“Fairy Fantasy” by David Arkenstone
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
Every track on David Arkenstone’s “Fairy Fantasy” album is an invitation to immerse yourself fully into a world of magical enchantment. Superbly crafted, with flowing, sophisticated, and mesmerizing melodies, here we are transported to a truly magical realm. “Fairy Fantasy” is an extraordinary escape into otherworldly splendor. Magnificent! – Dyan Garris, New Age Notes Radio
Prolifically creative, every song on David Arkenstone’s 11-track “Fairy Fantasy” album is an invitation to immerse yourself fully into a world of magical enchantment. Superbly crafted, with flowing, sophisticated, and mesmerizing melodies, here we are transported to a truly magical realm from which we do not want to return. “Fairy Fantasy” is an extraordinary escape into otherworldly splendor.
From the very first notes, there is an amazing feeling of remarkable awe inherent in “Fairy Fantasy.” Arkenstone’s emotionally evocative writing and ingenious gift of narrative flow are in full bloom here. Through luxurious harp melodies, heavenly vocals, melodic flute motifs, splendid violin, gentle percussion, and more, the listener is transported effortlessly to an enchanted dream world.
On the album, David played keyboards, guitar, accordion, bass, mandolin, harp, marimba, and percussion. Luanne Homzy performed on violin, Kimberly Zaleski played the flute, alto flute, bass flute, and piccolo.
For those that do not know, David Arkenstone first rose to prominence as a marquee artist with iconic New Age label, Narada. For almost 40 years, the composer, multi-instrumentalist, and five-time GRAMMY® nominee has reimagined New Age music with his well-developed musical aesthetic which encompasses Celtic, Nordic, and other world music sensibilities. He incorporates compositional ideas from classical and 1970s progressive rock along with a storyteller’s sense of dynamics and form. David’s music is inspired by literary legends such as Ian Fleming and J.R.R. Tolkien. Today, he continues his fruitfully fertile music career as a backbone of the Green Hill Music roster.
The album begins with “Gathering In The Glade.” A wonderful flute melody line draws us immediately into the magical world. Violin is beyond superb. Ethereal vocals add to the upliftment. It’s a celebration. This is wonderfully captivating and a perfect opening.
“Dawn Dance” is equally as charming. Guitar, flute, soft drumming, and more, all form a wonderful Celtic aesthetic. The melody is memorable and elevating to the spirit.
The album keeps getting better and better, if that is even possible, and certainly, you will want to get the whole thing. “Forest Of Enchantment” is supremely melodic, multi-layered, and truly “enchanting” in every way.
We can’t address every track here, but some other highlights: “Fairy Fantasy” is a standout on the album. This has a free flowing, gypsy kind of feel to it that is just lovely. Percussion is great, and the melody is as well. This is full of mystery and intrigue. “Woodland Pixies” is gentle and beautiful and has an amazing music video as well. It’s an experience.
“Magic Of The Faires” is entrancing, painting a sonic landscape that is sparkly and tantalizing. “Stream Of Renewal” is atmospheric and lightly percolating, carrying us along nicely into a state of relaxation.
The otherworldly vocals on “Fairies Of The Night,” along with the steady drumming, and flowing melody, transport us further to a whole other place. This is just great.
This truly amazing album closes out with “Gentle Fairy Slumber.” Supremely ethereal vocals and soft synths create a gentle and dreamy atmosphere that is the perfect close for a magnificent album that we do not want to end. This is brilliant, elevating, and gorgeous, all through. We definitely want more.
Get it here or on your favorite digital platform: https://www.davidarkenstone.com
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