Cross-posted to
music_staff. Join if you like what you see!
The theme of the day is Romantic Mood Music
You know, stuff to set a relaxing, inviting mood. If you're not necessarily in a romantic mood, it's good stuff for a lazy weekend, too.
FYI - I link the album covers to Amazon.com for two reasons:
1 - To link to a purchasing source, but you can purchase it anywhere you please.
2 - To allow you to read other reviews of the product and Amazon recommends other similar music, which I find very useful.
Chris Spheeris - Pura Vida I found Chris Spheeris on the old Audiogalaxy downloading site. I still miss that site. I found all my best finds through their recommendations feature. RIP, old Audiogalaxy.
Anyway, I downloaded his song "Magaya" and was instantly won over. I purchased the above album and it is one of my all-time favorites. This album consists of entirely instrumentals that are a blend of a lot of different world music. Think Kenny G with middle eastern, indian, latin influences. I believe this album in particular is the epitome of relaxation and perfect background music while in a jacuzzi with some wine.
I included "Pura Vida" as my choice to share because it is one of his shorter songs (most of his songs are well over five minutes) and it has a more latin feel to it. The intro after about 50 seconds reminds me a LOT of the title music to the movie "The Neverending Story". It's a very flowing piece, ethereal. I highly recommend you purchase this album if you like this tune. You won't be disappointed.
Norah Jones - Turn Me On I'm sure most have heard of Norah Jones. I've heard of her referred to as jazz, though I don't believe that is accurate. She seems much more adult contemporary. Nevertheless, I love her smooth, sultry sound. Great mood music, great relaxation music. She has a few radio singles, but her entire albums are wonderful, so I included this deeper cut. It fits more perfectly the 'romantic' part of this theme.
Lisa Gerrard & Pieter Bourke - Nadir Ever since the "Gladiator" movie soundtracks (that I could probably wear out), I have loved Lisa Gerrard. While I do like her Dead Can Dance albums, I feel this is her best work. That is probably because it is very much like the music from Gladiator. I've shared a couple of the best songs with the few members I've got in this community already, so here is another great song. It's very middle eastern in feel. The whole album is a must buy, in my opinion. :)
Hollie Smith - In Your Arms Hollie Smith recorded this album at sixteen years old and her voice is so unique. It's kind of deep and raspy, but beautiful. It harmonizes well with the celtic feel of the music (by Steve McDonald). This song is a love song.
Ronan Hardiman - AnthemRonan Hardiman - Heaven (Waiting There For Me) Ronan Hardiman is best known for all the original music he produces for Michael Flatley shows: "Lord of the Dance", "Feet of Flames", and now "Celtic Tiger". He also has two solo albums: "Anthem" and "Solas". This is the title track to Anthem, his best song. It's a long seven minute song, but I had to share because it is so GORGEOUS. Beautiful piano and light techno beat accompanied by a female vocal. FANTASTIC.
That's all I have time for today, but I have many others to share. Let's get some people here to share!
Sue