Konstantin Rega

1 day ago | spectrumculture.com | Konstantin Rega

A new group ready to make its mark, the Atlantic Jazz Collective seeks inspiration from the natural world. On Seascape, saxophonist Mike Murley, pianist Florian Hoefner, bassist Jim Vivian, drummer Joe LaBarbera and vocalist Norma Winstone offer modern jazz originals (from musicians like Kenny Wheeler, Steve Swallow and Ralph Towner) that highlight layered compositions, intriguing improvisations and cautious teamwork.

3 days ago | spectrumculture.com | Konstantin Rega

Before Enya, the new age genre was mostly considered background music. Though the term itself can sometimes seem like more of a marketing gimmick than a musical category, the songs often utilize ambient aspects with synthesizers, reverb, acoustic instruments and airy vocals. When Enya’s Watermark was released in 1988, it showed that it was time to reconsider the genre’s standing.

1 week ago | spectrumculture.com | Konstantin Rega

Place and setting might be important to writers and poets, but they also hold strong sway over musicians and composers. Norwegian tubist Daniel Herskedal finds wintery inspiration in his homeland, and he creates beautiful pieces that sing with a melancholy that pierces through the skin like a fresh frost goes through grass. Movements of Air features Eyolf Dale on piano and Helge Andreas Norbakken on drums and percussion.

3 weeks ago | spectrumculture.com | Konstantin Rega

California-based artist (Angel) Deradoorian looks to herself, her world and her spirit to find inspiration and make music. Ready for Heaven contemplates the earthly plane and the heavenly one, as well as the self and how we navigate our lives. These nine open-hearted tracks will stir listeners’ minds and emotions. Though there are personal messages within the pieces, they are not so rigid as to prevent people from connecting with the songs and bringing their own meanings to them.

1 month ago | spectrumculture.com | Konstantin Rega

Second albums can be problematic; they can also be invigorating. Sister Ray saw success with their debut, and they shall certainly see similar praise with Believer. Led by Toronto-based singer-songwriter Ella Coyes, the group embraces an alternative folk filled with subtle reverb, steady guitar and raw yet tender vocals. Fans will be intrigued by the stronger sense of self, the modified sonic qualities, and newcomers will find the softer tones matched with expressive vocals alluring.