Music & More
by Mark Maxwell Abushady • New York City

Personal Meditations
Richard F.X. O’Connor
www.audiorenaissance.com
Personal Meditations is a well-written collection of meditative “lessons” by author Richard F.X. O’Connor. Included are meditations to meet the day, to close the day, to relieve stress, to be in the moment, to be healed and revitalized. Spoken by Rick Kleit in a deep, masculine voice, he gives a pleasant, spirited reading, and is sometimes accompanied by pan flute or other unobtrusive musical element. There is a bonus CD of some very fine meditative music for one’s own personal journeys. A nice offering, my only suggestion to the author is that an index of the discs (there are 3) would have been helpful.

KÀ – Cirque du Soleil
René Dupéré
Music has always been an integral part of any Cirque du Soleil performance and KÀ is an offering with the familiar theatrical, cinematic feel of prior Cirque du Soleil releases, yet it is not redundant. KÀ has some beautiful, musically intimate moments but, have no fear, there are also some of the dramatic, tribal/warrior cuts we have come to expect from the Cirque as well (check out Pursuit and the passionate Love Dance). With additional song titles like ‘Storm,’ ‘Flight,’ ‘Threat,’ and ‘Deep,’ KÀ demands attention! A fine addition to the Cirque du Soleil series.

Reiki – Whale Dreaming
Kamal
www.newearthrecords.com
Let’s face it, music utilizing Whale sounds is nothing new. Quite a few recordings are available, orchestrated by different groups. What can make the difference is the quality the human component brings to the mix. I like Reiki – Whale Dreaming. I really like it. And though the album is suggested for use during Reiki sessions or meditation, I think simply sitting and allowing the sounds to wash over and through you might be justification enough for this offering. The musical instruments partner with the whale songs in a way that doesn’t always occur on similar offerings. One feels a part of the great womb of Mother Earth that is the ocean with this very sensitive, amazingly peaceful CD.

The Nine Worlds
Achillea
www.sequoiarecords.com
Achillea is a group whose name has crossed my desk several times and I am happy to have the chance to review. From the unearthly voice of Helene Horlyck on the opening cut “Achillea – Prelude” the group sets the tone for a musical adventure into Norse mythological lore. Achillea has been categorized with Enigma, and though I can see the comparison – and hats off to Enigma for practically creating this genre – Achillea takes the elements and runs with them, bringing a sophistication to both instrumentals and vocals . . . especially to the vocals. Helene Horlyck is a marvel in the opening cut. Just when you’re sure she’s hit the ceiling, she soars even higher.World-beat, dance, tribal, electronica, and new age are just a few of the colors which Achillea uses in its palette to paint this successful musical offering.

A Place In My Heart
Jim Wilson
www.jimwilson.net
A Place In My Heart is a collection of songs by contemporary solo pianist Jim Wilson. Pleasant, thoughtful and oftimes introspective, Jim has provided us with an uplifting album, the energy of which grows with each passing cut. His compositions are beautifully melodic and romantic. Jim also sings, showcasing a very pleasant voice (Foolish Me). He is joined by the popular Chris Botti for a particularly moving number (Eagle’s Flight) on which the two of them really do soar! A wonderfully positive collection of music.

Paths of Healing
Jennifer Howard, Ph.D
www.DrJenniferHoward.com
Paths of Healing, subtitled Meditations for Relaxation & Healing, is four meditations, including a whole body healing meditation of over 25 minutes long. Jennifer Howard’s voice is pleasant, and her choice of musical ambience (composed by Mario E. Sprouse) is unobtrusive and a positive addition. Along with the body healing meditation, there are practices in breathing in light, creativity, and “essence.” A nice collection of fully guided meditations.

Mark Maxwell Abushady is an actor, singer, designer and photographer based in New York City.