Customer Reviews

Mystic Island

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Cusco: if you don't know them and their music its going to be tough to explain it. Instrumental, happy, expressive, upbeat, mix of electronics and acoustics, "new-age & world-music" influences -- all of that but that still doesn't adequately tell you why they're so appealing, sorry, but I fear only _your_ ears are going to be able to sort that out completely <grin>. Try it!

Of the dozen Cusco CDs I own, this is not my personal favorite, "Apurimac" holds that place. But this one is close! If you're not already familiar with Cusco then this would be a good place to start. Released just after Apurimac, I think this is in fact, even more representative of their work as a whole -- if you like this one then you're going to like the group, if you don't then you _might_ still like something like South American-flavored Apurimac I and II pair but you'll probably want to skip the rest of the catalog.

On the other hand -- if you have any other Cusco CDs and like them, then what the heck are you reading this for? Just buy it and I'll bet you'll enjoy.

"Mystic Island" by Cusco captures the heart and soul of the listener with ambient soothing mysterious music ... not at all like Apurimac I and II,which derived from a distinct earthly culture, the Incas and South America. This CD has flowing melodies and wonderful instrumentation and synthesizer accompaniment. One track includes a wonderful harp and flute melody with chimes and synthezier variations on the theme ... which is very magical. Another track has an upbeat tempo with guitars and percussion ... The music is varied and altogether highly satisfying - it does not get stuck in one mood or feeling but carries the listener across many feelings all of which are enjoyable experiences. The overall feeling of this music is like experiencing the wonders of nature ... a sunset ... watching the waves splash on shore ... gliding down a river in raft or boat and absorbing the scenery as it unfolds. One senses the natural balance and harmony of different instruments but there is no competition for solo recognition ... This CD is about moods and feelings that ride the waves of natural flowing music ... slower at times, other times quicker paced but always natural and free. The ethereal sensations stay with the listener ... long after the music has stopped playing. The sense of peace and contentment this CD produces is priceless. Erika Borsos (erikab93)

From the extraordinarily dynamic Fox and the Lady, to the enchanting tear-jerking Lonely Rose, this is instrumental music that would have surprised the great classical composers themeselves. However, this is far from classical music. Each song is completely uniqie. While I thought the constant guitar in the song Leo (in some parts) was mixed in at slightly too high a volume, a good DSP (digital signal processing) reciever can easily change this. However, this is not a flaw as some may find the volume generous and necessary. In no way does this ditract any of the rating, 5 very bright stars!

[One CD, with a running time of 48:12] This is an excellent work of instrumental music. New Age, it is just the right mix of speed and quiet, producing a relaxing and yet not boring listening experience. This German band has produced a great album, which I recommend wholeheartedly!

I love all the Cusco CDs, but this remains my favorite. (it was my first) From the bouncy "Lucky Jack" to the speedy "Catalina" and the absolutely gorgeous "Lonely Rose" and "Solitude" (that one makes me feel lonely just listening to it) This CD is actually made up of songs from earlier CDs that are not available in the US. If you like them, find yourself an music importer and get the first 8 CDs...you won't be sorry!

I've heard some Cusco cds, but this is my favorite, the music from "Northeastern", "Lonely rose", "Lucky Jack" is nice, and the one I like most is "Solitude". Highly recommended!

Cusco is by far my favorite music group. As a long time fan, I highly recommend Mystic Inland. It is beautiful, haunting but with great up tempo feelings to all the tracks. I personally think the track #5 "Solitude" is one of the most moving and emotional pieces I have ever heard. I can play it over and over again. When things in life happen and I need get to "get in touch" with my soul, this piece helps to relax but uplift me both at the same time. And the "North Easter" version on this CD is best of the various versions from some the "Import" Cusco CD's.

This album has some good music on it, but it is not my favorite CUSCO album. Even so, it still has enough good music on it to warrant a four star rating. If you like CUSCO then it is worth a purchase.

I really enjoyed this albumn, all songs were a real treat for rythym and beat. Great for relaxation or to give you a boost while driving. This is my 5th albumn by this group and what an addition to the ones that I have.
There is something electric about the music that really makes it stand out.

I have owned several Cusco CD's over the years. I have also listened to most of the music that they have made... even if I didn't purchase it. Unfortunately, it seems as with most bands the more commercial they get the worse their music is. To me this has been the case with Cusco. After a few good CD's...most bands run out of ideas and start recycling old tunes hoping to attract new fans and keep their fan base growing. North Easter and Pisces are my favorites on this CD!!!