CD Review: John Adorney's 'The Wonder Well'

John Adorney feat. Daya
The Wonder Well
EverSound

The California-based acoustic and new age musician, John Adorney, brings together European soundscapes the are aurally-satisfying and very groovy. The electronic presence combines Enya with Ronan Hardiman. Mostly instrumental, The Wonder Well contains verses of delicate, engaging, and unforgettable beats, piano melodies, and sparkling atmospherics. Whether it is new age, electronic, instrumental, acoustic, neo-classical, or alternative pop, John Adorney knows how to create magical pieces of music delight. Daya's vocals on a few tracks only accentuate the instrumental capabilities of the music. The angelic washes, meditative rhythms, and awe-inspiring tunes are very well executed throughout. It seems every song is catchy and graceful with a moving delivery and a fanciful interplay between instruments that never gets old. Fans of Enya, Ronan Hardiman, and Vangelis will like its new age appeal and old world charm. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ireland's Meav Brings Us 'The Calling'

Meav
The Calling
Atlas Realisations/Warner

Meav's golden voice is angelic and crystal clear throughout her new release, The Calling. The heavenly vocals are steeped in new age concoctions wrapped in glistening particles of luscious ear candy. "The Calling" features angelic vocals and a scintillating acoustic guitar line backed with Enya-esque, symphonic reverie. "Light Flight" is a bit punchy with a rollicking acoustic guitar line and angelic, backup vocals. The song is very moving and jig-like with a contemporary edge. The lighter, "The Songline To Home," is a more serene tune with classical and new age characterizations that are very pleasant overall. Overall, Meav's voice is what stands out here. However, the affect could not be achieved without the presence of the instrumental backing. The fluid flutes, cascading vocals, and classical arrangements in a contemporary setting are very memorable and uplifting. If Heaven had a voice, Meav would be the vocalist. ~ Matthew Forss