Customer Reviews

Afterglow

5 star:		(23)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

"Afterglow" is another superlative release from Michael Hoppe and his frequent collaborators, cellist Martin Tillman and flautist Tim Wheater. After successful recent individual releases from Hoppe and Wheater on the Real Music label, it was a surprise to find this album on HOS. "Afterglow" is very reminiscent of the trilogy of "The Poet", "The Dreamer", and "The Yearning", which were released several years ago on Telarc - the first with Hoppe and Tillman, and the latter two with Wheater and Hoppe. The premise of "Afterglow" was to make a completely improvised album with no boundaries or rules except deep emotion. Hoppe guides and suggests harmonies and chord changes from the keyboards, and Tillman and Wheater take flight individually on some tracks and in perfect synch on others. The freedom and fluidity are amazing, but it seems mind-boggling that such rapture could happen without some pre-composing - these are true artists at work!

As I've said before, the cello is my second favorite instrument (after piano), and Tillman's often haunting style can transport and envelop the listener in sheer beauty. On "The Waiting", "Long Ago", and "Distant Call" the yearning he evokes sends goose-bumps up and down the arms and back of the neck. On "The Reckoning" and "The Listening Wind", he provides the rhythm, playing the cello as both bowed and plucked bass - great stuff! These two more up-tempo pieces are a great addition to the slow flow of the other eleven tracks. Tim Wheater also really shines on this CD, displaying his virtuosity and versatility on a variety of flutes. His duets with Tillman on "The Listening Wind" and "Thoughts of You" are exceptional. Again, these are true artists at work, and the results are breath-taking.

I must agree with my colleague, Kathy Parsons. This is a wonderful recording. In fact, I was surprised to see it on the Hearts of Space label, given their recent poor efforts. AFTERGLOW is permeated with sadness, regret and melancholy; but all of this is done with such beautiful music that the effect is supremely bittersweet. Tillman's cello, in particular, just seems to reverberate with emotion. The music is very dramatic, yet never succumbs to overkill, thanks to the expert subtle keyboards of Michael Hoppe (who has worked with Wheater many times before). Wheater's flutes are varied and some songs are cello and keyboards only. Overall, the music is low key from a melodic standpoint, almost approaching the aesthetic of ambient; but the sound is so rich and full that this recording begs to be actively listened to. Recommended for fans of melancholic artists like Tim Story (circa BEGUILED and THE PERFECT FLAW) as well as hopeless romantics (this could be the ultimate "my heart just got broken" CD).

This CD is one of the best in the New Age area that I own. Within a few minutes I feel myself relaxing and the stress leaving my body. When I want to meditate, deeply relax, or feel centered, Afterglow is able to do that for me like no other! I love it!!!

As a massage therapist, I am always looking for new and different types of music that can bring my clients to that space of rest, relaxation or just escape. This CD really helps to do that. The music evokes a sense of well-being somehow (I don't know how they do it!) and I've listened to it over and over! I highly recommend this CD.

Okay, I'll admit that I just ordered this CD, only having heard it yesterday in it's entirety. My massage therapist chose this as background for our session; her musical taste is every bit as praiseworthy as her professional ability. As the knots of tension were skilfully kneaded loose I became aware of the sheer loveliness produced by combining the artistry of the cello (one of my favorite instruments) with a haunting flute soloist...an unusual combination to my ears, but somehow so perfect. I prefer old jazz, am not much into ambient or 'new age' music, and all flute and cello works I own are strictly classical, yet I knew right then I HAD to have this in my collection. Sinking into the lush yet spare phrasing to unwind at day's end will be like having the actual benefits of another massage between appointments. Relaxing, mind-quieting, soothing, refreshing. It would be great background for yoga, quiet time by yourself, or with your loved one.

I've not heard anything so exquisite in a long time. I'm reminded of Bach's solo cello suites and this is what they might sound like if accompanied with keyboards and flute. The music evokes mystery, longing, passion, and the full range of feelings. It's mesmerizing.

I was attracted to this album when it was featured in amazon.com. I never regret getting "Afterglow" because the music always takes my breath away from its first note. The sound of rain intertwined with baritone tunes of cello are great companions when you are feeling lonely, and are also perfect when you are with your loved one. Passionate, yet gentle; Soaring tunes, but sometimes mild ... This album is breathtaking!

I have to admit that I'm a hugh fan of Michael Hoppe. And this CD was no disappointment. Every cut shows the variety of moods achievable with the cello. Even the sudden addition of the sounds of a thunderstorm fit perfectly with the mood. It is soothing and meditative. I've chosen it to be the CD I listen to each night as I unwind from the day. I must admit I've been sleeping better for it.

I heard this CD for the first time on Spanish radio today (June, 25th) during lunch. It made a nice meal seem even nicer. All of us at table commented on how soothing the music was. It is the sort of music one can listen to while watching a sunset, or reading, or just relaxing. The haunting quality of the cello and the dulcet tones of the flute combine to give one a sense of tranquillity. I think it will become my new favourite music to work to!

I thought I heard about everything in New Age, but this is really breathtaking right away from the opening at the dramatic Fifth interval, immediately cutting through all thoughts - calling, begging really, for its (well-deserved) attention. The 'haunting' music won't let go of you until the end of the CD has been reached! Rare is the music which can immediately halt all of ones thoughts!

Chapeau, Maestro Hoppe! Could we kindly meet on the internet?
Victor van Dijk, MA in Cultural Anthropology: occasional composer.