Customer Reviews

Elements Series: Air

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

 

 

"Air" is one of the four-part Elements Series by pianist/composer Peter Kater. It is interesting to note that "Water" and "Fire" are completely acoustic, and "Earth" and "Air" are much more ambient and embellished with synthesizers and sequencers. "Air" features Kater on piano, vocals, and electronics; Paul McCandless on penny whistles, oboe, and soprano saxophone; and Richard Hardy on bamboo and soprano flutes. The CD is comprised of four lengthy pieces that were created to transport the listener to a place of beauty and peace. Some of the music was composed prior to the recording, and some was improvised - it is virtually impossible to tell which is which. Kater certainly shares the spotlight, allowing McCandless and Hardy to add their own magic to the creative process.

"Wings of Sound" is more than twenty minutes of soothing ambient music that, although calm, has the sweep of a soundtrack - perhaps to accompany a sunset or watching birds effortlessly floating in the sky. "Flying Dream" is 16 1/2 minutes of bliss. Ambient and ethereal, it's so easy to just let your mind drift away. The wordless vocals and layers of synth sounds envelop the minimalist piano and carry you off to Dreamland. "All Souls" is mostly electronic, but the flutes, whistles, and piano occasionally bring the heavenly sounds back to earth. "Heaven's Gate" sustains the mood of serenity with mostly piano and synth; McCandless weaves in his magical oboe in the last few minutes.

The "Elements Series" is an amazing achievement in peaceful, uplifting music. Peter Kater has been one of my favorite artists for several years, and these CDs are all excellent. Treat yourself to a relaxing vacation for the mind without having to buy gas or a plane ticket! Recommended.

The music in the cd is so relaxing I use it when I'm in my studio painting
All the songs are lengthy which makes for relaxing

The CD is very relaxing, serves the purpose of what I purchased it for. It does complement the massage time. It is consistant with the other CDs I have by Peter Kater.

It is transcendent, moving, inspiring. It soars. Each piece is a voyage through the air, the sky, cloud. It helps quiet your mind and encourages contemplation.

In a better world this would be more widely known. In that world there would be more humility, empathy and understanding.