Mystic Voyager by Peter Sterling
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Staff
Peter Sterling’s album, “Mystic Voyager,” is a captivating musical journey that transcends boundaries and takes listeners on an enchanting musical voyage through realms of mystical wonder. This album – his 16th – showcases Peter’s exceptional talent as a harpist and composer, as he weaves a tapestry of melodic beauty and ethereal ambiance throughout.
From the very first notes of “Mystic Voyager,” listeners are transported to a realm where time and space seem to melt away. The album’s serene, multi-layered, mesmerizing melodies evoke a sense of inner peace and invite listeners to embark on a spiritual odyssey. And there, we go. Each track on the album is carefully crafted to create a seamless flow, allowing the listener to immerse themselves fully in the mystical atmosphere.
Joining Peter on the album, in his largest collaborative ensemble to date, is a host of first-rate musical talent. Here we have contributions from, to name a few, #1 Billboard charting guitarist, Steve Oliver, Grammy®-winning pianist, Darlene Koldenhoven, Grammy®-nominated Renaissance flute player, David Young, violinist, Dov, vocalists, Chianne, Seay, and Nina Starsong, as well as Richard Hardy on flute and saxophone.
The nine compositions found on the album serve as a reflection of Peter’s own interesting, multi-faceted life (which includes being a longtime resident of that mystical, magical place, Sedona, Arizona), encompassing a multitude of world travels, and the inspirational people he has met along the way. It’s been a mystic voyage.
Throughout “Mystic Voyager,” Peter skillfully incorporates various instruments and sounds, such as harp, flute, piano, synthesizers, violin, guitar, bass, wordless vocals, and atmospheric effects. This fusion of elements creates a rich and multi-dimensional sonic experience that transports the listener effortlessly to otherworldly realms.
The album opens with the extraordinarily beautiful, “Invocation.” Here we are treated to the angelic vocals of Seay as well as Nina Starsong’s “light language,” haunting flute, and gorgeous harp. It’s the perfect opening to this stellar album.
Following is the equally beautiful, “Night Wind.” This has got a gently Eastern flair and a mesmerizing, hypnotic feel. The percussion (Prem Vidu) is wonderful, giving this a great beat and a lot of movement as we embark on the journey.
Harp, sax, flutes, and the sultry vocal of Nina Starsong make “Cosmic Lover,” exquisitely sensual and otherworldly. Gently strummed harp, flute, guitar, accordion, percussion, bass, and the gentle vocals of Chianne make “Across The Great Divide” another to love and get lost in.
“Bahia Del Sol” conjures up images of powdery white sandy beaches, and the turquoise blue waters of Cancun, perhaps, or some other equally tranquil spot. Here we find ourselves wonderfully relaxed, letting go of all that may concern us. This is gorgeous.
The previously released and mostly improvised, “The Long Cold Winter,” is here too, with accordion and other elements giving it an Eastern European feel. Through this, Peter was led to feel inspired to collaborate with award-winning Slovenian animator, Sara Pozin, to create a video tribute to the people of Ukraine as they continue to struggle against Russia. The haunting, multiple award-winning video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/8wNMsqrTyJM
The light and airy, “Light of Your Love” follows. How perfect. The violin (by Dov) is outstanding, and along with all the other harmonies, melodies, and textures, this is a definite favorite on the album, as if one could even possibly choose just one.
Beautiful harp, Dov’s heartfelt, soulful violin again, and Darlene Koldenhoven’s piano, help make “Angels Ascending” yet another favorite. This is just gorgeous, and indeed angelic in every note and nuance.
The album closes out with the heavenly, “Wings of Light,” where we once again have harp, of course, as well as Darlene’s gentle piano, along with the stunningly beautiful, melodic flute performance by Richard Hardy. Sweet saxophone makes this even more lovely. Truly, the perfect close.
Beyond its musical prowess, “Mystic Voyager” seems to carry a deeper message. It serves as an invitation to explore one’s own inner landscape, to embrace the mysteries of life, and to embark on a personal journey of self-discovery. The album’s evocative melodies and tranquil rhythms encourage introspection, mindfulness, and a connection to the higher spiritual dimensions.
Peter Sterling’s “Mystic Voyager” is an exquisite testament to the power of music to uplift, inspire, and transport. It is a sonic expedition that resonates deeply with the soul, inviting listeners to embark on their own voyage of self-exploration and spiritual awakening. With its enchanting melodies and profound resonance, this album stands as a true masterpiece in the realm of New Age and mystical music. A must have album.
Releasing June 2, 2023, you may pre-save on Spotify through Peter’s official artist website: https://www.harpmagic.com
A full list of credits can be found on Peter’s website. The artist, Seay, appears courtesy of Tuscan Sun Music
Press/Radio Contact
Sherry Finzer
Higher Level Media
