SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 43 Min.
Released by Polygram Records in 1995, this Irish instrumental New Age album is a collaboration between composer Rolf Lovland, who also handles pianos & keyboards, and violinist Fionnuala Sherry. Other contributors include keyboardists Bjorn Ole Rasch and Jon Kell Seljeseth; percussionist Noel Eccles; Des Moore on guitar and mandolin; harpist Andrea Marlish; and the RTE Concert Orchestra. The thirteen tracks are:
- Nocturne (running time: 3:11) includes Gunnhild Tvinnereim’s vocals; Asa Jinder on keyfiddle; and Hans Frederik Jacobsen on whistle.
- Pastorale (running time: 3:47) also features Davy Spillane on low whistle.
- Song from a Secret Garden (running time: 3:32) has David Agnew on oboe.
- Sigma (running time: 3:05) features Rhonan Sugrue’s boy soprano from the Irish National Chamber Choir and Davy Spillane on low whistle.
- Papillon (running time: 3:22) includes Deirdre Brady on flute.
- Serenade to Spring (running time: 3:12) features Hanks Fredrik Jacobsen on whistle.
- Atlantia (running time: 2:56) has Asa Jinder on keyharp; Davy Spillane on Uilleann pipe; and Hans Fredrik Jacobasen on Norwegian whistle.
- Heartstrings (running time: 3:22).
- Adagio (running time: 2:51) features David Agnew’s Cor Anglais.
- The Rap (running time: 2:31) has Davy Spillane on both low whistle & Uilleann pipe; Noel Eccles on percussion; Hans Fredrick Jacobsen on whistle; and Asa Jinder on keyfiddle.
- Chaconne (running time: 3:25) has David Agnew’s oboe and Davy Spillane on Uillean pipe.
- Cantoluna (running time: 3:29) features Jean Lechmar on clarinet.
- Ode to Simplicity (running time: 3:53).
REVIEW:
This serene album is virtually an extended 43-minute suite. Not only are the thirteen tracks beautifully rendered, their tranquil consistency makes Songs from a Secret Garden a gem for outdoor weddings; meditation; yoga; massage therapy; or even just as relaxing background noise for a good night’s sleep. Highly recommended!
PACKAGING:
The tracks and their running times are identified on the CD case’s back cover. The fold-out booklet insert provides insights to each song, as well as identifying its guest contributors and noting the track’s running time. Composer Rolf Lovland also includes a brief note to fans. Technical credits and thank-you’s are provided.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 10 Stars
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