Customer Reviews

Embracing the Wind

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Pianist Kevin Kern's fifth album for Real Music is another sweet and soothing musical journey to the gentle side of life. Kern is a master of the simple melody with a heartfelt message, and this is the perfect music to comfort and uplift a tired mind and soul. Kern composes many of his pieces with the idea that they will be used as a backdrop for other activities and for relaxation, so there are no sharp edges or jarring chords. Kern's music is as smooth as silk and as tranquil as a spring breeze.

Most of the pieces on "Embracing the Wind" are upbeat and sunny, but my favorite is "Childhood Remembered", which is melancholy and nostalgic. Joining Kern on this track is Bay Area violinist Jeremy Cohen, whose heart-tugging solo clearly demonstrates why synth strings will never replace the beauty and poignance of the real thing. Guitarist Davis Ramey joins Kern on "Through Your Eyes" (another favorite!), "Bathed in Dawn's Light", and "A Secret Grove". Johnny Marshall on Synclavier provides additional accompaniment to Kern's piano.

Some of the other highlights include the opening track, "Blossom On the Wind" which, as the title implies, gently floats and glides. "Above the Clouds" is very spare, but gorgeous - it reminds me a bit of some of Yanni's minimalist pieces with synth and piano. "Fantasia's Lullaby" is also very lovely, filled with the warmth and joy of a new life. "A Gentle Whisper" is a peaceful closing to an album that could easily be compared to a watercolor painting - washes of many colors without hard edges or defining lines.

Kevin Kern's many fans will probably be happy to know that there is nothing startlingly different about his newest release. It is a continuation rather than an evolution, and there are no real surprises. When you have a winning combination, change is not needed. This is a very beautiful and calming collection of new pieces, and I highly recommend it for a soothing musical experience. Kern is definitely one of the best in this style of music!

I cannot express how beautiful Keven Kern's Embracing the Wind CD is. I have an extremely stressful job and after listing to this CD while driving home, for the first time in 11 years I have left the work day at work.

Incredible music that touches my soul.

This is the fifth album that Kevin Kern has done.Each time, I think he has surpassed his last album,but I think this is the finest one he has done to date.His beautifully arranged pieces take you to a place where peace reigns and you can relax totally. His solo piano has a mix of synclavier,violin and acoustic guitar which make for an exquisite blend of harmonous sounds. You do not want this album to end.Track 7 -"From This Day Forward" was written for his fiance in honor of their June wedding and it is a shining tribute to her.On the jacket is written"Within each of us is a loving,magical,powerful being...a Real Self. Music,friend that it is,coccons us from our worries,enabling that hidden self to emerge".I think this is so profoundly touching and exemplifies this album. If you have not heard Kevin Kern before this is the album to buy.If you have,this will satisfy you beyond belief

I listened to this on headphones while sunbathing and almost fell asleep to the soft, flowing, soothing piano music with some synthesizer and guitar and violin added. It was absolutely gorgeous music! It made me think of all that's beautiful in this world. It made me want to bow before the Lord my Maker with praise, make love to my husband, watch a sunset out on the ocean. It was truly magnificent, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants something to help them unwind at the end of a stressful day.

For anytime you are feeling the stresses of the day........and find the need to unwind overwhelming......just listen to EMBRACING THE WIND.......and let it take you away, restore and rejuvenate your spirit. You won't be sorry you have purchased this one. *S*

I am so glad I happened upon this artist. Kevin Kern is everything I have been searching for. His music soothes the weary and stress burdened psyche. I have listened to it constanly since receiving it in the mail. It is great. My dog even relaxes and stretches out in front of the stereo and snoozes. The music makes you feel as if you are floating out above a sanctuary somewhere and never want to come down.

I had only heard samples of this album, but I bought it and found it to be very soothing and creative. I like piano soloists, such as George Winston. I do prefer more of a laid-back approach...and this album is more evenly paced and quite relaxing.

If you like piano music derived from a place hard to reach, this CD is for you! Personally, Kevin's music stems from the inner soul and reaches out to fill us with warmth and pleasure. There are no tracks that are added as fillers, as all songs are wonderful.

Kevin has a touch with his piano as if he is apart of the instrument.

Truly worth the purchase.

IMHO, this is THE best of Kevin Kern bar none! The melody is so beautiful it hurts while warms your heart at the same time. This CD is a keeper in my audio system for sure.

The quality is on par with George Winston but has more warmth and angelic beauty. Winston's work is more on clear/chilly side and can be appreciated in different mood.

I'm not used to this type of presentation of music, but its singular use of piano chords and natural progression are a lovely introduction.