Natural Elements [Import]

1. Mind Ecology

2. Face To Face

3. Come On Baby Dance

4. With Me

5. The Daffodil And The Eagle

6. Happiness Is Being

7. Together

8. Bridge Of Sights

9. Get Down An Sruti

10. Peace Of Mind

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
Reissue of 1977 album by legendary jazz-rock guitarist McLaughlin with his world music group Shakti, the third & final record he cut with them. Eight tracks.

Tracks:

Mind Ecology
Face To Face
Come On Baby Dance
With Me
The Daffodil And The Eagle
Happiness Is Being
Together
Bridge Of Sights
Get Down An Sruti
Peace Of Mind

Album Description

Reissue of 1977 album by legendary jazz-rock guitarist McLaughlin with his world music group Shakti, the third & final record he cut with them. Eight tracks.

Album Details

The Final Studio Album of the Jazz Group Formed by John Mclaughlin and L. Shankar that was Heavily Influenced by Indian Music.

Customer Reviews:

You Can't Miss with Shakti.......2005-01-11

This is the final recording by the original, classic, non-gimmicky Shakti (Remember Shakti being unoriginal, non-classic and gimmicky, IMHO). You absolutely *must* have this if you love adventurous, amazing music. It's more varied than either of their previous two recordings, "Shakti" and "Handful of Beauty" (my favorite, BTW), and has a heavier, rockier edge. "Face to Face" opens with one of John McLaughlin's all-time cool-a** rhythm guitar riffs. Mere mortals still quiver in their boots almost thirty years later...

Unique, sublime voice of fusion........2003-04-12

I do not believe there is a "best" Shakti album. All of them are brilliant and exhilarating and essential like chapters in a book. _Natural Elements_ does, however, stand out as the most lyrical and beautiful of Shakti's albums from the 70s, in my opinion. Shakti is a pluralistic group adapting some Western jazz idioms with an Indian environment, and here they also capture the widest range of moods. John McLaughlin straddles the line dividing Western and Eastern musical traditions, bridging the two with his guitar as his soul burns along the fretboard. Such is evident enough from the get-go, with "Mind Ecology", a fast-paced opener penned by McLaughlin, tearing along the pattering gallop of earthen percussion. But to celebrate their virtuosity as an end in itself would be a dishonor. "Mind Ecology", for all its speed and wild playing, exemplifies the "hidden" allure of Shakti -- the incredible virtuosity of these musicians is just a means to an end. The end of course being the articulation of an thrillingly joyful disposition, infectiously spiritual and focused. "Baby Baby Come Dance With Me" and "Happiness Is Being Together" are merry, vivacious jewels sparkling in the desert sands. The heavenly "Face to Face" and "Bridge of Sighs" slow that Shakti is just as engrossing when softened and calm. "Peace of Mind" is a spare beauty (that is unfortunately short) written by McLaughlin, where Shankar's violin renders a rapturously crying melody over gentle strumming. Definitely one of the most lovely moments in Shakti's discography. "The Daffodil and the Eagle" is exquisite, charged with the clairvoyant interplay that is typical of this group, with lead instruments and percussion entwining magnificently. Hearing them live would be the most prime way to experience the group's sheer acumen and togetherness, but for the diasporal Shakti, _Natural Elements_ is definitely essential. If you've never heard Shakti, this is as good an introduction as any.

The Ultimate Shakti Recording.......2002-02-12

This one is the their best. Of all the Shakti recordings, I have the originals on vinyl, this one is the most stunning. I like selected tracks from some of the other albums like "Shakti - The Believer," which is a totally live recording from their European tour in 1999. But, this is by far and away their best album yet produced. A blend of the styles of Northern and Southern India and chromatic Jazz fusion. This music is inspirational, and uplifting. With the mastery of John McLaughlin and L. Shankar on violin, it will unleash a wave of a creative, musical, and spiritual energy. All that it embraces is truly a glimpse of the primal power and creativity that can be manifest in this world. This album/CD sets the standard for genre. Few musicians are capable of attaining these heights as John McLaughlin and Shakti have done here.

The Ultimate Shakti Recording.......2002-02-12

This one is the their best. Of all the Shakti recordings, I have the originals on vinyl, this one is the most stunning. I like selected tracks from some of the other albums like "Shakti - The Believer," which is a totally live recording from their European tour in 1999. But, this is by far and away their best album yet produced. A blend of the styles of Northern and Southern India and chromatic Jazz fusion. This music is inspirational, and uplifting. With the mastery of John McLaughlin and L. Shankar on violin, it unleashes a wave of a creative, musical, and spiritual energy. All that it embraces is truly a glimpse of the primal power and creativity that can be manifest in this world. Sets the standard for genre. Few musicians are capable of attaining these heights as John McLaughlin and Shakti have done here.

Your credit card IS good for something.......2002-01-25

This is the most beautiful music you'll ever NEED to hear. I don't want to say alot. This will heal your tired heart. This music has something the pop music of today forgot about. PURPOSE.

Average customer rating:

Music that grabs you
Great Listen
One of their best - buy it!
Another great experience with AA
2nd best AA release ever!

Natural Elements
Acoustic Alchemy
Manufacturer: Grp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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GRP | Verve Music Group | Specialty Stores | Music
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ASIN: B0000001VF
Release Date: 1996-01-30

Tracks:

Drake's Drum
Overnight Sleeper
Natural Elements
Casino
If Only
Ballad For Kay
Evil The Weasel
Late Night Duke Street

Customer Reviews:

Music that grabs you.......2006-10-01

The very first time I heard Acoustic Alchemy was went someone did a boring presentation at work. The most exciting thing about the presentation was the music for their powerpoint yawn. I don't even remember what the presentation was about, but the music has stuck with me. Hearing Overnight Sleeper got me hooked. I have taken my CD with me to listen to when I do chemo for breast cancer, it certainly makes me feel even more alive.

Great Listen.......2005-10-05

I have only been listening to this group since July 2005, so I can't pretend that I am some sort of veteran listener, but I do know that since I first heard them, I've been hooked.

Our family has a 25 minute videotape of old home videos taken by my grandfather and others from 1950-1962. I borrowed the tape and when I asked what music was playing over the video (as it was silent), Acoustic Alchemy was the reply.

Casino, If Only, Drake's Drum, Ballad for Kay and Natural Elements (the video opener) now all remind me of seeing my aunts/uncles as little kids and seeing my grandparents actually look young on grainy old film, so this CD now has a personal meaning to me.

Besides all that, its just simply great to listen to...

Casino is by far the best track in my mind...

One of their best - buy it!.......2003-06-15

This will immediately make you forget every problem you are having today. Relaxing, melodic, soothing - much like the title indicates. Like a waterfall, rain, whatever - it's great. One listen to Overnight Sleeper & I loved this CD, you will too.

Another great experience with AA.......2002-08-05

After falling in love with Acoustic Alchemy, I sampled their old CDs and happened to like this one very much. Immediately bought it and find it matching my taste of music. The best track has to be 'If Only'. Such a soothing and relaxing song. Actually, they're all very good. Come and join this wonderful experience!

2nd best AA release ever!.......2001-01-23

Up until the release of "The Beautiful Game", this CD stood alone as the best of the AA catalogue. It takes the listener on a voyage of relaxation and enjoyment!. The stand-out track has to be "If Only" which has been a mainstay in my playlist for years. Great stuff!!!

Average customer rating:

Amazing debut!

Misterioso

Manufacturer: Natural Elements Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Misterioso
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Gardens Of Stone
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Album Description

This album is a re-release of Incendio's debut recording "Misterioso". The music of Incendio is not solely flamenco, classical, Middle-Eastern, Celtic, jazz, rock, trance or pop, but an amalgamation of all of the above. By showcasing the timeless sound of the Spanish guitar in a variety of settings, Incendio takes the listener on a global musical experience while continuing to break new ground.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing debut!.......2006-01-11

This band is amazing. Although some may lump these guys in with other "nuevo flamenco" artists, the astute listener will notice that this band is much more progessive than their counterparts. They use more complex harmonic structures in many of their compositions and they experiment with other music forms like Celtic, middle-eastern, and even trance.

Average customer rating:

Sublime!!!
from Solo Piano Publications

Second Nature
George Skaroulis
Manufacturer: Evzone Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000AM6IQ
Release Date: 2003-09-30

Tracks:

Resting Place
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Colorado
Reflection
Seaside
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Agua Clara
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Second Nature
A River Runs Through It
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Cold Morning Shadow
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Rainforest
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Little Star
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Customer Reviews:

Sublime!!!.......2004-03-16

This CD is probably one of my favorite instrumental CDs in my collection. The tranquil and serene thoughts rush in everytime I listen to the songs from Second Nature. George's music is always a beautiful portrayal of what our minds are capable of - boundless peace and love. Be sure to check out his rendition of the theme from "A River Runs Through It."

from Solo Piano Publications.......2003-10-05

"Second Nature" is quite simply one of the most beautiful recordings I've ever heard. George Skaroulis' piano music is effortless, full of grace, and emotionally uplifting without any sticky sweetness or pretension. One senses a very giving and gentle soul behind the music, making the album all the more likable. "Soothing" and "relaxing" are words that are used to describe so many albums in this genre (most of them, actually!), but peace and tranquility emanate from each piece - although several are dark and moody (I like that!!!). This is a collection of twenty-one pieces that would be a wonderful backdrop for almost any activity, but I found myself stopping to listen more carefully each of the ten or twelve times I've played it (so far! - this one ain't gonna collect dust on the shelf!). As a piano teacher, I listen to piano music for a living; and as a reviewer, I listen to piano music in most of my free time. It takes a lot to knock me out, and "Second Nature" has done it. Skaroulis' music is immediately accessible without any commercialism. He expresses his deepest emotions without manipulating listeners or hitting them over the head with the obvious.

Along with his original compositions, Skaroulis has included a beautiful vocal/piano arrangement of "The Water Is Wide." Vocal selections on a mostly-instrumental album can be annoying, but this one fits in beautifully. He has also included poignant arrangements of two of Mark Isham's movie themes - "A River Runs Through It" and "Mrs. Soffel". And then there are the originals. There are too many favorites to name them all, but I'll try to give you a sampling. The title track is stunning - bittersweet, full of longing, and yet flowing like a river. "Reflection" is a shimmering vignette at under two minutes in length, but the openness of the emotions expressed make it a standout. "Aqua Clara" takes a different approach than the other pieces, and has lyrics spoken in Italian. More orchestrated and rhythmic than most of the other tracks, the piano, strings, and voices convey a wide range of emotions. A mysterious piece, Paul Mercer's violin adds a dark and haunting quality. "Cold Morning Shadow" was co-written with Mercer; keyboards support Mercer's sorrowful viola, melting into the ambient "Awakening." The CD closes with a reprise of "Aqua Clara" that is simple, elegant, and very sad.

Tracks:

Rhythm Of The Heart
Sombra
Summer In Sante Fe
Agua Azul
Hermosa
Temple Of The Sun
Conscious
Ojos De Las Estrellas (For Stella)

Customer Reviews:

Great Latin influenced New Age.......2000-02-04

enjoy this quite a bit, very good listening without being sleepy. Latin background and upbeat tempo's but not Dance music. Great for easy listening or background for conversational situations. Very Relaxing and good for reading to. Thanks, please do more.

This CD is wonderful!.......1999-06-06

If you like Jesse Cook, Ottmar Liebert, and Armik you'll love Rhythm of the Heart. I recommend it very highly.

Average customer rating:

Natural Elements
Acoustic Alchemy
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000008COW
Release Date: 1990-10-25

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Drake's Drum
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Natural Elements
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Late Night Duke Street

Average customer rating:

My vote
This will be my fourth purchase
This will be my fourth purchase
Absolute Beauty and Perfection
Wonderfully uplifting album

Natural Elements
Shakti
Manufacturer: Sony Japan
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000088B9
Release Date: 1998-03-25

Tracks:

Mind Ecology
Face to Face
Come on Baby Dance With Me
Daffodil and the Eagle
Happiness Is Being Together
Bridge of Sighs
Get Down and Sruti
Peace of Mind

Album Description

Japanese exclusive release for the jazz fusion guitarist, features eight tracks, originally released in 1977. Sony. 1997.

Customer Reviews:

My vote.......2003-10-21

I would like to put in my vote for Natural Elements as the most bestest Shakti album. Just look at the cover! hehe

It's worth the more expensive CD for this one.

This will be my fourth purchase.......2000-11-17

This is my fourth purchase of this phenomenal album. Originally, I bought a cassette of it when it was relegated to the bargain bin many years ago. When I first played the album, I thought "oh no, another waste of money. No wonder it was so cheap" However, after listening to it again, the album got better. Each time I listened to it, it got better, and better, until I was taking it to workouts, and playing it during my spirited drives up mountainous roads. The power, grace and beauty of this music is something to behold. It is so inspiring, and stimulating, that I wore out two cassettes, and a vinyl album. Hopefully, this CD with last a bit longer. In this particular album, I think Shakti reached its zenith. The sound is unlike any other, and the quality is consistent throughout. Each player is a virtuoso in his own right, and the combination of them playing in feverish harmony is just mindboggling. It's very hard to describe, but if you can image four virtuosos playing at the limits of their instuments, and in perfect unison, then you get some idea. Truly and important work of art.

This will be my fourth purchase.......2000-11-17

Absolute Beauty and Perfection.......2000-03-21

The name John McLaughlin alone sends chills up my spine.Being a serious jazz guitarist myself,I find that John's music,from "Extrapolation" on has been a great journey.One in which he continues to grow and transform himself from album to album.The group Shakti,could be the greatest fusion combination ever.Their technical ability is unmatched,their communication with one another is telepathic,and their passion is nirvanic.They wrote some of the most absolutely beautiful and spiritual music that has ever graced this planet.This album is the sum of all parts of Shakti.The explosive melodies of The Daffodil & The Eagle,the rhythmic punch of Get Down and Sruti,The passion of Face to Face,and the poise and eloquence of Peace of Mind.This is the type of recording that seems to come out of a dream.A magical dream.And McLaughlin it seems,never loses touch with the spiritual and human side of music,whereas some of his peers who have the theoretical and technical abilities tend to give way to more glossy,flashy compositions with lots of notes but no real voice or message.McLaughlin remains the zenith of musical expression in my eyes.I recommend this album to any musician and non-musician alike who wishes to hear what heavenly ethereal beauty sounds like.

Wonderfully uplifting album.......1999-10-22

Absolutely superb, an auditory orgasmic experience. A joy to listen to, every track is fantastic. A "timeless" album (even if it was released in 1977). Mixes both western and eastern styles with grace, style and fluidity.

Average customer rating:

Chromosphere
Translucent
Manufacturer: TranslucenT
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Release Date: 2005-01-18

Tracks:

Dawn
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Chromosphere

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Natural Elements Live Sessions
Tropical Deep
Manufacturer: Zyx / Elbtal
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Natural Elements
Shakti
Manufacturer: Sbme Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000051SJA
Release Date: 2004-07-20

Tracks:

Mind Ecology
Face to Face
Come on Baby Dance With Me
Daffodil and the Eagle
Happiness Is Being Together
Bridge of Sighs
Get Down and Sruti
Peace of Mind

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