Whenever
I need to rev up, chill out, or get inspired, I can usually find the
right music for the job. Here are some of my favorites, broken down
into categories that suit my style and my life. As you'll see, my tastes
are quite ecclectic. By no means are *all* of my favorites listed--
there just isn't enough room for all of them. But I am sure that you
will find a few of your favorites and maybe even a few to try out yourself.
Happy listening!
Music
for Ritual/Meditation:
Libana--A
Circle is Cast
This group of women sings some of the best ritual music I have ever
heard. Bliss.
R.
Carlos Nakai--Canyon Trilogy
Haunting, beautiful music by a master of the Native American flute.
This music takes you to on a journey through canyons and desert to the
center of your soul.
Baraka
Soundtrack
The film Baraka is composed of scenes of mystical and mundane
life from around the world set to music. The soundtrack is a composition
of world music that will take you places in your mind and heart.
Dead
Can Dance
I can't choose just one of the several Dead Can Dance recordings for
this list. Each are magical tools to me. It is difficult music to explain,
but universal music to hear.
Mickey
Hart--Planet
Drum
The drummer for the Grateful Dead, Mickey has an unerring ear for rhythms
that rouse your feet, mind, and soul from inactivity to full participation.
Great
for Repeat Performances*:
(for we who like to put the CD player on continuous play)
Afro
Celt Sound System--Volume 1: Sound Magic and Volume 2: Release
The fusion of African and Celtic music, rhythms, and vocals really get
my blood pumping and my heart soaring. Wonderful, magical stuff.
Deep
Forest--Deep Forest (I), Boheme (II), and Comparsa (III)
These French artists' collaborative effort to blend world music with
techno beats produces some very catchy and touching music. Deep Forest
draws its inspiration from the tribal peoples of Africa, Boheme
from Central and Eastern Euorpe and North Africa, and Comparsa from
Latin and Caribbean influences.
Various
Artists--Vision: The Music of Hildegard Von Bingen
Hildegard Von Bingen was a Christian mystic and
abbess who lived in the 11th century. These versions of her songs beautifully
fulfill her vision of music floating "like a feather on the breath
of God".
*These
albums could also be included in the Music for Ritual/Meditation category.
Get
Up and Go:
The
Police--Synchronicity
My favorite Police album. Who can resist the beat,
the lyrics, or for that matter, Sting?
Bob
Marley and the Wailers--Legend
This is one of those albums that everyone should have in their collection,
reggae fan or not. It is, quite simply, the best of the best.
Elton
John--Greatest Hits
He may like to dress up in silly outfits, but Elton can write and play
a damned fun song. Go ahead, give in and do the Crocodile Rock.
INXS--Kick
I listened to Kick almost exclusively for an entire summer when
I was a teenager and never got tired of it. I still don't.
David
Bowie--Changesbowie
All of Bowie's albums have great music on them, but this "greatest
hits" collection is wonderfully arranged and always gets me up
on my feet.
Take
a Deep Breath and Relax:
(not too mellow, but just enough
to take the edge off)
Sting--Ten
Summoner's Tales
I have always loved Sting's solo work, but this album seems to me to
be the most "complete". Fields of Gold has to be one
of my favorite songs of all time.
Sarah
McLachlan--Fumbling Towards Ecstacy
Her voice swoops and dips from ecstacy to despair. This album got me
through a very difficult period in my life and continues to be one I
reach for when I need solace and release.
Lenny
Kravitz--Are You Gonna Go My Way?
With the exception of the rocking title track, this CD is sweet, mellow
goodness. Could also go in a "Ready for Love" category, so
watch out!
Annie
Lennox--Diva
Annie's voice is an amazing instrument. Let her use it to bring a bit
of joy to your day.
Hooked
on Classics:
Pachabel--Canon
in D
One of my favorites of all time. The depths, the layers, and the repetition
all make for a wonderfully soothing piece.
Handel--Water
Music
The entire suite reminds me of my childhood ballet classes.
Vivaldi--The
Four Seasons
Another ballet memory.
Amadeus
Soundtrack
This movie soundtrack has most of my favorite Mozart compositions. My
favorite piece is Abduction of the Seraglio (Turkish Finale).
2000-2001 by Regina M. Raab
This page created: 21 February 2000
This page last updated: 18 February 2001
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