March, 2002

Music can be a much more effective communicator than words. When added to words, the power of music can create reality. That is the single point on which I agree with "parent groups" who try to label or ban certain music. Being a parent myself, I have always subscribed to the theory that telling a kid they can't do something without explaining to them why is actively counterproductive. "Why" is one of the first words a child learns, and although they quit saying it out loud after a while, it's when they quit asking it inside that they lose connection with their self. Many of us have spent years and countless hours in therapy or self-analysis to learn to ask "why" again. So it's no surprise that the right kind of music, at the right time, can change a life, or the world.

For those who are not familiar with the music world, the Internet and the accessibility and affordability of home recording equipment have created an explosion of new music that's now available to the masses. Where before the only artists to receive exposure were larger acts with contracts with major labels, now a wave of new and old artists have begun selling their music direct over the internet, making reaching their listeners a matter of making themselves available, rather than selling their rights and artistry to a corporation. In contrast, this has shown the major labels that there is indeed a huge market for ambient and new age music, and many are releasing more and more music to capitalize on the trend.

This development, like all things in life, is a double-edged sword. It places copious amounts of music out there for the delight of listeners, but it can also make finding good music seem overwhelming when you try a search for "new age" music on a site and end up with several thousand links to choose from. To try and help sift through the piles I have been reviewing some of the newest music being released and digging into my vaults for classics to give you insight into the best music you are looking for. The selections for this month, and every month, will be useful in exploring the oceans and exercising individual discernment, making your home, office, or world a little better in the process.

"Ancient Ancestors: Songs for Spiritual Travelers"

One of the first CDs to cross my desk after I took this position was the 2000 release of "Ancient Ancestors: Songs for Spiritual Travelers" by Colette & Phil. This CD certainly lives up to it's name, with the dreamy tones that are definitely not something you want to play in your car CD player. This album has such power to pull one out of one's daily grind that it should have a warning label on it not to operate heavy machinery while listening to it. Its one flaw is the unexpected shifts from ethereal piano to raw synthesizer and flute, even if they are smooth.

The fourth track on the album, "Fountains of Light," has guitar riffs that brought to mind classic "Yes" melodies, while the overall themes and flavor of the album brought to mind David Arkenstone's music. The almost eleven minute finale, "Ascension," could be played low in the background on repeat during almost any meditation session, unless you have a personal objection to the occasional angelic 'amen' or Latin phrase.

I think this CD would be perfect ambient material for a massage practice or metaphysical bookstore, and for many office dwellers, the perfect lunchtime escape. The magnificent panoramic seascape that composes most of the liner notes and the stylized crop circle on the cover are almost worth the cost of buying this album alone, and the knowledge that some of their forthcoming material addresses the indigo children, makes supporting this album worthwhile.

"Acupuncture for Mind"

Wind Records' new release "Acupuncture for Mind" is a wonderful collection of 6 songs, but don't be fooled by the low number, because this CD gives you plenty of delightful music with an oriental flair. Geared towards the natural medicine arena, the instruments used in this album are chosen to stimulate specific areas, with specific outcomes.

The longest track on this CD, registering in at just over 10 minuets, "Calming your Mind" is delightful for spending time alone or for grabbing a quick session of meditation. The first track, "Spirit of Heaven & Earth" has such catchy rhythms you might catch yourself bobbing your head or tapping a toe if you play this in the background while working or cleaning house. But it's pretty certain that after just a few minutes of listening you'll find yourself stretching tension out of your muscles, perhaps without even thinking about it. Track three seems designed to be listened to while practicing Tai Chi, even reflected in the name, "Moving of Chi." It's opening strains are smooth and moderate, where later portions are faster, mellowing out again towards the end of the track. The remaining tracks each have their own personalities and I leave it to you to experience them.

The use of traditional oriental instruments creates a space uncommon to everyday life, and in general this album would be lovely to have playing softly in the background with a gentle fountain gurgling and bubbling somewhere, whether you work in your own home, a shop, office, or health care practice.

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Iris Crain is a freelance writer living in Western Washington State. She attended a performing arts-themed high school as a singer before starting a family and pursuing interests in natural healing, spirituality, divination, medieval history reenactment, computers, poetry, songwriting, human rights, home schooling and cooking. She can be contacted at peacemonger@earthlink.net and welcomes correspondence.