music program at City of Hope Cancer Center. Part of the program is teaching patients and staff to play the harp. The other part is actually going into the wings, the chemotherapy rooms, the new patient areas and the ICU, and simply playing my harp. I sit for hours and just let the music float around the rooms. After a few minutes the hustle bustle quiets down and as I observe the scene my heart does a meltdown. There aren't words to describe the experience here, none could do justice, the only thing I know for sure, is that the people here are having a profound spiritual experience. This place of hope and healing where I sit and play all day is a miracle, something blessed, and I am lucky to be hanging around these people. So it is there that I pass my time and I try and write some lullabies for the soul. This new music has been useful in comforting the patients, and the staff loves hearing this music, so I decided to make a record of the melodies written while playing for them.

Since so much of my live playing is improvisation, I can write and change things and try things, and I'm actually writing as I go. If I love a melody I will incorporate it into my performance over and over until I remember it perfectly. If I can't remember it later, than it was a fleeting moment that got away. Sometimes that happens too. "Hopes and Dreams" is a very mellow album, and somehow uplifting too. For those of you who favored "Love and Peace" and "Moonsongs" you will feel the same about this. I hope you will find it a comfort as well.


name: Life is but a Dream
sku: lisalynne-lifebutdream
upc: 847646007761
description:
Celtic harp lullabies for children of all ages. Classic familiar melodies done simple and sweet.

Life is but a dream came about in a most unusual way. A family member, who is an architect at a hospital in Denver, installed a sound system throughout the building. One of the goals was to play 10 seconds of Brahm's lullaby throughout the hospital every time a baby was born. The architect asked me if I had a version of it. I searched and couldn't find one that felt magical and gentle enough, so I just decided to record it myself. With just a simple Celtic harp and a glockenspiel (bells), I recorded a version and sent it over. The hospital played the lullaby whenever a baby was born and people were so charmed by it. They wanted to know what the music was, could it be played longer, and how to buy it.

Fast forward one year; two family members had their first babies. Again, I looked all around for a recording of baby lullabies as a gift and couldn't find one that I found totally gentle, so I decided to record a dozen more lullabies and give it to them as a gift. They all had the same response as folks in the hospital. The songs are fairly short so it only added up to 30 minutes of music, which is not enough for an album. Friends and family were adding this music to their baby photo slide shows, I was amazed on how cute that was. Inspired by, "The wee ones"

Fast forward another year: I now play my harp every week between concerts at the pediatric units of two Kaiser hospitals in Los Angeles; and Huntington Memorial. When I interacted with the children, they sing along on the songs they know.

That moved me to find all the lullabies and children's melodies I could think of; and some tunes I loved as a little girl when I first started playing guitar. I wanted to record them all to give to patients and families that I met.

I dove into recording all the rest of the tunes. It was actually a challenge because these are the simplest arrangements I've ever recorded. It's not as easy as it sounds. I had a mocking bird keep showing up at my studio window every night. So if you listen closely on some of the tracks, you will hear him singing. The songs are all so short, and since there is no singing on them, I added some of my own sections to compliment the magic melodies inherent in the tunes.

As I looked for cover art, I wanted something special and put the word out to my circle of friends. One dear friend, who owns a beautiful gift store called Gypsy Palace in Gainesville, Florida, brought me her favorite baby card. I loved it right away and wrote to the artist and photographer Valerie Tabor Smith, asking what it would cost me to license the cover for this album. The artist was warm-hearted, gracious, and moved by my work in hospitals. She gave full permission and wanted to contribute the work. She herself is actively involved in helping kids. You can see her other work at www.valerietaborsmith.com/.

This project has had its own life force. I hope it will be useful in soothing little people, and big people too!


name: New Morning
sku: lisalynne-newmorning
upc: 847646007792
description:
This album was a true labor of love.. It started its conception from us being on the Winter Solstice Tour. The label would hire musicians to back the featured artists. We would travel together for weeks on end, city to city in a big tour bus. I totally fell in love with these guys, and they brought so much good energy to my songs. We became great friends and I decided I wanted to make an album that would sound just like we did as a group on stage. So this record was recorded a bit differently from usual. Normally only one or two instruments play at a time, I go first with the harp tracks, and then various musicians come to the studio and put down their parts layer by layer, song by song. In the good old days, bands used to just perform together, and push the record button. That's what we aimed for in this record, so all the songs we played live in the studio together. We were in separate isolation booths, so if someone made a mistake we could always go back, and that person could fix it, but for the most part, they were all one takes. It was so wonderful to see everyone at once between glass windows. These guys were so funny and fun.. Clowns you could say.. so the feeling of this record is very upbeat and joyful. ..full of fun..

I was so happy to have a whole group together, I was beside myself. There are always my ballad type tunes and slow softies, but overall, its the liveliest record of the bunch I think. (although lively for me is still mellow to the rest of the world) One lady last week said she loved it, that it was a "little toe tappin" in places. This record is all original music except one traditional..its my nod to Americana folk style / feel good / Celtic acoustic / lots of mandolin / fun instrumental happy songs. Well, ok, maybe one sad song. I made this record for people to play for dinner parties or family/ friends gatherings of some sort. Or driving down some beautiful scenic fields or highways. Its feel good music, and I think music makes people more beautiful, I wanted this music to cast that sort of golden glow on the faces that you love. I called it New Morning.. because it sounds like the promise of a good time ahead.


name: Secret Songs
sku: lisalynne-secretsongs
upc: 847646007785
description:
A rare collection of enchanting instrumental music featuring Celtic Harp, Woodwinds and Strings of the Renaissance. Secret Songs is an exceptional compilation of new works and previously unreleased versions of past favorites.


name: Light in the Wood
sku: lynnetortorelli-lightinthewood
upc: 847646007815
description:
Lisa and George Tortorelli's most beloved and heartfelt collection of gentle and soulful music. Celtic Harps, World flutes, Ukranian Bandura, dulcimer and mandolin make up this sweet journey reminiscent of a mystical fairy tale. Mostly original music with a few most requested traditional pieces.

This is an album that we have been wanting to do for some time. Its is a collaborative effort with myself and George Tortorelli my longtime colleague and music partner of now over 12 years! I can't believe how the time has flown by.

Our first recording together was "Love and Peace" which continues to be one of my top requested albums of all time. This new album "Light in the Wood" is its big brother you could say. It has a similar feeling and vibe, we left it simple pure and natural sounds recorded as best as humanly and hi-fidelity as possible. It harkens back to the days when I started out and I tried to re-capture and maintain that innocence of newly exploring Celtic folk music and writing songs so simply.

Since then I have done so many grand productions with a cast of thousand lending their virtuosic talents to my tunes. I love that too and am very proud of that work, but I don't want to forget where we came from so thats why we did this.

Aryeh Frankfurter my fellow multi-instrumentalist and significant other, did most of the technical work for the recording part and he was a huge source of energy towards getting this done.

Believe me, its the ultimate exercise in restraint, to not keep laying on sounds of all our usual and unusual instruments. Because they all sound good, but we wanted to protect the simplicity like when i was just starting out, so I left it with the original natural sentiment of the songs in their most pure form.

You will hear the subtle addition of a brand new instrument. A Ukrainian Bandura I just got. I couldn't help myself.

Its been so many years since those early albums but we still perform some of those songs live. Many times the older recordings have song versions with what we thought was cool at the time, like too much reverb or special effects that were popular then. When I hear them,its like looking at a photo album of a jacket or hairstyle you wore in the 80's. eeeesh. What was I thinking! So, whenever we perform a song from then, people want to buy it but I always hesitate because I wish the songs were recorded clear and natural like how we do them now.

So thats what this album is partially about. There are several new songs of course,and there are some songs from my earlier albums "Moonsongs", and "Quiet Heart" the way we do them now. Also included is our very very very often requested version of "Amazing Grace". I haven't recorded that song since a 1994 Christmas album from Celestial Winds. But whenever we play it live, particularly in the south, people go running up to the album table to buy it and we have to give the bad news its not available. So finally it is.. in all its full glory. So I know that will make people very happy. Especially our booth neighbor at Mossy Creek who has been waiting patiently for years. I can't wait to hand it to her.

So in summary, We used the concept of the Woods because thats where our instruments come from and we don't want to ever forget that either. The photos were taken near where I live in Golden Gate park San Francisco. For the inside artwork, I wrote a poem that hopefully paints a picture of our feeling about it all. For those of you who download only, I will share it here.

From the song of the wind;
does the earth give seed;
to the tree for the wood;
and the bamboo reed;
to the shapes and the hands;
where the sounds are freed;
from the soul and the breath;
to the earth and seed.

I hope you enjoy the music. It truly plays the songs from our hearts.

Lisa Lynne


name: Silent Night
sku: lynnetortorelli-silentnight
upc: 847646007822
description:
Magical music for the Christmas season. Harps, flutes and assorted rare acoustic instrumentation make up this enchanting recording of traditional holiday favorites.

I love Christmas music, I have played it year after year and I never tire of it. This recording was long overdue. I made a Christmas record 10 years ago called Celestial Winds "Christmas Morning." It was a lovely record for the time but after all these years, I knew I could do a much better one. So I took some of my very favorites from the record, re-recorded them with George playing flutes, did my very best arrangements and chose some new tunes to record as well. This time around I have much more resources to produce a high quality audio recording. When I hear the older Christmas Morning recording, I feel the sound quality is rather murky, and there are too many sound effects on the harp and especially the flutes. To much echo effects. It was ok for that time, but these days I prefer the more natural sound of the instruments.

"Silent Night" is all traditional music with the exception of one original tune called "Morning Star" that I wrote a few years back that just seemed to fit in perfect. So far its been extremely well received, people say they play it all the time, even when its not the season.. so that makes me happy. It's an honor to be a part of so many folks holiday memories.


name: Love and you and I
sku: lizzi-love
upc: 876809003418
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257798983&s=143444
description:
Love and you and I has remained a longtime Magnatune best-seller for a reason. There are plenty of sensual voices out there in the music world, but few that have the darkness and subtle chill that makes Lizzi's so bewitching. This is one of those albums of downtempo rock that you'll want to put and leave on from start to finish, possibly several times in a row. A great mood-maker and absolutely perfect for a rainy day. "Remedy," "Only You" and "My Destination" are our favorite tracks.


name: From The Silence
sku: logicgate-silence
upc: 876809007560
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/from-silence/id336068191
description:
From the Silence, the first Logic Gate album, was released in 2003. Electroambient Space magazine selected Logic Gate as Best New Artist of 2003.


name: Voyages
sku: logicgate-voyages
upc: 876809006860
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/voyages/id369493644
description:
Voyages (released in 2008) is a tribute to human exploration and was named one of the Top 10 Electronic albums for 2008 by Electroambient Space magazine.


name: Classical Loops 1
sku: magnaloops-classical1
upc: 876809005306
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Loops for Licensing is Magnatunes' series of albums featuring hundreds of high quality instrumental loops across many different genres. These loops make great background music for audio and video projects of any kind-anything that needs an instrumental music bed-and are also a great addition to any sound library. To use any one of these loops in a project, simply purchase a license from the Magnatune site: click the "license" link on this page, answer a couple of quick questions about your project, and you'll immediately get both a customized music license and access to the production quality audio files.


name: The Get You Some Project
sku: loot-getsome
upc: 847646002742
description:
The Get You Some Project is more like a collection of singles that have been bundled up all together to make one incredible album. The sound is eclectic and far from the atypical hip-hop/rap album that the mainstream is churning out.

Rock, pop, soul, electro, and even bossa nova are all influences that you can hear in the music.

As humans we experience a wide range of emotions and are perfectly imperfect. Therefore the album is struggle, success, introspective, superficial, serious, and a party all at the same time. LOOT takes you on his journey and paints a picture through strong lyrics and catchy hooks. If The Get You Some Project is any indication of what's to come then you should definitely jump on the bandwagon now and enjoy the ride. LOOT... get you some!


name: Baroque Works for Horn and Organ
sku: llarouche-baroqueworks
upc: 847646000434
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/baroque-works-for-horn-organ/id441957570
description:
From each invigorating track, the sonorities of the piccolo trumpet and those of the organ intertwine in exquisite harmony. Organized by such a project as this, notes sound with a rare conviction, with nuance and contrast. This album attests to the ingenious structures of Baroque music. It can offer a wonderful initiation to the world of this little-known repertoire. This colorful album will please those who are looking for / are searching for an earful of energy!


name: Alphabet of a Revolution
sku: llatb-alphabet
upc: 847646003015
description:
This is the soundtrack for the anti-capitalist demonstration currently camped out in your city.

This is the sound of people screaming for another way of doing things before it's too late for us all.

This is the smell of teargas and the leather of a riot cop's glove suffocating all hope.

This is the joy of taking back the streets, of taking back what's rightfully ours.

These are the sounds of freedom and hope.

"We were heavily influenced by the current revolutions raging across every country in the world. In these songs, we were trying to express the optimism and excitement we were feeling. A furious energy was burning through us! However, we're smart, realistic/pessimistic people too so there is a very dark side lurking in there too."
- Louis Lingg and the Bombs?

"Louis Lingg and the Bomb's third album and... the band has obviously redoubled their efforts, as this new material shows their sound taking a bold new direction in a big way. Existing fans shouldn't worry. The group's frenetic energy and humorous take on anti-authoritarian politics are still in full force here. What's new is polish. Where "Lullabies" and previous records embodied the sound of pure DIY garage band punk, these tracks all shine with professional presentation. My impression of the change is like drinking an aged whiskey after a younger one. Listeners unfamiliar with the old sound of Louis Lingg and the Bombs may want to jump straight into the new songs. To draw comparisons to other bands, I can't help but think of The Clash and their radio hit "Rock the Casbah." You can expect to hear the pure spirit of classic hardcore punk (not this modern Green Day stuff) with just enough pop mixed in to make it accessible to casual listeners without selling out. Once you've cut your teeth on it, check out the old stuff as well."
- Flamepanther, Dallas, Texas


name: Favela Ninja
sku: llatb-favelaninja
upc: 876809005573
description:
As the world tears itself apart in neo-liberal screams of static and alternative facts bouncing off every antenna, twisting our very thought processes into self hate, the population of this planet are crying out for hope. 6 billion desperate people driven to poverty and despair are looking to defend themselves, to strike back against the tiny oligarchy that's eclipsing the future of this planet. We need an assassin from the left, someone who's willing to return fire. We need a... FAVELA NINJA!

This is our 3rd full length proper album where every track is where it is for a reason. It took ages to make. 4 years for some of the songs!

credits
finished September 10, 2017

Recorded by Joshua Hudes in La Ventre de la Baleine in France
Mixed by Steve Kravac at Hells Half Acre in California
Mastered by Michael Hateley at Lotus Mastering in California
Bring it On recorded by Hadrian Grange and Manu Guiot
Freedom Fighter recorded and mixed by Olivier Famin
Remix of Happy Day (When the Sun Explodes) by Antilo
Cover by Aurelia Folch
Bonus cover design by ArnoLife


name: Light Lullabies for Skinny Monkeys
sku: llatb-llfsm
upc: 847646000953
description:
These are nasal sounding DIY punk songs recorded in a bedroom in Paris, France. sung with energy and humor. These guys write funny pop songs but don't forget that they're still dangerous anarchists, this is not a Blink 182 album.

Wave the black flags, get out your molotov cocktails, don your ski masks and hit the streets! This is sound of an anarcho pop punk block party. Fun fun boom boom pop rock songs to dance to.

"Smart snotty garage-y punk from France. There is a wild and all encompassing party contained on this album, all you have to do is press play. From JAY REATARD to SHAM 69 to EPOXIES, catchy punks from all corners of the earth seem to have converged in central Europe and doused themselves in anarchist theory before making the dance mania punk disc you've been dreaming of.
Robert Collins, Maximum Rock'n'roll

"A mix of ultra-political anarchic punk rock and fizzing children's nursery rhyme riot-pop. Album of the Week."
Sean, Organart magazine


name: Punk Instrumentals
sku: llatb-punkinst
upc: 847646002469
description:
These are instrumental versions of songs that were recorded in true DIY punk conditions. 5 of these song were mixed by the legendary super producer, Steve Kravac, (7 Seconds, MXPX, Guttermouth, Blink 182, Less than Jake, Tsunami Bomb, Youth Brigade) so you can be sure that there are some pretty good sounds going on here for an ultra-low budget recording! Check out some of their proper songs too on their album Light Lullabies for Skinny Puppies"

This is the soundtrack for the anti-capitalist demonstration currently camped out in your city.

This is the sound of people screaming for another way of doing things before it's too late for us all.

This is the smell of teargas and the leather of a riot cop's glove suffocating all hope.

This is the joy of taking back the streets, of taking back what's rightfully ours.

These are the sounds of freedom and hope.

"We were heavily influenced by the current revolutions raging across every country in the world. In these songs, we were trying to express the optimism and excitement we were feeling. A furious energy was burning through us! However, we're smart, realistic people too so there is a dark side lurking in there too."


name: Songs for a Teargas Sunset
sku: llatb-sfatgs
upc: 847646009437
description:
Acid rain is stinging your eyes as you marvel at the crumbling city walls around you.

It's the end of the world and the last cop wants to beat you to death for planting the last flower in a dirty pothole in the street. Tear gas makes you claw at your face as you gasp at the beauty of the sunset. Red upon red upon red. "Must be all the pollution", you laugh, before you lose consciousness for the last time...

We're a DIY punk band that normally record and do everything ourselves. Records can take a long time to make using this method. A few years ago, we decided to experiment with a different way of doing things. Record a record in two days on pro-equipment to see what happened. Tracks 2-5 are different to our earlier records in that they have an almost professional history.

It was recorded by Hadrien Grange (The Shades and Shit Browne) and Manu Guiot (Mick Jagger, Eurythmics, Sid Vicious, Celine Dion, Patrick Bruel etc.) on a Neve desk that was used to mix the 2nd Oasis album. It was mixed by Steve Kravac in Hollywood. Steve Kravac is one of the mixers that has defined the American punk sound. He has mixed Blink 182, MXPX, Less than Jake, 7 Seconds, Total Chaos, Tsunami Bomb, Youth Brigade and much more. All these cool people for a budget of almost zero. We had a lot of lucky breaks making this record! Turns out Steve is a great guy who is very kind! Tracks 2-5 were mastered by Michael Hateley who has mastered Green Day, R.E.M., Flaming Lips, Deftones, Lou Reed, Madonna you get the idea! It's crazy!

Track 1 was recorded and mixed in our rehearsal room by us before band practice! It won second best song of 2015 by Just Some Punk Songs blog. We're very proud of that as it was up against songs from big bands from the US!

Track 6 was recorded and mixed by Olivier Famin

Tracks 7-11 were recorded and mixed and mastered by me in a basement. They are instrumental versions of songs we've already released and are here by popular demand by independent filmmakers. The vocal versions of these songs have been used over a hundred times for videos and theme songs! It's weird but I think they just resonated with people.


name: Am I
sku: loveamp-ami
upc: 876809005542
description:
SOUL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
SIN OCCUPIED UNTIL LAST
LAST AFTER SOUL TRANSFER
(SIN@SOUL˟LAST)
(0@0˟1)(1@1˟1)
(0@1˟1)(1@1˟2)
(0@1˟2)(1@0˟1)(2@2˟1)
(0@1˟3)(1@1˟1)(2@2˟2)
(0@0˟1)(1@1˟2)(2@2˟3)(3@3˟1)
(0@2˟1)(1@1˟3)(2@2˟4)(3@3˟2)
(0@2˟2)(1@1˟4)(2@0˟1)(3@3˟3)
(4@4˟1)
(0@2˟3)(1@1˟5)(2@1˟1)(3@3˟4)
(4@4˟2)
(0@2˟4)(1@0˟1)(2@1˟2)(3@3˟5)
(4@4˟3)(5@5˟1)
(0@2˟5)(1@3˟1)(2@1˟3)(3@3˟6)
(4@4˟4)(5@5˟2)
(0@2˟6)(1@3˟2)(2@1˟4)(3@0˟1)
(4@4˟5)(5@5˟3)(6@6˟1)
(0@2˟7)(1@3˟3)(2@1˟5)(3@2˟1)
(4@4˟6)(5@5˟4)(6@6˟2)
(0@0˟1)(1@3˟4)(2@1˟6)(3@2˟2)
(4@4˟7)(5@5˟5)(6@6˟3)(7@7˟1)
(0@4˟1)(1@3˟5)(2@1˟7)(3@2˟3)
(4@4˟8)(5@5˟6)(6@6˟4)(7@7˟2)
(0@4˟2)(1@3˟6)(2@1˟8)(3@2˟4)
(4@0˟1)(5@5˟7)(6@6˟5)(7@7˟3)
(8@8˟1)
(0@4˟3)(1@3˟7)(2@1˟9)(3@2˟5)
(4@1˟1)(5@5˟8)(6@6˟6)(7@7˟4)
(8@8˟2)
(0@4˟4)(1@3˟8)(2@0˟1)(3@2˟6)
(4@1˟2)(5@5˟9)(6@6˟7)(7@7˟5)
(8@8˟3)(9@9˟1)
(0@4˟5)(1@3˟9)(2@5˟1)(3@2˟7)
(4@1˟3)(5@5˟10)(6@6˟8)(7@7˟6)
(8@8˟4)(9@9˟2)
(0@4˟6)(1@3˟10)(2@5˟2)(3@2˟8)
(4@1˟4)(5@0˟1)(6@6˟9)(7@7˟7)
(8@8˟5)(9@9˟3)(10@10˟1)
(0@4˟7)(1@3˟11)(2@5˟3)(3@2˟9)
(4@1˟5)(5@3˟1)(6@6˟10)(7@7˟8)
(8@8˟6)(9@9˟4)(10@10˟2)
(0@4˟8)(1@0˟1)(2@5˟4)(3@2˟10)
(4@1˟6)(5@3˟2)(6@6˟11)(7@7˟9)
(8@8˟7)(9@9˟5)(10@10˟3)(11@11˟1)
(0@4˟9)(1@6˟1)(2@5˟5)(3@2˟11)
(4@1˟7)(5@3˟3)(6@6˟12)(7@7˟10)
(8@8˟8)(9@9˟6)(10@10˟4)(11@11˟2)


name: Can We Not Care
sku: loveamp-canwenotcare
upc: 847646008355
description:
Can We Not Care is a track-by-track remix of 2008's "Creation" by CWNC2008, the original name of Love Amplifier on Myspace. These tracks have served as the basis for every album since then, including each half of a double album.

This remake was produced during a single 16-hour session on the same Samsung 503C chromebook used to produce "In Our Memory". The album art is a recreation of the original album art produced in Adobe Photoshop, using Chrome's Boxy SVG.


name: Code Word Name
sku: loveamp-codewordname
upc: 876809005207
description:
hang on i'll be right back
give me the mic back
oh did you like that
I didn't write that
it's automation
imagination
it's an equation
it's an equation


name: Creation and Destruction
sku: loveamp-creationdestruction
upc: 847646007600
description:
"Creation" was inspired almost entirely by a single Chemical Brothers concert, and the afterglow that resulted and followed me through my life for the next year or so.

"Destruction" was inspired by the negative reactions to my positive, uplifting music, and the positive reactions to my dark, depressing music.

"Hotel Ryugyong" is by far my favorite track that I have ever written. I remixed it as "Yellow Star" for the mixtape "12 Steps to Serenity", and it is included on my later album "Virtuoso 13".

It is based on a melody that came to me as I stared at the sun while my eyes were shaking.

"Creation" and "Destruction" were my first two albums, composed between 2007 and 2009. In addition to these two albums, the combined album "Creation and Destruction" contains several additional tracks that didn't make it into either album.


name: Critical Mass
sku: loveamp-criticalmass
upc: 876809005276
description:
.but if you have tasted food, you must go back again beneath the secret places of the earth, there to dwell a third part of the seasons every year: yet for the two parts you shall be with me and the other deathless gods.


name: Death and Rebirth
sku: loveamp-deathrebirth
upc: 847646005699
description:
Death and Rebirth is a double album of electronic music, composed of Love Amplifier's first two albums: Ego Death, and Rebirth.

Ego Death is a methodical, step-by-step remix of older, pre-Love Amplifier material that became completely unrecognizable during the process of remixing it. The entire album was produced using a single instrument - Ableton's Operator.

Rebirth is an exploration of beats, melodies and harmonies composed spontaneously, without reference to any existing material. If any of these songs sound even remotely like anything that already exists, it is entirely by accident.


name: Enter Singularity
sku: loveamp-entersingularity
upc: 847646007594
description:
Tracks 1-7 are a continuous mix, originally titled "Survival" - a live set performed in Long Beach, California in November 2011. No controller was used - only a keyboard, a mouse, and Ableton Live.

The remainder of the album is designed to mix live with "Exit Planet Dust" by The Chemical Brothers, provided the tempos of each track are synchronized.

No melodies, harmonies, rhythms, or chord progressions were borrowed or stolen from that album - these tracks are all completely original.


name: In Our Memory
sku: loveamp-inourmemory
upc: 847646008348
description:
In Our Memory was produced entirely on a Chromebook using LMMS and no other software. Three of these songs are remixes of older songs. The other three are original pieces written by the same random arpeggiator.

The song "identity" is based on an older song written on the same model of chromebook, a Samsung 503C, using the same random arpeggiator.


name: Love Amplifier
sku: loveamp-loveamplifier
upc: 876809005559
description:
never see a person change
see their past and future change simultaneously
acting now changes the past and the future
never now


name: Mahadeva
sku: loveamp-mahadeva
upc: 847646000601
description:
Mahadeva was originally titled "Ideality" and released under the artist name "HIGH ON".

It was produced in LMMS over the course of a week to fulfill a new year's resolution to make more drum and bass tracks.

These tracks only use samples included in LMMS, resulting in extremely small files.

Project files for this album and others are available from the LMMS sharing platform.


name: Paradox_
sku: loveamp-paradox
upc: 847646011546
description:
These songs were composed and produced over the course of three days in 2019, to take advantage of the trial period for the latest version of Ableton Live.
No instruments or samples were used other than Ableton's "Operator" synthesizer, resulting in very small project files.
These files were immediately shared on splice.com, which at the time allowed the sharing of Ableton (and other) project files.
Since then, splice.com has removed this feature (and all project files!).
Sort the tracks by tempo to see the order in which they were produced.


name: Shell Shock
sku: loveamp-shellshock
upc: 847646000618
description:
Shellshock was created with directions and advice from an artificial general intelligence algorithm, the "ASK SHE KIT".

It was originally titled "AN IDENTITY" and released under a different artist name, "HIGH ON".

The following tracks are covers of earlier Love Amplifier tracks:

BIZ - "Cat Deep" from "Z axis" OWN - "Red Pill" from "Z axis" SHE - "Identity" from "In Our Memory" TMI, XTC - "Ecstasy" from "In Our Memory" YET - "Why You Eye OP" from "Z axis"


name: Virtuoso Thirteen
sku: loveamp-virtuosothirteen
upc: 847646007617
description:
"Virtuoso Thirteen" is an expansion on a mixtape titled "12 Steps to Serenity", which I released on Youtube several weeks before releasing this album. This album omits several tracks with unclearable samples, and also omits several tracks too short to follow the flow of the album. It also includes several extra tracks to replace these tracks.

"Virtuoso Thirteen" is a collection of every track I produced since "Enter Singularity" that is eligible for a Creative Commons license. This album took over two years to complete, and showcases the best production techniques available to me during that time period.


name: Z Axis
sku: loveamp-zaxis
upc: 847646008249
description:
Z Axis is an experiment in open-source music.

The album was produced using only default sounds shipped with Linux Multimedia Studio (LMMS), resulting in XML project files under 100Kb each.

In addition, the entire album was produced on a Samsung Chromebook 2, using a program called "crouton" to allow linux programs to run.

"Z Axis" was written in public at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, California, entirely on battery life.


name: Ambrosia
sku: lukegartnerbrereton-ambrosia
upc: 847646007129
description:
Like the divine fair of ancient Greek myth from which the name derives, Ambrosia will nourish the soul and soothe the mind. Layered instruments drift softly above a shimmering soundscapes, often sweet, sometimes bitter.

Tracks feature piano, classical nylon-string guitar, acoustic guitar and a range of exotic instruments, blended and layered throughout like the mingled flavours and textures of a fine meal.

This is an album that invites the listener to recline and drink in; to ponder and unravel, to simply let the music do its work.


name: A Balm for Sisyphus
sku: lukegartnerbrereton-balmsisyphus
upc: 847646006597
description:
A Balm for Sisyphus is a thoughtful meditation: fifteen stories to sooth the soul and ignite the imagination, wrested from precious things of string and wood. A blend of genres and styles, the album features the soothing tones of Classical and Spanish guitars, the percussive rhythms of Spain, the sweet chirp of a soprano ukulele, and a healthy infusion of groove.

Each track tells a tale of hope or sorrow, with nylon strings providing warmth and depth, percussive elements giving each song vitality and movement, and melodic riffs infusing each track with pathos. Listen long, listen well.


name: Ironsky
sku: lukegartnerbrereton-ironsky
upc: 876809008116
description:
Lovingly crafted with a mix of acoustic, stringed instruments and electronic elements, Ironsky is a celebration of melancholy and thoughtfulness painted in rich colours and dark textures. The album features songs of sorrow and loss, mixed with subtle notes of hope and longing and the odd uplifting moment. The aim of the album is to create space for thought, contemplation and even sorrow; to allow the imagination to drift, unfettered, for a time.

Ironsky features a range of world instruments such as Spanish guitars, the Bolivian Ronroco, classical violin, the ukulele, bamboo flute and a range of percussive instruments.


name: Rouges and Lovers
sku: lukegartnerbrereton-roguesandlovers
upc: 876809009304
description:
Rouges and Lovers is a journey through passion and heartache, joy and sorrow. Featuring lively Latin percussion, rhythmic Spanish guitars and melodic phrases, the album speaks of sultry summer nights, the passionate embrace of a lover, the joy of dining with friends and family beneath starlit skies.


name: Ronroco Dreaming
sku: lukegartnerbrereton-ronrocodream
upc: 847646006870
description:
Ronroco Dreaming is a rich acoustic tapestry bursting with Latin textures, vibrant percussive rhythms and bittersweet melodies. Each track is layered with melodic depth, inviting the listener to sit, listen and let the mind revel in its exotic tones and textures.

The album features the Bolivian/Andean Ronroco, a ten-stringed instrument from the lute family popularised in recent years through the work of Gustavo Santaolalla (Babel, Brokeback Mountain, Motorcycle Diaries, The Last of Us). Cousin to the Charango (a smaller instrument whose rounded body was traditionally built from the shell of an armadillo) the Ronroco is a ten stringed instrument (5 pairs of 2 strings) which produces a warm, mellow tone that sits beneath and between the mandolin and ukulele.


name: Soundpainting
sku: lunar5-soundpainting
upc: 847646005965
description:
The music on Soundpainting is a kind of alternative-pop-ethno style mixed with ambient, chillout, nujazz and acoustic elements.

You will find abstract pictures, visions and musical landscapes.

Although the mood in the songs is mostly melancholic and emotional the message is only positive.

Soundpainting presents infinity, personal knowledge, spiritual way and possibly a dialog with the God which brings the light and love to this music. Sonically and technically, Soundpainting covers a wide variety of different sounds recorded in the Lunar Room studio. Lunar5 loves the warmth and depth of true analog gear and also modern creative digital tools so you the listener can hear a lot of diverse sounds.

Most of the instruments was recorded and mixed by the founder and producer Lukas Rufer.
There are also the additional painters and quests: Martin Linda a.k.a Amorphine, Popsie, Vaclav Hlavka, Filip Alexander a.k.a Tharian and Otakar Stepanek

Soundpainting is Lunar5's debut album and was recorded during the years 2009 - 2012.


name: LVX Nova
sku: lvxnova-lvxnova
upc: 876809005528
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=267132802&s=143444
description:
From the land of great back-catalog comes LVX Nova's self-titled release of 1997, a nicely atmospheric ambient album overlaid with acid jazz and rock grooves. This album started off as guitarist DeVito's thesis on the progression of ambient and electronic music, but when he teamed up with keyboardist Meengs, the project took on a whole new life of its own. DeVito's guitar work hearkens back to Edgar Froese's work with Tangerine Dream, while his solo style has shades of early David Gilmour.


name: The Beauty of the Earth
sku: lmccauley-beauty
upc: 847646000465
description:
The Beauty of the Earth fuses Lydia McCauley's luminous songwriting and rich vocals with a brilliant performance from her ensemble of musicians. This album shines like gold on a Tuscan hillside. Coloring her compositions with Folk, World Music and New Age elements, Lydia McCauley combines the past and present, joyfully mapping out new territory for the mind and spirit.

All music and lyrics by Lydia McCauley, except where noted.
The Beauty of the Earth - Celebrates the Divine Earth, and Love.
I Want to be Free - The universal yearning for freedom.
The River of Life - Creating gold from all of life's circumstances/joy and pain.
The Lark in the Morn - A celebration of Life! Music by L.M., lyrics British Isles.
In the Silence - "Eternity is in-between, in the silence."
Aeternitas - In Latin and English. A spiritual quest.
The White Heat - Written after Emily Dickenson's poem, "Dare to see the soul at the White Heat." The joining of two through fiery trial.
When You See - Taken from a Jewish Midrash, or an illustrated truth.
Burning of the Piper's Hut - Trad. Scottish.
Kyrie Eleison - An ancient chant - Lord Have Mercy. After the anonymously written 19th Century Russian Classic, "The Way of a Pilgrim." Lydia wrote this Kyrie on September 11, 2001.


name: Entrances
sku: lmccauley-entrances
upc: 847646003206
description:
Lydia McCauley is a Contemporary Folk singer, pianist, and composer. This album is a mystical sounding record, some of the pieces are a little on the dark side. Okay, most of them are, but one of them isn't - "Traveling Moorland," which is a unity song ("we all come from different places, but we are the same") with a Scottish Blessing ("safe and whole may you return home"). On the other hand, songs like "The Fire," "Hope Grows," and "Ashes" give the soul an interior space for yearning. Recorded on tape and mastered HDCD in Los Angeles, this album packs power.


name: ForeignLander
sku: lmccauley-foreignlander
upc: 847646001004
description:
ForeignLander : they came across the ocean from the British Isles. They sang the songs of their homeland in a new country. They lived, loved and died here. This is the music of the ForeignLander.

Lydia McCauley documented folk music at the Appalachian Music Archive in Berea, Kentucky in the early 1980's and studied with some of the best folk musicians in the Appalachian region. Known today as a songwriter, McCauley returns to her roots in her fifth album, ForeignLander; a collection of innovatively arranged pieces from 17-20th Century British Isles and Appalachia, beautifully performed by McCauley and her Ensemble, along with special guests. While careful to preserve Appalachian traditions, Lydia creates a fresh sound that pleases both traditional and progressive music audiences. Includes an original instrumental - "Swallow's Return" composed by McCauley.

"Laced with medieval, Celtic, and Appalachian tones, her songs are best described as intoxicating, making a lissome journey through the past via the textured sounds of the ensemble's recorders, flutes, viola, pennywhistle, and mandolin. Beyond musical technique, McCauley's lyrics betray a poet's sensibility, good enough to earn Madeleine L'Engle's glowing praise: "I wouldn't have missed this for anything. The words were must as good as the music."
-Luci Shaw, Image Journal

"Music for independent minds that are looking for something refreshingly different."
-Chuck Robinson, President, American Bookseller's Association

"Lyrical magic that will uplift the spirits...exceptional instrumental tracks that will haunt your mind and transport you back in time..."
-Nicky Rossiter, South East Radio, Ireland

"A well known artist in the Celtic and New Age worlds, this album takes a slight detour as Lydia McCauley takes traditional Appalachian melodies and works her magic on them. The simplicity of the songs makes them a perfect fit for Lydia's style. Adding classical, jazz, Celtic and world music elements to these tracks gives them new life and new passion, which Lydia hopes will help them travel a little further and be passed down once again."
-Goldenrod Music


name: Quieting
sku: lmccauley-quieting
upc: 876809008529
description:
QUIETING is an all-instrumental recording that sprang forth from an intensely quiet period of about three years when Lydia lost her singing voice. It was an inward time, what she calls "the midlife turnstile - that introspective place where one crosses the threshold into the second half of life." The fragrance of trees, seeds drifting through the forest, and the unexpected friendship of a frog inspired such pieces as "Hawthorn," "Cottonwood," and "Every Bug, Every Bee, Every Breath."

Full of childlike wonder and beauty, QUIETING is quieting. There are extraordinary musicians featured on the recording, such as Grammy Winner Nancy Rumbel (oboe, English horn) and Jami Sieber (cello), Lee Mohler (trumpet and flugelhorn) and Lydia's long-time group of musicians.


name: Sabbath Day's Journey
sku: lmccauley-sabbathday
upc: 876809009960
description:
The soul of Lydia McCauley's music is rooted in the quiet beauty of contemplation. By combining the ancient sounds of the Celts, the Spirituality of Medieval Mystics, and the woeful mourn of the Appalachian tradition, Lydia writes new music that evokes a sense of the past. Sweeping across the centuries, crossing the continents, from Italy to England, Ireland to Southern Appalachian Mountains, she weaves a beautiful musical tapestry of her own journeys.

Lydia McCauley's music is described as beautiful, mystical, intriguing, crystal, passionate. Her songwriting is shaped by Celtic, Medieval, and Appalachian music - and her own pilgrimages around the world. This combination portrays a beautiful journey through the past and into the present as Lydia's passionate and clear vocals take her listener to an inward landscape, where the simple truths of her lyrics illumine the soul.

"I wouldn't have missed this for anything. The words were just as good as the music."
Madeleine L'Engle, Newberry Award Winning Author of Wrinkle in Time

"Lydia McCauley's songs have a primal quality that reaches through the ear to the heart. Their beauty is infectious, their strength fortifying. I hear the songs from Sabbath Day's Journey echoing in my own soul."
Luci Shaw, author, The Crime of Living Cautiously

"Lydia McCauley's music is therapy for the senses - its ethereal beauty soothes the soul."
Anne Deck, host/producer "Girls Night Out" and Weekday" WUKY - FM, 91.3, Lexington, KY


name: The Moon of Wintertime
sku: lmccauley-wintertime
upc: 876809009526
description:
In "The Moon of Wintertime," Lydia McCauley offers a fresh interpretation of some very old Christmas pieces, writes an original song, and makes her debut on the Appalachian Dulcimer.

Full of mirth and merriment, this album can be enjoyed during the Christmas season and quite possibly throughout the year. "The Moon of Wintertime" bears a freshness of spirit for the winter season. It's a wonderful addition to winter holiday collections, expanding the usual Christmas faire into pieces from medieval Italy, France, Scotland and England. "Bring Us In Good Ale" includes vocals by The Blessed Lady's Pub Chorus and ends with peals of laughter.

The cover art and text portray its spiritual and traditional origins and in many ways add to the overall experience. The tunes and songs here are derived from many sources and times and yet they combine old and new compositions. The title track has music from France, lyrics dating from around 1643 with an English translation in 1926 and an adaptation in 2002 by McCauley.

From this mixture she has produced lyrical magic that will uplift the spirits. On "Gifts of the Magi," she takes full control, writing and arranging. The result is a 21st century song that would not have raised eyebrows in medieval courts. "Good King Wenceslas" and the former track make this an ideal Christmas album if one is looking for traditional with a twist, but this is an all-year-round album so don't restrict your enjoyment to two weeks a year.

On hearing McCauley sing this song so sadly seen only as a carol, you must recognise it as a classic of good composition. The music may date from 1582 but this is 2003 sound."Childgrove" and "Ideo Gloria" are two exceptional instrumental tracks that will haunt your mind and transport you back in time to a glorious age of madrigal and courtly love. McCauley takes an Appalachian song, "Down in Yon Forest," and gives it an interpretation that is probably closer to the original tune that traveled to the U.S. There is a very special bonus on this track. McCauley sings her version of the song, which is followed immediately by an arrangement by Brian Cunningham. This shows how an old song can be interpreted to give two or more distinct songs. Listen only to this track and marvel.


name: Between Worlds
sku: lynxjanover-betweenworlds
upc: 876809009137
description:
LYNX and Janover have established themselves as pioneers of a unique brand of electro-acoustic music by creating a diversified harmonic blend of all original hip-hop and down-tempo electronica grooves with stellar song writing, guitar playing, beat boxing, rhyming, amplified mini-kit percussion and the unique sounds of the hammered dulcimer. Big warm bass and sophisticated beats combined with LYNX's incredible songwriting and Jamie Janover's melodic and percussive genius puts them in a league of their own.


name: Envelopes
sku: macabro-envelopes
upc: 847646000472
description:
Envelopes by Latvian ambient-project "Macabro" brings a mixture of soothing soundscapes, combined with warm pulsations of deep bass rhythms. It starts with powerful piano chords, and floats further with a fragile combination of field recordings of sounds of rain, wind and thunder and abstract synth and guitar melodies.

It is a journey to the blue depths of the sky and back to the earth, providing a wide spectre of emotions - the darkness and the light come together on this 40-minute long recording. Look behind the clouds, and get back to the earth before sunrise!


name: We Live Lies
sku: macabro-welivelies
upc: 847646005989
description:
The 'We Live Lies' album explores the realms of rhythmic downtempo music, at the same time drawing its force from multiple electronic music genres, such as psy-ambient, IDM and glitch. A few spoken samplings can be noticed now and then, submerging the listener into the imaginary astral domain of sound.

This album is the perfect example of music that an be listened both with headphones, so that you can enjoy the small surgical details of sound, and on loud sound systems, because it has all the features of modern electronic music - starting from bass-driven passages and ending with precisely placed quiet atmospheric noises in the background.

Dynamic and cinematic, abstract and meditative - this work is the ideal soundtrack for a long walk, when you want to be alone with your thoughts and dreams.


name: The Diplomat
sku: mit-diplomat
upc: 876809009014
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/the-diplomat/id440761840
description:
Drawing from influences such as Imogen Heap, Royksopp, Thomas Dolby and Booka Shade, the duo set out to write electronic compositions, but keeping in mind pop songwriting sensibility.

This album is experiment in collaboration, of reaching out to strangers and believing in good in the world. The songs span a wide range of emotion from the dark night of the soul, to getting on the dance floor and shaking your moneymaker. Working with singers and re-mixers from Russian, Sweden, Germany, Boston and Minneapolis, Machines in Transit found a way to get their global electronic groove on.

Visit our embassy. The door is always open.


name: Birds of the State Fair
sku: madeofwood-birdstate
upc: 847646004678
description:
Birds of the State Fair is an eclectic carnival of funky grooves, blending "organic" instrumentation, like piano and upright bass, with electronic samples and beats.

There's almost no activity for which this album wouldn't make a great score. In fact, it's easy to see how the title track could fit right in with a stroll, a drive, or pensive chillout time.


name: The Chill Funk Trip
sku: madeofwood-chillfunk
upc: 847646004562
description:
The Chill/Funk Trip sounds pretty much as the title would suggest.

It is an album of groove-laden chilled out sounds, with influences from electronica, chillout lounge and funk. Imagine a jazz club that landed on the moon. It's spacey, dreamy and funky, eclectic and atmospheric.


name: Narcotherapy Hypnosis
sku: madeofwood-narcotherapyhypnosis
upc: 847646006726
description:
Narcotherapy Hypnosis is an instrumental album steeped in nostalgia for a time that never quite existed. The album is the soundtrack to a fictional 60s/70s spy movie (you'll have to supply the visuals) that fuses both older and more modern sounds into new but familiar grooves. The music ranges from instrumental funky jams with Wurlitzers, clavinet and horns, to more trippy retro-synth space sounds - with a whole lot of exploration in between.

This album is a follow up to Made of Wood's previous album, "The Chill Funk Trip," which was met with glowing reviews by the Indie music community.

Cover art by Ryan Crowley.


name: Magnatune At The CC Salon
sku: magnacomp-cc
upc: 876809005030
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257938898&s=143444
description:
We got so many compliments on the set we DJ'ed at the Creative Commons' Salon in San Francisco that we turned it into a special compilation, just for you. The emphasis here is on a cocktail and conversation friendly vibe, so things start off mellow to take the edge off, then build up to a slightly buzzier but still conversation-friendly vibe. The perfect album to put on after work or at a cocktail party of your own...73 minutes of good feeling and musical excellence.


name: Christmas Music
sku: magnacomp-christmas
upc: 876809006129
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Create a toasty, elegantly merry mood with the Magnatune Christmas Compilation featuring over 60 minutes of the most timeless and classic carols of the season as played by ten different best-selling artists from Magnatune Records. The predominantly instrumental selections range from the simple acoustic guitar of James Edwards to the rich viola de gamba of Ralph Rousseau Meulenbroeks and the snowy, sparkling harp of Cheryl Ann Fulton. A few select vocal pieces include the absolutely angelic sounding Con Brio children's choir as well as the renowned women's vocal ensemble, Kitka. This is one of those albums to which you'll return again and again, season after season, and it's absolutely perfect for holiday dinners.


name: Romantic Dinner Classical Compilation
sku: magnacomp-dinner
upc: 876809003715
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Elegant and subdued, the Magnatune Romantic Dinner Classical Compilation sets exactly the right mood for an intimate gathering of any kind. This compilation steers clear of formal compositions in favor of quietly genteel ones that create an atmosphere of warmth and refinement. Features several best-selling Magnatune classical artists including Asteria, American Baroque, Vito Paternoster, and Brook Street Band.


name: New Age and Jazz
sku: magnacomp-newage
upc: 876809009359
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257938819&s=143444
description:
From cleanly elegant piano compositions by Ehren Starks and Jan Hanford to the earthier blues and jazz offerings of JAG and Thursday Group, this largely instrumental compilation features the very best of Magnatune's early New Age and Jazz catalog. Don't miss the beautiful "Freedom" by Jeff Wahl-one of Magnatune's most licensed tracks of all time.


name: The Art of Persuasion
sku: magnacomp-persuasion
upc: 876809005245
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257824141&s=143444
description:
We made it just for you: The Art of Persuasion features over 70 minutes of Magnatune's most compelling artists at their most subdued and seductive. This isn't just a compilation, it's a mix-a thoughtfully assembled playlist of sophisticated downtempo tracks that flow into one another, by best-selling performers like Artemis, Yongen, Paul Avgerinos, Lisa DeBenedictis, and eight others. The perfect album to have on hand for dinners, drinks, and uh...other nighttime pursuits.


name: Relaxing Classical
sku: magnacomp-relaxclass
upc: 876809006051
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Sometimes classical music can be too grand in scope or too variable in mood for a normal, busy day, but not our Relaxing Classical compilation-an intimately scaled album of classical music that keeps an even, warm tone throughout. Over 70 minutes of music by 18 different artists instantly creates a calm, comfortable ambience wherever it's played. Composers include: Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, Boismortier, Kummer, Rameau, Rachmaninoff, and many others.


name: The 2007 Magnatune Records Sampler
sku: magnacomp-sampler
upc: 876809005429
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
This year's sampler went like hotcakes at South by Southwest because it features the true highlights of our best pop and rock releases from the last year. There's indie rock from The Seldon Plan, Arthur Yoria, and Beight...pop and electronic from Yongen, Artemis, Burning Babylon, and Falling You, plus some gems from Mountain Mirrors, The Headroom Project, The Kokoon, and a bunch of others. A fantastic mix. Get it while it's hot!


name: South by Southwest Compilation
sku: magnacomp-sxsw
upc: 876809004460
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257914298&s=143444
description:
This is the sampler we made to take with us to the nation's premier indie rock event in Austin, so "tightly edited" doesn't begin to describe it. An obsessively compiled collection of downright amazing tracks by fourteen different Magnatune artists, this sampler showcases the very best of Magnatune's indie rock catalog from the previous year.


name: A Christmas with Magnatune
sku: magnacomp-xmas2014
upc: 847646007457
description:
Welcome to Magnatune's second Christmas music compilation. We're now 2014, and what a long way we've come since our first compilation in 2007, when we could barely cobble together a collection of somewhat-plausibly Christmas related songs.

This album is a free download, our Christmas gift to you!

Here are the download links, in all the various audio formats we offer: mp3, mp3 high quality, wav, aac, alac, flac, ogg, opus.

Although interesting and wide ranging, that 2007 compilation wasn't exactly everyone's idea of Christmas music.

On the other hand, this compilation was surprisingly easy to create, in that I had hundreds of truly Christmas tunes to pick from, but hard in a way, because there was so many weird and wonderful things to chose among.

Virtually all the songs on this album come from an entire record of Christmas music by each musician: if you like one of the songs by an artist, by all means go explore what other songs they have on their Christmas album!

Among other gems, you'll find:

a) Two very different versions of "Noel Nouvelet". Galliarda's version is an instrumental and lively renaissance version, which Stephane Potvin's version is choral.

b) Ralph Rousseau Meulenbroeks playing popular Christmas tunes on the baroque viola da gamba.

c) Harper's Hamper doing a solo operatic "What Child is This", as well as what sounds like a group of drunk Victorian Brits meeting a folk band in a dark alley, doing their version of "Jingle Bells".

d) And speaking of "Jingle Bells", no Christmas would be complete without Anup's Indian/Electronica fusion version of that song.

e) An electro/Chinese version of "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy".

f) A lyrically revised version of "Wassail", capturing what our homeless might want for their Christmas meal.

g) and many other interesting, sparkly treats!

Enjoy!

from John Buckman, Magnatune's founder/gardener/janitor


name: Ridin the Faders 2
sku: fourstones-magnaremix2
upc: 876809005191
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257933592&s=143444
description:
We were thrilled when we heard that Victor Stone, Lo Tag Blanco, Pat Chilla, and other ccMixter superstars were once again planning to have their way with the Magnatune catalog. Unlike the legions of Buddha Bar clones that have sprung up worldwide, Stone draws from a wider palette than most remixers ever consider, and the result are tracks not merely sleek and cool?they're actually musically interesting! "I'm The I" (8) is an especially hot one and of course we flipped over the Magnatune-themed "We Are Not Evil" track (11) featuring Clarance Boddyker, a South Bronx rapper with style to burn. Oh and check out the very last track to hear a voice that may be familiar.


name: Living on Air
sku: mako-livingonair
upc: 847646000625
description:
The sound of this album mixes alt indie rock, blues to funk to reggae played by artists of different styles from France and Ireland coming together to create Mako. The subject matter voices addiction, love and loss, moving on and finding peace.

"Living on Air" was written and recorded after a turbulent few years for the artists, total disillusionment with the record industry, to the final destruction of their old band Cyclefly from major label politics. "Living on Air" is going back to what is important, the creation process and ultimately the music, without all the BS and ego that goes with the other.

"Every so often, a really great band just simply disappears...like, let's say Cyclefly for example. Then if you're very lucky, as quickly as the left, they reappear, like a phoenix from the ashes, reformed (well, kind of) as a new incarnation - MAKO. MAKO are good. Really good, and the new album is a showcase of everything that 'Makos' these guys great (like what I did there?)...Brimmed with shimmering guitars and addictive hooks, the triumphant return of one of the best bands, albeit in a slightly different format, that the UK has seen for a long time".
Review by: Gray Thomas."DSD"


name: The Lamaj Movement
sku: mjamal-lamajmove
upc: 847646004937
description:
The Lamaj Movement is a concept album where every song takes the listener on a part of his history growing up in five countries (Belarus, Iran, Germany, USA and Canada). A homage to his family's nomadic journey around the world.

A word from Maneli Jamal:
"This concept album is dedicated to my family's nomadic journey around the world. I tried my best to capture our journey through music, to take you, the listener, where I once stood, to feel what I lived. As hard as it was at times on our travels, we learned a great deal in the process. I know I wouldn't be able to express myself with the guitar the way I do, if it weren't for these experiences I encountered as a youth. But in retrospect, all six family members agree that where we are now is a much better place.

I hope you enjoy these compositions and are inspired to reflect on your own history, rediscovering the treasurable stories that lie there."


name: The Mardom Movement
sku: mjamal-mardommove
upc: 847646010426
description:
In the past, I've released two other Movement CDs. One was dedicated to my love life at the time (The Ziur Movement) and the other to my family's nomadic journey to Canada (The Lamaj Movement). I've had this idea in the back of my mind for years: how can I write an album that's about the people who have inspired me through traveling and touring the world the past few years? This project was a big step forward for me because I've gotten the chance to play with some world class players who have taught me something important about music: the art of sharing it with others. This CD is mostly a collection of collaborations with other instrumentalists, but also a few solo guitar compositions. A special thanks to all 133 Kickstarter backers from all over the world for making this CD come to life!


name: The Ziur Movement
sku: mjamal-ziurmove
upc: 847646000489
description:
Maneli has absorbed a number of musical styles on this album, and he is able to seamlessly incorporate jazz, flamenco, classical and Persian ideas into his original compositions on the album which is distinctly his.

Incorporating literally every inch of the instrument you will try to decipher just how he is getting that many sounds out of a solo guitar with no overdubs. Maneli has composed, performed, recorded, mixed, mastered and even designed the album cover of The "Ziur Movement".

The Ziur Movement is Maneli Jamal's first album released in 2009. This concept album is dedicated to his fiance which the four part movement series (The Ziur Movement) is dedicated to. This album features 14 original solo acoustic guitar tracks as well as one played on a Persian Setar.


name: Epigrams
sku: mantic-epigrams
upc: 876809007393
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/epigrams/id346388182
description:
It's been almost six years since Darin Marshall released his first two albums on Magnatune. He was one of our very first artists, and I daresay that he was part of the super-high-quality electronica that I recruited when I launched Magnatune, to ensure that other musicians would be wowed by the music we already had, and I'd be able to recruit people of that caliber. Darin has changed his performing name to "Mantic" (it used to be "Belief Systems") and I think you'll find his new album "Epigrams" to be very much at the same stellar high quality as his earlier releases.


name: Acoustic Dreams
sku: mochoa-acoudreams
upc: 847646000786
description:
This is a Piano Trio album with a couple of solo piano tunes. The music is jazzy and features delicate ballads, swing tunes, and pieces mixing other kinds of rhythms. Manuel's sound on the piano is very soft and warm and his tunes on this album create very touching, hopeful atmospheres in some moments and strong in others. Instrumental acoustic music with a contemporary view, not too complex to lose the feeling of the music.


name: Fauna
sku: mochoa-fauna
upc: 847646000793
description:
Fauna album features trumpet, saxophone, piano, contrabass and drums. The album is jazzy with long tender ballads and vibrant swing tunes. The compositions are easy to listen to and have creative improvised solos which create a very fresh music experience. The trumpet player plays flugelhorn on the ballads and the saxophone player alternate between alto saxophone and soprano saxophone. Manuel's sound on the piano is very personal and soft.


name: Chasing Time
sku: marcoshbolanos-chasingtime
upc: 847646001943
description:
Ten tracks showing Eme Hache's particular approach to electronic music. Trying to go against the defining foundation of electronic music, namely repetition, the Spanish producer and multi-instrumentalist delivers an album made of chill out passages, funky nu disco, electro jazz and some experimental tracks that are hard to define.

Released November 15, 2017

All tracks written and produced by Marcos H Bolaños

Cover Photo by Manuel Hernández


name: Music for No Film
sku: marcoshbolanos-nofilm
upc: 847646011256
description:
'Music for no film' is a collection of 8 tracks inspired by cinema. Orchestral elements merge with electronic music to evoke emotions in the listener's mind: fear, sadness, melancholy̷0; But above all, the music composed and produced by Marcos H. Bolaños wants to evoke cinematic images, so filmmakers and video producers can get inspiration from it. In this collection you will find from Hollywood-esque trailers to 'traveling to outer space' kind of tracks, as well as mysterious, romantic or terror instrumental passages. Hopefully you find here the inspiration for your next blockbuster.

All music composed, produced, mixed and mastered by Marcos H. Bolaños.

Cover Art by Jonay PMatos -- IG: @jonaypmatos


name: Unchained Melodies Vol 1
sku: marcoshbolanos-unchainedmelodies1
upc: 847646001929
description:
The first compilation album of Spanish film composer and producer Marcos H. Bolaños is a collection of instrumental songs intended to be used with images. Each track shows a different mood and style (from electronica to orchestral music) letting your mind wander through different scenes. Thus, the main purpose of this album is to let you dream. Maybe you picture yourself walking on the sand in a desert island while listening to 'Calm Like a Trap', or, perhaps, you find the uplifting vibe of 'Improve Yourself' perfect for a training session at the gym. All in all, this album's sole purpose is to be the soundtrack of your imagination.

released May 19, 2015

All tracks composed, performed, produced, mixed and mastered by Marcos H. Bolaños

Artwork by Elisa Blanco


name: Unchained Melodies Vol 2
sku: marcoshbolanos-unchainedmelodies2
upc: 847646001936
description:
Following the success of his first compilation album (more than 20.000 downloads and 80.000 plays since its release), Spanish film composer and producer Marcos H. Bolaños released a new collection of eclectic instrumental tunes for images. From the calm and cold mood of 'Glacier' to the elegant and chic vibe of 'Chocolate House Party', or the vintage 80's electronica of 'Retrobot', the twelve tracks contained in this album are the perfect soundtrack for your creativity.

Released June 1, 2017

All tracks composed, performed, produced, mixed and mastered by Marcos H. Bolaños


name: Enchanten
sku: mmtobolowska-enchanten
upc: 847646006801
description:
Enchanten features an all unique sound of gorgeous sweeping cello lines, with cool New Age effects and sounds; creating a compelling and adventurous sonic experience that transports the listener to a whole new world of imagination and sound.

For Margaret Maria (the composer, producer and cellist) this magical album represents the hope and inspiration of the creative spirit overcoming adversity; coming from a time in Margaret's life where she needed to break free; to find her own unique voice and to dare to give it wings!

Awakenen: The beginning, a moment of intense beauty and tenderness, the awakening of emotion.

Wishen Herte: Straight from the heart, a lyrical, lilting and hopeful love story.

Legende: Evoking a long lost time of legends, of dark mysticism, Celtic in flavour.

Tourdion-Vin Clairet: Based on the French drinking song 'Vin Clairet', this tourdion is lyrical and spinning in the flavour of a medieval dance building in intensity to the end.

Stellaris: Cosmic and built on driving energy, this is an intense, dark and powerful journey propelling through space and time.

Magik: The magic weaves a soft curtain of bubbling sound, as darkness awakens the muse for a breathless ride.

Stormen: A magical dark storm is brewing, full of electricity and foreboding.

Midniht Walzen: A dark waltz by moonlight.

Enchanten: The spell is cast, the transformation is happening, as the power builds in momentum and great emotion.

Chimaera: Rising from the noise... the evil awakes... preparing for battle...

The Chimaera - 'She was of divine race, not of men, in the fore part a lion, in the hinder a serpent, and in the middle a goat, breathing forth in terrible manner the force of blazing fire. And Bellerophon slew her, trusting the signs of the gods.'Homer, Iliad 6.181

At Peace: The lone voice that has been wandering, has found hope that leads to a hopeful place of incredible beauty and peace.

Glora: Based on Mozart's Twinkle, this is a celebration of sparkle, happy ever after, resolution, a warm smile at the end of a story.


name: Bohemian Rap CD
sku: marginal-bohemian
upc: 876809004521
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=30849802&s=143444
description:
Bay Area favorites and indie best-sellers The Marginal Prophets have performed with Black Eyed Peas, De La Soul, Spearhead, Fishbone, and many other rap and rock royals alike. Their hugely entertaining hybrid of hip-hop and garage rock is smart-alecky and sultry, perceptive and playful?kind of like what the Beastie Boys might sound like if they were being backed by Beck. Bohemian Rap CD?recently won a California Music Award for Outstanding Rap Album and is a masterpiece of witty, riffy perfection.


name: Backwoods Chaos
sku: markcook-backwoodschaos
upc: 847646006122
description:
Acoustic blues that will take you back to the crossroads. Follow up to a 4 time winner of the "Just Plain Folks" award for "Best Blues Album of the Year". This is Mark Cook's 7th CD release.

Guest vocalist includes Tommy Brown who has had a 70+ years in showbiz. Tommy's classic blues recordings of the 1950's include 1952 Billboard #1 hit "Weepin and Cryin". If you like your blues music served with the imagery of the old cotton fields and the lonely sound of the dobro mixed with some down home harmonic playing - then look no farther!

This is delta blues music with a flair!


name: An Evening With The Blues
sku: markcook-evening
upc: 876809003852
description:
For his debut album "An Evening With The Blues" Mark wanted to capture the old style of blues from many different perspectives. As stated by Indie-Music, "The twelve song album is rich in balance and heritage which makes this debut album a sheer delight cut after cut." "An Evening With The Blues" has received great reviews by publications such as: Blues Access, Blues Revue, and Vintage Guitar Magazine as well as many on-line blues publications. Recipient of the 2003 "BLEWZZY award" and JPFolks 2001 "Blues album of the year" winner.


name: The Promise Highway
sku: markcook-highway
upc: 876809003845
description:
WINNER of the 2002 "Just Plain Folks" 'BEST BLUES ALBUM OF THE YEAR' award. This is blues with a flair. Killer songs with soulful vocals, aggressive guitar and great dynamics.


name: Blue Voodoo
sku: markcook-voodoo
upc: 876809003869
description:
Blues legend in the making Mark Cook has teamed up with some of the finest musicians from Atlanta, Georgia to create this album of old-fashioned, down-home guitar-based blues. Winner of the Just Plain Folks Music Awards for "Best Blues Album of the Year 2006" and "Best Rock Instrumental 2006" for the title track.


name: Nature and Design
sku: mpreston-naturedesign
upc: 847646002605
description:
Inspired by a cross-country trip from Maine to Arizona, Nature and Design is an instrumental travelogue of downtempo electronica and melodic soundscapes.

Uplifting themes are paired with deep grooves to create a carefree atmosphere inspired by the open road. Warm Rhodes chords over strings and stuttering percussion bring memories of sun-drenched summer nights. It's a record to play while driving into the sunset.


name: and it will rise with the sun
sku: mpreston-risewithsun
upc: 847646003824
description:
Relax and reenergize with the introspective yet uplifting sounds of ...and it will rise with the sun.

Recorded on the island of Martha's Vineyard, MA USA, this album represents Preston's first efforts to create an album-long journey of uplifting soundscapes and downtempo grooves. From the warm opening chords of "Magnolia" to the glitch-infused melodies of "Paint Vibrant Colors," this album captures the imagination of listeners looking for a quiet respite.

Featured on the nationally syndicated Echoes Radio program and on podcasts around the world, "...and it will rise with the sun" offers a colorful palette of electronica moods perfect for the open road or an afternoon in the sun.


name: Mark Southeron
sku: msoutheron-msoutheron
upc: 847646000816
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/mark-southeron/id432578679
description:
On this album by Mark Southeron, you'll find a blend of electronica, hard edged guitar, blended with classic psychadelic rock touches from influences such as Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. Voca credit: Ted Mulry, Brett Lee and Pixie (the blue babies). Guitar credit: "Going South" and "Knocking the Top off" by John Hamilton (the blue babies)


name: Symon's Arcade
sku: msoutheron-symonsarcade
upc: 847646008812
description:
"Symon's Arcade" is a collection of new tracks from Australian musician and producer Mark Southeron.

Traversing many of the chillout genres, tracks range in style from the 60's lounge influenced Symon's Arcade and funky disco guitar driven Runaway to downtempo trip-hop and jazz Live guitar, vintage synthesisers and samplers are used throughout.

Long time collaborators with Mark, James Lee, Todd Emslie and Louise Hornery add their talents to this collection of great downtempo songs.


name: Dead Frequencies
sku: markerbeacon-deadfreq
upc: 847646006245
description:
Songs like Persian Tales, Time To Time or Rain In Brain form the heart of the album with strong and powerful riffs. But this album explores many faces of Heavy Metal: faster tempos (Blaster), some ballads (New Shell, Final Nightmare), an instrumental music (Megahertz) and rock-oriented titles (Free). This is explained by the heterogeneous influences of the band (Metallica, Iron Maiden, Foo Fighters, In Flames...).

A large amount of room is given over for melodies especially Bruno Creuzet's solos which are precise and inspired, and the bass/drums duo which give a good foundation to the riffs. The rhythm guitars are savage or calm depending on the song. Although it's a Metal album, it remains accessible for the neophyte or Strong-Rock lovers.

"Dead Frequencies" is the first album of Marker Beacon and is self-produced by the band.


name: Clementi, Dussek, Kuhlau - Sonatinas For Piano
sku: nouwens-sonatinas
upc: 876809007461
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/clementi-dussek-kuhlau-sonatinas/id339089369
description:
John writes: Jan has for years remarked that many of her favorite piano pieces are in fact slow pieces, often considered easy to play, and as "student pieces" not worthy of being recorded. She's been threatening to record her favorite slow Scarlatti keywork works herself. You can imagine how happy we were to receive this CD by Marko Nouwens, an accomplished pianist recording just these sorts of student pieces. This CD is a real delight!


name: Rameau - Pieces De Clavecin En Concerts - Forqueray Suites 4 and 5
sku: mcarlin-rameau
upc: 876809005238
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257934181&s=143444
description:
Though he named them "Pieces for Harpsichord," Jean-Philippe Rameau's compositions are usually performed by chamber ensembles, so this lithe harpsichord-only recording by Maryse Carlin is a real treat. She's known for her ability to sustain long, sonorous lines on the harpsichord, a gift that really shines through on this album and benefits both Rameau and Antoine Forqueray's strong sense of melody.


name: Affinity
sku: massimo_deangelis-affinity
upc: 847646011263
description:
Affinity was named after my very special musicianship with my all time friend, guitarist Daniele Pintaldi.

It contains twelve original compositions, a fusion of Jazz, Rock, Classical and Latin music.

Daniele plays all the guitar parts and I play Drums, Percussions and Keyboards.

One of the tracks (Silent Morning), composed by Daniele Pintaldi, features his brother, David Pintaldi on electric Bass.


name: The flute recital
sku: takashi_fritz-fluterecital
upc: 847646011119
description:
The Flute Recital was recorded on 19 July 2021 at Sakura Plaza Hall, Yokohama, Japan.

Flute Matsuishi Takashi Fritz, Ph.D. Piano Ruike Yui

Hüe : Fantaisie This piece, composed in 1913 for the Paris Conservatory Competition, begins with a cadenza-like passage in the flute, and once heard, it has a vivid image that cannot be forgotten. It is a mysterious world where dramatic tension and a touch of melancholy harmonize. The très vif section reflects Hüe's impressions of the Orient, where he loved to travel.

Albert Franz Doppler : Fantaisie pastorale hongroise Op. 26 Doppler was a 19th-century flute virtuoso, composer, conductor, and educator. He was born in Lemberg, an Austrian imperial territory, and learned to play the flute from his father, an oboe player. At 17, he was appointed principal flute player of the German Theatre Orchestra in Budapest. At 20, he was the principal flute player of the Hungarian National Theatre Orchestra. After this, he and his brother Karl, four years younger, formed a duo that performed with great success throughout Europe. He also served as the principal player and conductor of the Court Orchestra of Vienna. He was entrusted with the orchestration of Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsody". Thus, he was active in many fields, which may have led to the creation of this masterpiece. The original, with orchestral accompaniment, consists of three parts and is in the style of the czardases favoured by the gipsies. The introduction is music that embraces the sentiments linking Hungary and the Orient. In the middle section, the music turns to a major key and is free and vigorous. In the finale, dance rhythms are used to great effect, and the piece closes with a spectacular development.

César Franck : Sonata in A major for piano and flute This is a flute arrangement of Franck's famous masterpiece of a violin sonata. It was composed in 1886, in the composer's last year of life at the age of 64, as a wedding present for the great violinist Eugène Ysaÿe. Throughout the entire work, the singing qualities of the violin and the profound harmony of the piano are fully utilized, resulting in a wonderful piece of chamber music. The contrast between static and dynamic expression, the exquisiteness of harmonic and counterpoint expression, and the cyclic form, a technique that gives the entire work a sense of unity, make the work structurally compelling. During Frank's lifetime, it has also been performed on the flute.


name: Electro Blues Rebel Vol 1
sku: mattrusin-electroblues
upc: 847646003510
description:
Enjoy an instrumental electronica/blues/jazz/rock hybrid!

The first part of a two-volume album , this is an experimental fusion between gritty blues rock with modern electronic sounds. Each song is lazer focused on a specific feeling to allow the listener the possiblity to enjoy a full range of feelings from energied to relaxed, happy to anxious, and everything in between. Many songs feature classic blues guitar tones pushed to the edge with electronic drums and production while other songs in the set enjoy a purely simplistic electronic vibe.

To fully understand the results of this musical experiment start listening now.


name: Electro Blues Rebel Vol 2
sku: mattrusin-electrvoltwo
upc: 847646004432
description:
Instrumental electro progressive blues, at it's finest!

This two-volume album is an experimental fusion between gritty blues rock with modern electronic sounds. Each song is lazer focused on a specific feeling to allow the listener the possiblity to enjoy a full range of feelings from energied to relaxed, happy to anxious, and everything in between. Many songs feature classic blues guitar tones pushed to the edge with electronic drums and production while other songs in the set enjoy a purely simplistic electronic vibe.

To fully understand the results of this musical experiment start listening now.


name: Petals of Yellow Fire
sku: vandenheuvel-petalsoffire
upc: 847646010310
description:
Petals Of Yellow Fire is an exploration of Afrobeat, Jazz, Blues, and much more. Featuring brilliant and virtuosic musicianship and relentless groove, the album explores the area in-between dance music and more listener focused instrumental jazz and blues, manifesting in compositions and performances that are unique, engaging, and rhythmically driving. Over the course of this work, you can hear elements of Fela Kuti, and Ali Farka Toure. Of Derek Trucks, John Scofield. Of Joshua Redman and Brian Blade. Most of all, you hear a consolidated and defined sound, delivered by a group of musicians on the vanguard of musical expression.


name: Savanna Radio
sku: vandenheuvel-savannaradio
upc: 847646010327
description:
Few musical projects that I've come across are as appropriately named as Savanna Radio. Evoking a plethora of sounds and images, the words making up this musical project's appellation paint vivid pictures of things as disparate as watching animals drink as the sun rises on the veldt, to being clustered around a grainy, tinny radio listening to Duke Ellington on a rainy night. There is a wide swath of scope covered here in the title alone, and the music certainly surpasses it with relentless ambition and focus. In some ways the album acts as an aural journey, we start with hints of civilization, rhythmic patterns paying homage to the musical traditions not only of the savanna, but also of the desert, the jungle, and river deltas both Nile and Mississippi. Over the course of the album, the musicians explore a variety of mood tones and styles, ranging far afield of any narrow genre connotation, potentially evoking comparisons to people but ultimately sounding like no one but themselves. Is it funk? Hell yeah it's funky, but this isn't one of those parliament 'everything is on the one' dishes, honey. Is it jazz? You best believe there is a lot of playing on this album to send people back out to the woodshed to get their chops up. Is it Afrobeat? Is it Blues? There are moments where it is both, there are moments where it is neither. It is the sound of a wide open world; a world full of different cultures and beliefs, a world where tradition and technology can exist in a beautifully chaotic balance. The weight of tradition, of progressions a hundred years old and the promise of the future, of untold musical amalgams and hybrids. Forget genre, forget style, forget preconceived notions. Just don't forget to groove - Ray Blum


name: Deux Grands Maitres de l'Ecriture pour le Luth Baroque et le Theorbe
sku: mburaglia-conversation
upc: 847646003176
description:
This album features Robert De Visee (1650-1665? -1732?) Lutenist, guitarist and theorbo player of King Louis XIV and Sylvius Leopold Weiss (1687-1750) lutenist at the court of Dresden.

The album showpieces two high points from the repertoire for these instruments: the quality of the work, the perfection of the writing, the deep knowledge of the possibilities of the instruments (playing at their limits) and by the enormous amount of pieces and suites that they have left us. Literally thousands of pieces!

Their music travelled throughout Europe and was highly appreciated even by the genius composers of the era: Bach, Couperin, etc.

De Visee works in a very natural style: refined and measured and touching. Weiss works in a style which is full of imagination and surprises, often stunning in its virtuosity.

Weiss' suite in A major No. 45 (from the Dresden manuscript) is a turning point for Weiss' own work. De Visee's suite in G Minor (from under the manuscript by De Saizenay) is also a culmination of perfection of his style.


name: Les Plaintes de Psyche
sku: mburaglia-plaintesdepsyche
upc: 847646000045
description:
Jacques Gallot (1625 Paris - 1695) was one of the greatest composers for lute of his time, a student of Vieux Gaultier and a continuator of the French lute school, which was very popular at the court of Louis XIV as well as among the French and European aristocracies.

His works, which were spread in Europe via the lute manuscripts of his time and still half a century later, show his importance in the literature on the instrument. These compositions are treasures and intricate, exquisite jewels.

Jacques Gallot was a great educator, who was sought-after as a teacher by the great personalities of the court, which included people from around the world and foreign nobles. He had the habit of giving a live performance at his home on Saturday afternoons for the public who came and listened to his works. Thus, according to the words, writings and articles of his time, his fame was well-merited.

His music reflects the art of refinement and the preciousness of poets, philosophers, scholars, theatre performers, artists, dancers, who met up in the "Salon" to pass their art to people who appreciated and shared this passion or who searched to refine themselves through the "Belle Expression", "Belle Danse", "Belle Parole", "Beau Texte", where the straightforward word or direct, simple ideas seemed vulgar: the blatantly obvious needed to be concealed; things were implied in a thousand ways, but they weren't to be spoken out. Lutenists, such as Gallot, Gautier, Mouton, Edmond, Dubut, Dufaux, Launay, Merville, Pinel Dupre, Mesangeau to name just a few of the best-known, all had a common language and way of writing, which were highly cultivated, precious, carefully crafted and sought-after for their rhetorical effects.

In reality, each lute piece and each dance constituted a condensed theatre, in which the drama or the story of the described or flattered protagonist was presented. Most of Gallot's pieces have a mythological title or theme, are weaved around a popular, 'precious' figure from the courts, or around a politician or strange enigma, which was a mystery for all but the insiders who recognized themselves.

Written by Sylvius Léopold Weiss, the suite no. 35 in D minor from the Dresden Manuscript is a mature and elegant piece of work. Even though transparent and fluid in appearance, its language is very dense, sombre, and there's tension throughout the entire piece. Its musical architecture feels majestic, and the long phrases bear resemblance to great composers, such as Bach. A great mastery of the lute and the spontaneity of movement round off this jewel. All together, they are the signature of the great Master of the Lute, who expresses himself very easily and genuinely to the great pleasure of his listeners, who - according to the witnesses and writings of his time - he enchanted and made dream with his music.


name: Promenade en Europe Luth Baroque
sku: mburaglia-promenade
upc: 876809009748
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/promenade-en-europe-luth-baroque/id428540021
description:
The Promenade of the Baroque lute comes from a very specific genre of music. We have Italian or Spanish music composed for this instrument between the late 17th century and the beginning of 18th.

The baroque lute had a new tuning developed by the school of French lutenists, which was adopted by Germany, Flanders and the Eastern European countries in particular. The influence of the French court of Louis XIV on northern part of Europe is undisputed. The French school of lutenists were traveling through the courts and salons of Europe, publishing material and giving concerts. Their advice was sought throughout Europe.

However, Italy and Spain were not interested in the this new tuning of the lute, they kept their older tunings, which lead them to the violin, the opera orchestra and singing.

Italy in turn influenced European music at the beginning of the 18th century with the opera concerto, arias of divas and castrati and impresarios.

The music of the lute, has a massive and rich past and came to maturity during this time both in terms of the music and instrument building ("lutherie"), this in turn caused a great interest in the lute from interpreters, composers and the public.

The popularity of the lute is visible in the repertoire: solos, chamber music, and lute concertos start to appear and the virtuosity and genius of the interpretations are at their historical peak during this period.

It is in this environment that the different styles and tastes reunite and create a new fashion which comes to be known as the "galant style" of lute playing.


name: Suites en do mineur et fa mineur de Sylvius Leopold Weiss
sku: mburaglia-suitesdeweiss
upc: 847646009956
description:
Silvius Leopold Weiss (1687-1750) was, according to his student Luise Gottsched (the musically talented wife of the author and critic Johann Christoph Gottsched) "the greatest lutenist that Europe had ever heard and admired". What is clear is that his music is of an invention, depth, and virtuosity that neatly rounds out the final flowering of European lute composition,and is easily placed beside the music of Francesco Canova da Milano, John Dowland, and Ennemond Gautier as being quintessentially vital to the canonics of lute history.

Weiss was born in Grottkau (currently called "Grodkow" in Polish), a city that was then the capital of the province of Silesia. He was taught the lute by his father, Johann Jacob Weiss, who was himself a lutenist at the Palatine Court. The young Silvius Leopold proved a prodigy, and played his first royal performance before Emperor Leopold I at the tender age of seven. Perhaps the most important moment of his development came in 1708, when he went to Rome for a stay that would last six years as part of the musical entourage of Prince Aleksander Sobieski. The contact that he doubtlessly would have had during this period with Italian musicians such as Corelli, the Scarlattis, and perhaps with Vivaldi in Venice, places him at the very centre of the dynamic musical culture of his time. The traces of his Italian sojourn can be heard very clearly in his music, which is the most successful adaptation on the lute of the new cantabile style, a type of instrumental composition based on the lyrical qualities of contemporary Italian opera. In 1718, Weiss obtained the post of lutenist in Dresden at the court of August "the Strong", who along with his successor Frederick the Great, gathered some of the best-known musicians of the period, including Johann David Heinechen, Pantaleon Hebenstreit, Johann Georg Pisendel, Francesco Maria Veracini, Johann Joachim Quantz, Adolf Hasse and his wife Faustina Bordoni. Not only was Weiss surrounded by such musical luminaries at court, but in 1739, he is known to have stayed as a guest in the home of J.S. Bach himself.

Weiss was to spend the rest of his life in Dresden - even refusing the incredible offer of an annual salary of 2000 Thaler from the Viennese court in 1736, presumably in order to remain part of the city's vibrant musical life. He eventually became, in 1744, the highest-paid instrumentalist at the court with a salary of 1400 Thaler. Perhaps it was due to his extraordinary talent that one of the most incredible anecdotes of his life came to pass: in 1722, a jealous violinist named Petit tried to end Weiss' brilliant career by biting his thumb off! Luckily, Petit failed in his attempt, although Weiss' hand was seriously wounded in the encounter. After several months of recuperation and much speculation, Weiss was ultimately able to resume playing and composing music such as we hear on the current recording. Despite his success and high salary, when Weiss died he left almost nothing to his family. Perhaps this has to do with the eleven children he had with his wife, Maria Elizabeth, who he married at about the time of his appointment in Dresden.

In 1750 seven of his children were still alive and his impoverished widow appealed to the Elector for financial aid, eventually securing a position as a nursery maid. Indeed, family fortunes do not seem to have improved. Weiss' grandchildren would later ask the Dresden court to return to them the great lutenist's theorbo, in order to sell it for a sum that would permit them to buy firewood. Fortunately, the more than 600 pieces for the lute that Weiss left behind provide an artistic legacy of unparalleled wealth for modern connoisseurs of lute music.


name: Versailles et Dresde les Cours du Roi Luth
sku: mburaglia-versailles
upc: 847646009116
description:
Charles Mouton (1617-1710) Complete Works of the First Book in A Minor

His father was a member of Paris' petite bourgeoisie. His mother came from a wealthy family with many musicians. And yet, we know little about his education and youth.

A lot of the information we do have comes from fellow poets, actors, dancers, men of letters, courtiers and lutenists who frequented the Parisian salons. Jean -Francois Sarasin who not only frequented the leading personages from literature and the academic world but who also stood in the service of the Count of Chauvigny and was a protege of Chancellor Richelieu composed stanzas with the title "Le mouton Fabuleux": for Mister Mouton, excellent lute player with a diabolic virtuosity. Mouton's were found again in 1673, at the court of Savoy with his friend Sarasin.

In Turin, he played lute in several performances. In fact, Turin was a court, at which French music was trendy and where many instrumentalists from the court of Versailles went to. Once back in Paris, in 1680, Le Gallois recognized him as "one of the masters who are admired by everyone".

He then published his first book. He was a renowned soloist and gave lute lessons in Paris. His work was known all across Europe and, hence, people came from everywhere to be taught by him. Flattered by the circles close to the court, he had Rene Milleran as a student - the English and German teacher of the King of France. Mouton had a devotion to his teacher, "the old" Gautier, and to the charms of the sound of the new lute. In his concern for the clarity of the play, he gives us - in those two books - all of the information about the ways, finger techniques, articulations and movements that are required to create all of the ornaments and characteristics that create that charm and, in that way, bring the "touching lute" to life. His style is a mix between the "ancient" style brise of his teachers and predecessors and of the new Italian cantabile, which stands for a very melodious bass line, a very refined harmony, a metric that is worthy of the great poets and dancers, and especially a refined, very French melody which is worthy of Michel Lambert and of the art of the "Doubles" that were trendy at the French court of that time.

Philippe August Le Sage de Richeee had the honor of having been one of his students. This leads us to Breslau, the place of birth of Sylvius Leopold Weiss, which the following leading lutenists called their home: Reusner, Le Sage de Richee, Meusel, Baron Kropfganss, Straube and others.

The works that were written by Weiss based on French works of Gallot and are characterized by his tendency to use "French-style overtures" - the likes of the Courante, Gavotte, Paysanne, and Chaconne dances that were so cherished at the court of Louis XIV - in the majority of his suites

The suite in C major probably is from Weiss' Italian period, as the influence of Scarlatti is obvious. Through its vivid counterpoints and imitation and its mirrored largo, the overture is magnificent. The Courante is highly elaborate with very long phrases in the style of Bach. The Bourree with its many ornaments is very popular; the Sarabande in a gallant and refined style which is notable for the harmonic mastery of Weiss is very profound; the Menuet which is still popular in its dynamic is very developed and written in a complex writing style; the Presto is always a playful and inventive but formally controlled firework - at the time, there clearly was no composer who could potentially have held a candle to lutenist Sylvius Leopold Weiss. Despite the critiques of recent lutenists who found his style a bit repetitive and redundant, the depth of his music is worthy of the greatest. In fact, the great Weiss still even surprises those who have a deeper knowledge of his works.

Mauricio Buraglia


name: Sylvius Leopold Weiss Suites en si Bemol et la Majeur
sku: mburaglia-weiss
upc: 876809009755
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/sylvius-leopold-weiss-suites/id441973345
description:
Silvius Leopold Weiss (1687-1750) is without doubt one of the greatest musicians of his time and one of the greatest figures of the lute throughout all periods of the instrument.

He was a great traveler and attended many musical meetings to play with the masters of European music: Bach, Scarlatti, Handel, Buffardin, Hasse, Quantz and Corelli.

His many writings and poems show us his magical vitality as a composer. Known throughout Europe, envied by musicians, he has composed over 600 pieces for lute, without counting the many works lost or "destroyed" and according to the legend, those works "not to be copied and kept secret".

Surrounded by a fantastic troupe of musicians at the court of Dresden, his meeting and friendship with JS Bach and participation with the Collegium Musicum, his various sojourns in Italy, his knowledge of the music of his time made him an accomplished composer. The influences of Italian opera, concertos, sonatas for violin, knowledge of French music on the lute, the operas of Lully culminated in him being the musical worthy of the great Bach. The meeting of French taste and rhythms, Italian Cantabiles and dazzling German form with its highly developed phrasing is obvious when you listen, play or analyze his work.


name: Sylvius Leopold Weiss Suites no 36 et 40 Lobkowitz
sku: mburaglia-weisssuites
upc: 847646011058
description:
The manuscript of Dresden - D-Dl - Ms. Mus. 2841-V-1 - in the Sächsische Landesbibliothek contains 6 volumes of music by Sylvius Leopold Weiss. It was written in French tablature and copied by hand by several copyists. Interestingly, it also includes many autographs of Weiss himself.

The manuscript of Dresden is an important source, since it contains 34 suites spanning from 1706 to Weiss' death. It includes many late sonatas, which reveal his mastery of composition.

Suite or Sonata 36 in D minor First manuscript volume Allemande: in the French style, almost an opening. However, its Italian cantabile full of modulating and dissonant chords creates suspense. Courante: very developed in style imitation, polyphony, and rhythmically rich. Bourrée: typical popular melody. Sarabande: Cantabile, almost adagio. Menuet: elegant gallant in German style. Allegro: direct, very orchestral melody in which a violin and a bass seem to hold a dialogue.

Suite or Sonata 40 in C major Probably handwritten by Weiss himself With the enigmatic dedication P.S.A.M.L.D. from Lobkowitz januaruis, « Pour son Altesse Sérénissime Monsieur le Prince de Lobkowitz » "For His Serene Highness The Prince of Lobkowitz" Second volume of the manuscript

Entrée Spiritoso: Very beautiful example of an Ouverture à la Française with a beautiful cantabile and a German form; one of the most beautiful pages of Weiss. Courante: very developed work that can certainly be regarded as very mature. However, it misses an end; the piece stops at the moment of a remarkable modulation at measure 160 and leaves us perplexed and dissatisfied. Lutenists and musicologists have sought the rest in different manuscripts. It looks like one of Weiss' riddles that were intended to challenge the performer. I wrote the last ten measures because I like this suite, and I was unhappy about otherwise not being able to bring it to completion. It was published in the « Luth Dorée » editions. Paysanne: dynamic and virtuoso folk dance. Sarabande: still one of the most beautiful pieces of Weiss, melodically sublime and very inspired. Menuet: always elegant and very virtuoso in constant modulation. Allegro: A very strange and curious piece with a melody in octaves, full of difficulty and almost a technical "study" for the right hand. It offers a mixture of Scarlatti and Weiss Italian-era techniques. This Allegro is rich in arpeggios and interesting scales. It pushes the technique and the possibilities of the lute (and challenges the lutenist)!


name: Gabriels Message - Festive Music From Medieval England
sku: mediva-gabriel
upc: 876809001537
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/gabriels-message-festive-music/id370466291
description:
Gabriel's Message is a celebration of Advent, gathering together pieces from 13th-15th Century English manuscripts which depict the Angel Gabriel's visit to the Virgin Mary. Gabriel's Message is an anthology of Christmas past, from harsh winds to crackling fires, a peal of bells or a baby's cry, it captures the sounds of winter with both its hardships and its festivities.


name: Viva Mediva
sku: mediva-vivamediva
upc: 876809005405
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
Mediva burst upon the early music scene in 1998 with an hit concert at the Royal Academy of Music, and their concerts have been sell-out events ever since. Made up of an eclectic mix of ten musicians, this group makes medieval music sound startlingly modern through fresh arrangements, high-level sound design, and world-class performances by singers and multi-instrumentalists from throughout Europe. On this album, the highly sophisticated polyphonics of 14th century Italy intermingle beautifully with Spanish cantigas composed for the Virgin Mary, and the overall effect is surprisingly dramatic and exciting. Features a range of exotic medieval and Arabian instruments such as oud, saz, shawms, recorders, harp, psaltery, fiddle, and percussion, as well as a range of singing techniques to suit each repertoire. Standout tracks include "Ivo bene," "Mandad ei Comigo,' and "Adiu Adiu Dous Dame" in which the performer's voice magically transforms into a woodwind at certain points throughout the song.


name: Waiting for Dawn
sku: mot-waiting
upc: 876809001520
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257914350&s=143444
description:
Some more electronic music for you: "Waiting for Dawn", a melodic trance track from Memories Of Tomorrow. Great female vocals and a great rhythm. Turn up the volume.


name: The Devil I Know
sku: mercy-devil
upc: 876809004200
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257939477&s=143444
description:
Darkly confessional and intimate, The Devil I Know delves into the issues of the no-longer-young years in which affectations have become habits, youthful skepticism has hardened into jaded cynicism, and the prospect of romantic love starts to seem so complicated as to be nearly impossible. Jazno Francoeur's songs are structured as loose recitations with subtle harmonies and a plaintively beautiful cello backdrop. Recommended tracks include "The Devil I Know" and "Orlando."


name: The Devil I Know - The Remixes
sku: mercy-devilremixes
upc: 876809006891
description:
"The Devil I Know: The Remixes" is a remix concept based on Mercymachine's last release, "The Devil I Know", which tracks an imaginary priest's descent into chaos. This fictional character is a tragic figure, yet not without faith or merit. Remix artists from around the world took turns interpreting his allegorical descent from the basilica to the Bowery, and eventually to the abyss. Highlights include Q Burns Abstract Message (The Devil I Know - Ticking Clock Mix) and The Man I Create (Gabo - Tuscan Devil Mix).


name: Firefly Garden
sku: mekirkt-fireflygdn
upc: 847646002612
description:
Sometimes at night fireflies light up; and so we catch them and put them in a jar. Living beings they are, and little lamps they become until they burn out and die. They serve one purpose - to entertain.

A song holds within itself a certain power of the same measure. When it is created, it holds captive the thoughts and ideas, emotions and inner turmoil of its creator...over time the song grows and evolves, and though it may mean different things to different people, its final end is to give the listener pleasure.

And so, here you are - my jar of fireflies.


name: Invisible War
sku: mekirkt-invisiblewar
upc: 847646002988
description:
Glittering narratives: songs that spring up wildly from her subconscious and bloom into vibrant, lilting melodies. Her sparkling piano refrains sweep and spill into fresh, sweet rivulets of notes; her lyrics weave bright, halcyon tales of dream sequences, the light and dark polarities of the human experience, and beauty in its many forms.

Sometimes at night fireflies light up; and so we catch them and put them in a jar. Living beings they are, and lamps they become until they burn out and die. They serve one purpose--to entertain. A song holds within itself a certain power of the same measure. When it is created, it holds captive the thoughts and ideas, emotions and inner turmoil of its creator...over time the song grows and evolves, and though it may mean different things to different people, its final end is to give the listener pleasure. And so, here you are - my jar of fireflies.

"Invisible War" is my first jar...a collection of some of the first fireflies I ever caught; mostly they were just sprouting their wings in that time, learning all about life, exploring the world, and frolicking about with me in fascinating places like Mongolia, where I lived until I was eight. Really I caught the first specimen in this particular jar when I was fifteen - "Song of the Open Road" - based on the Whitman poem of the same name.

Now, at 21, I'm always chasing around a few fireflies at a time, attempting to master the art of capturing the most elaborate creatures. The idea is that the better the creature, the longer it will stay alive and the brighter its light will shine. We need bright light, see, because it's dark sometimes, very dark.

I have dreams about how the world should be. Indeed we live in a place which was meant to be beautiful; though we oftentimes ruin it ourselves by default. In science there is the idea of entropy - the tendency of things toward disorder. If a vase is sitting on a little table, it's quite probable that it could fall off and shatter into a hundred pieces, if not rather unlikely that all those pieces would jump back together again and shape themselves once again into a beautiful vase--unless of course someone worked very hard to glue it all back together into something new and different.

Unfortunately the implications of this in real life are much more complicated than a single vase shattering to the ground. We see natural disasters that destroy and reshape lives; wars, rumors of wars that create tension and dissension between people groups; poverty, disease, starvation, and everything that lies between.

These are the things which burden my heart, and the things which I've always felt compelled to express through my music. If all I do in life is shine a little light into the dark spaces of the world, my time on earth will certainly not have been wasted.

So I catch fireflies.

Here's a short quote about Invisible War - "Merry Ellen's CD is excellent. I like the single "Blinding Me" the best. It fits her voice and style of delivery to great effect I think?"
- Mark Isham, Grammy, Emmy, and Clio Award Winning Film Score Composer (Crash, October Sky, Fly Away Home, Of Mice and Men)


name: Ether
sku: mexeena-ether
upc: 876809005023
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/ether/id369502450
description:
Imagine Ether as that sweetish scent found deep in your memory. A collection of sounds that have been carefully hidden, but proving strangely compelling. Embark on a musical exploration with Mexeena's soft vocal guiding you down a faintly familiar path. Encounter sparse acoustic guitars freeing themselves from the darker, textured recesses. Follow your senses as you continue through stimulating, yet calming, tracks. Go ahead, breathe in the turquoise air. Find found sounds and pulsing beats, cast out bad dreams while you absorb yet another melody. Unearth your earpiece and make a space in your ether.


name: Slow Tunes
sku: mkastrup-slowtunes
upc: 876809008680
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/slow-tunes/id399658992
description:
This album could be considered as a soundscape of silence. Its main purpose is to provide the listener with a relaxing, non-disturbing background. There are six different moods to choose from and they can be played in any order. The music is meant to be played at very low volume, with full range speakers that reproduce the important lows and mid lows frequencies which are essential for this kind of soundscape.


name: Binary Emotions
sku: michaellovatt-binaryemotions
upc: 876809008147
description:
Michael Lovatt channels Berlin's minimal underbelly into these four sweet n sour slices of deep broken tech. His second EP for Ricochet is even heavier on the bass than 2014's Attractor, with colder pads, silkier legato, choppier hats and bouncier FM kicks leading the hypnosis. Classic drum machines mingle with modern minimal textures in Waves, slowing to a subtle 101bpm swing for the pounding downtempo of Pulse. The warm darkness of Reduction contrasts Michael's surgical grooves against a snarling, spacious bass wash. Binary Emotion ends things on a high with more classic synth work, taking on a melodic electronica slant to bring us back from the depths. London's Muni Manuka follows with a choppy resequencing of Waves, and San Francisco minimal guru Marshall Watson primes us for his forthcoming EP on the label with an even more expansive take on Reduction's progressions.

www.ricochetrecords.org


name: The Most Beautiful Things
sku: mmurphy-beautifulthings
upc: 847646006931
description:
The Most Beautiful Things was inspired by reflection. That feeling of security and comfort because we know how the story goes. When the senses perceive a familiar stimulus our minds create the images of our veiled past.

The smell before it rains reminds me of the purple mountains of Colorado, as a storm would fog the peaks with the gray haze of the rain. The smell of freshly cut grass takes me back to the hills of my grandparents golden pastures, and blankets of snow covering the radiance of Christmas lights reminds me of a chilling December breeze.

I encourage people to remember their past. To recapture their forgotten drive and desire for life, to make old dreams new, and find joy in their journey.


name: Jumping In
sku: mtiernan-jumpingin
upc: 847646002650
description:
Jack Johnson meets Coldplay, Kerouac meets Confuscious. Winner of the Triple A Album of the Year from the Los Angeles Music Awards in 2005, and also Finalist for the Kerrville New Folk Competition Jumping In is Michael's full-band debut. Honest, raw, emotive, and rockin', its folk, its rock, its bluegrass, rolled up in one.


name: LA Can Wait
sku: mtiernan-lacanwait
upc: 847646001349
description:
Michael Tiernan's 4th studio album LA Can Wait is Coldplay meets Jack Johnson, Kerouac meets Confucius. It's an album for both the goal-driven workaholic and the free-spirited contemplative. It takes you from the beach to the city, from the temple to the tavern, and leaves a little bit of your heart in each place.

But still the question is - Why can L.A. wait? Mostly because of a few phone calls Tiernan has received the past couple of years. One went like this: "Don't worry Mike, I am Strong". Tiernan hung up the phone and couldn't believe it. Stage 4 cancer, his own brother. 2 years later, as Tiernan was recording tracks in the studio for "Strong", the very song he had written about his brother Joe's battle with the terrible disease, he received another call, this time from the hospital. Joe was passing away. Tiernan played the song for his brother on the last morning of his life. That song, "Strong", is the swirling center of Michael's emotional and inspiring new album, "LA Can Wait".

Yet "LA Can Wait" is not about death, and is certainly not a downer. "LA Can Wait" is actually an incredibly celebratory album that reveres each unique color in the spectrum of life, from birth to death, with the over-arching mandate to appreciate and enjoy every moment in between, as the album's laid back last track, the flip-flop wearing beachy anthem, "Easy", proclaims.

In fact, a cancer-survivor himself, Tiernan penned two of the most tender of love songs, "LA Can Wait" and "Father and Child", inspired by a couple other calls he got - the ones where his wife said, "I'm pregnant". Having been a year away from being ordained a Catholic priest in Rome just several years before, kids were never in the picture. But life changes in an instant, and this new set of Tiernan's tunes are feel-good and sometimes tear-jerking reflections about all the amazing twists of life, especially the unexpected ones.


name: Spaces
sku: mtiernan-spaces
upc: 847646001356
description:
Spaces plays on the ideas of several different spaces in our lives. From the all-important space we find in our own hearts that we must enter into to meet our purpose, our inspiration, and even our suffering; to the space between people in relationship, both physical distance between the two, as well as emotional distance, or closeness, between them.

Spaces plays on all these spatial "ratios" that are operative in life, and treats topics such as self, love, God, and society. Several tracks from Spaces have been featured on national TV shows such as ABC's "Men in Trees" and MTV"s "Real World". Music from spaces also helped garner Michael several awards, including the 2007 International Acoustic Music Awards Male Artist of Year Runner up, the 2007 Songwriter of the Year, Pacific Songwriting Competition, and won a spot as a finalist in the 2008 Great American Song Contest.


name: The Dogs of Rome
sku: mtravisano-dogsofrome
upc: 847646008362
description:
Every morning in Rome, a parade of people walk their dogs on the paths lining the ancient Aurelian wall that circles the city's center. Almost none of the dogs are on leashes and almost every one of them doesn't need to be. They're big and they're tiny. They hang out and jump and sniff. Some seem to be filled with unabashed playful joy, others seem contemplative, and some seem to be on a mission to find something new. The morning is filled with the sounds of their human companions yelling at them to hurry along and catch-up... 'Stella! Vieni! Andiamo! Vieni qui! Stella! STELLA!!! 'NDIAMO!!'

The music on The Dogs of Rome is about them, or more accurately, it is a reflection of the stuff of life through our relationships with them: their sharing of our joy, their worry with and for us, their unconditional love. All of the music was written with a direct view of the Aurelian wall and is both a dedication to Mike's time spent living in Italy as well as a reflection of the American popular music that continued to be a soundtrack playing in the background.


name: White Whale
sku: mtravisano-whitewhale
upc: 847646008164
description:
Like the famous novel that inspired its title, White Whale reflects the passionate (and sometimes obsessive) pursuit of a dream despite the challenges that try to impede it. Being inspired by personal experiences that cover life's full spectrum from great loss to even greater love, the pieces work together to provide a soundtrack that is shared by everyone: that the beauty of life is worth the struggle that it can take to see it.


name: Animal Powers
sku: mbellerose-animalpow
upc: 847646001240
description:
The music on Animal Powers is a blend of electronics and hand-played instruments with a distinctly experimental twist. It comes from a tender heart sent out into the world most sincerely.


name: Lavender
sku: middleearth-lavender
upc: 876809008734
description:
Middle-Earth Ensemble's second release draws influences from the Mediterranean, Middle East, Asia, North Africa and Brazil. Original world fusion music featuring stirring multi-lingual vocals, as well as a few dance classics and percussive solos.

2006 Zaghareet Magazine's Golden Belly Award for best music group, Middle-Earth's new fusion combinations are crisp, easy to follow and yet stretch the imagination. Those exposed to "Lavender's" fragrance, report its earthy appeal, soothing quality, its soulful feel, and its new take on favorite classics.


name: Passage_
sku: middleearth-passage
upc: 876809008499
description:
Middle-Earth Ensemble creates a unique gypsy infused sound inspired by music of the Mediterranean and Middle-East. Their music has fueled the hips of many a belly dancer in the Southern California area and beyond. Their latest album "Passage" emphasizes their original material while continuing to draw on traditional and fusion styles as varied as Arabic, Turkish, Moorish, Spanish, Gypsy, Celtic, and Classical.

The title track "Passage" includes Indian tablas and exemplifies the fusion that Middle-Earth has created, capturing an urgency and tension/release throughout its journey. Other notable tracks include "Mirayah's Veil" a dream-like ballad set to a chiftetelli and marked by harmonics of 12 string acoustic guitar and stirring vocals. Bellydance afficionados will surely recognize the new renditions of " Rompi Rompi" and "Tamr Henna". Another original "King Ramzy" will appeal to tribal belly dancers, and also includes a stunning re-mix as a bonus track. Two new drum solos appear with powerful, complex yet danceable arrangements.

This release transcends the belly dance genre and includes a variety of styles and sounds that would be sure to please anyone interested in or curious about Middle-Eastern music.


name: Note to Self
sku: midwaystill-notetoself
upc: 847646002773
description:
Noise and melody working together to make a pop-punk gem.

This album is packed full of songs that equal or surpass the band's earlier efforts, with plenty of Husker Du-like pathos and flashes of Byrdsian vocal harmony adding a joyous innocence to proceedings. As in their earlier work, there's the gruff vocals, aggressive yet melodic guitar, Keith Moon-style power drumming and the catchiest hooks since, well, the last Midway Still album.

After releasing their second album, "Life's Too Long", into the post-grunge world of 1993, Midway Still returned to the studio after a mere 17 year gap to record "Note To Self".


name: Fata Morgana
sku: mijo-fata
upc: 876809003982
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257804451&s=143444
description:
Mijo (AKA Michel Jordan) began his musical adventures on flute and piano at the tender age of 8. By age 11 he had branched out into woodwinds, playing alto sax in the school orchestra until the fateful day in 1977 when his family moved to Germany and he was forced to leave the saxophone behind.

Luckily, this did not spell the end of his career - upon arriving in Germany, he promptly put his talents to good use on a Gibson western guitar, expanding his repertoire with lessons and collaborations with Thomas Reuther, who went on to become a noted classical guitarist in his own right.

The two went on to eventually form the Turkish/Oriental fusion band 'Grup Fakir', with several other musicians, and received critical acclaim and an offer to tour Turkey in the mid-1990's. Unfortunately the band dissolved shortly after recording their first demo cd, but Thomas and Michel continued their forays, delving into musical motifs that firmly straddled Greek and Turkish origins.

In 1995 Michel met new cohorts, Christian Wolff and Michael Fey, who he went on to produce and perform live soundscapes and themes to Fachhochschule - Frankfurt theatres production of Shakespeares' 'Midsummer Nights Dream' and 'Macbeth'. Again, his efforts met with resounding success, both personally and publicly.

Michel and Christian went on to form the experimental acoustic/electro-fusion/jazz/techno/blues-rock band 'Ultraschall', playing on a weekly basis with guest artists from around the world, including Christian Schmidhofer of Embryo.

In 1999, Jordan and Fey teamed up, under the Sensor II moniker, to produce some new tracks with a more electronic edge, cuts of which rose to the top of the charts on Garageband.com and were included on the Garageband 'Best of Electronica' compilation CD. It was through Garageband that Artemis connected with Jordan to eventually produce the track 'Hypno' on Artemis' latest release 'Gravity'.

'Fata Morgana' is Jordan's latest effort, a sensual trip that beats a path across time and genre, melding the past, present and future sounds of world music.


name: Timely Manner
sku: mijo-timelymanner
upc: 847646010501
description:
All Lyrics written by Simone Born & Michel Dean Jordan
Vocals by Simone Born/Backing Vocals on My Emotions by Michel Dean Jordan
Guitar, keys and programming: Michel Dean Jordan
Produced, mixed & mastered by Michel Dean Jordan
Recorded at Duckpool Studios
Artwork: Jörg Langhorst & Michel Dean Jordan


name: Build a Cannon
sku: mevans-buildcannon
upc: 847646003848
description:
With haunting lyrics, piercing melodies, a sexy voice and a big guitar, Mikal Evans' new album Build A Canon draws you in and punches you back with nine songs that dust off the old folk-rock themes of love, loneliness and anger.

Using her own kind of poetry, Evans mixes real life themes of growing up and getting out with a lyrical mysticism that leaves her just out of reach. It's a formula that has won audiences in her native South Carolina, to DC and New York.


name: A jailhouse, a kingdom
sku: mevans-jailhouse
upc: 847646004111
description:
Mikal Evans' debut EP is rich with thick reverbs, dark, gritty guitar tones, her unique musical expression conveys honest human emotion. From the haunting opening track, "Dark Hushes Light", to the rocking hit song "Drunkest Hour", these are songs that demand to be taken seriously.


name: Je Reste Accroche
sku: mikegoudreau-jereste
upc: 847646009239
description:
Sherbrooke, March 2015 - The Eastern Townships prolific composer/singer/guitarist and producer Mike Goudreau presents his 17th album Je reste accroche, featuring 12 new original songs, 11 of which are sung in French!

This is Goudreau's 2nd Blues album featuring all French vocal original songs. The 1st album "Nous avions rendez vous", released in 2000 on the Montreal based Bros Label had a successful run with concerts at Montreal's Francofolies in 2001 and a live recording at la Maison de la Culture de Frontenac, recorded by Radio-Canada's "Silence on jazz" and broadcast coast to coast!

With Je reste accroche, you'll discover a good-timing mix of contemporary Blues and traditional Blues with diverse influences : Chicago Blues, Swing, Jazz, Rock, RnB, Country and even a Reggae! Mike Goudreau is accompanied by long time cronies and musicians, Maxime St-Pierre (Michel Cusson, Jean-Pierre Ferland, Alain Caron) on trumpet and horn arrangements, the brilliant saxophonist Dany Roy (Garou, Bet-E and Steph, Suzie Arioli), Nino Fabi (Garou, J.C. Lauzon) on keyboards and the rhythm section of Jean-Francois Begin on drums and percussions and Jonathan-Guillaume Boudreau on bass.

Goudreau wrote all the songs on the album with the help from lyricists and collaborators Michel Aubin, Lise Gaudreau and the Frenchman Jacques Mege. Diverse song subjects such as : relationships, love, breakups, partys, friends, society and lighter stories with a comical edge. The always instantly recognizable "Goudreau" signature is in the music and grooves. A Blues album that defies the convention that Blues is solely sung in English. Finally a Blues album that all francophones can understand in the language of Moliere!

Recorded and engineered by Jimmy Lord at Studio Plante Verte in St-Julie, Quebec and mastered by Steve Corao at Sage Audio in Nashville, Tennessee, this recording can stand beside the big Blues productions from the USA. The proof is in the pudding since Mike Goudreau's music productions have been heard on dozens of network TV shows and films from the United States in the past 7 years, such as : Dirty Sexy Money (ABC), Army Wives (Lifetime), Kath and Kim (NBC), George Lopez Show (TBS), Justified (FX), Scoundrels (ABC), Friday Night Lights (ABC), Let's Make a Deal (CBS), Memphis Beat (TNT), Auction Kings (Discovery), American Pickers (Discovery), Oddities (Discovery), Hung (HBO), Defiance (FX), The Fosters (ABC Family) and most recently the TV movie "North Pole" (Bravo/Hallmark).

For the past 25 years, Goudreau continues to expand his horizons in the world of music not only in Quebec and the United States, but also, all over the world! We invite you to rediscover this great Canadian talent!

www.mikegoudreau.com
info@mikegoudreau.com


name: Look for the Sunshine
sku: mikegoudreau-looksunshine
upc: 847646008850
description:
Whether it's a Sinatra-style crooner, groovy instrumental, dreamy bossa-nova, romantic ballad, New Orleans-style Dixieland or a finger snappin' blues, everyone from the most particular connaisseur to the jazz newbie will be enchanted with this eclectic mix of jazz. Mike Goudreau presents his album 'Look For The Sunshine, co-written with Michel Aubin.

As with all of Mike's albums, he has surrounded himself with some of Quebec's most talented musicians and arrangers: Trumpet player Maxime St-Pierre who has arranged for Celine Dion, Jean-Pierre Ferland, Claude Dubois, Michel Pagliaro, among others, also co-wrote the big band swing song "Happy Go Lucky Blues". The brilliant Dany Roy (musical director for Garou) plays some amazing sax solos on 6 tracks. Trumpet ace Roger "Rocket" Walls is back for solos on 2 songs. Silky-smooth pianist Sylvain Daigneault plays some great piano throughout. Long-time collaborator and saxophonist-arranger David elias arranged 2 songs and plays some great sax. Other wonderful players include Jonathan Boudreau on upright bass, Patrick Morin on drums, Jean-Francois Begin on percussions and drums, Serge Arsenault on trombone, Maurice "Mo" St-Pierre on clarinet, and Nino Fabi plays some groovy B3 organ.

The album was recorded by long time collaborator Jean Custeau at Studio Bleuciel in Stanstead, Quebec. Mastering was done at VAD studios in Sherbrooke by David elias, and Heather Sampson did the graphic artwork and pictures for the album.


name: TGIF
sku: mikegoudreau-tgif
upc: 847646009178
description:
Mike Goudreau launches his 16th album, "T.G.I.F." (Thank God It's Friday), comprising 12 new compositions from the Eastern Townships blues and jazzman.

For the occasion, Goudreau sings, plays bass, guitars and 6-string banjo, as well as being the composer and writer on all 12 tracks. He's accompanied by long-time cronies, brilliant saxophonist Dany Roy (Garou, Bet.e and Stef, Susie Arioli), Maxime St Pierre on trumpet (Michel Cusson, Alain Caron, Pagliaro ), Serge Arsenault on trombone, Stephane Jette on drums and the fleet-fingered Nino Fabi on keyboards.

For "T.G.I.F.", Goudreau pulls out all the stops with an eclectic mix of styles and grooves on this album. The title track "T.G.I.F'' is a dynamic jump blues, a signature style that has set Goudreau apart from many of his peers with that contagious swing that he's become so well known for these past 20 years! Other surprises are blues rock songs "Ain't No Guitar Hero", "Don't Get Close To You", influenced by the music of Stevie Ray Vaughn, Robben Ford and Eric Clapton. We find other influences such as Dixieland jazz on "Jack's Place", country blues on "I Got Your Letter", jazz on the instrumentals "Swingin' The M and M" and "Blue Note Shuffle", a touch of gospel on "Give Me Faith" and funk on "Chillin' The Funk", all of which showcase that Goudreau remains much more than a one-trick pony.

Recorded and mixed in his hometown of Stanstead at Studio Bleuciel, and mastered at Sage Audio in Nashville, Tennessee, this recording sounds like a big blues production from the USA, which is a great testimony of how Mike's production skills have blossomed over the past 20 years. That's another reason why Goudreau's music has been heard on dozens of US network TV and films as well as web commercials and Youtube videos, something not many other Canadian blues artists/writers have achieved. Yet despite these successes, he still remains one of Canada's best kept blues and jazz secrets!


name: Time for Messin Around
sku: mikegoudreau-timeformessin
upc: 847646009222
description:
Mike Goudreau presents his 15th album, "Time For Messin' Around", comprising 11 songs with 8 new compositions and 3 covers from the Eastern Townships blues and jazzman. Says Goudreau: "We've got something here that might surprise blues fans old and new!"

For the occasion, Goudreau is accompanied by long-time cronies Jonathan-Guillaume Boudreau on bass, Jean-Francois Begin on drums, and the saxophonist David elias on one song. Also appearing as special guest is Pascal "Per'' Veillette, a very unique and talented harmonicist who brings a particular exotic flair with his participation on two songs.

For "Time For Messin' Around", Goudreau goes back to the "roots'' approach as he did on his 2006 album "The Grass Ain't Greener".The instrumentation is stripped down to the basic guitar, bass and drums on most tracks for a grittier sound, and most of the basic tracks were recorded live in the studio.

This is a "party" vibe album, with the first track that sets the tone immediately, right on to the last one. A few funk rhythms, Texas shuffle, country blues, blues rock, Southern rock vibes that'll make you want to dance your blues away! Also a sizzling authentic and soulful slow blues sung "en Francais", which has been one of Mike's trademarks for the past 20 years and counting.


name: 20 Years of Bop and Blues
sku: mikegoudreau-twentyyears
upc: 847646009215
description:
In celebration of 20 years of performing, writing and producing blues music, Mike Goudreau and The Boppin' Blues Band are proud to present their anniversary album, 20 Years of Bop and Blues. The record offers 13 new original songs ranging from swinging to funky, from New Orleans to blues-rock, with some southern soul and gospel thrown in for good measure!

This latest Boppin' offering features Mike Goudreau on vocals and guitar, Jonathan Boudreau on bass, Jean-Francois Begin on drums, David elias on tenor and baritone sax, Serge Arsenault on trombone, and Maxime St-Pierre on trumpet. The BBB is joined by guests Lorrie Goodman on B3 organ, and special guest Pierre Lacocque, of the Chicago band Mississippi Heat, on harmonica.

All songs are by Mike Goudreau, including the help of co-composers Lorrie Goodman, Jonathan Boudreau and Jean-Francois Begin. Also participating to the French lyrics to one song is long-time BBB friend Michel Aubin.


name: Lost Horizons
sku: mmcguill-losthorizons
upc: 847646006818
description:
Mike McGuill's debut release on Magnatune draws from a deep pool of styles and influences, artfully fusing electronic and synthesised sounds with real-world instruments and sound design elements.

Dance and electronica-inspired beats and rhythms underpin dramatic, lush and melancholic musical arrangements, with a touch of jazz thrown in. Guitars, mandolins, brass and strings co-exist with deep electronic grooves. Prepared pianos, celestas and music boxes intertwine with restless, unsettling beats.

This is a collection of atmospheric tracks intended to evoke abandoned landscapes, half-forgotten memories, and lost horizons.


name: Modern Carols
sku: mmcguill-moderncarols
upc: 847646003152
description:
Mike McGuill's latest Magnatune release, Modern Carols, is an ambitious collection of modern instrumental interpretations of some of our best-loved Christmas melodies.

On Modern Carols, Mike blends his trademark electronic edge and innovation with the fun, warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season, to create a genuinely unique festive sound, and an album that's the perfect fit for an alternative Christmas experience.

Traditional seasonal favourites are given an up-to-date twist, with arrangements that take inspiration from across the broad church of today's electronic and alternative sounds.

From a playful, toybox-orchestra re-telling of 'Joy to the World', to a Mark-Ronson-style big beat rendition of 'We Three Kings'; from a pulsing, ambient take on medieval choral song 'Coventry Carol', to a dream-like 'Silent Night' arranged for piano, double bass and tape loops, this is an adventurous, imaginative and thoroughly modern Christmas album.

Perfect for anyone looking for something a bit different in their seasonal listening.


name: Sleep Mode
sku: mmcguill-sleepmode
upc: 847646008140
description:
Mike McGuill's latest Magnatune release, Sleep Mode, is his most commercial to date, and probably his most eclectic.

The music of Sleep Mode is firmly grounded in Mike's trademark electronic innovation, yet also pays homage to some of the classic sounds of popular music's past - from vintage funk and jazz to soul and synth pop.

As with Mike's previous releases, live instruments intertwine artfully with electronic sounds here - be it growling double bass and primal, pulsing drum machines on opener 'Think Tank', or drifting, jazz-room brass and enigmatic tape delays on title track 'Sleep Mode'.

Sleep Mode's arrangements, sound design and mix were all deliberately geared towards creating a record that's at once familiar, evocative, nostalgic - an ode to some of the classic grooves of the past - while remaining unmistakably innovative, forward-thinking, future-facing.

By turns catchy and caustic, chilled and challenging, Sleep Mode invites you to switch off and dream.


name: Stult
sku: mmcguill-stult
upc: 847646007198
description:
Mike McGuill's second album on Magnatune is his latest collection of instrumental electronica pieces.

Like his first (Lost Horizons), new release Stult combines synths and electronics with real-world instruments and sounds.

At times aggressive, brooding, dramatic, at others drifting and contemplative, Stult experiments with splicing, looping, noise and other non-harmonic sound sources, while remaining firmly grounded in melody.

During the writing process, two things were ever-present in the room: live International Space Station webcam feeds of the Earth from above; and 24-hour rolling TV news coverage from around the globe.

And these two visual sources became the main sources of inspiration for the album.

Something of the juxtaposition between these two things - the tranquillity of floating weightlessly in endless, cycling orbit, set against the tension, conflict and chaos sparking and twitching continuously on the surface below - is ingrained in the skin of the music of Stult.

The music shifts restlessly between the two moods, at times drifting and detached (Tranq, Orbit), at others frenetic and threatening (Fission, Transmit), and often combining both sensations at once (Fusion, Culma).


name: Passage
sku: wall-passage
upc: 876809006464
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257915698&s=143444
description:
The music of Passage emerged from working in conjunction with massage therapists, with the specific intent of incorporating the healing power of sound and music to provide a total relaxation experience for the listener.

Passage is a wonderful mix of acoustic and electronic instruments, including: acoustic and electric guitars, Native American flutes, Tibetan and crystal singing bowls, various chimes and bells, synthesizers and samplers. Prepare for your journey.

PASSAGE is 62 minutes, symbolic of a journey within a journey. You may listen in any order, but this is how the journey proceeds for me:

DAWN OF LIGHT: A perfect day starts with a perfect Dawn... new beginnings with the first step, a heart open to transformation. Dawn of Light invites us to stop, breathe, and let our breath's rhythm match the flow of the soundscape. Prepare for the journey within.

POINT LOBOS: Spend the day on the rich, diverse coastline of Point Lobos, near Monterey, California. Natural cadences of wind, surf and ocean air, with sea birds, harbor seals, otters, and distant humpbacks, create a deep calm, offering boundless space for inspiration and hope. The ocean washes away our stress, and heals.

IN THE NOW: Journey deeply into the present as chimes and a Tibetan singing bowl erase time. Each breath in and out cleanses and renews us.

INNER PEACE: End with the Beginning. The genesis of this, the first piece composed for Passage, was the Winter Solstice of 2005. With the first brush strokes during the shortest days of the year, it gives thanks and optimistically looks to spring's rising Light.

Follow your Heart. Dream. Create. Realize Transformation.

Peace to you on your Journey,
Mike Wall


name: Passion, Pestilence and Polyphony
sku: misericordia-passion
upc: 876809008024
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/passion-pestilence-polyphony/id378184283
description:
Music and song from the dark and troubled fourteenth century. From the rhythmic drive of bagpipes, hurdy gurdy and percussion to haunting three part polyphony via solo voice accompanied by gothic harp, this recording includes complex instrumental istampitas, love songs by Guillaume de Machaut and music from England, France and Italy. Performances are informed by medieval practice but occasionally artistic licence is allowed free expression, such as the long hurdy gurdy and dulcimer introduction to De' poni amor a me, adding to the distinctive style of the band.


name: Choose
sku: modinski-choose
upc: 847646004036
description:
Electronic, melodic, uptempo, punchy are some words to describe the debut album of this Belgian based producer Modinski. Electronic music is in fact the key word. It is also the big love of the producer. Some tracks are food for the dancefloor, other tracks are inspiring and some others are just dreamy. Just choose a track and you'll love it!


name: 33
sku: mogilalia-33
upc: 847646010242
description:
This album was recorded with Russian poet Vladimir Ladan, who reads his poems to piano music. The music was recorded with an electronic piano, to envelop the readings in an ambient atmosphere and melancholic jazzy moods. When he turned 33, Vladimir Ladan,the author of the poems, decided to give this collection of poems a red thread by ordering them in a way that tells the tale of his life on our planet. The age of 33 is called the "Age of Christ" in Russian. And for the author, it had a symbolic meaning. His poems touch upon eternal questions, such as: Life, Death, Love.


name: Drops from the Sky
sku: mogilalia-dropsfromthesky
upc: 847646009918
description:
Mogilalia's album "Drops fom the Sky" is an ambient album consisting of tracks played by classic guitar. It features expansive and deep sounds with influences of classical music, jazz, blues and experimental music.


name: I drop a shadow to this World
sku: mogilalia-dropshadow
upc: 847646003831
description:
I drop a shadow to this world will take you on a fascinating journey with two friends: the piano and the flute. You will experience a conversation between two abstract creatures who lead you through the album.

This music was created to make something out of the world's meditative feelings, tranquility in ambience and piano passages like sea waves are gently laid on the beach shore.


name: Flowers are Growing Through
sku: mogilalia-flowers
upc: 847646004265
description:
Mogilalia's Flowers are growing through is a modern classic ambient album with some abstract melancholic piano lines. The track nobody to no one is synth-based ambient with pulsating lines.


name: If People Could Fly
sku: mogilalia-ifpeoplecould
upc: 847646004210
description:
Mogilalia's album If people could fly is an experimental ambient album. All instruments, most notably drums and synth, were played and recorded live. The first track of this album "if people could fly, they would flown away" takes listeners on an ambient journey and projects the feeling of a strange flight in a dark dream, or of flying under the mountains and seas - sometimes faster, sometimes hovering in slow motion.

The second track "we have split the atom" sounds just like that fairy factory you saw in your dreams.


name: Lights are Burning, a Ghost is Dancing
sku: mogilalia-lightsburning
upc: 847646004326
description:
A modern classic ambient record, with ghost-like piano passages which appear and then are lose themselves in a whisper.


name: My Old Black Radio Sings the Blues
sku: mogilalia-myoldblack
upc: 847646004340
description:
Mogilalia's album My old black radio sings the blues is ambient music played on an electronic piano which sounds like an old broken radio which astronauts have lost in space.


name: Poems
sku: mogilalia-poems
upc: 847646009925
description:
This album features an electronic piano that melds into ambient atmosphere and melancholic jazzy moods. All of the 33 short tracks were inspired by poems of Russian poet Vladimir Ladan; each of the track being like a soundtrack to one of his poems.


name: Sometimes City Knows
sku: mogilalia-sometimescity
upc: 847646001950
description:
This album is a mix between dark jazz and experimental, ambient music. All musical parts - drums, bass guitar, piano - were improvised and recorded by Dmitry Dolgov. Get ready for long and slow dark jazz music tracks that create a mystic atmosphere and perfectly mirror the feeling of loneliness you get when walking around a small town just before twilight.


name: Train to Midnight
sku: mogilalia-traintomidnight
upc: 847646009901
description:
Mogilalia's album "Train to Midnight" indulges you in ambient music with dark jazz and neoclassical influences. It features electronic piano, acoustic guitar, bass guitar and drum machine. All instruments, except for the drums, were recorded live.


name: Waves of Freedom Have Bored the Sea
sku: mogilalia-wavesfreedom
upc: 847646004333
description:
A modern ambient classic, played only on the piano, with a deep atmospheric sound. Like waves of the Sea, rising up to only be lost on the shore sand.


name: Humanity Is Falling Apart
sku: malileche-fallingapart
upc: 847646011072
description:
Humanity is Falling Apart, was entirely recorded at Sami Studio in Algeria in 2019 and contains 9 songs including: 2 instrumentals, 2 songs sung in English, 1 song sung in Arabic, French, Tamazight & English, a Happy Birthday song, a prelude and 2 other songs in Tamazight. Instrumentation: Guitar, mandol, bass, banjo, violin, piano, hand drums, drum kit, bendir, flutes, ullulation, vocals and back up vocals.

The new CD showcases some of Moh's most heartfelt songwriting yet. "A Salute to the Women of Kabylia" pays homage to the courage, determination, and beauty of the charismatic Berber women, who still wear the traditional outfits, and keep Kabyle culture alive. They're the educators who transmit so much of our tradition to new generations.

"I was Only Nineteen" is a deeply personal track, sung in English, that celebrates Moh's friendship with legendary North African singer/songwriter/activist Lounes Matoub, and recalls a trip the two took together from Algeria to France in the late '70s. The memory of Matoub looms large over this record - a prolific, passionate spokesman for the Amazigh/Berber people, who used his music as a platform for his activism. Matoub was assassinated for his outspoken music in 1998, at the age of 42.


name: In Memory of a Hero
sku: malileche-hero
upc: 876809009120
description:
All songs on this album are sang in the ancient native North African language, Tamazight, incorporating the use of instruments common to that region, namely the mondol, bendir, banjo and flutes. Alileche's music highlights the need for conscientious resistance to authoritarian regimes that undermine human rights. Many themes on this album focus upon the importance of Love, Freedom, Truth, and Justice, in order to be triumphant over human suffering. Alileche (pronounced "ali-LESH") blends his soulful, emotionally charged, passionate voice to hypnotic rhythms, captivating melodies, and entrancing beats.


name: When the Dust Settles
sku: malileche-whenthedust
upc: 847646004746
description:
With the soul and spirit of Algeria's mountainous region of Kabylia, Moh Alileche has been promoting Amazigh (Berber) culture since the early nineties from West Coast. This release finds him more politically engaged and musically forceful than ever.

Alileche brings rock 'n' roll energy and commitment to his traditional ensemble. Track after track, Alileche's silken voice bears the raspy edge of hard experience and hard-earned moral authority as he addresses deep matters of invasion, repression, human love and the tumultuous changes sweeping North Africa. "It started in Tunisia" he sings in one trenchant track.


name: Mojo Radio
sku: mojoradio-mojoradio
upc: 847646006412
description:
Mojo Radio went in to the studio to try to create an album the same way their musical influences did. That is, LIVE and full of passion. They weren't worried about polishing every note as long as they captured the emotion and energy of the song. This album does that by being a product of what can happen when you record a band "live" in the studio. Tracks weren't recorded one at a time, but together with all the members playing at the same time. Just like the great bands of yesterday did it. Mojo Radio feels this produces a more organic and original result.

The songs on the self titled album are varied. The album kicks off with a blues based harmonica instrumental (WELCOME), but soon leads to catchy up beat rocker (HIGH HORSE). There are heavy tracks like THROW YOUR HAT IN THE RING, and also slower songs like DREAMING. All of these center around the blues influences and rock legends of the 1970s. Mojo Radio's goal was to make an album influenced by the past but right up to date.


name: Afterglow Reverie
sku: mokhov-afterglowreverie
upc: 847646010433
description:
The most uplifting melodic dreamy dance music. These 6 tunes sound like a mix of Orbital, Underworld, The Field, and Jon Hopkins. If you like that style of energizing and joyful electronic dance/house music, this album is for you.


name: Euphoric Magic
sku: mokhov-euphoricmagic
upc: 847646007907
description:
An uplifting, energizing, melodic, and emotionally-hitting electronic album. These 10 instrumental electronic tunes sound like Bonobo + Royksopp. With some Four Tet and Boards of Canada thrown in. If you like that style of electronic/instrumental hip-hop/downtempo music, this album is for you.


name: Future Hope
sku: mokhov-futurehope
upc: 847646006764
description:
Uplifting electronic music, these ten instrumental electronic tunes sound like Four Tet + Boards of Canada. With some Bonobo and Royksopp thrown in. Uplifting, energizing, melodic, and emotionally-hitting. If you like that style of electronic/instrumental hip-hop/downtempo music, this album is for you.


name: Halcyon Days
sku: mokhov-halcyondays
upc: 847646001257
description:
Halcyon Days is the debut album of Mokhov, the world's most mobile electronic musician. The 10 electronic tunes are a cross between Aphex Twin and Four Tet, with some Boards of Canada and DJ Shadow thrown in. If you like that style of IDM/instrumental hip-hop/downtempo music, this album is for you.


name: Jupiter Melodies
sku: mokhov-jupitermelodies
upc: 847646004296
description:
This album features 6 uplifting and catchy electronic dance tunes. Made using only sounds from a Jupiter-6 analog synth, they sound like a cross between Daft Punk and Aphex Twin. With its energizing and joyful electronic vibes, Mokhov's new album, Jupiter Melodies, is made for everyone who loves dance/disco/house music.


name: Magic Times
sku: mokhov-magictimes
upc: 847646005040
description:
Possibly one of the best uplifting electronic albums. Ambitious and arrogant, yes.
But why not aim big? Sounds like Four Tet + Boards of Canada.


name: Massive Love
sku: mokhov-massivelove
upc: 876809002930
description:
Mokhov's new album, Massive Love, features uplifting dance music that will make the hearts of anyone passionate about eclectic mixes of dance/disco/house music beat faster. All sounds were created with just one synth: Massive. Sounding somewhat like a fusion of Todd Terje, Lindstrøm, Fatima Yamaha and Metro Area, these 6 tunes will make you yearn for more, bringing their uplifting, energizing, joyful, and catchy vibes to your home, business, project or earphones.


name: Perfect Dream
sku: mokhov-perfectdream
upc: 847646003398
description:
Like Mokhov's debut album Halcyon Days, these 10 electronic tunes are like a cross between Aphex Twin and Four Tet. With some Boards of Canada and DJ Shadow thrown in. If you like that style of IDM/instrumental hip-hop/downtempo music, this album is for you.

Mokhov's Perfect Dream could be one of the best sophomore electronic albums of all time. (Ambitious? Arrogant? Sure, but why not aim big?)


name: Solace Embrace
sku: mokhov-solace
upc: 847646009260
description:
Possibly one of the best uplifting electronic albums. These 10 instrumental electronic tunes sound like Bonobo + Royksopp. With some Four Tet and Boards of Canada thrown in. Uplifting, energizing, melodic, and emotionally-hitting. If you like that style of electronic/instrumental hip-hop/downtempo music, this album is for you.


name: Sun Bloom
sku: mokhov-sunbloom
upc: 847646010440
description:
The most uplifting melodic dreamy cosmic dance music. These 6 tunes sound like a mix of Todd Terje, Orbital, Daft Punk, and Underworld. If you like that style of energizing and joyful electronic dance/disco/house music, this album is for you.


name: Around the World
sku: monom-aroundtheworld
upc: 847646009406
description:
Around The World is the 14th solo album from Slovenian music producer and multimedia artist Stana Spegel aka Monom. This album is for the people who like rhythmic groovy music, but don't want to listen to the same samples and same ideas again and again.

This time, Monom introduces ethnic elements into his electronic music and delivers to you some hot chillout and house music blended with a lot of ethnic percussion and instruments from around the world to create stylish and elegant tracks for you and your projects.

New sounds, new mixtures, new blend.
The world is full of instruments and sounds, it's time to listen to them!


name: Deep
sku: monom-deep
upc: 847646009413
description:
Monom takes you Deep. In this album, he introduces you to a mixing style of deep and minimal techno music combined with the melodic end of house music. Elements of the house 'sound' such as realistic jazz sounds and booming kick drums are replaced with elements from techno such as shorter, deeper, darker kicks, smaller, quicker hi-hats, noisier snares and more synthetic or acid sounding synth melodies, including raw electronic noises from distorted sawtooth and square wave oscillators.

Let's dance with happy feet and some deep thoughts on your mind.


name: Electric Forest
sku: monom-electricforest
upc: 847646009987
description:
The LP "Electric Forest" is an eclectic musical journey through the various electronic genres - from chillout to melodic techno, with a touch of jazz and cinematic music. Wide pad sounds mix with laid-back glitch beats, lots of catchy melody lines and the effects of nature and create unique complex electric forest soundscapes.

Monom's 18th studio album tells the stories of the interconnections and exchanges of energetic imagination between forest conifer trees and humans.

Composed, performed and produced by Stanislav Spegel


name: Forest Tales
sku: monom-foresttales
upc: 847646001578
description:
Ten amazing music stories about ten incredible trees. Monom's 17th studio album tells the stories of the interconnections and exchanges of energetic imagination between forest trees and humans. Vibrations of the ten most common deciduous trees in Europe and North America are accompanied with the mixture of natural sounds of forests and chilled but playful music compositions.


name: Green Transformer
sku: monom-greentransformer
upc: 847646010464
description:
The album "Green Transformer" is a carbon-free transformation of industrial noises into music. In order to create the soundtrack for the multimedia project and album, music producer and composer Monom captured industrial noises at a nearby coal mine and thermal power plant. Since only "green" electricity generated by his own solar power plant was used, the music on the album is a unique mash-up of modulated industrial electro-mechanical sounds that are fundamental components of urban rhythms, harmonies and melodies.


name: Minestrone
sku: monom-minestrone
upc: 847646009635
description:
Electronic music is more than just techno, house or dance! In their album, Minestrone, Monom is taking us on a journey through different genres. Ranging from Chillout to Funk and even Jazz influences, each single track leads to new and interesting discoveries. The ingredients are as simple (and tasty) as it gets - and the result is definitely going to make you yearn for more.
MINESTRONE by MONOM (recipe)
2 cans of Chillout
1 tube of Funk
3 grains of Breakbeat
2 cups of Rock and roll
3 tablespoons of Hip-hop
8 drops of Blues
3 dessertspoon of Etno
2 cloves of Classical Crossover
4 teaspoons of Jazz
A pinch of Improvisation
A hint of Pop


name: Velenje Remixed
sku: monom-velenjeremix
upc: 876809000677
description:
Velenje is a town like no other in Slovenia (Central Europe). It was built in just a decade during 1950-1960 as a concept for healthy living in a new socialist society. The best Slovenian architects of that time were hired for the job. Besides that, Velenje is also known as an incubator of excellent musicians and composers. Many of them study, work and live all over the globe. Because of that, accomplished music producer and composer Stane Spegel (Monom) from Velenje decided to do a remix album of 12 compositions of those fine artists who work in the fields of urban musical genres (jazz, hip-hop, electronic music, funk). Most of the songs are instrumental, but there are a few tunes with lyrics in exotic Slovenian language, too.


name: Ol Jed's a Millionaire
sku: montecasino-oljedmill
upc: 847646003756
description:
Ol' Jed's A Millionaire - Catchy hard rock with big production values.

"Torsos And Good Times" revealed that Monte Casino could rock hard and raw, but also showcased a few radio-friendly pop tunes. "Ol' Jed's A Millionaire" reconciles these two asthetics and gives the new songs a bigger, guitar-driven production, but with soaring pop choruses and layered vocals. The lead song, "All I Need" has been a featured download on Rock Band 2 for Xbox.


name: Torsos and Good Times
sku: montecasino-torsos
upc: 847646003688
description:
Monte Casino plays a unique brand of rock that includes nods to such various subgenres as grunge, punk, metal, and pop, with special attention to catchy hooks and harmonies.

Torsos And Good Times delights the listener by bucking the trend of creating a predictable style for an entire album, deftly weaving through 30 years of rock goodness while still managing to be both original and accessible.

Recording and Mixed in San Francisco's Faultline Studios (Michael Franti, Neal Schon), the album has already made waves in the community, particularly the single, "High", which has been played on 107.7 The Bone's "Local Licks" program.


name: Asylum Acres
sku: mountain-asylumacres
upc: 847646005255
description:
Asylum Acres is sort of a concept album about places you'd visit in dreams, out of body experiences, astral projection etc. Not a "musical novel", but more like a collection of horror/suspense short stories (think Poe, Lovecraft or Stephen King) - laced with mystical and organic sound. These songs are as dark as they are strangely uplifting.

Jeff Sanders - vocals, guitars, synths, field recording
Steve Riley - drums and percussion
Kurt Baumer - violins
Dave DeMarco - bass guitars, baritone guitar on "Asylum Acres"
Bass on "Spell" by Phil Rohr

Recorded and engineered by Sanders, DeMarco, Baumer and Riley
Mixed by Johnny Geib at 10X10 Studios
Mastered by Timothy Stollenwerk at Stereophonic Mastering
Cover Artwork by Richey Beckett

This album is dedicated in loving memory to Bertha Y. Boucher. I miss you, Memere.


name: The Immortal Deadbeats EP
sku: mountain-deadbeatsep
upc: 876809009786
description:
For this 4-song EP, inspired by "Sgt. Pepper's", Jeff wrote the music as fictitious prog rock masterminds "The Immortal Deadbeats".

Mountain Mirrors began in a voodoo-riddled mountainside catacomb in the year 2004. There, in the pitch-black darkness, fugitive Jeff Sanders experienced a life-changing vision quest...full of beautiful demonic sirens, three-breasted cyclops oracles and small, cuddly animals.

Tripping balls from an evil concoction of sensory deprivation and menacing curse vibrations, the Sandman carved the lyrics and music that would become the foundation for the first MM album, 2004's Lunar Ecstasy into those filthy stone walls.

Jeff has released two more albums since then, and in the winter of 2008 he returned to that evil mountainside to work on a fourth.

With the help of deviant musical masterminds Per Ulfhielm and Magnus "Trummange" Brandell of Odd Grooves fame, this would prove to be no ordinary EP. Like a perfect storm of epic proportions, it would become...

The Immortal Deadbeats EP.


name: Dreadnought
sku: mountain-dreadnought
upc: 876809006310
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=276034755&s=143444
description:
There were once certain bands and performers like Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd, and even Nick Drake who really knew the art of beautiful brooding, and if you're a fan of their more eerie and atmospheric stuff, then you simply must check out Mountain Mirrors' latest album, Dreadnought. Darkly melodic and profound, it settles on you like a mist on an early November morning. Says Metal Storm Magazine, "This music is really beautiful, catchy and really deep."


name: Lunar Ecstasy
sku: mountain-lunar
upc: 876809004552
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=6203668&s=143444
description:
If Nick Drake had regularly gone camping with the guys from Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath, he might have put out albums like those of Mountain Mirrors?the psych folk/rock project of multi-instrumentalist Jeff Sanders. Sanders has a melodic yet mesmerizing style, and fearlessly explores subject matter both dark and spiritual...all with a big, cosmic,out-of-doors feeling. Lunar Ecstasy was named album of the month by both IndieSoundz and StonedGods and the "Afterlife" track was chosen by Indie Music Beat Magazine for their annual 101 Great New Music Tracks CD.


name: Mountain Mirrors
sku: mountain-mountain
upc: 876809004569
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=152398835&s=143444
description:
Murat Batmaz of Sea of Tranquility described Mountain Mirrors as the most "beautifully grey" melodies he'd ever heard. The forlorn, contemplative "Stay Evil" kicks things off, followed by the darkly mellow shanty of "The Demon's Eye"?one of the strongest tracks on the album. One thing that's great about Mountain Mirrors is that its shadowy references aren't just some sort of aesthetic choice?they're the genuine vocabulary of an artist who is struggling hard for some sort of truth and inner peace. "Alone In A Crowd" is another standout. It's like "Comfortably Numb" on Lithium. "Deploribus Unum" is great too?autumnal and melancholy and yet not without its own peculiar comforts.


name: Mountain Sounds
sku: mountsounds-mountsounds
upc: 847646006306
description:
Recorded in an out-of-use orphanage in the mountains of Guatemala, Mountain Sounds is an entirely self-produced, indie-in-the-truest-sense-of-the-word recording project comprised of two friends coming together from separate parts of the world to realize a shared vision of rock and roll music.

The album is a testament not only to the importance and scarcity of true creative chemistry, but also to the need to make art regardless of the obstacles in the way. All of us were born to create; it's as natural as breath, as necessary as food, and comforting as sleep. We grew up drawing pictures, singing songs, staging plays - but we kept growing, and we found ourselves working in banks, managing retail shops, selling insurance. The only singing we do now is in cars piddling along in rush hour traffic.

'Mountain Sounds' is a step away from what we've become and back towards who we were. Six years removed from their last collaborative recording project, Portland, Oregon's Tim Hoyt and Guatemala's own Franc Castillejos came together to make something vital and new in the only place they could: a vacant orphanage in the mountains of Central America.

Former band mates separated for years by arbitrary ideas like nationalities, immigration laws, and time zones (not to mention several thousand very real miles), Hoyt and Castillejos found themselves discouraged and sputtering after years apart; drifting ever farther from the life they loved, ever closer to a life neither of them wanted. On the verge of acquiescence, they chose instead something altogether different: a last-ditch attempt to be who they used to be.

After a summer spent recording and trading demos separately, Tim quit his insurance job and left his home in Portland, Oregon, relocating to Franc's family's property on a secluded patch of land in the Cordillera Alux mountain range west of Guatemala City. The two set up shop in an old, out-of-use orphanage on the grounds, transforming the space into a functioning studio using what limited resources they could find.

For three months they lived and breathed nothing but their music, taking breaks only for meals, even sleeping in the makeshift studio. The long, cold rainy season ensured that they spent almost every waking moment in that space, working without interruption. Their seclusion provided extraordinary focus; their extreme limitations, an opportunity to try everything differently.

After three months, they emerged with twelve songs that showcased their distinct voice; songwriting defined by complex catchiness, minor chord melancholy, and sparse, deliberate arrangements. Franc's lyrics embody his unique perspective as a man caught in the middle, a Guatemalan who spent a decade in America, who thinks in Spanish but writes in English, who loves his home and his country but longs for his friends in a land he's not permitted to visit.

Nothing about 'Mountain Sounds' was easy or without risk. Nothing was normal: not where it was made, or how. Not how its creators reunited after years apart, putting their entire lives on hold to pursue something they hadn't done together in ages. But concepts like "easy," "safe," and "normal" don't matter very much when you're doing what you were born to do. And with 'Mountain Sounds,' Franc and Tim are finally back where they always should have been.


name: Mountain Sounds (instrumental)
sku: mountsounds-mountsoundsinst
upc: 847646006313
description:
Recorded in an out-of-use orphanage in the mountains of Guatemala, Mountain Sounds is an entirely self-produced, indie-in-the-truest-sense-of-the-word recording project comprised of two friends coming together from separate parts of the world to realize a shared vision of rock and roll music.

The album is a testament not only to the importance and scarcity of true creative chemistry, but also to the need to make art regardless of the obstacles in the way. All of us were born to create; it's as natural as breath, as necessary as food, and comforting as sleep. We grew up drawing pictures, singing songs, staging plays - but we kept growing, and we found ourselves working in banks, managing retail shops, selling insurance. The only singing we do now is in cars piddling along in rush hour traffic.

'Mountain Sounds' is a step away from what we've become and back towards who we were. Six years removed from their last collaborative recording project, Portland, Oregon's Tim Hoyt and Guatemala's own Franc Castillejos came together to make something vital and new in the only place they could: a vacant orphanage in the mountains of Central America.

Former band mates separated for years by arbitrary ideas like nationalities, immigration laws, and time zones (not to mention several thousand very real miles), Hoyt and Castillejos found themselves discouraged and sputtering after years apart; drifting ever farther from the life they loved, ever closer to a life neither of them wanted. On the verge of acquiescence, they chose instead something altogether different: a last-ditch attempt to be who they used to be.

After a summer spent recording and trading demos separately, Tim quit his insurance job and left his home in Portland, Oregon, relocating to Franc's family's property on a secluded patch of land in the Cordillera Alux mountain range west of Guatemala City. The two set up shop in an old, out-of-use orphanage on the grounds, transforming the space into a functioning studio using what limited resources they could find.

For three months they lived and breathed nothing but their music, taking breaks only for meals, even sleeping in the makeshift studio. The long, cold rainy season ensured that they spent almost every waking moment in that space, working without interruption. Their seclusion provided extraordinary focus; their extreme limitations, an opportunity to try everything differently.

After three months, they emerged with twelve songs that showcased their distinct voice; songwriting defined by complex catchiness, minor chord melancholy, and sparse, deliberate arrangements.

Nothing about 'Mountain Sounds' was easy or without risk. Nothing was normal: not where it was made, or how. Not how its creators reunited after years apart, putting their entire lives on hold to pursue something they hadn't done together in ages. But concepts like "easy," "safe," and "normal" don't matter very much when you're doing what you were born to do. And with 'Mountain Sounds,' Franc and Tim are finally back where they always should have been.


name: Sideways
sku: mrepic-sideways
upc: 876809001414
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257915135&s=143444
description:
You'd hardly know that Sideways is Seattle native Mr. Epic's debut album. Highly literate beats, sampling, and turntablism blend with whispery, jazz inflected melodies to form an atmospheric, sultry album of huge appeal. Epic has a way with sonic textures that give his work a lot of character and soul, and he's also quite obviously a master of mood -favoring urbane, nocturnal soundscapes laced with muted trumpets, smoky beats, and echoing water droplets. It's electric, eclectic noir at it's finest.


name: Under the Same Sun
sku: gelatine-underthesamesun
upc: 847646008768
description:
Mr.Gelatine's second album, "Under the Same Sun" includes vocal tracks written with Monogatari. Newer stripped down electronic tracks retain the warm analog feel of the 2006 "Electroluv" album.

The release of this album marks a new beginning... better described as a re-awakening for Mr.Gelatine, who's been making music under "The Black Machines" guise, focussing on live performance dance oor tracks.

In terms of live performance Mr.Gelatine uses Elektron machines when performing live, having moved away from the computer music setup for now.... tbc


name: Infomusication
sku: mrdc-infomusic
upc: 876809009380
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/infomusication/id440766594
description:
5 Years had passed since an MRDC release. I had been working on and off on a new album idea for 3 years after a 2 year break. I was busy writing for Television as one of the songwriters for the hit show "Ghost Whisper" and felt I had returned to my roots that started me out with "Timecode" reusing ideas and tracks as I went along recording album #3. I wanted to call it "Living Rooms" and the idea was an album of songs you'd listen to in your living space. Much more groove orientated laid back kinda vibes. I also wanted to play more guitar this time.

As time went on we were past the middle of the "Bush Years" and I became fascinated by all the conspiracy theories and videos on You Tube. Living up North in Canada being on the outside looking in there was quite allot to get caught up in. It seemed as though the movie "Wag the Dog" was coming to life and I thought well if John Mayer's lyrics "And when you trust your television what you get is what you got, cause when they own the information, oh they can bend it all they want" are on the radio after all the political songs before "Waiting on the World to Change" maybe musicians can still use the power of music to tell the people what's really going on. So I came up with the Idea to call my project "Infomusication" that stands for information and education delivered by music.

The tone of the album changed and the idea for "Living Rooms" was kinda dropped although some of the tracks are still there. I used public domain recordings of JFK speeches because when I listened to what he was saying it amazed me that nothing has really changed since he spoke. Most of the snippets I used are from mixed speeches to reorganize the message into the song, but the things he was talking about are unchanged. As with my first 2 albums I write, play, record, program all the tracks. A true solo effort with more guitar, bigger bass and real drums mixed with all the things I had learned while dabbling in "Electronica" left me wondering "What the heck do I call this?" I never really felt that MRDC fit in any one genre before. I had said that my music was more like a sound painting on an electronic canvas. I never considered myself an Electronic or Electronica artist and neither did the purists. So I've come up with my own genre and I call it "Synthetic". To me this refers to music created independently with the use of a computer as the "Hub". It is created by someone that plays or programs all the instruments creating a Hybrid or "Synthetic" type of music that sounds as though it was made by a performing group of musicians and a producer using modern techniques to add to the sound. But its just one guy having fun. Hope you enjoy it and I invite anyone like me that makes music this way to join me and call their music "Synthetic too.


name: Plethora
sku: mrdc-plethora
upc: 876809009366
description:
The idea I had for Plethora was to create a "Plethora of Sound". I wanted to do something much faster, more electronic, more experimental. On the track "Angel" I used singing software mixed with pre recorded vocal samples. "Holly" is my daughter and I kind of ended up finishing the track for her, she was just 2 at the time and the center of my world. Some of the tracks go as fast as 140bpm. Some of the experimental things I played with were morphing sounds from track to track with filters and other things to make the tracks grow and move between real instruments and synthetic. I got carried away and actually had about 5 more tracks I intended to put on it but eventually you just have to say "DONE" and I released 10 tracks as on my first album.


name: Radio
sku: mrdc-radio
upc: 847646003992
description:
MRDC experiments across genres in this album, with (among other things) 3 songs with female hiphopish singer Skulastic, ambient samples, electro/classical touches. A refreshing foray into new sounds...


name: Timecode
sku: mrdc-timecode
upc: 876809009373
description:
Timecode was the first album and the birth of the MRDC sound that came out of a group of songs and Ideas I had recorded for all the media productions I had worked on. My friends had heard some of the things I was working on and suggested I release an album of songs and put them on the Internet. So I started remixing and restructuring the tracks I liked. When I was finished I presented my album ideas to a few friends via mp3.com and it kinda took off from there. A couple years later I stumbled on Magnatune and with the opportunity to change a couple things that bugged me I officially released Timecode with its new cover art and remix and fix of a few tracks. With Timecode and my subsequent releases my approach has always been "Whatever Works" I'm not a vocalist or lyricist so I use and edit samples to say the things I want that I can't with just the music tracks. I play or program all the instruments and tracks always.


name: Apple Howling
sku: mundi-applehowling
upc: 847646009154
description:
This winter-themed album, with its moments of depth and whimsy, offers listeners space for reflection, and rhythms to dance to. Medieval pieces such as Saltarello from Italy, sit comfortably next to composer Darrel Mayers's ancient-sounding originals, all brought to life by a lively ensemble of violins, cellos, Spanish guitars and orchestral bass and miscellaneous percussion (including hedge clippers and flower pots on 'Clippers'!)


name: The Book and the Flower
sku: mundi-bookflower
upc: 847646009161
description:
Listeners will find a sense of celebration in the lively Greek dance rhythms of 'Funeral Games,' a time for reflection in 'Stories from the Tree,' and a sense of ceremony in the medieval processional 'Dum Pater Familias.'

Fresh from their first tour of Spain in 2006, Mundi (based in Austin, Texas) entered the studio with their strings, drums and harmonium to create an album of contrasts.

At the time of the album's release, Mundi was hailed by the Austin American Statesman as '...among the most intoxicating inventions this music-mad city has distilled.'


name: My House is the Sky
sku: mundi-myhouse
upc: 847646007860
description:
To enter the world of My House is the Sky is to enter a place of lyrical French horns, strings, Spanish guitars and drums. This is our fourth album, and while we continue to step back in time and connect with more ancient sounds, we also worked on crafting a more defined rock sound on some of the tracks. Also we felt it important to make it an album of contrasts, offering a sense of journey and exploration for listeners.

There are the big sounds of 'The Gathering' and 'Sandansko Horo,' a little bit of comedy with 'The Bespectacled Bears Waltz,' and 'A Cup of Tea with Santiago,' and we finish the album with 'To Morocco with the Stars,' with desert winds, an Arabic oud, a typewriter and folk bass guitar that we bought during a visit to that country while on tour in Spain.


name: Bringing Light to the Darkness
sku: wintersever-lightdarkness
upc: 847646002827
description:
Traditional, Renaissance and Medieval song and dance to celebrate midwinter and the changing of the seasons. Bringing light to the darkness: Music for a Winter's Eve.


name: Outside Forces
sku: musicinside-forces
upc: 876809007225
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/outside-forces/id299928534
description:
John writes: I wanted to get up and dance about when I heard this submission come in, and then I found out that one of the two members of this band is a founding and former member of the famous pop group "Men Without Hats". So this is what pop stars sound like when they grow up!


name: Silicon Sandwich
sku: musicinside-silicon
upc: 876809008130
description:
This album will make you dance, close your eyes and scratch your head at times. With the pulsating beat of "No Time", the haunting atmosphere of "It Feels Like This", the love story of a robot and a spoon in "Curved Side Of The Spoon", and the hunting man-eaters in "Cannibals", just to name a few tracks.

SILICON SANDWICH is a digital musical trip of a different kind.

Yes, you can have your SILICON SANDWICH anyway you like it!


name: Silicon Sandwich (Instrumentals)
sku: musicinside-siliconinst
upc: 876809009540
description:
With the Silicon Sandwich album, Music Inside opens doors to 10 new different electronic worlds.

This album will make you dance, close your eyes and scratch your head at times. With the pulsating beat of "No Time", the haunting atmosphere of "It Feels Like This", the love story of a robot and a spoon in "Curved Side Of The Spoon", and the hunting man-eaters in "Cannibals", just to name a few tracks.

Silicon Sandwich is a digital musical trip of a different kind.

Yes, you can have your silicon sandwich anyway you like it!


name: Musical Evolution
sku: spheres-evolution
upc: 876809008185
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/musical-evolution/id400984197
description:
"Musical Evolution" explores the language of Baroque music from its wild beginnings through the development of more formal structures still in use today. The wild improvisatory violin sonatas of the 1660's used richly colorful and dissonant harmonies and an unrestricted form, which allowed for an extremely wide range of expressive possibilities and experimentation that sound strange to our ears today. Throughout the 1700's, the sonata gradually morphed and crystallized into the symmetrical form exemplified by Georg Frieric Handel, Arcangelo Corelli and Antonio Vivaldi, who created the first harmonic and structural expectations which still govern our responses today.


name: Music of the Spheres
sku: spheres-spheres
upc: 876809001384
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257916196&s=143444
description:
Playing with bewitching prowess, violinist Jeanne Johnson gives an absolutely dazzling performance on Music of the Spheres and is supported by the stately and graceful playing of Baroque cellist Joanna Blendulf and harpsichordist Yuko Tanaka. Johnson has both amazing techcnial skill and artistic flair, and she plays music with a refreshing sense of gusto and joy. In fact, this entire album could be used as a response to anyone who finds classical music too academic, aloof, or intimidating. Stunningly effusive.


name: Toujours l'Amour
sku: spheres-toujoursamour
upc: 847646005675
description:
Toujours l'Amour will tickle your fancy with a bouquet of French Baroque musical delights, both familiar and new, from the courts of the Sun King and Louis XV. Music of the Spheres presents a collection of sweet confections for Baroque violin, viola da gamba and harpsichord, including the popular favorite Sonnerie de Sainte Genevieve du Mont de Paris by Marin Marais, depicting the ringing of church bells.

Bask in works from the court of Sun King Louis XIV, including a violin sonata by elisabeth-Claude Jacquet de la Guerre and a dance suite of colorful character movements by court composer Jean-Fery Rebel.

We hope you will delight in each truffle you take out of the box - some are sweet marzipan, some bittersweet chocolate, and some have surprise centers and may be new treats you've never tasted before!

Recorded by John Buckman for ToneGnome Recordings


name: Boismortier - Sonatas for Two Bassoons and Continuo
sku: franca-boismortier
upc: 876809004408
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257943720&s=143444
description:
An ideal blend of soothing and energizing qualities, this good natured, mid-tempo baroque music has the power to get your day flowing in exactly the right direction. The Boismortier sonatas are treated with infinite subtlety and feline grace-played by Musica Franca with the virtuosity his work demands. With their infinite variations and nuances, this interpretation reveals the skills that allowed Joseph Bodin de Boismortier to become one of the first composers to succeed without a patron...able to make his living entirely by writing new works of music.


name: Corrette - Le Phenix - Les Delices de la Solitude
sku: franca-corrette
upc: 876809004392
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257805353&s=143444
description:
Musica Franca easily captures the playful, inventive spirit of Michel Corrette's compositions, with many of the movements displaying the all-or-nothing passion that characterized much of his work. Their interpretations have been described as "light and transparent" and "wonderfully weightless," and we at Magnatune find the bright, warm tones to be especially perfect during morning hours.


name: Dancing in the Isles
sku: mpacifica-dancing
upc: 876809009335
description:
Some of America's most dynamic Baroque performers present a mix of virtuoso chamber pieces and their own arrangements of traditional tunes from Scotland, Ireland, and England - from toe-tapping Celtic reels and jigs to melancholy instrumental ballads and English country dances.

The popular spirit of the British Isles strongly infused the works by some of the master composers of the time also presented here, including the touching and vivid Sonata on Scots Tunes by James Oswald and a brilliant variation set on another Scots tune by Francesco Maria Veracini. Other highlights include Henry Purcell's sublime Three Parts on a Ground, a set of dances from the English court masque, and a cheeky sonata by Matthew Locke.

Musica Pacifica brings their customary high energy, superb musicianship, and powerful communicative powers to this catchy and unusual program.

Judith Linsenberg, recorders and whistle
Elizabeth Blumenstock and Robert Mealy, baroque violins
David Morris, baroque 'cello, viola da gamba
Charles Sherman, harpsichord
Charles Weaver, theorbo, baroque guitar
Peter Maund, percussion


name: Morphogenesis
sku: musicalmandalas-morphogenesis
upc: 847646010457
description:
Morphogenesis features rich, sustained synths and electric guitars with additional layers of guitar and piano motifs that play off one another with grace and care. In this album, composer Michael J. Goldberg, invokes a mysterious and dark sense of atmosphere, while simultaneously offering a sense of hope, longing, and peace. Saturated with reverb, sustains, swells, and riffs, Morphogenesis has a bittersweet, haunting, and lovelorn feel. Furthermore, minimalist yet layered style of this album exemplifies the unique style and sounds of Musical Mandalas.


name: Pidiendo Pista
sku: mutandina-pista
upc: 847646002223
description:
Mutandina, the Argentinian band led by Mato Ruiz (guitar and voice), presents their second album Pidiendo Pista. The concept of Mutandina's new album follows the previous sonorous concept tied to a mixture of musical styles but more orientated towards rock.

You can listen to a notable ripeness in the concept of the sound and the composition of the songs. In the tracks it is possible to find rock, funk, reggae, Latin, electronica, in the song format, form and duration. The lyrics approach daily life matters, almost always from an optimistic, but not ingenuous vision.


name: Of Glitters and Zen
sku: equinoxdivine-glittersandzen
upc: 847646010730
description:
The concept of the album is based on the path of discovering the Universe and the eternal search for truth, the complexities of relationships and the desire to go beyond the ordinary. The artists were never comfortable being stuck in one genre. Leaving electro pop as the leading genre, the musicians experimented with the sound. Almost all songs are made using a Korg Electribe analogue synthesizer to get that dark synth sound. Synthetic sounds are perfectly balanced with live bass, guitars and atmospheric vocals. The album consists of ten songs. The opening song is an 80s-inspired synth-pop track, while the others sound more like blends of electro pop, dream pop and alternative.


name: Evil Must Die
sku: washinmash-evilmustdie
upc: 847646005644
description:
"Evil Must Die" is a great album if you're looking for something new, fun and fresh in electronic music. Created and delivered by My Woshin Mashin, an unconventionally artistic German-Russian three-piece act, these tunes are far from any common stereotypes and cliches of the modern pop scene.

Some songs are sure to make you dance, some will put a smile on your face (or maybe tears), some will make you wanna-go-crash-something-right-now. So, now or never - here they come! Bibi, Hugo, Wolfgang and their electro-punk-trip-pop monster, "Evil Must Die"!


name: Marginal Street
sku: myles-marginal
upc: 876809001360
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257805822&s=143444
description:
Relaxed, moody, dark and slow, this is a singer/songwriter album for rainy fall days. Beautiful, understated piano lines interplay with simple, single notes on an acoustic guitar.


name: Dark Rites of Mesmer
sku: mystified-darkrites
upc: 876809009687
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/dark-rites-of-mesmer/id423029221
description:
"Dark Rites Of Mesmer" is deep and hypnotic. It is a beautiful kind of music, with washes of background drones that entrance and looped sequences adding texture. It presents a continuous interplay between immediate and distant, allowing the listener to cycle mentally between these layers. Three pieces were written with Yogic meditation specifically in mind. One was inspired by internet cyber comic "Manmachine". The longest piece, "Critical Dark", is a mid-length journey into ominous moods and tones.


name: Hellwaste
sku: mystified-hellwaste
upc: 876809006877
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hellwaste/id336048772
description:
"Hellwaste" is a drone essay on Hell-- as a place, a concept, and an atmosphere. Deep tones and swirling voices connote an underground setting. Strange brass sounds and drumbeats tell you you are in the lair of the Efreeti. This release is less didactic and more exploratory than many artworks concerning Hell, and is meant to be enjoyed, rather than understood.


name: Hellwaste Revisited
sku: mystified-hellwasterev
upc: 876809007539
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hellwaste-revisited/id336078877
description:
"Hellwaste Revisited" takes another look at the drones from "Hellwaste", adding rhythmic and melodic components. The release is drone set to techno/electronica. Now "Hellwaste" is an essay on drone you can dance to, or simply chill out with headphones. Early listeners have been very enthusiastic about this one-- it is bound to be popular.


name: Narcotic Basement
sku: mystified-narcotic
upc: 876809006716
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/narcotic-basement/id336076649
description:
"Narcotic Basement" is perhaps the smoothest amongst Mystified's recent releases. Diverse and interesting sound sources are used, including synthetic drones, unusual field recordings, shortwave sounds and more. A listener to the "Narcotic Basement" album remarked that he "couldn't stop listening". Thomas hopes that many people will share in this experience.


name: A Pale But Lasting Hope
sku: mystified-palehope
upc: 876809009113
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/a-pale-but-lasting-hope/id409595191
description:
Pieces range from the lively and effervescent to the dark and droney. Running throughout the release is the notion of wide-open spaces - spaces as dictated by sound, as described by tone clusters and layered sounds.

If Eno's "On Land" was an album about landscapes, so, too, is "A Pale But Distant Hope". Mystified is especially pleased with the incredible mastering job by Robert Rich and hopes listeners will give his work a listen.

"A Pale But Lasting Hope" is a full-length ambient album created by the band Mystified and mastered by ambient guru Robert Rich.


name: Skywatchers
sku: mystified-skywatchers
upc: 876809007867
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/skywatchers/id336076883
description:
"Skywatchers" is Mystified's big hit drone ambient album from 2008. Its theme is deep space, and its music is dark and wide open as the night sky. Dedicated to those who watch the skies for meaning.


name: Spheric
sku: mystified-spheric
upc: 876809006983
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/spheric/id369478322
description:
"Spheric" is an ambient and drone release that is all about the most important sphere-- the Earth. The ambient portions are very melodic and changeable, and are often accompanied by world rhythms. Tension is maintained, yet there are moments of serenity. Mystified hopes listeners will notice the many shifting layers of sound in the songs from "Spheric".


name: Detective Tension
sku: mystified-tension
upc: 876809005139
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/detective-tension/id369505002
description:
Beats, drones and progressions work in tandem to create a surprising variety of songs. Pieces are hooky and memorable, and definitely suggest a more palatable side of "Mystified". "Detective Tension" is a foray into cool melodic electronica and is a collection of pieces from 2009/2010: some meant for vinyl or other releases but never put out, others crafted specifically for this release.


name: American Whitecaps
sku: nmathes-amwhitecaps
upc: 847646000496
description:
American Whitecaps can best be described as an indie-folk album. It was recorded by one man in his basement studio in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The instrument sounds are organic and real, recorded in a real room. The lyrics are poetic and allusive. The vocal melodies are original, but seem somewhat familiar. American Whitecaps is an album not so much meant to convey thoughts, but to convey emotion.


name: Bellwether, Arbutus
sku: nmathes-bellweatherarbutus
upc: 847646007396
description:
Bellwether. Arbutus is an atmospheric indie folk rock album featuring memorable melodies and layers of harmony. The album is both dense and minimal: there are stripped down instrumental tracks peppered between complex, percussive laden vocal tracks. There is a wonderful confluence between the complex instrumentation and layered, reverb drenched vocals. As an entire album, Bellwether. Arbutus moves and drifts. It changes mood and invites the listener along on a ride through highs and lows, relaxation and excitement.


name: Recs
sku: nmathes-recs
upc: 847646007365
description:
Recs is contemporary stripped down indie folk at its best. All the songs on Recs were written and recorded in less than two months. The songs are minimal, raw, honest, and emotional. For Recs, Mathes traded in the layered vocal and instrumental sounds of his previous efforts for stripped down intimacy. Though the lyrics may be allusive, the emotion is undeniable. Recs is an album about struggle and starting over, an album about giving in at times, but never giving up.


name: Roselawn
sku: nmathes-roselawn
upc: 847646002339
description:
Roselawn can best be described as a folk-pop album. Each song on Roselawn is built around an acoustic guitar, with small electronic and atmospheric splashes thrown in.

Lyrically, Roselawn is an album about the highs and lows of being in love, about wanting to be a better person for the one you love, about appreciating the small, good things in life, and about taking nothing for granted.

Mathes has drawn clear inspiration from his love for his wife and a newly realized contentment with his life. Roselawn was recorded by Mathes in his basement studio in Green Bay, Wisconsin. His wife, Jane, provides vocals and percussion on several tracks.


name: Disco Drama
sku: neurobic-discodrame
upc: 847646009598
description:
Neurobic is the culmination of the varied talents of two experienced and diverse music producers along with the vocal talents of Sara J.

Neurobic is mainly oriented to vocal-led urban pop dance music. Blending the sounds and feelings of the 80's with contemporary electronic music, Neurobic guarantees a stunningly memorable dance sound experience.

Every song on Discodrama brings its own story, but most of them are talking about the common feelings that we have all felt at least once in a lifetime, if not most of the time. How it is when you feel trapped in your body, in your mind, relationship, environment, or in any situation uncommon to our perceptions of how our life should be. Discodrama brings sweet danceable melodies spiced up with a bit of life-story drama.

Sometimes you can't change the universe, sometimes you can't even change yourself, but you can still dance. So, do it.


name: Close Up
sku: nickking-closeup
upc: 847646001011
description:
The album Close Up is a collection of powerful, emotive, electronic compositions. Half of the album focusing on the driving force of Drum n Bass and Techno mixed with melodic and harmonic ideas to create a full, hard hitting experience. The other half an investigation into the more delicate and ambient side of electronica. This is an album for those wanting to experience an original approach into modern electronica and drum and bass.


name: Guitar Music
sku: nigelmartin-guitarmusic
upc: 847646005866
description:
Guitar Music features a blend of technical guitar wizardry and traditional slide techniques whilst retaining strong melodic direction with clear song structures. Nigel's vast array of influences include Joe Satriani, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Derek Trucks, Paul Gilbert, Django Reinhardt and John Scofield.

The album features a strong blues/rock influence although some might say there are also elements of progressive rock and fusion. The instrumental nature of the music means it is not just suitable for the casual rock guitar fan but also those wishing to use music to paint pictures in their minds and connect music with moving image or those who just appreciate a collection of styles presented in an exciting way.

This collection of songs were composed, recorded and produced by Nigel between 2008 and 2013 with all instruments being handled by the man himself with a support from Robert Cochrane who provides drums on five of the eleven tracks - 3, 6, 8, 9 and 10.


name: Guitar Music II
sku: nigelmartin-guitarmusic2
upc: 847646010259
description:
Guitar Music II is comprised of six rock instrumental tracks and is the follow-up to Guitar Music. The album features up-beat driving guitar tracks such as the opener Sacred Ground and Tornado Alley but also showcases laid-back and more intimate moments as in Logical Love. The album was composed and produced during a three-year immersion in blues music research as part of a PhD project and as such there is a strong blues influence to each of the songs heard here resulting in a very direct sound. When producing this set I wasn't merely satisfied with recording music that sounded good but I aimed to incorporate at least one outstanding moment in each song. I hope you enjoy these tracks as much as I do.


name: Hands Up
sku: nigelmartin-handsup
upc: 847646011188
description:
Hands Up is Dr. Nigel Martin's latest album release and features seven full-length instrumental tracks that are the culmination of writing over a period of roughly two years. This album showcases a jazzier and more experimental sound compared to previous releases and is influenced by a range of artists including Steely Dan, Pink Floyd, John Scofield and Joe Satriani. The opening track Thinking Space incorporates an irregular time signature and spacey pitch-altering effects with a jazzy bass groove. Three of a Kind combines funky bass playing with an uplifting guitar-driven chorus. Heatwave showcases a strong blues-rock sound with gospel influences and hummable melodies. The fourth track Reverie is a laid-back instrumental built upon Latin Jazz sounds and clean electric guitar harmonies. Feelings in Ink is a memorable, emotive and uplifting rock ballad played finger style and followed by the experimental First Contact with its delay effects and tape-based reverse sounds. Finally the album closer and jazz-rock track Groove Injection builds to a climatic guitar solo and features highly characteristic and vocal-esque melodies in the chorus section.


name: Underworld
sku: nightfall-underworld
upc: 847646000823
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/underworld/id440897659
description:
Underworld describes a musical journey through all layers of time. It is a sound creation in co-operation with Mother Nature and connects influences from many different cultures in the world. Underworld has been created through different styles and sounds, organic and electronic. Listen to Sleepers Awaken (featuring Credo Muttwa) and experience the awakening of consciousness, or enjoy songs like Underworld where you will be taken on a journey through Earth's secret history. All the songs are inspired by mother Earth and the universal language of Love.


name: Richmond Motel Room 3
sku: npou-richmondmotel
upc: 847646000557
description:
"Country malcontents" band Ninety Pounds Of Ugly are hung up on the heart, cracking wise, burning bridges and losing control, all with the brazen, belittling charm of a jaded barfly's liquored up loose tongue, on Richmond Motel Room #3. The rockabilly thump of Out of Your League struts like the sequel to Loretta Lynn's You Ain't Woman Enough, while Tain't One, Tain't the Other is the best Dolly song you've never heard."
Steve Baylin - Ottawa XPress


name: Red Distortion
sku: noisehifi-distortion
upc: 876809008581
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/red-distortion/id383184045
description:
Red Distortion is a dark journey through European silver mines and closed industries. The sound of this album is very dark, glitchy and scary, with noisy drones and ambient textures.

The main idea for Red Distortion was to create a heavy ambient attitude with some dub influences, combined with scary atmospheres and raw, beautiful minimalism. Those 4 tracks are all improvised with a small amount of overdubs. Inspired by industrial bands like Throbbing Gristle, Mokira, Sigillum S and Lustmord, Noise Hifi's debut album Red Distortion will redefine the world of Dark Ambient and Industrial music.

All the sounds on this album are based around the Swedish software Reason and Logic pro, except for the analogue synthesizer Sequential circuits Pro One The Fender Precision Bass and the Roland RE 201 Space Echo.


name: and the Mood Swings
sku: braun-and
upc: 876809001346
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=6239544&s=143444
description:
If you like bluesy rock with a little lounge and a whole lotta heart you'll love Norine Braun and the Mood Swings. It's a bluesy romp with a few surprises! Recorded live on the web, it captures the essence of her live act and was produced by Norine in association with her band and mixed by James Bowers.

Norine Braun and the Mood Swings cd won the 2003 "CD of the Year Awards" at kweevak.com. They were presented as one of the Top-50 CDs sent to the website kweevak.com in the 2002 calendar year. In the opinion of the judges these CDs represented the best submissions received for the year in terms of musical quality, production and overall theme!

The dazzling and dynamic line up on the cd are Bill Waldron on drums, Roger Skinner on keys, Rick Law on bass and Mark McKenzie on lead guitar and harmony vocals.

Norine's repertoire ranges from ethereal, reflective moods to sizzling bluesy rock that test the limit of popular music.


name: Crow
sku: braun-crow
upc: 876809001339
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=6239499&s=143444
description:
Jazz influences combined with a willing mix of the esoteric, metaphysical, folk and soft rock make Crow an eclectic companion.

Crow is a gentle, soothing departure into dreamland and the eclectic soundscapes defy the typical pop album sound.

"Crow is a vivid and compelling creation. It is refreshing when music creates thought. Crow does just that, it makes you think, feel and visualize. This CD leaves you satisfied and wondering what next?"
www.stonewallsociety.com

"Crow is an intriguing selection of 13 songs containing sounds as diverse as alternative rock, folk, blues, synthesizer new age and world music...those who like minimal and eclectic music with a wide range and metaphysical focus will enjoy this album very much."
Amanda Fisher - www.rambles.net


name: Miles to Go
sku: braun-miles
upc: 876809001322
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=6239456&s=143444
description:
Wild fluctuations you could swear its jazz then Braun whips out a bluesy guitar romp and then slips into a melodic rootsy rock even a little goth rock.

Reviews:
"Miles to Go is a stunner of an album, chock full of vivid imagery, great songwriting and performance talent..."
Heidi Drockelman Indie-Music.com

"An elastic soprano easily accommodating a bass popping funk rock workout or a spacey blues tinged folkrock song."
Tom Heyman listen.com

"Her strong, jazz inflected vocal presence. This woman sounds like she could sing Shakespeare. In a smoky nightclub. With a bad case of strep throat..."
Annie Lin GoGirlsMusic.com


name: Modern Anguish
sku: braun-modern
upc: 876809001315
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=6239411&s=143444
description:
Genreblending blues, folkrock, pop this eclectic songwriter showcases her diversity of styles.

Norine Braun's repertoire ranges from ethereal, reflective moods to sizzling bluesy rock that test the limit of popular music. She is inspired by the struggle to find meaning in the human experience. Her lyrics, although provocative, do not lose touch with her whimsical nature.

Reviews:
"An elastic soprano easily accommodating a bass popping funk rock workout or a spacey blues tinged folkrock song."
Tom Heyman listen.com

"Talented Canadian Singer-Songwriter. First rate."
Acoustic Guitar Connections guthriethomasstrings.com

The song Dancing Sea from Modern Anguish is featured on the tv series Wings Over Canada. The song Watching Shadows is used in the David Kopp film Internicine.


name: Now and Zen
sku: braun-nowzen
upc: 876809001308
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=6239590&s=143444
description:
Ambient soul pop with elements of hip hop, jazz and a dash of punk mix it up and flow on this spirited ascension.

Norine Braun, Canada's Queen of Eclectic Pop, Adds Another Flawless Jewel To Her Crown With "Now and Zen"

Norine Braun's music has always existed on its own terms, falling into that titillating, refreshingly original space to the left of "trendy," craftily sidestepping the all-too-easily-dismissed stigma often applied to the "female singer/songwriter," and freewheeling unhindered around the rigid shackles of "genre."

Along with savvy producer and multi-instrumentalist James Bowers, Braun has accumulated an extraordinary discography of unpretentious, personal songs anchored by her sweet, confident voice and genteel composition. Together, the pair crafts tuneful, friendly songs with subtle but effective arrangements, dynamic and graceful and memorable.

Now, Braun is back with her fifth CD, Now and Zen, and on these fourteen tracks Braun shows an even greater depth and maturity. Now and Zen expands on her penchant for jazzed up, funk-tinged pop, and shows this gifted songstress taking bold steps on her soulful journey into self-exploration. The torch song, "Move the Clouds," is evocative and inspirational, anchored by easy lounge piano and a melody as delicate as flower petals. The groovy "J'en Suis Desolee" showcases Braun's confident rap, surprising and rocking with an edgy explosion of homegirl verve.

Artsy and intellectual, tuneful and savvy, Norine Braun will zing to the heart of any listener.


name: Leclair - Blow - Matteis - Brescianello
sku: novacasa-leclair
upc: 876809006211
itunes_buy_url: NONE
description:
A surpassingly warm sound characterizes Nova Casa's performances of baroque chamber music, and here it lights up the compositions of Jean Marie Leclair, Nicola Matteis, Giuseppe Antonio Brescianello, and John Blow. This ensemble plays exclusively on period instruments with deep respect for historical performance style, and the results are elegant, authentic, and inherently charming. We're especially happy for the inclusion of Nicola Matteis' work on this album. Matteis is credited with changing the English taste for violin playing from the conservative French style to a newer, Italian one and Nova Casa's performance of his "Suite in d" perfectly reflects this more expressive approach.


name: Gimme Some
sku: novaexpress-gimme
upc: 876809001292
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257805934&s=143444
description:
Powerful and melodic, fast rock-n-roll from New York City! Born and bred in New York's Lower East Side, Nova Express' creative song writing force is generated by founding members Mike Dee-Bass and Vocals (New York) and Eric Robel-Drums (Baltimore, MD).

Based on the concept of bringing together fast high-energy punk with the twin guitar assault of Motor City Rock-n-Roll. Supported by long-time member David Acampora-Rhythm guitar (L.A.),and more recently Mike Dimmit (gtrs) bringing in high caliber guitar work, the result is pure rock and roll: fast and ferocious, hard, heavy and loud.

To date, NE have been featured on a variety of national and international Indie labels such as Devil Doll, TeePee/Victory, Rue Morgue, Vicious Kitten, Myrmecoleo ,Lollipop and now Magnatune! An upcoming Reptilian Records comp featuring Nova Express covering a Dead Boys song is also slated.

Being well reviewed from such magazines as Carbon 14, Punk ! magazine, L.A. Weekly, Screech Magazine and Toxic Flyer have helped gather the attention Nova Express has gained to pull off packed shows wherever they play. Sal Canzonieri of Electric Frankenstein says "Nova Express is the best of the new breed of Rock-n-Rollers." NE has toured up and down the east and west coast in such cities as NY, Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC, Columbus,OH, LA, SF, and SD with other bands such as: Candy Snatchers, Electric Frankenstein, Zeke, The Bullys, Street Walkin' Cheetahs, Texas Terri and The Black Halos. All with great audience reception. 11 songs, recorded at the famous LoHo Studios in New Yorks' Lower East Side by Engineer Joe Hogan, is the result of the bands' best to date entitled "Gimme Some".


name: Lymph
sku: nuform-lymph
upc: 847646005873
description:
The album title express the real entity of the album, it is the lymph of the artist.

The tracks explore many music genres, each one produced based on the feeling of the moment. There are chillout tracks, to express the beautiful intimate moments, where each one of us needs a corner to relax, other tracks reveal the dreams, the hopes hidden sometimes inside us.

A beautiful listening pleasure, for lovers of instrumental music and not. Let the music flow in your body like the lymph that feeds, protects and helps your human being. Anyone could be attracted by the tracks, there are melodic content, groovy beats, beautiful sounds, many musical influences from a variety of genres, perfectly mixed together to express the essence of this album. Have a listen, probably you will be caught.

Lymph is the first album release on Magnatune by Nuform, a musical project by Italian producer Simone Mencarelli.


name: Numa
sku: numa-numa
upc: 847646008119
description:
Numa's debut self titled album fuses together honest and memorable songwriting with a brazen intensity that will leave fans of hard rock appreciating the contrast of beauty against hard hitting rhythms.

Having quickly solidified their reputation as one of the premiere live acts in the Mid-Atlantic region, this dynamic quartet has managed to create an groove based hard rock sound that is truly arena ready. Songs like "Riptide" showcase memorable classic rock inspired riffs while the choruses to "Like a Bruise" and "Bad Reflection" will be swimming around in your head for days after your first listen.


name: Numa (instrumental)
sku: numa-numainst
upc: 847646008126
description:
Welcome to the instrumental version of Numa's debut self titled album. It fuses together honest and memorable songwriting with a brazen intensity that will leave fans of hard rock appreciating the contrast of beauty against hard hitting rhythms.

Having quickly solidified their reputation as one of the premiere live acts in the Mid-Atlantic region, this dynamic quartet has managed to create an groove based hard rock sound that is truly arena ready. Songs like "Riptide" showcase memorable classic rock inspired riffs while the choruses to "Like a Bruise" and "Bad Reflection" will be swimming around in your head for days after your first listen.


name: 5 and 6 part Fantasies of William Lawes
sku: oberlin-lawes
upc: 876809001285
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=257806101&s=143444
description:
The Oberlin Consort of Viols first formed in 1976 in Oberlin, Ohio with the intent of playing renaissance viol works in an intimate small setting, to recreate the ambience this intimate chamber music was composed for.

The Oberlin consort have performed the works of Orlando Gibbons, Henry Purcell, William Byrd Christopher Tye, John Ward and William Lawes. Since their first encounter with Lawes in 1982, the Oberlin Consort has devoted much of its energy to interpreting and performing Lawes' works, both in concert and on recordings. The Oberlin Consort have recorded the complete Fantasies of Henry Purcell, as well as a program of fantasias for viols and organ by John Jenkins and William Lawes.


name: You Are It (instrumental)
sku: ogma-yaiinst
upc: 847646001264
description:
Melodic, and upbeat conscious music created with positive intention to uplift, inspire, and energize the listener.

You Are It was created with the intention of being a 'musical activation piece' ... Just as certain peak experiences can evoke a positive transformation in one's life, creative expression bestows the same potential for being a catalyst for transformation and healing.

This album has been written for the entire human family, and for this very moment, right now. It is a call to arms, a musical activation, radiating vibrations of Freedom, Affirmation, Empowerment, Healing, and Love.


name: You Are It
sku: ogma-you
upc: 876809007669
description:
Friendly folk rock that is a deliciously melodic and energizing. Upbeat and Positive, Healing and Empowering. Affirmation and Love.

You Are It was created with the intention of being a 'musical activation piece' ... Just as certain peak experiences can evoke a positive transformation in one's life, creative expression bestows the same potential for being a catalyst for transformation and healing.

This album has been written for the entire human family, and for this very moment, right now. It is a call to arms, a musical activation, radiating vibrations of Freedom, Affirmation, Empowerment, Healing, and Love.


name: Ambrelyre
sku: kabanov-ambrelyre
upc: 847646004289
description:
Kabanov's friend Satori, writes the following about his latest album Amrelyre:

"I advise you to listen to this album, because even today the hurdy-gurdy remains a unique instrument with a special sound, her voice - a great guide to the imagination and inner worlds. The history of the polyphonic wheel lyre stetches back for about a thousand years - and thus, in this music live medieval castles and roving musicians, and the air is clean, which is so lacking in our modern cities.

Not every player is able to breathe life into old instruments, let them sound bright, deeply, to sparkle and sing. Olexa Kabanov though is undoubtedly capable. He plays traditional tunes that sound as if they have not been played for hundreds of years but they are alive, close, and warm. There is such a feeling as if the melody and you yourself have gone beyond the confines of this time - and no one is getting older, nothing disappears, while the music pulls you back.

The polyphonic wheel lyre played by Olexa Kabanov has become versatile orchaestral instrument- really enriched. I think you will appreciate the depth of her voice, the grace of shades - and want to know more..."


name: Dale of Muses
sku: kabanov-dalemuses
upc: 847646001851
description:
Kabanov is influenced by a wide range of musical interests, which include the European Middle Ages, Eastern tradition, and Slavic ethnic, from jazz to folk-rock and world music. The album Dale of the Muses became in effect an Ukrainian project in the field of world music and apparently, one of the first in Ukraine.

Describing this music is not easy, it has to be listened to, its the first album of its kind from Ukraine and is beautiful and amazing. It is gratifying to hear how organically the sounds meld together, for example, the lyre, the deep Ukrainian violin and the Indian percussion. Or the mandolin with the drymba. In this album you will find unexpected combinations and each of them again and again will prove that music has no borders, music is for everyone, regardless of nationality. Kabanov and his music look in this direction and in listening you will find many unexpected and hidden gems that are worth finding.

Kabanov is influenced by a wide range of musical interests, which include the European Middle Ages, Eastern tradition, and Slavic ethnic, from jazz to folk-rock and world music. The album Dale of the Muses became in effect an Ukrainian project in the field of world music and apparently, one of the first in Ukraine.


name: Over the Waves
sku: kabanov-overwaves
upc: 847646004272
description:
Over the Waves, the new album from multi-instrumentalist Olexa Kabanov. The music from this album invites us on a journey to distant lands and unknown continents.

Inspired by a unique synergy between the motifs from new age, world and folk music, Kabanov brings us a fresh, new sound, breezy and uplifting. It's an easy, energetic and uplifting album. The last song "Unforgotten song" is a little heavier and draws us back down to Earth, but with a bright sadness, a beautiful empathy.


name: On the Wings of the Renaissance
sku: kabanov-renaissance
upc: 847646006115
description:
On this album you will hear Ukrainian melodies and Bulgarian folk songs which have survived centuries, Indian tabla rhythms and Japanese taiko drums, medieval motifs and open ethnic vocals.

All these compositions create the feeling that the Renaissance is a kind of mood, this music leaves a unique impression, bringing the listener close into the colorful World of World music.


name: Wind from the Orient
sku: kabanov-windorient
upc: 847646001844
description:
Wind from the Orient
Kabanov - touring musician, his hands are equally organically sound and antique European and Oriental and African instruments. Strings, woodwinds, percussion - it seems there is nothing on which he could not play. A professional, high quality, rich. It seems that every musician on the path of self-improvement, sooner or later meets with the musical culture of the East - and imbues in it. It is difficult to remain indifferent to this beauty. Hence, we can only let in and let it go. It seems that Olexa works out well - you will hear for yourself. Not the least role in this play and that in his arsenal - a variety of exotic instruments, the game where Kabanov looking for new approaches that weaves in his plays, East and West. But how does he do it - listen.


name: Circonflexe
sku: oliostere-circonflexe
upc: 847646007587
description:
Circonflexe: cyclic claves, flexed execution, circumspect circles. The concept of this album revolves around claves, rhythmic patterns which unite the musicians and distinguish each track. Some tracks are based on a simple clave such as 1 2 3 2 or RER, while others feature complex patterns like in the introduction of 8 plus 7 for which the album artwork gives the score. Polyrhythms are particularly present throughout 2 virgule 4 and reach an interesting arpeggio step before the last theme. Triades concludes the album with a symmetric ascending and descending chord progression highlighted by a tune jointly played by 4 melodic instruments.

This album features two guests: Olivier Koundouno and YeYe Toon. Olivier Koundouno's cello dances on the interweaving background of MMM, a trance balanced between the written score and improvisations. YeYe Toon's unique scatting style is featured in Polymorphisme, a multiple time scale tune, and in Daga dit Gouda, a piece based on a scattered jungle drum line.

Bass: Marc evrard
Cello: Olivier Koundouno (4)
Drums: Lionel Feugere
Flute: Stephanie Morland
Guitar: eric Epstein
Keyboard: emile Maras
Voice: YeYe Toon (2,6)

Compositions: emile Maras, eric Epstein, Lionel Feugere, Marc evrard (7), Mathieu Feugere (1,3,6), Olivier Koundouno (4,8), Raphael Hardy (2,3,4,5), Stephanie Morland, YeYe Toon (2,6).

Mixing and recording: Louis Martin-Gallausiaux
Artwork Graphism: Vlou
Artwork Realisation: o-liostere


name: S-clave
sku: oliostere-sclave
upc: 876809005115
description:
In continuation of Ô-liostére's first album Circonflexe, these tracks build on several years of collective works that are all centered around the key idea of clave-based music: a rhythm guide-pattern for poetry-fied compositions.

Paradoxically, S-Clave (esclave means slave in French) is a free album; obvious, shiny and generous, it resembles a journey between different musical spaces, in which diverse backgrounds and layers mix into something divinely unique that literally sounds like pure joy. Through the music and clave, the listener starts his own inner dance in a creative and stimulating way. A colorful and wavy album, bouncy and melodic at the same time, that reflects the real pleasure of playing together.

The first of two basic ideas underlying this album is the clavification process which allows the switch from complex un-claved rhythms to claved rhythms. This process is illustrated in the opening Countdown track where a rhythmic pattern made of decreasing lengths (7-6-5-4-3-2-1) generates both a short and groovy clave on which the improvisation is frolicking, and a long clave ("super-clave") leading to a rhythmic climax. The process of clavification is then taken upsideédown in the track J'ai Froid; the piece is entirely built on clavic changes, until the final where we find an equilibrium on a 4-time groove. Back 2 Bach, our interpretation of a Bach standard from the "Really"-Tempered Clavier, is another piece in which the clavification process is explored. We use a time signature in 4 to respect Bach's temperament but combine it with a mix of influences from other eras and rhythms, such as in the funky-groovy opening.

The second underlying idea is the enhancement of the traditional 2-3 counterpart of the afro-Brazilian clave, transforming the linear tempo itself into another clave. And by unfolding the 2-3 afro-Brazilian clave over it, we get poly-claves in Del Mundo and a meta-clave in La gnose du Gnowê with the ancient clave notation 3(2) 3(1) 3(3).

Finally, in the deepest tradition of the Clavistan's Lake region, a lovely and fixed cyclical clave builds the piece's Clavicule. This allows us to consolidate the skeleton of the album with the piece 100 personnes, a slow&-clave tribute to the always moving input-ouput of Ô-liostére musicianships and to the sub-region Titicaca Lakes. The result: a healthy body of jazzy goodness that will make you yearn for more.

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Bass: Ahmed Ossama (2-7), YéYé Toon (1)
Clave: YéYé Toon (7)
Congas: Lionel Feugère (2,4)
Drums: Lionel Feugère
Flute: Stéphanie Morland
Güiro: YéYé Toon (1)
Keyboard: Guillaume Mahenc
Voice: Guillaume Mahenc (1), Lionel Feugère (7), Stéphanie Morland (3,4), YéYé Toon (2-7)

Compositions: Ahmed Ossama (2,3,5,6), Lionel Feugère (1,2,5-7), Guilaume Mahenc (1,6,7), Johann Sebastian Bach (4), Stéphanie Morland (3,5), YéYé Toon (2).
Arrangements: Ahmed Ossama (4), Lionel Feugère (3,4), Guilaume Mahenc (2-4), Stéphanie Morland (2,4-7), YéYé Toon (3,4,6,7).

Mixing and recording: Marius Beirieu at Studio La Chaufferie (France)

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Painting: Sébastien Feugère
Photo: Ô-liostére
Totem: Dieu Gnowê
Artwork realization: Lionel Feugère & Olivier Chardin
Album note editing: Lady Poppy May Elizabeth Smith

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Producer: Culture Sans Visa https://www.culture-sans-visa.fr
Ô-liostére's website: https://oliostere.culture-sans-visa.fr
Ô-liostére's contact: mailto:oliostere@culture-sans-visa.fr


name: Tell Them Now
sku: onesockthief-tell
upc: 847646003817
description:
"One Sock Thief'"s debut album Tell Them Now is replete with probing lyrics and orchestral flourishes, it has drawn comparisons to records from bands as varied as Keane, Depeche Mode, and Genesis.

Lyrically and musically, the album examines the balance between chaos and order, both personally and externally.

The tone for the album is set by, Neverland- a massive piano driven ode to youth and the unknown. It's straight rhythms juxtapose exquisitely with its flowing melodic lines and it is the most indicative of the sound of One Sock Thief.

People was released as a single in the same year that the album was released. Unlike the rest of their freshman offering, People was intended to be more of a dance number, introduced into their set-list to compete with the party-like atmosphere created by their companion touring bands. The rest of the sound on Tell Them Now is however, more of a listener's medium, than a dancer's delight.

Wires offers yet another perspective to the Thief's sonic palette and introduces finger picked guitars, a brass section and lighter percussion.

Consisting of a guitar-driven chorus, and the self-realizing refrain "you gotta know yourself," Shaker would prove to be the Thief's most successful track, eventually charting at number 2 on the MK (a South African music video channel) Top 10 countdown.

Man of Hope is a syncopated rock song that speaks to the madness of everyday life. It alternates between a bouncing verse and a familiar piano-laden chorus, before eventually diving into a double timed outro.

Spin is a slow tempo love dirge that is set apart by the relative absence of flowing piano lines, favoring instead a softly strummed guitar.

Honey is one of Tell Them Now's darker moments. Echoing the discordant flight patterns of bees, it is set in 5/4 meter. Lyrically, it moves along themes of alienation in the verse, before disintegrating into a flurry of melodic mayhem in the chorus and finally releasing into the relatively tranquil buzzing of bees in the outro.

Footsteps of the Angel is One Sock Thief's take on a traditional rock song, and adds a swinging groove to the their typical sound. Once again the band manages to take a relatively ordinary musical concept, inject it with unique textures, and turn it into something extraordinary.

Catastrophism offers a heaven's-eye view of earth's shifting tectonic plates, and conjures images of the chaos that is necessary to create continents. The music follows an appropriately grandiose scale and is the only song to fade out, hinting at the continuing cycle of life.

Sunday Afternoons is a perfect pop song, that reflects on carefree summer afternoons.

Tell Them Now, the track for which the album is named, is about rebirth and uses the metaphor of fire to explain destruction and new life. It makes use of an e-bow and percussion to create a different variation on the sparseness that is thematic throughout the album.


name: Occult
sku: opened-occult
upc: 876809005993
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=277014077&s=143444
description:
The incredible, hollowed out grandeur of the songs on this album bring you straight into the darkly glorious and melodic world of Opened Paradise. Frontman Periklis E's voice is so evocative and intense that it gives Mister Peter Murphy a run for his money, while Babis on guitars and Constantinos on drums lend a dire, driving sound to the album that is the perfect counterpoint to the cavernous vocals. So strong and excellent is the overall mood of this album that we strongly recommend turning off the shuffle play for an hour in order to listen to it all the way through, the first track to the last. Dark, dramatic feelings guaranteed.


name: Tides
sku: opened-tides
upc: 847646005217
description:
With respect to our gothic rock roots and the paths that brought us to "Occult" album, we now take a slightly different step, with the release of "Tides" EP.

Treading the roaring silence of death is never easy. Infinite astral paths unravel through the ether, to where the wary souls lust of the cities of gold, and the moon at night.

As we go through the process of making our music, we experience tiny fragments of the great journey through the tides of the inner self. A journey that may one day bring us closer to Agartha, to Xibalba...to Samarkand of our dreams.


name: Starborn
sku: operarock-starborn
upc: 847646006979
description:
Opera Rock was born to play state of the art concept-albums: '80s sound, Metal Riffs and cinematic interludes will guide you through stories that will blow your mind.

One of the most thrilling aspects of being a musician is the chance to play and interact every day with a huge number of people in a potentially endless network of knowledge and friendships. "Starborn" was conceived thanks to the sympathy, passions and mutual respect of the individual components enrolled by Marco "Mr. Faz "Fazzini (founder and bass player of the band) for the realization of his rock opera: prepare to a cinematic rock/Metal full immersion in a sci-fi world far beyond your imagination. You will SEE the music!


name: Sanam Chaikhet
sku: optimal-sanam
upc: 847646000502
itunes_buy_url: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/sanam-chaikhet/id432555448
description:
This album showcases Optimal Tunes hallmark combination of dance beats and big textures with lively vocals and real-time musicianship. The inspiration behind the album originates from a love of traditional music of many genres coupled with the enormous possibilities provided by modern technology. This inspiration shines through the entire album despite significant variation in each track. The album was recorded at various locations in South East Asia by electronic musician Sanam Chaikhet.


name: Beyond the Circle
sku: okandcm-beyondcir
upc: 847646001028
description:
The pulse of captivating and ear-catching dance rhythms forms the foundation for these hauntingly melodic and evocative soundscapes. The compositions are expertly balanced by an intricate interlacing of ancient Japanese instruments and singing. Beyond the Circle is an uplifting statement of honed perfection. A masterful melding of the latest electronic textures with the most spiritual of Asian musical history.

This upbeat music was composed, produced and performed by Osamu Kitajima and Chris Mancinelli. It also features vocalist Nanako Mikado singing traditional Geisha songs, the expressive playing of shakuhachi master Masakazu Yoshizawa, and WILCO guitar legend Nels Cline.

These performances are woven directly into the music not as lead or solo parts, but as equal instruments integrated into the sonic fabric of each composition. Pioneers in blending the sounds of Eastern and Western cultures, the duo feels most comfortable in a synthesis of these two contrasting worlds furthering their reputation as "Pan Pacific Ambient Dance Masters".


