Customer Reviews

Hope for Harmony

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this is one of the nicest albums i have ever heard.
one truly needs to hear kathryn's music to understand how special it is.
johnny holloway

"Hope For Harmony" is a gorgeous debut from pianist/composer Kathryn
Toyama. Gentle, subtle, and very soothing, the eighteen tracks flow
from one to the next as a seamless whole yet hold up beautifully as
individual pieces. Most of the music has the spontaneous feeling of
improvisation, and much of it is more ambient than melodic, setting a
mood of quiet yet intense peacefulness. Several pieces remind me of
George Skaroulis' music that so effortlessly floats on a cloud of
sound. The closing track is a duet for piano and guitar, but the others
are solo piano. Passionate yet serene, the music follows the path of a
spiritual journey that hopes for harmony within each individual and
reaches out to global peace through acceptance and tolerant
understanding. What a refreshing journey it is!

The opening track, "Hope," sets a mood of quiet reflection. "Carefree"
is more about a blissful nap in a warm sunny spot than jumping for joy,
and has a real sparkle about it. "Finding the Way" is a favorite. The
rolling chords in the left hand are a leisurely accompaniment to the
poignant and passionate right. The minor key in this piece gives it an
exotic, bittersweet feeling that is really effective. Beautiful!
"Slowly Healing" is cautiously optimistic, but feels very vulnerable -
qualities you don't often hear in music. As the piece progresses, it
becomes stronger and then trails off. "True Friends" reflects the joy
as well as the confidence and strength that come from true friendships.
"The Light" and "Faith" seem to imply a turning point on the spiritual
path to strength and inner peace. "Prayer for Peace" is another
favorite. Deeply emotional and heartfelt, this short little gem touches
the soul. "As Times Change" is reflective and nostalgic, with a strong
sense of longing. "Floating on Dreams" is a daydream set to music -
warm and gently smiling, wrapped in inner peace. Another beauty!
"Spiritual War" is much more turbulent than the other tracks, and
overflows with intense passion. Is this an inner struggle or a battle
with a loved one with an opposing spirit? Fascinating! "Beyond a Dream"
ends the journey with an uplifting duet with Kathryn Toyama on piano
and Richard Alan on acoustic guitar, kindred musical spirits that
communicate the peace and joy of hope and understanding.

"Hope For Harmony" is a very impressive and expressive first album from
a very promising artist, Kathryn Toyama. It is best listened to with
full attention, but also provides a quiet and soothing backdrop for
massage, relaxation, and reflection. Recommended!

I purchased this for my dad for Father's Day. He had remarked in a passing comment how he wanted to get this. I wrote it down so I wouldn't forget the name. Once he received this, he loved it. He tells me all the time how it's one of the nicest presents he's gotten. He listens to it all the time. I didn't see how it was packaged since he lives far away but he didn't complain about anything so I assume it was packaged well and came in great shape. He absolutely loves it and comments how beautiful it is all the time.

My wife and I have just finished listening to this truly wonderful CD for the seventh time. We felt compelled to post a review.

If you want to drift away from the stresses of everyday life... get a copy of this CD... find a comfortable place to sit.. or lie... and prepare yourself for bliss! We truly believe that if everyone on the planet had access to these melodic tones... the chances for peace would be greatly enhanced.

We plan to send Toyama's work as this years "gift" to all those we love and care about.

In gratitude and PEACE,

Steve and Nancie Case