Credits:
A & R Direction, Concept and Sequencing:
Jeff Payne
Re-Mastering:
Chas Ferry
Design:
Doerte Lau & Wolfgang Fenchel
Thanks to all of the artists and participating labels, Steve Weber, Orlando Bellamy, Howard Sapper, Brian Schall
and the Earthtone staff.
Reviews:
Initially drawn to this release by Miriam Stockley's vocal track "There," Earthtone Records' latest new age
compilation Ascension (ETD-7913, 1999) is "a transformational experience, [and] a heavenly carriage to greater
self-awareness and attunement." A&R Director Jeff Payne is responsible for the album's concept, sequencing
and selections from various Earthtone and other recording artists. Best listened to either with headphones or
directly seated between the the speakers to enjoy the intricately producted imaging and stereo phasing, this
warm album of primarily synthesizer melodies includes vocal work in several of the tracks. However, unlike
many of the albums reviewed on this website, Ascension is first and foremost an instrumental recording and the
relatively narrow variety of overall sound works well to deliver a relaxing experience despite the lack of extensive
female vocals.
This is a soothing and rich album with a good selection of primarily instrumental tracks by new age artists.
The narrow mixture of textures works well to highlight the vocals within the album and the sequencing of the
tracks builds effectively to Miriam Stockley's ballad. A good collection, it delivers the goods promised within
the title. It is indeed a relaxing listen!
Russ Elliot
Musical Discoveries
December 1999
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