“A Symphony of Mantras” by Sacred Circles (Phillip Kanakis and Holly Fischer)
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
What is a mantra? A mantra is “a sacred word, phrase, sound, or syllable that is repeated to aid in meditation, concentration, or spiritual transformation.” Mantras are considered to be powerful tools to unlock spiritual energies or connect with the Divine.
While traditionally in Sanskrit, the repetition of a mantra chanted silently, aloud, or even written down, has the goal of calming the mind, improving focus, and fostering inner peace. Since we are all connected, I imagine that mantras also have the power to positively affect us all as a collective. Add a symphony orchestra, as we have here in the album “A Symphony of Mantras,” and you have something not only quite different and special, but extremely powerful. This is truly a magical musical love letter to the world.
In 2004, vocalist Holly Fischer and composer Phillip Kanakis began releasing mantra music under their duo’s name, Sacred Circles. Over the last two decades they have been able to establish a global audience for their music, receiving international recognition from several dignitaries in various countries. As well, their music has charted well in many countries worldwide, including Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Austria, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sweden, Indonesia, Netherlands, US and most recently, Greece.
Their new global 10-track musical mantra project consists of a coalition of over 70 artists from around the world spanning across 5 continents. Additionally, joining Holly and Phillip on this album are the FAMES Macedonian Symphony Orchestra, Macedonia PRO ARS Choir. This is all brought together to engender one simple message to and for humanity: Peace and harmony.
It’s epic. It’s memorable. It’s remarkable.
The album opens with a two-minute primarily instrumental introduction. This is beautiful, melodic, and relaxing. Soft wordless etheric vocals, keyboards, and strings, set the calming, peaceful and uplifting tone.
Following is the equally relaxing “Namah Shivaya.” As I understand it, this popular Hindu mantra is a form of salutation or prayer to Lord Shiva, one of the primary deities in Hinduism. This mantra can also be seen as a way to acknowledge the “divine within.” So, it’s the perfect piece to follow the lovely introduction. The vocals – male and female – make this balanced and harmonic.
The way I understand it, “Diva Tapati” is essentially about shining our brilliant divine light. The guitar is spectacular on this track, as are the vocals, lead and background, and all the rest, making this nicely contemporary and completely relatable. Just phenomenal.
“Om Mani Peme Hum” is transformational mantra used to achieve enlightenment, generate positive karma, and overcome obstacles on one’s spiritual path. Over the years, I’ve heard this done by multiple artists and in many different ways. I have to say, this is the best version I’ve heard in all this time. Calming, soothing, and flowing, this is gorgeous.
At this point, I would advise you to get the whole album, as this is a very special musical journey that shouldn’t be separated in any way, but rather, experienced as a whole. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you.
A few other brief highlights: “Jayo Munindassa” is a Buddhist chant believed to bring blessings and protection. “Tisarana” refers to a foundational practice in Buddhism, the “Triple Refuge.” “Om Shanti Om” is another piece we hear often. It’s a prayer for peace within oneself and for harmony in the world. This version is supremely peaceful.
There’s an “Interlude” in the album, which is even more beautiful than the introductory piece, if that is even possible. This is cinematic, flowing, and melodic. The orchestra shines here.
“Prayer for Peace” winds up this incredible album. With its rhythmic beat, wonderful guitars and instrumentation, plus “Om Shanti” vocals, here we have timeless mantras showcased in an ultra-modern way that makes real peace seemingly accessible to all. it’s the perfect close.
The list of credits on this album is astounding. Every track has an authentic, shining magnificence that is beyond anything mere words could describe. “A Symphony of Mantras” is a staggeringly ambitious undertaking where all the love in the world comes together through music. Spectacular.
Get it here: https://www.phillipkanakis.com/
