Shapeshifter

Dan Ricketts, Central CA Flute Circle Coordinator - Review in Voices of the Wind, Vol. 2, 2004
From the first track to the last, the listener will find this new release interesting, varied, lyrical, soothing, and melodic.

Product Description
Shapeshifter, released April 2004, is their debut album. In it, the Native American flute, with its warm resonant tones, speaks in a voice that is wordless, and meticulously faithful to emotional truth, while the guitar provides a musical ground that gives each song unique texture and body. The guitar’s rhythmic modulating harmonies and the flute’s warm resonant tones blend in a carefully crafted interplay. Each song is unique in its intensity and tone, the musicians evoking a wide range of voicings from their instruments. From the sharp barks to the sonorous swells of Kenneth’s many flutes, to the delicate silvery or languid notes of Garth’s guitar, listener’s will feel the honest emotion at the core of each song. Innocence and awe are as aptly conveyed as mystery and seduction, each song a playful invitation to the listener to enter into the tapestry of their musical landscapes. Once there, you will know that you have heard the voice of "Elysium Calling."

Shapeshifter

Shapeshifter,Elysium Calling,MyStory Music,International,Music of the Earth and Sky--Native American Acoustic.,New Age

Average customer rating: Hypnotic and Just as Brilliant as their first Release a very fine record Mostly Uninspired Good All The Way Through BETTER THAN ITS PREDECESSOR! GREAT CD!

Shapeshifter Marcy Playground Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Marcy Playground MP3 Marcy Playground, MP3 Feeling Strangely Fine See the Sun ASIN: B0000296VE Release Date: 1999-11-02

Tracks:

1. It's Saturday
2. America
3. Bye Bye
4. All The Lights Went Out
5. Secret Squirrel
6. Wave Motion Gun
7. Rebel Sodville
8. Sunday Mail
9. Pigeon Farm
10. Never
11. Love Bug
12. Our Generation

Customer Reviews:

Hypnotic and Just as Brilliant as their first Release.......2006-12-21

Great album! Not one bad track. "Sunday Mail" and "Pigeon Farm Boy" rank up there with the greatest songs of the 1990s. If you liked the first album, you will not be let down by this spectacular release. A very underrated effort.

a very fine record.......2004-04-02

i am a very big(as in i love this band, not as in i am fat) fan of Marcy Playground. I'm not sure whether i like this one or the first album better. it depends on your mood. the first one is about 75% acoustic, so if better for late at night or when you're sleepy or something like that. this one is about 75% electric, so it's better for cleaning your house or something. i think the best songs on here are "It's Saturday", "All the lights went out"(a rare MP love song), "Wave Motion Gun"(my favorite), "Rebel Sodville" and "Pigeon Farm". so, basicly if you liked the first one, chances are you're gonna like this one. so i say buy it.

Mostly Uninspired.......2003-07-23

Following their delicious debut cd, John Wozniak and co. soared into parvenu status in the pop world, riding on their hit single Sex & Candy. Marcy Playground had a pretty good chance to increase their fan base and really blossom into one of the great alternative bands of the mid 90s. Sadly, this album is an average, retrograde cd that is certainly not as good as the band's debut. Some promising glimmers of light shine through on Wave Motion Gun and Pigeon Farm, but the album is clearly lacking in the ebullience and cohesiveness that abounded in the bands previous outing. True afficionados of MP's first cd might want to check this out for the few good tracks on here, but for anyone being introduced to Marcy Playground for the first time, check out their debut.

Good All The Way Through.......2003-04-05

You probably know Marcy Playground as the band that sings "Sex & Candy". Well they aren't a one hit wonder. Their simple melodic music can create moods between moods. If you can't decipher the lyrics you can still soak in the warm guitar strums and versatile tempos. Marcy Playground themselves may not even know how good they are. Less is MORE and you will get MORE for your money when you buy this CD. After you listen to it all the way through a few times you buy the self titled first CD and cross your fingers for the next one.

BETTER THAN ITS PREDECESSOR! GREAT CD!.......2002-12-23

This CD is awesome!!! It is definitely more distorted electric guitar than the first record and less acoustic stuff than the other album. Some good tracks are: "It's Saturday", "Pigeon Farm" and my favorite is "Never" This CD is harder than the first one which in my opinion makes it alot better... it hasnt left my CD player. ITS AWESOME!

Average customer rating: Transport yourself to another world For Truth A Journey to remember...

Shamballa ~ JourneyHome Shapeshifter Manufacturer: Visionary Music, Inc. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Ambient | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Odyssey - Chakra Balancing Music Abundance Series: ReJuva (2 CD Set) DNA Activation: LevelOne Series (4 CDs plus Companion Guide) Healing Music DNA Activation: LevelOne Companion Guide (includes 4 CDs) ASIN: B00005U2G8 Release Date: 2001-09-11

Tracks:

1. Abundance
2. Opening
3. Clearing

Album Description

This CD contains powerful multidimensional waveforms, providing you with a frequency map that leads you closer to your personal connection with the Shamballic current. Allow the vibrations to move through your bio-energetic matrix — your physical being and all layers of your auric field and beyond. Listen deeply, follow the waveforms — up and down, the ins and outs, spiraling round and round with the sound — Ride The Light. As the music expands, pulsates, and modulates, feel yourself doing so as well. Go deeper than you have ever gone before. Let yourself go, let yourself explore this multidimensional current of information from a non-linear realm of understanding. See your own omni-dimensional self, your dynamic potentials unfolding, in the mirror of the music. Speak to the masters that hold the Light in Shamballa, ask them for guidance in walking your path. Move beyond all thoughts that create limitation and fear and enter the gates with grace and with ease. Let the music begin the process of clearing away the old thoughts and beliefs, awakening to new possibilities.

This first CD release is just the beginning of this on-going series focused on the Shamballic current. Additional offerings will be added to this project over time in the form of music and multimedia.

Customer Reviews:

Transport yourself to another world.......2006-11-16

When I first listened to this CD I did not have much expectation. Electronic-sounding music is not my cup of tea. However, I was attracted to the artwork and the concept, so I bought it and played it one night to fall asleep to, just to see what would happen. I was quickly drawn into a receptive, altered state in which I began to "feel" the music. I then began to see in my mind's eye all sorts of magical and wondrous things (electric blue dolphins synchronized swimming, a UFO I was on board, and other things too difficult to put into words but equally amazing). Everytime I listen to it, I have a different experience, and while I already have some capability to have visions on my own, they are distinctly different and are very much stepped up with this CD. I believe Shapeshifter helps you through sound and vibration and imagery to realize the multi-dimensional being that you are.

For Truth.......2006-08-07

This CD has been a major change in my life in many ways and forms beyond anything I have ever felt. As I wrote in a previous review (DNA Activation #2) I was a big skeptic because of a few so called "Psychics" who were into this only to get the mean green and help no one really see. People who were more like motivational speakers than true Light works and this my friend is a way of self-exploration on a level I never thought I would experience and it feels wonderful. You should buy it ^_^

A Journey to remember..........2002-03-01

Listening to this CD has allowed me to journey in wonderous and familiar places.

Average customer rating:

Shapeshifter Aaron Ross Manufacturer: Grass Roots Record Co. LLC ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B000RGU8EA Release Date: 2007-07-26

Tracks:

1. Pass The Peace Pipe
2. Mama Lonely Wolf
3. Elevator Blues
4. Looking Glass Mass
5. Mississippi Burnin'
6. Sin Is A Spell
7. The Mountain
8. Made In Stone
9. Speak The Truth

Product Description

Aptly described by its title, Aaron Ross solo effort Shapeshifter is more than a listening experience but a poetic endeavor that explores the scope of life. Each song tells a magnificently dynamic tale, complete with a lyrical imagery reminiscent of greats like Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie, and sung with the heartfelt resolve that makes Ross voice one-of-a-kind. At first listen, it s hard to believe the front man for California rockers Hella had a cache of folk-inspired and orchestral-touched song secreted in his soul but as each verse unlocks his impassioned reflection it is clear they ve been burgeoning since long ago. Aaron Ross has most recently been known as the powerful voice of the experimental rock outfit Hella, but in his local community of Nevada City, CA, he is the most respected of the area s most prominent musicians and his reputation as a devoted family man may explain the sparks that developed into the beautifully arranged Shapeshifter. Each experience, whether weathered or uplifting, led to the blossoming of each song from beginning to finish and each contributor on the album, from cello to drum, was given the liberty to alter and explore their parts as they saw fit. Calling on friends Neal Morgan of Joanna Newsom s Ys Street Band, Dan Elkan and David Torch of Them Hills, Jonathan Hischke of Kings & Queens and cellist Luke Janela, Ross fashioned the picture and let each musician fill in the color. Ross enlisted the help of Elkan on production as well (also of Hella and Holy Smokes fame), reasoning: I believe you should work only with people who believe in your music as much as it were there own and he did, everyone who played on the record did. Written in the fall of 2006 and recorded early 2007, the result is a stunning example of the splendor created when a handful of gifted musicians align their spirits. Each track is a contemplative journey complete with a beginning, climax and finale. Ross tenor voice, always unwavering, leads the way as tumultuous drums juxtapose with spry cello melodies on the opening track Pass the Peace Pipe. On Looking Glass Mass , a folk romp that could easily be passed down from one generation to the next provides a lighthearted undercurrent to powerful words on the simplicity of life: You can laugh and you can cry but everybody still must die. Charged words of freedom and spirituality take the spotlight on Mississippi Burnin , as a guitar lullaby summons the listener closer before culminating into an all-out jam. The album s finale, Speak the Truth , showcases Ross remarkable vocal agility and leaves the listener with a resounding message on humanity.

Average customer rating: Physically Mezmerizing Amazing Spiritual Growth Tools A Treasured Edition

DNA Activation: LevelOne Series (4 CDs plus Companion Guide) Manufacturer: Visionary Music, Inc. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Ambient | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Odyssey - Chakra Balancing Music Shamballa ~ JourneyHome Abundance Series: ReJuva (2 CD Set) Chakra Dhyana The Energy Medicine Kit ASIN: B00005NUWB Release Date: 2001-01-01

Tracks:

1. DNA Activation #1
2. DNA Activation #2
3. DNA Activation #3
4. DNA Activation #4

Album Description

This 4 CD set is accompanied by Companion Guide. Each CD contains multi-dimensional, shapeshifting, organic soundscapes channeled with clear and impeccable intent from a deep connection with the Creative Muse. This cybershamanic ambient music is a transcendent and profoundly powerful tool for awakening and activating the full 12 strand DNA codex - our bridge between the multiple dimensions of matter and the Divine. The Companion Guide provides insightful transmissions about the vast potential of this transformational music - the next step in sound healing.

From the deepest space within, waveforms of a higher implicate order resonate the Light Body and the DNA matrix, which contain the blueprint for manifesting the multidimensional wonder and magic of all that you are and can truly become. The music and words in this truly unique project are powerful tools that connect you to your divine spirituality; balancing the chakra system, awakening past life memories and activating your evolutionary potential.

Customer Reviews:

Physically Mezmerizing.......2006-12-26

The energy i felt listening to this series the first time was very similar to what i felt when i became certified for Reiki III, i asked my local Reiki Master about DNA Activation and he said he'd tried it on his own through meditation and he highly recommended it.

The first time i tried the CDs, i laid down and listened to all four CDs with headphones on (over 3 hours of music). Before listening to the CDs i fixed my intent to "Heal and Activate my DNA, raise my vibration, expand my heart and awareness".

Immediately i started vibrating and this lasted the entire time, nerves in my face and feet started twitching uncontrollably (though not at the same time and not for very long, just long enough to let me know there was a definite correlation between the music and my physical body).

Vibrations and tingling occurred at different places in my body and at different times but were strongest around my Heart Chakra. At one point my head felt like it became very dense and heavy, if felt like my head was buried deep in my pillow and grounded to the earth, visually i saw colored lights and towards the end of the 4th CD, i felt waves of energy flowing from my head to my feet. When i got up my entire body continued to vibrate, especially noticeable in my upper lip where the nerves were twitching, again this did not last very long.

I listen to all four CDs in a row at bedtime, each CD is roughly 45 minutes long and i'm usually out cold before the first one ends but the manual says it's fine to sleep to this music and the effects still register. I hear something new and find it is a different experience each time i listen.

R.E.
Safety Harbor, FL

Amazing Spiritual Growth Tools.......2005-04-29

Shapeshifter's Albums are definitely a must have. The more you listen the more you get out of them. Every fibre of your being will resonate with these soundscapes, and transport you to realms one dreams of. The best meditation and spiritual growth sounds I have ever experienced.

Thank you Shapeshifter

A Treasured Edition.......2002-03-01

This series is a absolute must for anyone seeking spiritual growth and a pathway back to home. A unique combination of sounds and vibrations,which when listened to,allows one to explore new levels of awareness and balance.

Average customer rating:

Soulstice Shapeshifter Manufacturer: Independent ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Drum & Bass | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Dance & DJ | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Riddim Wise Based on a True Story ASIN: B000LC51VK Release Date: 2007-01-22

Tracks:

1. New Day Come
2. In the Rain
3. Earth
4. Bring Change
5. Electric Dream
6. Equinox
7. Southern Lights
8. Heat of the Moment
9. Stryka
10. One
11. Ride
12. Summer Haze

Album Description

Shapeshifter are New Zealand's top drum and bass band and favourite live act. Their highly anticipated third album 'Soulstice' is has a star line up featuring Shapeshifter's artistic talents and feature vocals from some of New Zealand's top artists. Shapeshifter's sound has evolved to transcend genre definition, taking elements from jazz, latin, reggae, soul, rock, hip hop and electronica, and blending them live, into a truly diverse and overwhelming dancefloor experience.

Album Details

Shapeshifter Are New Zealand's Top Drum and Bass Band and Favorite Live Act. Their Highly Anticipated Third Album 'soulstice' is Has a Star Line Up featuring Shapeshifter's Artistic Talents and Feature Vocals from Some of New Zealand's Top Artists. Shapeshifter's Sound Has Evolved to Transcend Genre Definition, Taking Elements from Jazz, Latin, Reggae, Soul, Rock, Hip Hop and Electronica, and Blending them Live, Into a Truly Diverse and Overwhelming Dancefloor Experience.

Average customer rating: Very good

Odyssey - Chakra Balancing Music Manufacturer: Visionary Music, Inc. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Ambient | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Shamballa ~ JourneyHome DNA Activation: LevelOne Series (4 CDs plus Companion Guide) Abundance Series: ReJuva (2 CD Set) Healing Music DNA.LevelOne.Activation 1 ASIN: B000062TU8 Release Date: 2000-01-01

Tracks:

1. Grounding
2. Chakra Balancing
3. Expand Auric Field
4. Multidimensional Journeys

Album Description

The Odyssey was the original composition designed for use in our sound & light environment of the same name. It was designed as an introductory piece of music that would balance the chakras and expand and stretch the entire auric field. It takes several sessions to get the bodies to understand the sound patterns and vibrations within this piece, so it is best to work with it several times letting yourself go deeper and deeper into the undulating soundscapes. The rhythms and drum beats will weave in and out with the purpose of stimulating the lower chakras and keep you aware and awake. The key to working with this CD is not to fall asleep and go out as you do in meditiation sometimes, but to work with your chakras and energy field to harmonize and balance. It is a combination of passive/aggressive participation. You will find that if you work with it at least 7 times, you will begin to adjust to the patterns. After you feel that you are attuned to the process, you ! will be able to use it as needed to realign. It is highly recommended that you use this CD before the DNA Activation CDs as it will prepare your vehicle for remaining in a state of deep conscious awareness. This is the state of consciousness where you have the most potential for working with your DNA consciously.

Customer Reviews:

Very good.......2006-08-07

I am into many things, Reiki, Magick, Telekensis and so on. But this CD does wonders for the Charkas and helps balance them out meanwhile expanding the aura field. It is an amazing work of heart, it takes a while to get used to since sometimes it sounds like something you'd heart in the background of a anime movie lol. But it's well worth it, I hope you all enjoy it too.

Average customer rating:

Myth, Magic & Mystery Shapeshifter Manufacturer: Visionary Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Abundance Series: ReJuva (2 CD Set) ASIN: B000BUUKTA Release Date: 2000-01-01

Tracks:

1. Dolphin and the Shaman
2. Mysteries of the Crystal Skulls
3. Passage through the Dreamtime
4. Clouds
5. Shapeshifter
6. Moondancer
7. The Road Less Travelled
8. Alchemy

Product Description

8 shamanic journeys that invite you to travel deep into inner realms of imagination and creativity. Excellent for visualization and developing clairvoyant abilities. Recommended for driving, creative playtime, dancing/ movement & work environments as well as creative meditation work. Babies & children also love this CD as it contains a variety of unusual and evocative sounds that stimulate the creative spark. Each cut is a mini soundtrack into other worlds of adventure. A description of each story is presented as an aid for visualization.

Average customer rating: Do yourself a favor and leave this one on the shelf.... Wow!!!!!!!! A return to sanity A rocking medley of traditional folk Tight ensemble celtic-folk-rock

Shapeshifter Tempest Manufacturer: Magna Carta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music New Age | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Fusion | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Rock | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Double-Cross Balance Turn of the Wheel The Gravel Walk Surfing to Mecca ASIN: B00008YJDI Release Date: 2003-05-20

Tracks:

1. Tamosher
2. Medley: The Nexus/Catalina Island/Bordersholm
3. Old Man at the Mill
4. Natural Law
5. Byker Hill
6. Carnival
7. Coalminers': The Coalminer's Reel/Lads of Laois/Banks of Ireland
8. Winter Night
9. Fjellmannjenta/Numedalshalling/Kell
10. Cruel Brother/The Tempest Reel/Sue's Reel/Maid of Mount Kisco

Album Description

Since forming in 1988, Tempest has delivered a globally-renowned hybrid of high-energy folk-rock fusing Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences and other world music elements. Shapeshifter, the group's tenth album and fifth for Magna Carta, showcases a band at its creative peak. Featuring 10 tracks split 50-50 between original compositions and rocked-up traditional pieces, the album represents a level of finesse and focus that cements Tempest's status as America's premier Celtic rock outfit.

Album Description

More than just a folk-rock band, the Celtic themes and traditional folk-rock songs on this record are interpreted by a Norwegian singer, a Cuban drummer, a Bay Area bassist, an Irish guitarist, and a fiddle player who has worked with legends Richard Thompson and John Renbourn. After 14 years, they continue to tour, and will be making high profile appearances at large summer festivals. Magna Carta. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Do yourself a favor and leave this one on the shelf...........2005-12-05

This band is great for people who don't know anything about folk music. Use it to introduce your indie-rock friends to folk music. However, if you're a true folk fan, you're going to be mighty disappointed.

There are a few essential things that would make this album (and this band) better. First of all, generally speaking, fiddles should be kept in tune. It doesn't have to be a standard tuning, it can be an odd cross-tuning, but any sort of tuning at all would certainly help out. Sounds, er, obvious, huh? Well, explain that to these guys.

Secondly, it makes for a nice change when songs sound different from each other. Tempo-wise, tuning-wise, rhythm-wise.... it doesn't really matter, but a little variety is nice. These guys don't seem to have that figured out either.

This album (and band) makes a relatively cheesy attempt to make folk cool, but they fail miserably. Do yourself a favor and grab an album by The Horseflies, The Duhks, Donna the Buffalo, The Red Stick Ramblers, The Mammals, or any one of the other great "new trad" bands out there.

Wow!!!!!!!!.......2003-10-30

All I can say is wow. I thought that no album could out do their 1995 release "Turn of the Wheel", but Shapeshifter is in the running.

Enjoy it loudly.

A return to sanity.......2003-09-18

This is a really decent step back in the right direction for Tempest. This is vast improvement over Tempest's previous effort "Balance", which would have more appropriately been titled "Out of Balance." That album was all over the board: sloppy, inconsistent production, a mediocre selection of songs, and a sound that could best be described as a failed attempt at annoying, abrasive, harsh heavy metal. In contrast, on the much less pretentious and showy "Shapeshifer" Tempest does not try to be something it is not. Here Tempest accepts itself for what it is, which is a very good folk-rock band, not a heavy metal band. The entire group is in a comfortable, relaxed groove here. This is a true composite of Tempest's sound through the years. It sounds like a combination of early, pre-Magna-Carta-era Tempest and Turn of the Wheel/Gravel Walk, but without all the bombast of those two recordings. Sue Draheim's fiddle playing is smooth and polished, and while it lacks the raw energy of the long-departed Michael Mullin, it adds a warm character to the sound. Sue's vocals provide a nice counterpoint to Leif's vocals, lending a new twist to the Tempest sound. The players all complement each other beautifully without any one member sounding like he or she is trying to show off. In short, all the problems of the previous release "Balance" have been corrected; the production is crisp, smooth and consistent; the annoying harsh, abrasive metal sound has been abandoned; and the selection of songs is much better. Overall, this return to the classic Tempest sound is a fine effort from the band. If you are a Tempest fan, particularly of their early pre-Magna-Carta-era stuff, you will enjoy this very much.

A rocking medley of traditional folk.......2003-09-02

Tempest expertly infuses ballads and reels with rock, giving traditional folk music a new energy as well as contributing some original pieces that are equally timeless. I like this album even better than their last (titled "Balance"). Though each track is distinct and stands well on its own, they all complement one another and play almost seamlessly as a whole. Maybe I'm partial since I first heard Tempest live as the current ensemble of musicians, but I think newcomer violinist Sue Draheim's harmony vocals add a sweet texture the previous album did not have. Then again, there's just something about the female voice in general that gives authenticity to the emotional layer in folk ballads. At any rate, having seen some of Tempest's live performances, I can attest that all of its current members are highly talented and treat the craft of blending folk and rock with a professionalism that is entirely trustworthy. Listening to this album is like gathering around a home fire and being entertained by a captivating storyteller. Definitely worth hearing...again and again.

Tight ensemble celtic-folk-rock.......2003-05-21

Tempest is a celtic-folk-rock band that reminds me of Fairport Convention in its heyday. This is their tenth CD, but the first with this line-up.

The CD has cohesiveness, despite several different styles of music. The band really plays as a true ensemble, with leads being shared by the 3 lead instruments (guitar, fiddle, mandolin). It seems like the band has made a conscious effort to get closer to their live sound than previous releases, and this is an excellent decision.

After listening several times I realized that I didn't notice the rhythm section. The reason being that the drums (Adolfo Lazo) and bass (Mark Skowronek) play exactly perfectly for each song. Both play interesting parts that never "stand out" because of inappropriateness or over playing. The rhythm section is superb (and I'm a guitarist, so I very seldom give praise to a rhythm section). Adolfo continues to be the heartbeat of the Tempest sound while never getting repetitive or boring.

Sue Draheim's fiddle has a very warm and rich sound (production by Robert Berry) that just highlights her beautiful playing. Sue really gets to the heart of the song with her playing and makes the melodies come alive, without overpowering the band. It sounds like Sue used an acoustic violin rather than her electric violin, this really adds to the harmonic resonance, and gives it a depth and warmth.

Ronan Carroll is the newest member of the band, and an excellent guitarist. Based on this recording, you would think he'd been in the band for years. His playing varies nicely from melodic and mellow to almost heavy metal sound. Like all members of Tempest, his playing fits the songs exactly as needed without overplaying.

Lief Sorbye, the lead vocalist and mandolin player, as always gives a strong and dynamic performance. Lief is one of the few singers who seems to live the song as he sings it.

There's an old Incredible String Band song that has the line "You know all the words and you've sung all the notes, but you've never quite learned the sung you've sung". This is NOT the case with Tempest; they seem to have learned the songs very well.

The harmony singing on this release is very different than prior Tempest releases due to the two high voices of Sue Draheim and Mark Skowronek. In all cases, the harmonies, really work well in supporting the songs. Of particular note are Tamosher and Cruel Brother. On Winter Night, Mark uses a different register, and it really is a nice counter point to Lief Sorbye's lead vocal.

The only weakness I see is in some of the song choices. Some songs work great live, but have a tendency to get stale on repeated listening on CD. The two that I think don't hold up are Old Man At The Mill and Byker Hill.

The traditional choices other that the two above are outstanding - Tamosher, Coalminers', Fjellmannjenta and Cruel Brother. The original material - Catalina Island, Natural Law, Carnival and Winter Night - is as strong as the above traditional tunes.

There are a few standout tracks. Coalminers' is one of the best instrumental pieces that Tempest has done. Strong melodies, excellent playing. Tamosher and Cruel Brother rank up there with the best of traditional material played by a rock band (think Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span, etc.) Winter Night written by Mark is a very pleasant surprise, with a strong tune and good lyrics. The highlight of the original songs was for me - Natural Law, with strong tune and good lyrics, somehow this song just gets me every time.

The best track of all, and the only reason you need for buying this CD, is Cruel Brother. At 10 minutes and 5 seconds, it's too short (and very seldom do long tracks justify their length.) Cruel Brother flows from section to section without ever seeming forced. The fiddle moves it along in the beginning, and then the true Tempest ensemble sound takes over, and you don't notice if the melody is played by fiddle mandolin or guitar. Beautiful harmonies from Sue and Mark augment an impressive lead vocal from Lief.

Overall, the best CD from Tempest so far. Don't miss this one.

Average customer rating: Wonderful! Take a bow Daevid... Hey! This is actually pretty good! Gong - 'Shapeshifter' Gong shapeshifts again! DIVINE

Shapeshifter Gong Manufacturer: Lightyear ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Space Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Flying Teapot (Radio Gnome Invisible, Pt. 1) Magick Brother From Here to Eternitea Acid Motherhood Expresso II ASIN: B000003TQM Release Date: 1997-07-15

Tracks:

1. Gnomerique
2. Shapeshifter
3. Hymnalayas
4. Dog-O-Matic
5. Spirit With Me
6. Mr. Albert Parkin
7. Raindrop Tablas
8. Give My Mother A Soul Call
9. Heaven's Gate
10. Snake Tablas
11. Loli
12. Can You: You Can
13. Confiture De Rhubarbier
14. Parkin Triumphant
15. Longhaired Tablas
16. Elephant La Tete
17. Mother's Gone
18. Elephant La Cuisse
19. White Doves
20. Gnomoutro
21. Goddess Invocation/Om Riff

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful! Take a bow Daevid..........2006-07-23

Oh yes, I absolutely love this album. Although it has a different feel than the earlier 70s albums, it is fresh, clean sounding, (and less zany yet very involved musically) and it still feels really, really good. The musicianship is first rate and Daevid's voice is still happy and mellow, and his accent is so damn cool too! :-)

The transition between some of the songs is a bit strong and so I re-arranged the songs onto a CD-R that I listen to in the car. For example, Loli sounds much better following right after Hymnalayas IMO. Hymnalayas by the way is my favourite track on the album. The drumming is superb and the sax solo is s-w-e-e-t!
The tracks that are stand-outs for me are: Hymnalayas, Loli, Elephant la Tete, Heaven's Gate (could have been used in Miami Vice), Shapeshifter, Give My Mother a Soul Call and White Doves. Although I don't mind it, Dog-O-Matic seems out of place on this album.

As others have stated, this too is an album I would take if I was banished to an island...! This along with a few other albums including Gong's "You". :-)

Cheers,
Carl

Hey! This is actually pretty good!.......2006-03-02

Except for track 4 (which is a techno based track...I HATE TECHNO) this is actually a very good rock 'n' psychedelic styled Gong album. The songs (mostly written by Daevid Allen) are excellent and still have that gong aura from 25 years ago. Great listen and recommended to fans of the band and prog rock fans in general.

Gong - 'Shapeshifter'.......2004-10-04

Hard to believe this 21-track CD by Gong is of mostly new/er material with the exception of "OM Riff",which is a live remix.I was somewhat stunned to hear just how fresh and lively these veteran cosmic rockers STILL sound.I truly believe that the formula for a good Gong album requires the combined efforts of vocalist/guitarist/founder/zany frontman Daevid Allen and woodwind instrumentalist Didier Malherbe.Tunes that I liked best were the title track "Shape Shifter","Dog-O-Matic","Give My Mother A Soul Call","Elephant La Tete" and the live snippet performance of Malberbe's "Can You:You Can".On the previously mentioned "OM Riff",there's a twelve-minute jam with the entire 'classic' Gong line-up of Allen,Gilli Smyth,Malherbe,Tim Blake,Mike Howlett and long-missed guitarist Steve Hillage.Trippin'!!A great reunion effort.

Gong shapeshifts again!.......2004-01-16

A really nice piece of work, and proof that Daevid Allen and Gong have continued to evolve and grow while remaining true to their musical vision. As others have said, it does have a somewhat inconsistent quality, but this is partly because it utilizes so many diverse musical idioms. Let's face it: some albums we approach as if to a meal, and others we approach as if it were the appetizer table. This album is the latter. And appetizers abound here! Gong shifts shape from one song to the other, and as far as I'm concerned, that's its main strength.

But what really strikes me about the album is its sense of whimsy , and its lighthearted --yet serious-- outlook on life. And there are space jams a-plenty to satisfy fans of Teapot-era Gong, like myself. And I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to Gong newcomers as a first taste of this great, always-evolving band.

DIVINE.......2002-11-04

Not to mention sublime.
I truly don't understand why you can see this used for [X] in some stores. It's become one of my Desert Island 10 and my favorite Gong album. And by the way, "Gongmaison" should be rereleased (sort of barely was). Or is that the "New York Gong" album?

Average customer rating:

Shapeshifter Manufacturer: MyStory Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Imagination ASIN: B0009ZD7ME Release Date: 2004-05-03

Tracks:

1. Daffodil Hill
2. Sycamore's Grove
3. The Clearing
4. Elysium Calling
5. The Way It Was
6. Metro
7. The Long Haul
8. A Child's Dream
9. Cielo Obscuro
10. Ms. Jasmine
11. Shapeshifter

Product Description

Shapeshifter, released April 2004, is their debut album. In it, the Native American flute, with its warm resonant tones, speaks in a voice that is wordless, and meticulously faithful to emotional truth, while the guitar provides a musical ground that gives each song unique texture and body. The guitar’s rhythmic modulating harmonies and the flute’s warm resonant tones blend in a carefully crafted interplay. Each song is unique in its intensity and tone, the musicians evoking a wide range of voicings from their instruments. From the sharp barks to the sonorous swells of Kenneth’s many flutes, to the delicate silvery or languid notes of Garth’s guitar, listener’s will feel the honest emotion at the core of each song. Innocence and awe are as aptly conveyed as mystery and seduction, each song a playful invitation to the listener to enter into the tapestry of their musical landscapes. Once there, you will know that you have heard the voice of “Elysium Calling.”

World Music:

1. Simplemente Lo Mejor [Import]
2. Sogni Proibiti [Import]
3. Sol
4. Son De Melaza
5. Tarantella Tarantata
6. This Is Gold [Import]
7. Transversal do Tempo [Box set] [Import]
8. Traummelodien [Import]
9. Treasure
10. Tribute to Salvador Allende [Import]

World Music

world music

World Music

Live at American Music Hall [Live]

Sonatas by Beethoven, Brahms and Bach

Scottish and Irish Songs

Compete Studio Recordings [Original recording remastered] [Import]

The Club Anthems Box [Box set] [Import]

Songs from the Sea to the Shore

Roccando Rollando [Import]

Straight Outta Atlanta [Explicit Lyrics]

Shut the Gate Suzy and Don't Let Me In

The Doors [Soundtrack]

Talking Heads Brick [Box set] [DualDisc]

Short Films

Supernova [Explicit Lyrics]

Available to You In Saginaw, Michigan

V-Disc Recordings