Lotus

Amazon.com
Lotus, a self-titled debut, is a collaboration between American born composer-producer Jimmy Harry and English vocalist Alex Edenborough, who met at a composer's retreat. While there, Harry became entranced with the singer's bewitching sound and rightly thought she'd fit into his next dream project. A righteous induction to the ever-expanding world music catalogue, Lotus adorns the garden beautifully. Heady and intoxicating, the duo, along with a host of magical musicians, mix smashing dance grooves with ambient texture and the exotic sounds of Balinese gamelan music. Virtually ignored by Western audiences, gamelan music takes several forms, but is notable for it's elaborate rhythms and intricately interlocking pitch patterns. Lotus utilizes these techniques to great effect, incorporating bamboo flutes, gongs, and bar instruments, which when combined, levitate to swirl around more modern instrumentation. Edenborough's vocals add just the right sacred and sensual touch, making this recording a truly transcendent listening experience. --Paige La Grone

Lotus,Lotus,Australian Music,Pop,Post-Grunge,Rock

Average customer rating: Beware - This is Jazz!! STILL terrifying, 33 years later ...And It Blossoms! What can be better? Glitz & Flash w/o substance

Lotus Santana Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Rock | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music Guitar Gods | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music Rock Guitarists | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Borboletta Caravanserai Oneness: Silver Dreams Golden Reality Welcome Moonflower ASIN: B0000027D5 Release Date: 1991-02-26

Tracks:

1. Going Home
2. A-1 Funk
3. Every Step Of The Way
4. Black Magic Woman
5. Gypsy Queen
6. Oye Como Va
7. Yours Is The Light
8. Batuka
9. Xibaba (She-Ba-Ba)
10. Stone Flower (Introduction)
11. Waiting
12. Castillos De Arena, Part 1 (Sand Castle)
13. Free Angela
14. Samba De Sausalito

Tracks:

1. Mantra
2. Kyoto
3. Castillos De Arena, Part 2 (Sand Castle)
4. Incident At Neshabur
5. Se A Cabo
6. Samba Pa Ti
7. Mr. Udo
8. Toussaint L'overture

Amazon.com essential recording

Long held as a talisman by Santana fans, who had to buy it as a triple-LP Japanese import before Columbia finally issued it on CD in 1991, Lotus is a live album that finds Carlos Santana and his octet (a.k.a. the New Santana Band) at a nexus between rock, Latin music, jazz fusion, and spiritually driven communiqués to the gods. Some of the early hits are performed, such as "Black Magic Woman" and "Oye Como Va," but long, intense instrumentals are the order of the day, as on the breathtaking "Incident at Neshabur," "Every Step of the Way," and "Toussaint L'Overture." --Daniel Durchholz

Customer Reviews:

Beware - This is Jazz!!.......2007-04-26

Many folks who love the classic rock Santana just won't find anything here to appreciate. Non-the-less, Lotus is snapshot of Carlos during the middle of a phase that meant a lot to him.

The playing is all top notch. The overall sound is good but not great. It's a little to high pitched sounding without a nice warm bass to push this recording over the top.

I still give it 5 stars because of the excellent playing thoughout.

STILL terrifying, 33 years later.......2007-03-12

When "Lotus" was originally released as a vinyl Japanese-only import (1974), it was one of the most prized items among collectors. The packaging...nowhere near as important as the music itself...was a mind-blowing example of innovation and creativity with several fold-out posters and the sleeve that housed the three discs inside. That's one of the things that delayed the release of "Lotus" on CD for so many years...shrinking all of that wonder down into a 4.75" x 4.75" plastic box. They DID it...maybe not as spectacularly as the original 12 x 12 release...but it was magnificent packaging for what is basically Carlos Santana's "A Love Supreme." Seriously...if you like the pop stuff, more power to you. There's plenty of good stuff there. But this was the top of Santana's spiritual / fusion era. In 1973 he added "Devadip" to his name, which meant "the light of the lamp of the Supreme." That light burns brightly across "Lotus," especially on CD 2 (where most of the extended numbers reside, including the 15 minute "Incident at Neshabur"). As Santana fans know, there are "several different Santanas." This was the MILES Santana, the COLTRANE Santana. This is scary and amazing music played with so much mind-numbing passion that you have to wonder why there are people who don't "get" Santana. Get Lotus, and strap yourself in for one heck of a ride.

...And It Blossoms!.......2007-01-19

Neither those who know Santana from the original band's early rock LPs, nor those most familiar with Carlos' and Company's recent all-star pop outings, will be in any way prepared for the astonishing two hours of music which is LOTUS. Recorded at a pair of Japanese concerts in 1973, this set is certainly the most singular item in one of rock music's most singular careers.
Having fallen under the spell of early-seventies fusion as epitomized by Miles Davis, Chick Corea and other groundbreaking jazzmen, guitarist Carlos Santana made this third version of his eponymous ensemble by far the best, concentrating on lengthy instrumental explorations which were kept nailed in place by a phenomenal three-to-four-man percussion section. While inevitable hits (and rare vocals) like "Black Magic Woman" and "Oye Como Va" are here, and wonderfully handled, they sound almost trivial next to the driving and exotic sounds which surround them. "A-1 Funk," "Gypsy Queen," "Samba de Sausalito" and "Incident at Neshabur" rank among my personal favorites; but it seems ludicrous to pinpoint specific tracks as the show is essentially one long and very remarkable suite, uninterrupted and unflagging. Guitar quotes from Miles, Stravinsky, Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles add moments of relative levity - and a reminder of just how far afield this band drew its inspiration from - before the ultratight octet tears into its next workout, leaving the listener to marvel at how they possibly could've kept it up. LOTUS is a stunning album, a marvelous experience and one of the peak moments from the heyday of jazz/rock fusion. Indispensable!

What can be better?.......2006-08-24

The only thing that would be better than listening to this great CD would be to listen to and watch this great recording on DVD. To watch what this band and the fans experienced at this concert has to be a thrill. The only thing better than a DVD would be to watch this concert with documentary-style interviews and hear what fans had to say about their experiences. The only thing better than that would be to have been there myself, live as one of the fans being interviewed and not being able to express in words how great Santana's performance was. The only thing better than that would have been to be Carlos Santana at that time and experience what he must have felt. It had to be a joy to channel so much spiritual energy.

Glitz & Flash w/o substance.......2006-07-27

I've been a fan of Santana since the first album but Lotus bears little resemblance to what I expected. I read the reviews and bought it based on that about 4/5 years ago. I found most of this album to be annoying--some excellent playing but it goes nowhere. The screeching guitar is just too much to take--almost like fingernails on a chalkboard. I can not imagine sitting down to listen to this again--When I bought it I felt that way but attributed it to maybe I just wasn't in the mood to listen. So I put it away for a month and came back to it twice and feel the same way and my receptivity does not appear to be changing. The last listen was today and it's been a year since I've listened to it last. I'm sorry--it's not happening for me. He's still a great guitarist, but to me---this is noise!

Average customer rating: Those sounds...a mirror for me that which is, that which we are The Truth of Being Enter the magical/mystical realms :) A Powerful Journey into the Turiya Nada

Cave of the Siddhars- Yoga/ Meditation/ Healing/ Manifestation Turiya Nada , Nandhi , and Cofe Manufacturer: Red Lotus Creatives ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Categories | Sports & Outdoors | Accessories | Fan Shop | Apparel | Shoes | Sports Medicine | Airsoft | Archery | Badminton | Ballet & Dance | Baseball | Basketball | Boating | Bowling | Boxing | Camping & Hiking | Climbing | Cheerleading | Crew | Cricket | Curling | Cycling & Wheel Sports | Disc Sports | Diving | Dog Sports | Equestrian Sports | Exercise & Fitness | Fencing | Field Hockey | Fishing | Football | Game Room | Golf | Gymnastics | Hockey | Hunting | Jai Alai | Kayaking | Lacrosse | Lawn Games | Martial Arts | Motor Sports | Paddle Court Sports | Paintball | Pilates | Polo | Racquetball | Rodeo | Rugby | Running | RV Equipment | Scooters | Skateboarding | Skating | Skydiving | Sledding | Snow Skiing | Snowboarding | Snowmobiling | Snowshoeing | Soccer | Softball | Squash | Surfing | Swimming | Tennis & Racquet Sports | Track & Field | Triathlon | Volleyball | Water Polo | Water Sports | Windsurfing | Wrestling | Yoga | Sports Equipment | Sports Electronics & Gadgets Similar Items: The Yoga of Sound Meditations & Affirmations With A Master Seven Metals Singing Bowls of Tibet Experience Yoga Nidra: Guided deep relaxation Yoga Nidra Meditation CD: Extreme Relaxation of Conscious Deep Sleep ASIN: B00066JZRW Release Date: 2004-09-20

Tracks:

1. Dance Of The Siddahrs
2. Siddha Joy
3. Siddha Intensity
4. Cave Of The Siddhars

Product Description

Cave of the Siddhars is the sacred transmission of powerful and potent mantras that have been passed down through the Siddhars(the enlightened yogis of south India who journey beyond!) for thousands of years. Accompanied by the didgeridoo, harp, singing bowls, djembe, udu, gongs, flute and other instruments, each track will take you on a mystical spiritual journey that will both delight and transform you! About Turiya Nada- The vocal chants are performed by Nandhi who was initiated into this secretive yogic tradition. The mystical didgeridoo played by Cofe builds the fire within the music and chants. The primal vibration heals the mind and body. Cofe was initiated as a didgeridoo master in Himalayas through mantras of the sacred breath. Turiya Nada is suitable for- Yoga and meditation- Ideal for a deep plunge within to journey into the Third Eye, the Ajna chakra. Manifestation of intentions Before sleeping- the music is meant to take the listener into the womb of the universe, the divine Source. It is a natural "Yoga Nidra" that provides intense deep sleep. This music is a joy just to listen to even as it transforms you! Also- Tantra, Massage, Bodywork, Acupuncture, Tai-Chi, Creative Work and Esoteric Healing. Turiya Nada intends to take the listener through layers of our present limitations into the vast realms of divine energy. Raise your Consciousness with Turiya Nada - Cave of the Siddhars: Conscious Multimedia Database applies Dr. David Hawkins' revolutionary conscious calibrations through the use of applied kinesiology. According to Dr. Hawkins' Map of Consciousness, Cave of the Siddhars calibrates in between 1000 and 1250. This is the level of Christ, Buddhahood, Krishna and Brahman. Out of over 250Cds featured by cmmdb.com, Turiya Nada "Cave of the Siddhars" is featured the highest.

Customer Reviews:

Those sounds...a mirror for me.......2007-07-11

Dear Customers,

Thank you for sharing these wonderful arrangements. Cave of the Siddhars. Your music is instantly translated into soul messages. Musical soul massage. I don't know if it was my conscious mind or my unconscious mind but one of them surrendered to the music thanks to the constant didgeridoo in the background. My mind remembered a timeless aspect of itself. Turiya Nada's music that for the first few seconds had sounded extremely exotic fit into the mold of my being, as a result when I combined the music with asana practice I was able to deepen in the poses knowing that I was being "cushioned" by the call of Turiya Nada. The final "Arohara" invocations of the final tracks are perfect for the ending of savasana for me...and I believe for others too.

Thanks,
Nathaniel

that which is, that which we are.......2007-04-10

Cave of the Siddhars is an empowering journey bringing to light these ancient vibrations. Connect on a deep level with the inspiration of the perfected masters. Feel the immense wisdom these vibrations hold and begin to connect with thought as source in every breadth. If you are looking to align a deep spiritual experience this is the music for you as all walks of life.
Blessings

The Truth of Being.......2007-03-30

i remember listening to the cd before going to a healing movement class. the music and chants vibrate the truth of being. i was able to feel grounded with the ability to completely empty out into the silence of the divine. one of my challenges it to keep my feet here while embracing the inner light. this cd is very supportive of the healing journey and wherever i am in the moment. a beautiful merging of primal sounds and pure light. thank you for the gift of this cd!

Enter the magical/mystical realms :).......2007-03-12

Cave of the Siddhars CD entered my life back in May of 2006. Since then I have listened to it every day at least once. The blending of instruments and Nandhi's voice are amazing. Love it !! The resonance and high vibrational energies seem to awaken and stir ancient memories of knowingness within my being. At the same time bringing a sense of immense peace and joy. My cells dance to the vibrations. A CD that can be listened to anytime anywhere. Highly recommended. Dare to enter the magical/mystical realms of the Siddhar Masters and you won't be disappointed :)

A Powerful Journey into the Turiya Nada.......2007-01-11

The wonderful combination of sacred mantras and astonishing music creates a profound inner experience. It is a powerful and amazing journey into the realm of Turiya Nada. I experienced that I was able to reach into a whole new level of awareness by flowing with the sound/light waves.
I was initially curious about how the digeridoo and the many other instruments would work in combination with the mantras, and it works just perfectly - there is always a delicate balance between the music and the chanting. Pure enjoyment all the way...
'The Cave of the Siddhars' really manages to transport awareness to a profound inner state of light and grace. It is a true blessing!

Average customer rating: In a state of languid contentment

Lotus Land Gandalf Manufacturer: Real Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Ambient Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Austria | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music Electronic | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Myths and Legends Gandalf II Om Sacred River Deep Still Blue CD and DVD (DVD for Region 1) ASIN: B000P46QCC Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

1. A Seed Dreaming Inside
2. Life is Love
3. Where the Heart Finds a Home
4. Love Opens the Gates
5. Just a glimpse of Paradise
6. Mystic Voyage
7. A Heavenly Gift
8. The Lotus Unfolds
9. Waves of Delight

Album Description

Music being played from the very depth of the heart sometimes reflects a glimpse of the secret paradise within all of us, the boundless and eternal Lotus Land.

Customer Reviews:

In a state of languid contentment.......2007-07-07

If you know the name Gandalf, you've probably seen the Lord of the Rings films. Or perhaps you're a longtime fan of Tolkien's tales of Middle Earth. Chances are, though, that unless you've been following the New Age music scene, you've never heard of Heinz Strobl.

He's one of several musicians from the 70's and 80's that grew up with Tolkien and took his musical persona from what until Star Wars came along was the most popular fantasy "franchise" in the English language. And so we have David Arkenstone, still active today and named after a mystical gem; Shadowfax, one of the first groups to record for Windham Hill and named after a sorcerer's horse; and Gandalf, the sorcerer himself.

Like the wizard for whom he is named, Austrian Heinz Strobl has a masterful command of the elements, which he employs to great effect on his latest recording, Lotus Land. Featuring nine original compositions, the album is a literal one-man show, with Strobl playing acoustic nylon and steel string guitars, electric pedal-guitar, bouzuki, saz (a kind of lute), electric sitar, piano, keyboards, percussion, and programming.

Conjuring blissful images of tranquil gardens, or perhaps a heavenly realm of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Lotus Land is a collection of serene, languid melodies suitable for either. Half the compositions are performed without rhythmic accompaniment, and of those with percussion two are so understated as to be missed. Even so, the melodies themselves have enough rhythm and movement to accompany a yoga workout.

Six of the album's eight tracks clock in at over 6 minutes, giving the artist plenty of space to develop his themes. Most of the songs begin with light synth effects, creating the aural canvas on which the lead instruments paint their pictures. Among the highlights are the piano climax of Love Opens the Gates, the synthetic choral effects on Mystic Voyage (that might remind some of Randy and Pamela Copus' 2002), and the charming interplay of sitar and oboe on Life is Love.

Lotus Land is Gandalf's 19th release in a professional career that began 26 years ago as a prog-rock hippie. While time may have softened his approach, his sorcerer-like instrumental and production skills are still as sharp as ever, if not better and more refined. I look forward to a monumental 30th anniversary release in 2011.

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Average customer rating: A Poetic Journey... Nice! Fabulous! Fabulous Makes you want to listen and dance at the same time

Mystic Journey Manufacturer: Autumn Light Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Electronic | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music | Computer General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Miles Beyond Music For Harp Music For Harp, Flute and Cello Angels of Venice Awake Inside A Dream ASIN: B000040JKR Release Date: 1999-12-14

Tracks:

1. Topanga Dreams
2. Katyia's Dance
3. China Lily
4. Fertile Crescent
5. Lhasa Love
6. Aduman
7. Darjeeling Sunrise
8. Clouds across the Darkness
9. Silver Lake
10. Lotus

Album Description

About this CD (notes from the artist )

Topanga Dreams
Since 1988, I've lived in Topanga, California. This small mountain town has taught me the true meaning of community. By being there for each other, we can make dreams come true. May all your dreams come true...

Katyia's Dance
This song has evolved from being a solo dance performance piece in our Mystic Journey shows into a passionate tango...for two. So grab someone you love and enjoy the dance!

China Lily
This flute was a gift from my Dize (rhymes with pizza) teacher and is one of my favorites. Whenever I play it, I am transported to a place of inner peace and stillness.

Lhasa Love
I found this melody in a book of traditional Chinese folk songs, It was called Tibetan Dance before we transformed it into a lively multicultural boogie!

Aduman
Although there are many dialects spoken in the West African region of Guinea and Mali, the universal word for "sweet" amongst all the tribes is aduman.

Darjeeling Sunrise
Inspired by an Indian sunrise raga, this song reflects the experience that I had when I was on top of Tiger Hill in Darjeeling, India, witnessing a magical sunrise illuminating the awesome Himalayan mountains.

Customer Reviews:

A Poetic Journey..........2004-05-05

I fell in love with the music of The Angels of Venice years ago, and thus when I learned that Suzanne Teng (a former "Angel") had produced a solo work, I was very excited. But the music on this CD easily surpasses anything Teng had done with the Angels of Venice. Lyrical melodies, accompanied by enthnic rhythms on traditional percussion instruments, overlaid with Teng's own haunting performances on Asian flute, transport the listener to another time and another place -- both in this world, and in the "otherworld" created by Teng's mystical music edge. Tibetan singing bowls, Middle-Eastern bells, Celtic strings and a vast assortment of drums and wind instruments create a musical whirlwind that will leave the listener breathlessly awaiting Teng's next musical offering.

Nice!.......2004-01-01

Suzanne Teng, the original flutist with the group "Angels of Venice", breaks out on her own in this playful and exotic 1999 release. Teng shows herself a master of flutistry, not only the playing the standard western "C" flute, but also piccolo, alto and bass flutes, dize (Chinese bamboo flute), ney (Turkish flute) and panpipes. Her tone is rich and liquid, and her improvisations range from jazzy to sinuous to ephemeral depending on the style of the piece. Many of the selections have a strong Near- or Far Eastern flavor, but the mood remains gentle and cheerful throughout the album, without any of the dark intensity that characterizes some of the "Angels'" work. Teng is not alone in "Mystic Journey" either; many guest artists lend their well-established talents to the mix to create ever-varied layers of texture. Gilbert Levy provides intricate world percussion accompaniments, while cellist Martin Tillman, Prince Diabate, Hans Christiansen of Rasa and Greg Ellis of Vas (among others) also pop in to lend a hand, making for a richly orchestrated album that is full of apt and interesting surprises. Occasionally the flute melodies seem a little trite and meandering, qualities that are at odds with the earthy, percussive background, but overall this album is appealing. Teng's simultaneously light and down-to-earth compositions find ways to be relaxing without being boring--a common pitfall for many New Age artists. The music of "Mystic Journey" would be great for warm-ups and slow-dancing for belly dancers, as well as just pleasant listening after a mundane and stressful day at work. Other recordings featuring Suzanne Teng's flute-playing include "Awake Inside a Dream" and "Music for Flute, Harp and Cello" by the Angels of Venice. For more bamboo and metal flute improvisations, in this case without accompaniment, check out also Richard Warner's "Quiet Heart / Spirit Wind".

Fabulous!.......2002-07-05

I ordered this CD after only hearing two songs which I "accidentally" heard while flipping the channels of the television. There was a performance done on Public Access and I was surprised to see that a CD was available. I ordered one for myself and a friend who is a yoga instructor. I love this CD! It is perfect for yoga or meditation or even just in the background while working. The music is heartfelt and joyous and everyone who hears it immediately loves it. I would definitly recommend it, especially if you are looking to expand your collection of instrumental music. Personally, I love flute pieces, so this was a perfect choice for me.

Fabulous.......2001-06-28

I caught Suzanne Teng & Mystic Journey on vacation at this year's Topanga Days festival, but didn't buy the CD. I thought about their music the whole rest of the trip and ordered the CD as soon as I got home. It's truly magnificent and beautiful music, and I could listen to the CD over and over. Perfect background for anything - reading, meditating, special dinners, yoga, whatever. I find myself getting up just to move to the music. They're all very talented and the CD is a real stress-melter.

Makes you want to listen and dance at the same time.......2000-08-31

This is really an excellent independently-produced CD. Some of the tunes are fairly straight-forward, rhythmic wonders with Ms. Teng's incredible flute playing polishing them off. Others are more "world" sounding incorporating thraot singing and chanting. There is not a bad cut on the CD. Listen to Katiya's Waltz, and try to concentrate on the beautiful music while your feet waltz across the floor.

Average customer rating:

Escaping Sargasso Sea Lotus Manufacturer: Sci Fidelity Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Livelovedie The Strength of Weak Ties Nomad Live from Out There Germination ASIN: B000PFU9UQ Release Date: 2007-05-29

Tracks:

1. When H Binds to O
2. Wax
3. Wooly Mammoth
4. Slow Cookin'
5. Through the Mirror
6. Greet the Mind

Tracks:

1. Mikesnack
2. It's All Clear to Me Now
3. Sunrain
4. Flower Sermon
5. Sunrain
6. Jump Off

Average customer rating: Lotus matures On live and studio performances.

The Strength of Weak Ties Lotus Manufacturer: Harmonized ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Nomad Germination Live from Out There The New Deal Transformations Live for the People ASIN: B000ERVI14 Release Date: 2006-04-04

Tracks:

1. Tip Of Tongue
2. Kesey Seed
3. Bubonic Tonic
4. When H Binds To O
5. Long Legged Stumble
6. Drunken Giraffe
7. Epidemic
8. Blue Giant
9. Cirrus
10. Sprout To Vine

Customer Reviews:

Lotus matures.......2006-05-08

On TSOWT, Lotus expandes their style and proves to be a multidimensional, eclectic band. As with any musical experimentation, this first outing may be a surprise to fans of their previous releases and live performances. For the majority of the album, Lotus moves away from the housey beats and guitar-based melodies of Nomad and Germination. At its best, songs such as 'Blue Giant' and 'Bubonic tonic' are excellent soundscapes with patented Lotus groove that take you into a trancendent state. There are some songs, including 'When H binds to O' and 'Drunken Giraffe without as clear a melodic message and more of a jazz feel than the quentiessential Lotus song. Although these are interesting, worthwhile songs they are also a large departure from the dance-infused live shows and releases. Perhaps we can take this as a sign that Lotus will continue to keep us on our toes.

On live and studio performances........2006-04-11

For a band like Lotus, I think it is important to understand their studio releases in conjunction with their live performances - and fortunately I was able to seem them on the same day I bought this CD. The last two times I have seen them live, they played for about 4 hours of ethereal, electronically-fused, jam music with something of a jazz/rock/funk base. There is certainly a lot of improvisation, but the emphasis is on cohesive grooves and not, like much jazz, on solos. This, coupled with an emphasis on minimalism, reinforces an ethereal, other-wordly feeling.

Nomad, their first and previously latest studio album, seemed to completely miss this aspect of their music. The jams were too polished to really be jams, and yet there were no really strong melodies. They turned out to make great concert pieces, but this only supported my belief that Lotus would be better off avoiding the studio and instead recording everyone of their concerts for maybe $3 or $4 a pop, to fans who would certainly gobble it up. (I still think this is a good idea, although many of their concerts are available to download anyway)

The Strength of Weak Ties has shown that Lotus is indeed capable of using the studio as a unique creative tool. Unlike Nomad, it has some memorable melodies (while maintaining great grooves), and unlike their first (a live album) Germination, it offers something not easily matched in a live performance (in other words, the best candidate of the three for an album).

This album also breaks new ground for Lotus in two, seemingly divergent, ways. First, there is a more mainstream/pop side to the band. This is partly due to their application of synthesizers (of which they use more here than in concert) in more of a house style, and surely due to their inclusion of a guest singer on a few (the more poppy) pieces. However, there are certainly no outright commercial fluff pieces - even the opener, Tip of the Tongue (perhaps the closest to this), has some adventurous (comparatively) dissonant phrases that would be inappropriate to a pop piece. It also has a light funk quality to it, which would place them more in the realm of soft jazz than pop.

Secondly, some of the pieces are LESS poppy and like electronica-dance than on Nomad or Germination. Perhaps most of the heart of this album is that way - from When H Binds to O through Epidemic. Here they venture more towards MM&W, or electronica-jazz outfits like Jaga Jazzist. (At one point on When H Binds to O they even reminded me of King Crimson - but I fear that only goes to show my own background in prog). Some of these are much less minimalistic than Nomad. Nomad was characterized by the majority of pieces centering on one theme, and a progression of at most two chords. If you were to play along, you could easily keep the same root on most pieces. On The Strength of Weak Ties, the pieces are still fairly simple for the most part, but certainly more complex than Nomad. Blue Giant is a good example of one of those pieces with more thematic complexity (again, this is only in relevance) than their earlier work, while still keeping some cool grooves.

Kesey Seed is one of the pieces I am not quite sure about. I loved hearing this live in concert and on bootlegs, and wondered why they had not included it on Nomad. This version is significantly different from the live performances though. Right now I think the live version had more energy and a nice mysticism, however I think it is too early to know if I am being objective or simply wishing for the piece I have already known.

The album ends with two less memorable pieces. Cirrus is a soft blues piece somewhat similar to Colorado on Nomad. For the most part, I felt less a sense of Rempel on this than in concerts or Nomad, but I really heard him here. Unfortunately, this is, in my opinion, not one of the better pieces here.

On a final note, I dig the artwork - an abstract painting with cool colors. Very Lotus.

Average customer rating: From Solo Piano Publications

Angel Above My Piano Fiona Joy Hawkins Manufacturer: Coopermarket / Lotus ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Portrait of a Waterfall State of Grace III 20th Anniversary An Ancient Muse Awake ASIN: B000JMK6NU Release Date: 2006-10-31

Tracks:

1. Antartic Interludes: Crystal Desert
2. Antartic Interludes: Dance Of The Penguins
3. Antartic Interludes: Flight Of The Albatross
4. Antartic Interludes: Angel Above My Piano
5. Opus For Love: 1st Movement 'Love In Winter'
6. Opus For Love: 2nd Movement 'Love Forever'
7. Opus For Love: 3rd Movement 'Love In Spring'
8. Opus For Love: Watching The Wind
9. Opus For Love: Down The Aisle (Wedding March 2)
10. Opus For Love: Thinking Of You (Australian Lullaby)
11. Opus For Love: Preamble (Partita No 5)
12. Opus For Love: The Child's Game
13. Opus For Love: Love Forever - Reprise (Piano Solo)

Customer Reviews:

From Solo Piano Publications.......2006-12-12

"Angel Above My Piano" is Australian pianist Fiona Joy Hawkins' follow-up to her 2005 chart-topping "Portrait of a Waterfall," a finalist for the "best piano album" in the New Age Reporter's 2005 Lifestyle Music Awards. Inspired by a cruise to Antarctica, love, and a drawing of an angel, the music is very visual and evocative. Hawkins is a visual artist as well as a composer/pianist, and her music is as colorful as her paintings. Most of the thirteen tracks are lightly orchestrated with keyboards, guitar, strings, and flute, creating a lovely, tranquil mood and "music to dream to."

The CD opens with Antarctic Interludes, a group of three pieces inspired by an expedition cruise on the Orion. Both majestic and fragile, the music brings the wilderness and wildlife of the area to life. "Crystal Desert" utilizes minimal sound effects to enhance the feeling of a frozen wind and the stark, sparkling whiteness of the landscape. "Dance of the Penguins" has a constantly shifting rhythm that suggests a lack of grace and a playful demeanor - totally charming! "Flight of the Albatross" is one of my favorites. It describes the graceful flight of a bird gliding across the tips of the waves outside her window. Utterly peaceful and carefree, and utterly beautiful. The title track was inspired by a charcoal drawing that was done by a friend who was diagnosed with cancer. The drawing is of an angel that came to him in a dream, "who looks like someone you know but no-one you have ever met." Opus for Love is a three-movement work created from the emotion Hawkins felt when her grandmother died. "Love In Winter" is about the journey that spans the winter of life. Poignant and reflective, it's a very effective piece. "Love Forever" brings in graceful strings to convey the sadness of losing someone dear. "Love In Spring" is very interesting because the piano part is mostly sprightly and joyful while the strings are sad, demonstrating the mix of emotions that take over at a loved-ones passing. "Thinking of You (Australian Lullaby)" pairs a song composed by Hawkins' father, Garry Heaney, with a melody she wrote about lost love, creating a tender and beautiful lullaby. The closing track is a reprise of "Love Forever" as a piano solo - a sweet farewell.

Average customer rating: One of my most-played CDs One of the best sets of organ works Mystic! By All Means Get This CD To be fair...

In A Quiet Cathedral Manufacturer: Delos Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Barber | Barber, Samuel | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dupré, Marcel | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tartini | Tartini, Giuseppe | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vaughan Williams, Ralph | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Canons | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Vaughan Williams, Ralph | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Organ | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Similar Items: Organ Favorites The Music of St. Paul's Cathedral A Vaughan Williams Hymnal Bach: Great Organ Works The Great Organ at Methuen - Bach: BWV 540, 542, 582, 643, & 737 ASIN: B0000006Z0 Release Date: 1994-08-02

Tracks:

1. Op. 122, No. 5: Chorale Prelude: Schumcke dich, o liebe Seele
2. Air
3. Prelude On The Welsh Hymn Tune 'Rosymedre'
4. Pastorale On 'Forest Green'
5. Prelude In E-Flat Major
6. BWV 731: Chorale Prelude: Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier
7. Adagio (For Glass Harmonica) K. 356
8. Sonata I in F Minor, Op. 65: Adagio
9. BWV 647: Choral Prelude: Wer nur den lieben Gott lasst walten
10. Cantata No. 147: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring
11. Aria
12. Lotus (Lotus Blossom)
13. Irish Air From 'County Derry' (Londonderry Air)
14. Jerusalem, My Happy Home
15. Suite in D: Air On The G String
16. Adagio In E Major
17. The Good Shepherd
18. Op. 18, No. 10: Magnificat I
19. Symphonie Gothique, Op. 70: Andante sostenuto

Tracks:

1. Fiori Musicali: Toccata per l'Elevazione
2. Chorale Prelude: Meine Seele erhebt den Herren
3. Prelude And Fugue In F Minor, Op. 7, No. 2
4. Canon In B Major, Op. 56, No. 6
5. Pieces de Fantaisie, Op. 53: Clair de lune
6. Vocalise
7. Pieces en style libre, Op. 31: Berceuse
8. Strings, Op. 11: Adagio
9. Meditation
10. Sonatina: Very Slowly
11. Trois Paraphrases Gregoriennes: Ave Maria, Ave Maris Stella
12. Chant de Paix (Song Of Peace)

Customer Reviews:

One of my most-played CDs.......2005-10-13

This is one of my most frequently played CDs. I find it perfect background music for meditation, prayer, reading and other tasks, as well as a good CD that doesn't disturb people at work.

This is not intended to be organised as a church service or a concert performance per se, but rather, as the co-producer Carol Rosenberger states, 'this album is meant to recreate an experience many of us have treasured: slipping inside the doors of a cathedral and finding oneself alone in a vast, quiet space with light streaming through stained glass windows. The organist begins to play gentle music, and one is lost in contemplation...'

As a churchy person, I've often had the experience of working or sitting in an empty church while the organists or their students practiced. This recording in many ways reminds me of that experience. Of course, our organ is a far cry from the pipe organ in Atlanta's Cathedral of St. Philip, with over 5000 pipes (and our church does not have a 5-second delay reverberation, either), 4 manuals and 96 ranks. This Aeolian-Skinner organ is a genuinely stunning instrument, but as with any instrument, it takes the right performer to bring out the fullness of the sound from it.

Todd Wilson is just such a performer. His playing is solid and well-suited for this task, with occasional flashes of brilliance. Mozart's 'Adagio', Bach's 'Jesu, Joy of Many's Desiring', and Barber's 'Adadio for Strings' (here arranged for the organ) are truly wonderful pieces. The programme here is a diverse collection of pieces from Baroque, Renaissance, and later pieces, including folk tunes and a few modern compositions. Todd Wilson is a church organist and music director at Church of the Covenant in Cleveland, Ohio (a city with not insignificant music resources and life), and is also head of the Organ Department at the Cleveland Institute of Music. He has had an international performance and recording career.

I applaud the decision to make this a double-disc set - the producer writes that there was just too much good music to limit the selection. Thus, there is a method to the organisation, given the availability of two discs. The first disc has more simple pieces, easily recognisable melodies and well-known hymn/sacred pieces. The second disc has a bit more complexity of music.

There is a booklet that is particularly designed for young people, so that they may become more familiar with the organ as an instrument, and this type of music.

This is a truly wonderful recording.

One of the best sets of organ works.......2005-02-20

This is a superb set of organ works. Strongly recommended.

Mystic!.......2003-12-28

The Æolian-Skinner organ in St.Philip's Cathedral, Atlanta is the finest example on Earth of eclectic organ...and the last- really-marvellous instrument erected by this firm. Flutes and Erzählers speak directly from Heaven...and the organ, despite electric, seems to have tracker action! Listen to Bach's BWV 731 and 648: they sound like played on a Silbermann instrument!
Todd Wilson is a delicate musician, a poet of the organ and a genius in the choice of the stops.
Buy also the other recordings of this Æolian-Skinner by Robert Delcamp (Naxos) and Alan Morrison (Gothic)...and don't forget that Michael Murray recorded in St.Philip's Cathedral for Telarc the finest rendition of Poulenc's "Concerto in sol minore per organo, archi e timpani" under the direction of the late Robert Shaw.

By All Means Get This CD.......2003-09-06

I found this wonderfully relaxing CD above and beyond my expectations. Do you enjoy organ music, then listen and explore the sacred music of J.S. Bach. This music will relax you: keep your muscles relaxed as you work on a time deadline for a large project, or doing some casual items around the house.

To be fair..........2003-04-04

The hiss that one reviewer refers to is undoubtedly the organ's wind supply. The wind can be heard on most organ recordings.

Average customer rating: Phew. Organic Ambient Trance Funk what i expected Clean and Beautiful: A prelude to the live experience Eclectic Electric Jazz Electronica

Nomad Lotus Manufacturer: Harmonized ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Germination The Strength of Weak Ties The New Deal Artifact All This Everything ASIN: B0002ZYEAA Release Date: 2004-09-21

Tracks:

1. Suitcases
2. Livingston Storm
3. Spiritualize
4. Plant Your Root
5. Travel
6. Greet The Mind
7. Ball Of Energy
8. Jump Off
9. Colorado

Customer Reviews:

Phew........2006-01-29

What gets me about Lotus isn't just that their sound is crisp and their melodies beautifully composed. What gets me is that their songs--often relaxed, very chill, meandering through a song almost effortlessly--can be so infectious and bring you to a completely different mental plane. Nomad is an incredible studio synthesis of their talent. Seeing them live is the best way to go (it's incredible) but Nomad really gives you a great scope of their talent... although, they are also this tight in person.

Organic Ambient Trance Funk.......2005-08-16

I just had to write this review because this cd deserves an average rating of 5 stars. This is a very sophisticated interpretation of Lotus's live sound. No self-indulgent meandering, just very tastful, structured compositions. However, i don't think everyone has the capacity to appreciate the aesthetic value of this music, along with the overall musicianship.

This cd jams, but in a subtle way. Lotus leaves out alot of the uneeded tension in alot of music today and replaces it with a easy vibe that is equally relaxing as it is danceable. The music is part ambient so its not music that demands to be listened to. It fits well in the background at a party or in the car. Its not all about the individual solos, instead more about the vibe the music, as a whole, gives off. It is as equally interesting as it is ignorable. It's downtempo electronica that perfectly combines organic jams with ambient textures. This is one of my favorite albums i own, and i'd recomend it to anyone who appreciates good music.

what i expected.......2005-08-15

Someone told me about lotus so I checked them out. The "live drum and base/jam techno" scene is on the rise and Lotus along with bands like MFA, djnotadj, and signal path is certainly one of the pioneers. The cd sounds great with many varied explorations into different styles of the live techno genre. Check it.

Clean and Beautiful: A prelude to the live experience.......2005-05-13

Yo ladies N gents, I go to college in PA, and the first time I really heard anything about Lotus came when a kid on my floor bought this disc and I spun it in my room. First and foremost, this album is totally righteous. If youre into classical improv and jamming, this is for you, and also, if youre into dance/trance this is for you as well. Furthermore, if youre into funk, they lay it down in kingly fashion. I've seen lotus twice this year, and the first time they were awesome, and the second time (a mere 3 months later) they were completely unreal. Whoever wrote that B/S about STS9 being better than lotus has obviously not seen them live, or was candy flippin too hard to understand. Sound tribe is a complete and utter joke compared to this band; in fact, there is no comparison. Please do yourselves the favor and go see Lotus live, and while youre at it, get this disc. Peace

Eclectic Electric Jazz Electronica.......2005-03-28

You may have heard the buzz about this band. They
are truly a formally well-educated musical band
that likes to improvise off the audience's energy.
The use of improvisation, as well as certain music
phrases, or riffs, classifies them as jazz
performers. Rolling Stone magazine calls their
music "Loose, spontaneous Jam Rock instrumentals.
Funk and Latin influences surface in both the guitar
figures and the overall rhythms, while the drums
show a real jazz-inflected approach to dynamics and
may be the group's strong point." The drummer,
Steve Clemens (related to Samuel Langhorne?) is
indeed dynamic and delivers a great sound. But I
think the melodic/harmonic interplay between the
guitarist (Mike Rempel) and keyboard man (Luke
Miller) sustains the compositions over the length
of the musical program.
The music ranges from Smooth Jazz to Grateful
Dead concert jamming--definitely an eclectic mix.
In fact it seems at times that Mike is channeling
Jerry Garcia (not a bad contact)!
So, if you like instumental music that is great
to listen to (for both background and fore) pick
up this CD. The samples provide good examples of
the sound quality and dynamics of Lotus'
material.

Average customer rating: Not for the young A disappointment for all Juggalos Pretty dissapointing follow up Good Album...Forget that Haters one of my fav's

Black Rain Dark Lotus Manufacturer: Psychopathic ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Chainsmoker Psychopathics from Outer Space, Part 2 Mostasteless Mutant, Vol. 2 The Green Book ASIN: B0001NBN66 Release Date: 2004-04-06

Tracks:

1. Under The Lotus
2. Black Rain
3. Ka-Boom!
4. That's Me
5. Consume Your Soul
6. She Was
7. Corrosion
8. My 1st Time
9. With The Lotus
10. Hell House
11. Jump-Off
12. The Whus
13. Doornail Dorothy
14. Pass The Ax
15. Death Don't Want You

Customer Reviews:

Not for the young.......2007-07-19

Explicit lyrics and foul language, so don't get this for your young kids. But, my 21 year old daughter loves this stuff. Go figure!

A disappointment for all Juggalos.......2007-05-10

The First Dark Lotus Album is way better. only about 4 songs are good in this. still get it. ITS DARK LOTUS

Pretty dissapointing follow up.......2007-03-20

When Dark Lotus was first conceived 8 years ago, they were advertised as the wickedest, darkest thing that Psychopathic has ever done. "Tales From the Lotus Pod" was pretty close to delivering that, but this doesn't even come close. The only good songs are "Pass the Axe" and "Jump Off" and the rest is pretty crappy. They should've let ROC produce the whole album, because he knows how to lay down some sick wicked beats.

Good Album...Forget that Haters.......2006-07-11

Y'all can't believe this joethehiphopguy because he really has no idea about anything he's insulting. He dissed Natas and called them a bunch of white boys when everyone knows Esham, Mastermind, and TNT are black. He disses on Tech N9ne who's obviously talented. And his viewpoint on ICP is his own but he has no right to diss on juggalos and put them down just for liking the music. It's sad cuz this guy does have good taste in music but he makes bad choices of what to diss on. Now to the album.

This CD is pretty fresh. Dark Lotus for those of you who don't know is the supergroup of ICP, Twiztid, and Drive-By(Blaze and ABK that is). "Pass The Axe" is prolly my favorite track but there's so much freshness on here it's hard to go into it all. Just get it and don't let idiots like this joethemoron guy make your decision for you.

one of my fav's.......2006-05-14

this album is truly a masterpiece

ABK really came through on this one

the last one sucked cuz all the good parts were taken out

Bring back MARZ!

Pop Music:

1. Mantra of Eternity [CD-single]
2. Mis 70 Anos Con el Cante
3. Modern Belly Dance Music from Lebanon, Vol. 1
4. Modern Belly Dance Music from Lebanon, Vol. 2
5. Musica Del Mundo: Pianos Barrocos
6. Musiques Ceremonielles
7. National Anthems, Vol. 1
8. Not One Word [Import]
9. Nunca El Tiempo Es Perdido [Import]
10. O Melhor de Rosa Passos

Pop Music