FLOW Schedules Tour for May 2018

One of the most exciting new acts on the music scene, FLOW, announced The Arrival Tour, a series of live performances in select cities, including a kick-off at The New Orleans Jazz Museum on May 10, 2018 at 8 pm.  

FLOW creates music that feels somewhat nostalgic, yet fresh and energized. The ensemble is comprised of four innovative, critically-acclaimed and highly-awarded independent artists: legendary GRAMMY®-winning guitarist Will Ackerman, pianist/singer Fiona Joy, acoustic guitarist Lawrence Blatt and trumpet and flugelhorn player Jeff Oster. The group debuted live to a sold-out crowd at Carnegie’s Weill Hall last October and is slated to perform May 10, 2018 at The New Orleans Jazz Museum, and at the 14th Annual Zone Music (ZMR) Awards at Roussel Hall in New Orleans on May 12th, before commencing on their West Coast dates including Seattle, Novato, CA and Los Angeles’ famed GRAMMY® Museum.  

Simultaneously, the group is nominated for two key Zone Music Reporter Awards (“Album of the Year” and “Best Contemporary Instrumental Album”) and two International Music Awards (IMAs) including “Best New Age Album” and “Best New Age Song” for their self-titled track “Flow.”  This is must hear music for lovers of guitar, piano, flugelhorn and that sweet California sound made famous by Ackerman at Windham Hill not too long ago.

See more at https://www.flowthegroup.com/thearrivaltour/

Music Review: After The Rain

Seasoned musician Neil Tatar presents us with his third album, After the Rain. In this album, Neil showcases his divine talents on the piano as well as the guitar, creating an atmosphere suited for every mood. Just like the water, the songs on this record ebb and flow in a beautifully organic way.  Recorded at Will Ackerman’s renowned Imaginary Road Studios, several talented artists help to give this work of art the extra spark that sets it above and beyond.

Tatar is a playful composer who also practices TaiChi, and these traits seem to merge in this album, with some of the tracks enchanting the listener in a reflective state. Tatar’s ability to create such unique moods through the sounds he creates is truly mesmerizing and remarkable. “Reflections” is a beautifully composed, cascading song. The way he emotes through the ivory keys is reminiscent of raindrops falling onto the surface of a placid body of water.  The track “Rush Pond” is yet another example of the same approach. The subtle incorporation of cello by Eugene Friesen and violin by Charlie Bisharat create an intensity and depth that is perfectly balanced. It is a truly textured piece of art. "Gentle Steps" is honored with being the first video release on this album:



Going in a different direction, “Night Walk” uses an array of instruments to convey the essence of the wind and water. The Native American flute introduces the song as chimes weave through the notes to meet an acoustic guitar. The airy nature of this song is given an earthy tone by the masterful plucking of the acoustic guitar. The title track “After the Rain” has the essence of Chopin-meets-New Age music. Ethereal voices - Noah Wilding and Lini Marcotte Tatar - add an air of gentle mystique to the already dulcet sounds of the piano until they both intertwine with Ackerman’s guitar playing.  Wrapping the record up is “Sidewalk Jam.” It’s a celebration of joy in the form of an upbeat musical jamboree.  Showcasing the talents of Premik Russel Tubbs on sax and Tony Levin on bass, this jazzy affair makes sure to end the album on a high note.

Just a few years ago, Tatar won ZMR's "Best New Artist" award, and is sure to turn heads again with After the Rain. His previous two albums soared to the #1 spot on ZMR’s Top 100 Global Radio Airplay charts, solidifying his chance to reach that position once again. 

For more information on Neil, visit his website at www.neiltatar.com.

- Samantha Garcia for BEING

AWARDS

BEST MUSIC DEBUT of 2017! 

The highly-regarded experts and music curators at New Age Music Guide released their Top Music Picks of 2017!  Among the Best New Age Music are our friends at FLOW, winning for Best New Age Music Debut!  Congratulations to Fiona Joy (Hawkins), Lawrence Blatt, Jeff Oster and Will Ackerman on the launch of their new ensemble!

Enjoy their official video here: FLOW - Official Album Trailer (2017)

A Cruise for the Cooler Set: June 2017

MSC Divina Awaits You with Audiosyncracy at Sea

Audiosyncracy at Sea is a series of musically-themed cruises featuring renowned artists on first class ships heading to amazing destinations, and the next one is boarding this June 2017 out of Florida. The inspiring musical talent on this cruise makes it an excellent gift for newlyweds, romantic couples, music lovers, and (especially) college students in need of relaxation after finals!  

Elijah Bossenbroek

 Audiosyncracy at Sea (named after the popular radio show), features highly-talented acoustic performers that match the relaxing island vibe of its destination. No loud zydeco or atonal jazz sprees on this cruise! Sailing and performing this summer 2017 are pianist Elijah Bossenbroek and guitarist Matteo Palmer, two very talented and charming artists and composers; think of what it would have been like to witness a young George Winston and a budding Will Ackerman! Treat yourself to a visit to their websites, hear music previews and imagine the Bahamas, a warm wind, twinklelights, friends and a Tequila Sunrise in your hand. Bliss.

 You'll cruise to the crystal blue waters of the Western Caribbean on the beautiful MSC Divina, and all Audiosyncracy at Sea guests will receive special welcome gifts and amenities and exclusive invitations to private concerts at sea. Your hosts for the cruise are KTEP 88.5 FM Audiosyncracy radio show and podcast host Jamey Osborne and his wife, Stacey Osborne, former host of State of the Arts on KTEP. 

Enjoy insights on the tremendous success of the 2016 cruise featuring award-winning pianist Michele McLaughlin here.  SPECIAL GIFT: If you mention to the booking agent that you are a BEING reader before May 5th, then you'll receive a $25 on-board credit. 

Matteo Palmer, produced by 

You know we love living well on BEING, so a word or two about the ship, the MSC DIVINA...it was inspired by the divine award-winning actress Sophia Loren! MSC Divina brings you all the elegance and glamour of the golden age. Experience every modern comfort available along with a variety of sports, leisure facilities and a world-class entertainment mecca, including Kids and Teen Clubs. Spacious and elegant; every element of the ship is designed with you in mind and with the utmost attention to detail. From MSC Divina’s real stone piazza to the opulent Casino Veneziano and the Broadway-size Pantheon Theatre, the onboard experience is incredible. Feel like a star on our Swarovski crystal staircases or find inner calm in the gorgeous Infinity Pool, which extends seamlessly out to sea and the horizon beyond. 

ITINERARY AND BOOKING INFORMATION:
MSC Divina: Western Caribbean
7-Night Cruise
Departs Miami Saturday, June 17th 2017

PORTS OF CALL: Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico, Bahamas

Cabins start at just $569 per person plus taxes and fees.
$200 deposit per person. Final payment date May 5, 2017.
KIDS 11 AND UNDER SAIL FREE

To book your cabin, visit http://www.cruisethesevenseas.com/rw/view/7035 or call 844.213.1996. If you mention the Being blog at the time of booking we will throw in an additional $25 on-board credit for anyone who books with a deposit prior to May 5, 2017. 

Music Review

Longitudes and Latitudes: Laid-back, World Class Guitar

New age guitarist Lawrence Blatt displays his mastery of the genre he represents with his new album Longitudes and Latitudes.  As the title implies, the fifteen tracks on this record will take you on a tour around the world.  Recorded at Imaginary Road Studios and produced by new age genius Will Ackerman, this album holds five years of storytelling and passion straight from Lawrence’s heart.

On an Imaginary Road...

Right out of the gate, “Two Shades of Sunshine” makes you feel like you’re sitting on a warm terrace in Hawaii.  The song is rife with contemporary rhythm and Blatt’s distinctive finger-picking guitar tunes. The mood slows down a notch over the next few tracks until stepping it back up on “Open Fields and Running Water” in which he picks the groove back up and introduces new beats and a layering of different, subtle sounds. It is a tastefully done sonic interpretation of the city of Huangshan, China. 

“Morning In Beerse” transports you into a sun-filled room in Belgium. It’s truly an anthem for those lazy, languid mornings. The next track “Upon Griffy Lake” pays homage to Blatt’s roots growing up in Indiana. The soft female vocals add a dreamy vibe to the already calming tune.  

Lawrence Blatt, guitarist & composer

He really kicks up the mood with my favorite track “Noches De Barcelona.” It’s a passionate, upbeat track that makes me envision couples swaying in the balmy moonlight. The violin work is truly romantic.

Longitudes and Latitudes is laid-back and full of class, the ideal album for all those world travelers out there.  

Listen at www.LawrenceBlatt.com 

 - Samantha G.

Fiona's Brush-Stroke Reviews

On Eagle Mountain by Todd Mosby

I chose to review this album for two reasons.  Firstly because I love it.  Secondly because while I was in transit from Sydney to LA I watched an awesome movie called Eddie the Eagle – which I also loved and I felt the eagle reference was a sign of semantics to write about Todd’s really stunning guitar album titled On Eagle Mountain.

Produced by the team at Imaginary Road Studios (Will Ackerman & Tom Eaton) this album couldn’t miss.  Not just because of the great people and production but because Todd has his own unique defining style that sets him apart.

As I listen I feel transported to another place, but more than that, I’m drawn into Todd’s world, a clever and well constructed world where I can choose to stay on the surface and listen to his music in an ambient way, or I can concentrate and find depth way beyond the definition of ‘ambient’.  A wonderful combination and most artists cannot achieve both attributes at the same time.  I believe it takes a sense of trust in the artist that they will lead you somewhere – in both instances.

In art-speak I would liken Todd Mosby’s album On Eagle Mountain to French painter, printmaker and ‘intimist’  Pierre Bonnard who was able to capture the spirit of the moment by playing with light and decorative surfaces using impressionist techniques.  He was not interested in obscure symbolist subject matter and was not a mystic. Instead, he was satisfied - even fascinated and delighted by the scenes of simple daily life around him into which, as observers, we are drawn.

Excellent work.  A cut above. 

                                                                                              - Fiona Joy

*Fiona Joy is a composer/pianist/producer/vocalist...and painter. View her work here.

Live Concert Review: TWO GRAND, I'M YOURS

* Featuring Fiona Joy Hawkins and Trysette*

I’d known of Fiona Joy Hawkins’ solo piano work, and stumbled across a series of hysterically wry YouTube videos that she and her concert touring partner, Trysette, produced to help promote their U.S. tour titled Two Grand I'm Yours.  Tickled, I surreptitiously followed the progress of these two dynamic Aussie gals, both indie artists, on their meandering tour of the U.S., wondering how it was they could manage to be on the road for so long.  After all, they’re both gorgeous pianists who compose original music, sing and tell stories; it’s not like they can just throw their guitars over their shoulders and hitchhike cross country Guthrie-style.  There are venues to be booked, piano deliveries to schedule, guest lists to manage, hats to sign...well, more on that later.  Anyway, kudos to them, because apparently they did it pretty much on their own over three months, quite successfully, with good humor, and the kindness of their U.S. concert hosts along the way.

I attended one of the final concerts on the tour, in the greater L.A. area, at the prestigious Thousand Oaks Civic Center.  The show opens with a warm welcome for singer songwriter Karen Nash, clearly a favorite of the locals in the crowd, which includes famed new age musician David Arkenstone.  Previously unknown to me, Nash is an alt-country songstress known for her songs about social justice and troubled love, which she shares with a passionate voice, a guitar, and a touch of edginess. 

Fiona Joy Hawkins

After Nash’s set, Fiona Joy Hawkins enters the stage.  Her stature is striking; she’s a tall, graceful blonde with cheekbones for which she should surely phone home daily to thank her mother.  Upon being seated, even the impressive grand piano looks no match for her. Her reach easily spans its width, and she takes control of it in her opening piece “Moving On” (from Blue Dream, a co-production with WillAckerman), then wrings out of it all the pain of a challenging life with “Contemplating,” which tells her life story and incorporates her Celtic heritage.   Hawkins shares brief stories behind the music, perhaps too brief, leaving the audience wanting to know more, to understand the passion – and often pain – behind her lush, complex and moving pieces. In one telling bit, she explains that her music is often categorized as New Age because it is emotionally driven. “There is no integrity greater than the intention of a single note,” she says. 

Despite all this emotion, one doesn’t feel the need to pity or console her, for Hawkins is not afraid to show her resulting strength.  The primary feeling one gets is solidarity, with her, and her music, capturing and releasing all of our anguish.  She has clearly mastered her coping tools: composing, performing and communing with the piano....and if that doesn’t soothe her, she can always take to the brushes, as she is also an accomplished painter with a gallery full of artwork to show.    After “Love in Winter” (LIVE at the Q) -- part of “Opus for Love” written for her Grandmother who passed away before its conclusion – we’re uplifted by the happier tale of meeting her husband and the resulting piece “The Journey,” which will be on her forthcoming album 600 Years in A Moment (2013).  The set continues with “Freedom/Joy,” “Earthbound” and “Ceremony” which she wrote for her wedding.  I particularly love how she described “Earthbound” as being “about leaving everything you know, everything you own (or thought you owned) and everything you love – and in that process finding yourself.”  Powerful stuff, and thankfully for her, a comment on the past.

Modeling their signed S4TP hats in NYC
with Rhina Valentin of Bronxnet

Post-intermission, the performers join an auctioneer on stage along with Julie Bach, founder for Spa4ThePink to auction off the hats on which the two artists had gathered signatures throughout the tour. The proceeds benefit Spa4ThePink, and signatures included a who’s who of musicians like Bob Malone (John Fogerty's keyboard player), Mike Baird (drummer for everybody including Journey), Denny Seiwell (drummer for Paul McCartney's band Wings), Kenny Aranoff (drummer for everybody, but currently John Fogerty), Randy Ray Mitchell (guitarist for Donna Summer - 30 yrs), Ben Mauro (guitarist for Lionel Richie), Larry Antonino (bass player for Air Supply) and Marty Rifkin (pedal steel player for Bruce Springsteen).

Trysette

When Trysette (nee Trysette Loosemore)  next takes the stage, slim in a white summer dress, she seems downright tiny compared to Hawkins, but any assumptions of vulnerability evaporate as she begins to connect with the audience, all warm voice, sassy red bobbed hair, and witty humor.  Wisely, she opens with a treat, a new piece, “Keep Me Dancing” to be recorded and released in the U.S. in 2013.   Her core is in Pop/Rock, although one somehow gets the feeling she’d make a heck of a jazz chanteuse with her husky vocals and subtle sensuality. 

As she continues through “Already” (Le Cafe Ancien), “Inside My Dreams” (Neutral Bay Sessions), and “Too Much” (Le Cafe Ancien), it becomes apparent how different these two pianists are from one another, and yet totally complementary. With that, an unexpected dimension of the show evolves, and I find myself wishing that young pianists everywhere could witness this show as an example of the broad artistic freedom open to them and their future in music. Trysette sails through the rest of her set, a mix of uptempo pop/rock and introspective ballads that beg for a drive up the coast with the top down. Fiona Apple, Sarah McLachlan and even a touch of Kate Bush come to mind.  But be warned, after the romance and sensuality in “Sweep Me Off My Feet” (Le Cafe Ancien), “That Face” (Le Cafe Ancien) and a preview of the forthcoming works “Like Water” and “Under My Skin,” you just might feel like falling in love again.

The audience demands an encore, and rightly so.  After Hawkins and Trysette sing “Impossible,” all three artists, joined by Marty Rifkin, perform Trysette’s “Silky Fingers” off Le Cafe Ancien, giving all a sexy, sultry send-off into a warm California night seemingly full of new possibilities for living and loving. 

Trysette and Fiona Joy Hawkins at the Thousand Oaks Civic
Auditorium on their 2012 U.S. Tour: Two Grand I'm Yours.
There is another tour in the works for 2013.