Michael Stribling: Press

MICHAEL STRIBLING
Paradise Lost
(c) (p) 2010 Leela Music

You’ll find an endless beauty and a sorrow
In searching of forgotten paradise

This is a slightly mysterious music that attracts the listener’s attention from the first chords. Michael Stribling begins to tell his story and he makes it very delicate. His electronic music is full of aerial harmonies and enigmatic polyphony.

What does the newest album by Michael Stribling tell about? As it is indicated on the press-release “Paradise Lost” solemnly commemorates the displacement of the Native American peoples at the hands of the “white man” as they immigrated to North America. Therefore the strong dramatic effect is inherent in this music. Michael Stribling divided his twelve original compositions into three acts: paradise, in the “before days”; the coming of the white man, and the resulting conflict and tragedy; and lament, requiem, and resolution. As a result we can enjoy the epic story which is devoted to the bitter story of the American Continent.

But the music of Michael Stribling soars above the pain and sufferings. The composer allows the listeners to look at past horrors and fears and to realize the emptiness and pettiness of the modern civilization. And the music of “Paradise Lost” is infused with the deepest sympathy and sincere love to the Native Americans who are the true owners of this land and whose spiritual development and state of consciousness were higher than "civilized” white men had.

This music has an undoubted therapeutic effect which helps purify the mind and raise the spirit. And with it I’d like to return to the musical aspects of “Paradise Lost”. Its sound is refined indeed. Michael Stribling excellently interweaves his music with natural sounds. His keyboard parts are very accurate and tuneful.

Maybe the main feature of the Michael Stribling music is that after listening to his album “Paradise Lost” one can be made aware of a very simple thing: your life should bring you joy.

Michael Stribling - Paradise Lost
(Leela Music LM10A)

The paradise lost in the title of this album was that of the American Indian tribes once European settlers arrived on the east coast of the continent and spread inexorably westwards. After reading this in the sleevenotes I was expecting the usual ethnic rhythms and chants to be part of the music but it came as a pleasant surprise to find that Michael Stribling's new album, Paradise Lost, is in fact more in the ambient/electronica style, and I suppose the 'new age' tribes will also claim it. To my mind it has more of a Vangelis cinematic synth-orchestral feel to it - full of widescreen sound vistas, multi-layered synths creating mind pictures of the great plains and the pastoral lifestyle of the tribes before the invasion. Perhaps there is even a hint of Tangerine Dream in the more rhythmic tracks. The ethnic sounds that you would expect to hear are largely missing but the music still subtly hints at American Indian original music throughout. There are a dozen tracks which depict the life before the invasion, the struggle for freedom during it and the aftermath. Rather than being overly dramatic the music is more reflective and played as a whole is almost symphonic or more like a tone poem to one of history's most tragic episodes. Michael Stribling is a master composer and musician and this album packs a powerful emotional resonance without utilizing the usual clichés when depicting the ethnic peoples of America. As well as being a damn good listen I think Paradise Lost is an excellent album and deserves to be heard widely. For me, easily one of the albums of the year on The Borderland.

Paradise Lost
Michael Stribling
2010 / Leela Music
58.7 minutes

Paradise Lost is award-winning composer Michael Stribling's seventh album and is perhaps his most ambitious project to date. His Songs of Hope and Healing was named Best Electronic Album in the 2006 New Age Reporter Lifestyle Music Awards, and each subsequent release has garnered similar accolades. Stribling's albums often tell wordless stories or depict spiritual journeys and experiences, and this one solemnly commemorates the displacement of the Native American peoples at the hands of the Europeans who traveled to North America and laid claim to the land, often without regard for the lives of the people who were here first. The twelve original compositions are divided into three acts or movements: paradise in the "before" days; the coming of the white man and the resulting conflict and tragedy; and lament, requiem, and resolution. The music is often very symphonic even though it is electronic, and nature sounds are effectively placed throughout the album. Although much of the story being told is full of heartbreak and tragedy, the music does not become overly dark or violent. I have enjoyed all of Stribling's music, but I think this is my favorite of his albums so far. Few artists are as adept as Stribling in successfully combining ambient and melodic music, and his recordings are always a pleasure to listen to.

Paradise Lost begins with "Prairie Dawn," a piece that depicts wide open spaces and an endless sky. Peaceful and serene, we hear the quiet world as it gradually awakens. "Guardian of the Plains" suggests the majesty of vast open plains, conveying a sense of solitude and calm. "Forest Heart" is very light and gentle, blending acoustic guitar with flutes, then adding French horn and other orchestral instruments. The results are gorgeous and incredibly tranquil. "Hunting Party" is a favorite. Rhythmic and intense, it conveys focus and energy. "March of Destiny" signals major changes and the resulting confusion. The latter part of the piece has a military march sound, but it is more melancholy than triumphant. "Approaching Storm" is ambient and becomes darker as it evolves. "Vision Quest" tells of the people seeking the wisdom to guide them. Also very ambient, turmoil and confusion seem to give way to a sense of direction. The title track includes the sounds of battle behind an intense rhythm that builds as the piece develops. "Hymn for the Fallen" is solemn and reverent, allowing time for reflection and remembrance. The final track, "Return to the Spirit World" is an almost eleven minute meditation on the return to the spirit world "from whence we all come and to which we all return"(quoted from the liner notes). The music is soothing and gently reassuring about the spiritual home all souls return to at the end of this earthly life.

Paradise Lost is certain to return Michael Stribling to the top of the new age/adult contemporary charts. It is available from www.leela-music.com, Amazon, CD Baby, and iTunes. Highly recommended!

CD Review – Paradise Lost, by Michael Stribling

For his sixth album, the always reliable keyboard master Michael Stribling delivers a sonic magnum opus that solemnly commemorates the legacy of the American continent's first residents and their fateful encounter with newcomers from across the sea.

As befitting the artist's inspiration for this set, the material is epic, grandiose, vibrant, and, most important, reverential. The music beautifully expresses Stribling's affinity for the original Native Americans. The CD has the feel of a soundtrack, providing accompaniment to the storied events in this land's history that became the focus of Stribling's muse for this project.

The drama unfolds with the sweeping opening themes of "Prairie Dawn" and "Guardian of the Plains," which convey the expansive majesty of the New World as it must have been under the watchful and respectful care of its indigenous gatekeepers. The sentimental melodies and lyrical textures of "Forest Heart" and "Eagle Above, River Below" further elaborate on the beauty and tranquility of the thriving ecosystem. The propulsive rhythms of "Hunting Party" express the vibrancy of Native American life.

The plot thickens as the Native Americans sense the dark, ominous clouds of an "Approaching Storm" that finally arrives as the white European settlers embark on their proud and determined "March of Destiny," which features elements of the mighty "Procession of the Avatars" from Stribling's third album, Another Day in Paradise.

The action culminates in the dynamism of "Vision Quest" and "Paradise Lost," after which Stribling reflects on all that has transpired with the solemn "Lament for the Land" and the reverential "Hymn for the Fallen." The proceedings end on a positive note of hope with "Return to the Spirit World."

Although Stribling has created a formidable musical tapestry with a specific context in mind, the music is so strong that it stands on its own. In fact, the compositions come across as love songs to nature. The album would be a perfect soundtrack for a trip to Yellowstone or Yosemite, or any national park or local nature preserve. This in itself is a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Native Americans, who so revered nature.

All discussions of history, context, and themes aside, the album is a strong reminder of Stribling's compositional brilliance and musical prowess. Stribling is equally adept at creating bold themes ("Prairie Dawn," "Guardian of the Plains"), pastoral reflections ("Lament for the Land," "Hymn for the Fallen," "Return to the Spirit World"), and groove-laden jazz-rock fusion complete with thumping bass lines and propulsive backbeats ("Hunting Party," "Vision Quest," "Paradise Lost") – all anchored by Stribling's unmistakable signature sound and conceived in Stribling's mind and channeled through his fingers on keyboards and synthesizers. Paradise Lost, like its exceptional artist, is an absolute winner.

The Promise
Michael Stribling
Leela Music, www.leela-music.com

Electronic keyboard artist Michael Stribling gets better with each successive release. His sixth, The Promise, demonstrates his mastery across a variety of styles and moods, as he deftly navigates from the percolating electronica of the opening "Bright New Day" through the dreamy fluidity of "When Love Comes Near," the aptly-titled languid "Late at Night," the quasi-ambient melancholy of "Forgotten Dreams," the gentle bubbliness of "Distant Shores," and the playful effervescence of the closing trippy "All in Good Time" (reminiscent of uptempo Ray Lynch). This is a richly diverse and highly accomplished album.

The Promise by Michael P Stribling
By Barbara Cronin

Michael Stribling, the artist behind the CD The Promise, inspires listeners to relax and unwind while connecting to a vaster perception of life.

Electronic instrumentation and a combination of melodic and ambient music provide a background for inspiring the listener to take an inward journey.

Each song builds on the next with a purpose. You can easily understand why, when you learn that Michael formed his website, "Leela Music (leela means "divine play"), to undertake a very simple mission: to help others in their journey toward wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit." The ZoneMusicReporter choose this CD as its number two pick for October.

Michael Stribling's The Promise

When it came time to review Stribling's CD, I contemplated the title name.

A promise can be words that bring peace, clarity, and beauty. Michael Stribling's new CD, The Promise, does the same to the listener. An eclectic blend of traditional musical instruments along with more modern sounds creates a harmonious, inspiring CD sure to uplift the spirits of all listeners.

With tracks that range from soft and quiet to ones that are more energetic and moving, The Promise has something for every listener. This CD is great for work, long drives, or just milling about the house on a lazy Saturday afternoon.

If music inspires you and you know well its ability to transform the ordinary day to one of adventure and wonder, you'll want to grab a copy of The Promise for your own music library.

I loved the subtle stirrings of Track 6 with its comforting rhythm coupled with subtle sounds that leave the listeners' imagination to explore worlds beyond. Energize with Tracks 2 and 3 that gently add enthusiasm to your day and brighten even the dullest day.

Music for Looking Within

This CD makes an excellent companion for meditation, yoga, or any other type of time you devote to looking within for direction, love, and peace. In fact, Stribling says himself it's the mission of his music to "to help others in their journey toward wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit."

This mission shines through in The Promise. And it should. Stribling began playing the piano at age 7. He also learned to play violin, clarinet, and the guitar. He progressed through several musical stages but explains that once he heard The Beatles he picked up the drums and never looked back.

He spent much of his life in the throws of rock and roll, playing the drums for Johnny Mathis, announcing on a rock radio station in the '70s, as well as composing, producing, engineering, and spending time in musical theatrical productions. He then returned to grad school and became a marriage counselor where he worked for many years only to find himself back with his first love – music – in 2005.

Stribling says his musical influences come from the music of Jimi Hendrix and Frank Zappa as well as J.S. Bach and Igor Stravinsky, to name only a few of his favorites.

Stribling's music on The Promise is a blend of peaceful, imaginative, and positive energy. With subtleties only caught with several listens, this CD deserves a spot in your musical library.

THE PROMISE - Michael Stribling - Michael is yet another artist who has been busy making albums - this is his sixth. Utilizing the electronic keyboard, Michael demonstrates his mastery across a variety of styles and moods. ranging from rhythmic and upbeat to soulful and peaceful, his music is sure to inspire feelings of joy and optimism, while creating a dreamy and relaxed state. www.leela-music.com

Issue #71 - May-August 2010 ["22/23/24 Reviews"]

Do You Believe?

Is it possible to go from the reality of mortal man to the existence of a true soul and on to the concept of an afterlife all within fourteen tracks of music? Okay, I am oversimplifying things to a great degree, but that is the synopsis of Michael Stribling's new release The Promise. Michael's success apexed with his breakthrough album Songs of Hope and Healing and he has released a number of albums to his credit. This New Age electronic artist boasts a multitude of degrees not only in the music field, but also in theology and marriage and family therapy. His influences are many including Igor Stravinsky, The Beatles, and Vangelis and every once in a while I can hear the echoes of Jan Hammer in his compositions.

The journey of his music begins with the Bright New Day. Many of the songs on the beginning of the album are high-energy tunes. My day starts off a bit slower so it took some time to catch up with him. His song reminded me that every day is a new opportunity to start fresh. Many of us do not. So let us take the hint.

At first, I did not like the tune Daily Living. I thought it was entirely too frenetic and then I got it. This is a deliberate representation of everyday life with its harried schedules and empty assurances of unwavering love, happy life and eternal friendships. There are no guarantees in life with the exception of faith.

The tempo seems to even out, if not slow completely on the tune When Love Comes Near. Time becomes our companion and we are given the opportunity to observe and appreciate. There is gentleness to the tune, an almost calming effect is present and we can take the moment to enjoy the love in our lives in all its manifestations. Loved ones, children, friends and even pets become a bountiful source.

Michael adds an element of otherworldly travel in the tune Ascending Through Clouds. There is a sensation of falling up when listening to the tune, but not to the degree of danger to our spirit. It is more like drifting or gliding. There is a slight wind, but there is no peril. Only the impression that as we ascend, we reach a level of clarity unbeknownst to us before the now.

Distant Shores is like a beautiful tropical island on the horizon of a shipwrecked sailor. There is comfort to be had in the shelter, the water and the nourishment of something green and growing. There is the sense of safety as we approach the rocky beach. From this coast, we can fish, gather food and use the new horizon as a focal point to our dreams. Distant Shores is hopeful.

The final cut All In Good Time is a reminder of patience in our spiritual lives. It starts out as sort of a spunky tune, but then the serious bass line kicks in and the energy of the song begins in earnest. In the mean time, it is a tune full of promise and I liked it just for that reason. I have always believed in the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow even though many times the reward cannot be measured in metallic substances.

Michael Stribling does offer a musical path for us to follow in our life's journey. And like our lives, some of it is slow, some of it is high energy and somewhere in there is the stability we seek every single day. We have Michael's music to thank that we can achieve the balance and it is a promise we can give ourselves.

Rating: Good +

Michael Stribling - THE PROMISE: Literally everything you hear on this magical CD came from Michael, or (as he says) "All tunes, tracks, and tinkering"... and what becomes evident (certainly by the second tune, "Daily Living") is that Michael has an approach to music that can't be characterized as anything except JOY! Some reviewers believe that music composed on electronic instruments can't have the same degree of "life" in it as that made on purely acoustic instruments... Stribling makes it clear that is not true, and pulls it off with high-spirit and talent! The tunes he has put together here will take your soul on a soaring journey to where the good side of man exists, particularly on tracks like "When Love Comes Near" - his string washes rapidly envelop you and allow you to feel what "real" is meant to be. For pure unadulterated pleasure, though, you must listen to my favorite piece on the album, "Distant Shores"... the kind of music the angels would play as you make your transition to the other side... gentle, yet infused with hope and forward vision. I'm very much impressed, and you will be, too... "The Promise" gets a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for listeners who want more than "everyday" on their menu. It gets an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.92, very high (here) for a "new age" or "inspirational" CD. Get more information, as well as access to full-length versions of these tracks) at www.leela-music.com (ed; Michael also asked me to point out his http://leela-radio.com site, which has the music and newsletters, videos, etc.) Rotcod Zzaj

The Promise
Michael Stribling
Leela Music, www.leela-music.com

Electronic keyboard artist Michael Stribling gets better with each successive release. His sixth, The Promise, demonstrates his mastery across a variety of styles and moods, as he deftly navigates from the percolating electronica of the opening “Bright New Day” through the dreamy fluidity of “When Love Comes Near,” the aptly-titled languid “Late at Night,” the quasi-ambient melancholy of “Forgotten Dreams,” the gentle bubbliness of “Distant Shores,” and the playful effervescence of the closing trippy “All in Good Time” (reminiscent of uptempo Ray Lynch). This is a richly diverse and highly accomplished album.

The Promise
Michael Stribling
2009 / Leela Music
1.1 hours

Michael Stribling's latest release, The Promise, is a musical exploration of life's transitions and changes using the medium of electronic instrumentation and a combination of melodic and ambient music. Stribling's previous releases have been award-winning chart-toppers, and I would expect the same for The Promise. Stribling founded his label, Leela Music, with the mission of helping others "in their journey toward wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit"; he has more than succeeded in his mission. Stribling is an artist who has had a wide range of musical experiences, ranging from being Johnny Mathis' percussionist to being a disc jockey to composing and recording his own music to creating a new internet radio station (free-new-age-music-and-more.com). Those experiences (and many others) enrich his music and give him a unique and distinctive musical voice.

The Promise begins with "Bright New Day," a piece that exudes hope and optimism. Rhythmic and upbeat, it's an inviting start. "Daily Living" sparkles with joy, yet there is a sense of tension and urgency underlying the fun. "When Love Comes Near" becomes much more ambient and "spacey" than the first three tracks. Gentle guitar and floating electronic sounds create a dreamy atmosphere that is relaxed and soothing. The melody in "Late At Night" is slow and peaceful, and the use of only a few instruments gives it a sense of solitude. "Forgotten Dreams" is one of my favorites. More ambient than melodic, it has an ethereal, otherworldly feeling created by oboe, strings, and atmospheric sounds - very serene. "Ascending Through Clouds" becomes the centerpiece of the album at almost 10 1/2 minutes. Before the soul can cross over to the other side, it rises to higher levels as though "Ascending Through Clouds." Mysterious without being frightening, with feelings of darkness in vast open space, you can almost feel yourself being effortlessly pulled up as you float on a peaceful cloud of sound. The title track is very cinematic and makes me think of a sunrise - quiet, intense, and optimistic. Returning to a more melodic approach, this is another favorite track. I love the simple but expressive melody and the gentle rhythm that brings it to life. My favorite is the closing track, "All In Good Time." Playful and buoyant, it reminds me just a little of Ray Lynch's classic "Celestial Soda Pop" - more in spirit than sound. It is quite a contrast to the more ambient pieces, but fits perfectly, ending the journey with a big grin.

The Promise will be a delight to Michael Stribling's many fans and is a great place to start for those who are not yet familiar with his music. It is available from cdbaby.com and digstation.com. Recommended!

Kathy Parsons
MainlyPiano.com

10/7/09

Michael Stribling - The Promise
(Leela Music LM09A)

Michael Stribling is a new musician to me and my website but on the basis of his latest album, The Promise, I certainly would like to hear more of his music. The Promise is the musical story of 'Everyman', recording the turmoil of life and the emotional journey through that life. In actual fact what you have is a collection of fourteen tracks of electronica instrumentals that straddle most areas of electronic music. You could interpret the sound and structure of this album as new age lift music, but there is more depth here than in the usual new age album. I found the variety of moods in the music a lively mixture, with some of the longer tracks taking on an epic hue - especially the ten minute long Ascending Through Clouds, with its multi-layers of drones and drifting melodies. Track Four, When Love Comes Near, also has a suspenseful drawn out atmosphere with overtones of oriental sounds. The tempi of the tracks vary, but never reach dance tempos, but I could see this album being used in the 'chill out' rooms in clubs or radio stations for relaxation purposes. It would be easy to make idle comparisons but I think if you like the music of Yanni, Gandalf and Kitaro then The Promise could be for you. It has certainly become a regular on my CD player, and is one of the best albums I've heard this year.

Promising Transitions in Music
John P. Olsen (newagemusic.nu) 10/1/09

Since everyone must make life transitions whether they really want to or not, let me tell you a story about a musician from Fresno California who has a successful history of making transitions and can perhaps offer some insight on the subject of change.

Michael Stribling is an award winning New Age composer who readily embraces change having already made many positive adjustments in his lifetime. His just released album titled The Promise smoothly arrives at the next stage of his long career in music with a look and feel that confirms and conveys an admirable composite of Electronic and Ambient music.

Michael’s transitions include earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, work as a radio announcer, performing in theatre musicals and playing percussion for Johnny Mathis just for starters. His story gets even better since after then becoming a successful Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering help to those who needed a hand with their transitions, he returned to his earlier love and formed Leela (Divine Play) Music.

["I formed Leela Music to undertake a very simple mission : to help others in their journey towards wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit." Michael Stribling]

This return to music is beyond more than promising since Michael’s first album Songs of Hope and Healing made it to # 1 on the Top 100 in NAR / ZMR charts, securing the Electronic Lifestyle Music Award in 2006 and Out of the Darkness, Into the Light, lit up the # 2 spot on the Top 100 in January having 2 nominations for the Lifestyle Music Award in 2007. Another Day in Paradise is indeed praiseworthy, while Love, Light, and Water, earned nomination for Best Relaxation / Meditation Album in 2008, making each day even brighter for this independent recording artist with an optimistic outlook toward the challenge of change.

Michael Stribling has clearly made many successful transitions in his musical lifetime, giving him a first hand perspective to help others cope with change. The positive yes responses shown in his earlier music and in this brand new release only proves his natural composing abilities for bringing hope and inspiration to others.

The Promise is Michael’s very latest to deliver 14 original songs like his newest composition in musical ambiance is an autobiography of his attitude, comprehension, and inner thoughts drawn from daily observations, then transcribed into beautiful music.

Beginning with "Bright New Day" a crisp new perspective is announced by abundant keyboard activity that vividly lights the occasion while percussion distinctively beats beside a synthesizer full of energy, creating much animation by the opening number to forecast what lies beyond in future melodies. "Daily Living" likewise moves right along in style and tempo by the upper register bell tones that counteract with middle range melody and is much like the positive vibes given in "Angular Reasoning" and the uplifting theme projected during "All In Good Time".

Like many songs in his prior projects this album does take timely breaks into the deeper hues of contemplation and reflection.

"Forgotten Dreams" exemplifies this apparent yin and yang transition to a more down to earth reasoning with a single oboe tone melody bordered by a mesmerizing and hazy background, touching on a bit of sadness which is after all, a valid part of the total human experience. "Love’s Anticipation" also brings a realistic and happier yes response by the lighter melody along side piano passages, much like the easy going natural feel presented in "Distant Shores".

Title song "The Promise" begins with a quiet moment of solitude in a melancholy horn tone wrapped in sadness, but this moment gently advances forward in a creative moment of divine intervention nicely provided by the artist.

Changing the piece by one moving sweep in music composition, this percussion backed melody gently makes a beautiful transformation from an already graceful song into a lovely song of splendor, very much like a caterpillar cocoon would change into a butterfly, keeping the promise of inner peace and harmony everyone discovers in the final stages during each of life’s transitions.

Michael Stribling Delivers on Promise

The Promise, Michael Stribling -- Five Stars

After the orchestral explorations of Love, Light, and Water, contemporary instrumental keyboardist Michael Stribling returns to form on his fifth album, The Promise. The CD comes after the longest hiatus of any of his previous works – about a year – but the wait was certainly worth it, as it showcases Stribling doing what he does best – composing upbeat and engaging tunes structured with strong, memorable melodies and propelled by bright bursts of piano, energetic bass lines, driving percussion, and solidly timed backbeats.

In fact, the thing that separates Stribling from his peers in the New Age genre is that his songs are infused with a jazzy, pop-oriented sensibility that makes his music easily accessible to more than just the most ardent New Age purists. Sure, there are the introspective and pastoral themes associated with New Age music, but these are balanced by the energetic numbers, resulting in a nice mixture that offers something for everyone while maintaining stylistic and thematic fidelity.

“Bright New Day,” “Daily Living,” “Angular Reasoning,” and “The Promise” are the most kinetic songs on the album, with their catchy hooks and propulsive percussion. “Facing the Great Unknown” strikes a balance between the energetic and the introspective, with a sensitive, subtle melody anchored by soft, jazzy percussion, resulting in a light, casual, easy-listening feel.

“When Love Comes Near,” “Late at Night,” “Distant Shores,” and “Expansion” are among the more thoughtful compositions that soothe the heart and soul with inner peace and calm and transport the mind to higher dimensions of enlightenment and awareness. “Ascending Through Clouds” is ten minutes of pure electronic and spiritual bliss.

The two strongest, most standout tracks are the album opener “Bright New Day” and the title composition “The Promise.” Both grandiose, epic themes, they respectively embody the spirit of starting fresh and anew full of hopes and dreams, and the resolve and determination to keep reaching for those dreams. While “The Promise” isn’t exactly the last track on the album, both of these tunes serve as fitting thematic bookends.

As with his previous albums, Stribling’s Promise ends on a positive note with the expectant and hopeful tunes “At the Last” and “All in Good Time.” These tracks wrap up the CD nicely, anticipating the thrill of the wait for the next time we hear from Stribling.

Ultimately, the best thing about Michael Stribling’s music is its positive outlook. Stribling’s first album was called Songs of Hope and Healing; all of his work can be described as such. This is music that inspires, emboldens, and empowers.

Love, Light, and Water

Probably three of the most powerful forces in our lives are Love, Light and Water and probably in that order. The latter two will keep the body thriving, but the first, love, keeps the soul alive. Electronic artist Michael Stribling seems to have woven together a kaleidoscopic web of music that brings together all the forces into one powerful album. This is my third review for Stribling and I feel that not only are his compositions getting better all the time, but his ability to join themes that have innate relaxing qualities and even healing properties seem to be improving. The album is split into three sections and you guessed it, they are called Love, Light and Water.

Love: The opening of the earth’s eyes after a starry slumber and the illuminating rising of the sun is portrayed in the opening number "First Encounters", which segues nicely into "Dream Frontiers". "Dream Frontiers" has that eerie, yet familiar sound of a Theremin. The sound of an electronic wraith dances in your mind as your dreams take shape, nebulous though they may be.

"Pleasant Journeys" is a remarkable tune for its tabla percussion and synthetic score. Sort of organic versus inorganic and yet they are complimentary. It is a trip on a rocky road with lots of exciting things to see. The very music of discovery.

Light: "Bright Silence, Quiet Light" is a dazzling tune with flowing, faraway harmonics that dance about like red laser light on white clouds. It is the musical billowing of lumpy, cumulus clouds that expand moment after moment that capture your attention. Nothing makes you feel lighter.

Water: One of my favorites on Love, Light, and Water is "River Canyon". The majesty of the music is quite grand. The rolling tempo belies the power of the water that flows endlessly, carving the gorge into breathtaking depths. Who knew what beauty would be revealed after layer upon layer was worn away.

"At the Gates" is fairly reminiscent of a Kitaro tune and there is nothing wrong with that. The music is not that of someone on the outside looking in, but of one who has crested a pinnacle and there before him or her in gloriously splendor is the beginning of all things possible.

Michael Stribling's music is always calming and thought provoking. With his third [fourth] recording he proves that there is nothing repetitive in his repertoire, only fresh perspectives with every listen. Michael's music keeps the soul alive.

Rating: Very Good

MICHAEL STRIBLING
Love, Light, and Water
Leela Music (2008)

Michael Stribling keeps getting better on each successive album. This is his fourth release and, if [he] keeps this pace up, a lot of big name artists are going to be caught flatfooted as he zips past them. Love, Light and Water is Stribling's best and most cohesive recording. Most of the album is a drifting and serenely flowing blend of electronic new age, ambient and spacemusic. A gentle soothing mood is sustained throughout, with only a few rhythmic pieces offering brief detours (quite pleasant ones, though). Since I have limited space in this review, I'll just spotlight some tracks and let you discover the album's many delights in depth on your own.

The album is divided into three sections: "Love" (first), "Light" (second) and ending with "Water" as well as two closing tracks that are not associated with any of those three headings. "Love" contains five tracks. After a short ambient-ish intro ("First Encounters"), "Dream Frontiers" cruises in on layers of warm keyboards and a sampled theremin (!). The lush romantic synths of "New Love" sound like Jon Mark's from albums such as A Sunday in Autumn (a gigantic compliment from me). "Pleasant Journey" is the first of several rhythmic pieces, but as I inferred earlier, the rhythmic feeling is subdued, played on ethnic percussion (tabla or udu), and the lead retro synth instrument has a gentle playfulness to it.

The "Light" section features two shorter and two longer songs. The brief "Sunrise" is classic spacemusic with washes of soothing keyboards. "Bright Silence, Quiet Light" again reminds me of Jon Mark. Multiple synth pads, all of them serene and soothing, evolve into Liquid Mind-ish neo-classical territory with strings and woodwinds. "Behind Every Cloud," another rhythmic piece, is somber and even a bit dark with sparse synth bass beats, plucked strings, and a lead retro keyboard sound with pitch-bending emphasized.

"Water" contains four tracks, highlighted by "Prairie Rain" which invites comparison to James Asher's classic "The Great Wheel" with its repeating minimal lead refrain against a backdrop of ambient/new age keyboards. "Dancing on the Water" is the liveliest tune on the album, with synth arpeggios evoking a slight Berlin-esque atmosphere, but still keeping the mood "light," not frenetic.

Closing out the album are "Quiet Conversation" an ambient mixture of warm pads, washes, echoed piano and new age keyboard tones and "At the Gates" which has an ethereal, even angelic/celestial feel to it, before morphing into more Jon Mark-ish piano/strings and keyboards.

Love, Light and Water will likely land on many reviewers' "Best of the Year" lists. I know it'll be on mine. Highly recommended!

Rating: Very Good+

Love, Light, and Water
Michael Stribling
2008 / Leela Music
1 hour

"Love, Light, and Water" is Michael Stribling's fourth CD to date, and I think it's his best work yet. Leela ("divine play") Music's mission is "to help others in their journey toward wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit." Stribling is not unique in this musical quest to soothe and heal, but one of the things that sets him apart from many of the other composers in this genre is that his music is not all sunshine and puffy clouds—he allows some of the darker and more pensive aspects of life into his music, which is a more realistic picture of the human experience. The music on this album is divided into three suites that "celebrate the hope and promise of new love, the energizing beauty of light, and the sustaining power of water." Although the music is often quite orchestrated, Stribling creates all of his music himself on keyboards. Some of it is quite melodic, and other pieces are more ambient and atmospheric—all of it is very beautiful.

The first of the three suites is "Love." The five tracks are dreamy, warm, and ethereal, and convey feelings of joy and contentment. "Dream Frontiers" feels like floating in deep space, completely relaxed and absorbing the light of the twinkling stars. "Pleasant Journeys" has an Asian flavor in some of its themes and expresses joy and fun. "Light" is the second suite, and begins with the dawning of a new day. "Sunrise" is a perfect portrait of the slowly spreading light of dawn and the awe-inspiring colors of the morning sky. "Bright Silence, Quiet Light" is cinematic in the fullness of its sound and yet is so very peaceful and calm. Horns can be jarring, but here they are tranquil and restful. "Behind Every Cloud" is my favorite track. Guitar plays a gentle rhythm that gives the piece movement while the other instrumentation is more abstract, floating, and freeform. Love it! "Water" has four movements. The quiet guitar rhythm on "Prairie Rain" describes rain while keyboards create an ambient, serene atmosphere with just a touch of mystery. "River Canyon" is more majestic. "Dancing On the Water" sparkles and shimmers on the surface, but has a darker flow behind that—again very ambient and peaceful. The last two pieces on the CD are not part of the suites, but are in no way out of place. "Quiet Conversation" has piano in the lead with keyboard washes for additional color and depth. The piece itself feels like a very intimate and personal conversation with someone special. At about the halfway point in the piece, the "speaker" shifts to keyboard, and then the "speakers" alternate—a true dialog and another favorite. "At the Gates" ends the album with an ambient piece that is full of hope and warmth.

"Love, Light, and Water" is music to really listen to and savor. If you use it for background music, expect to stop what you're doing from time to time to focus on what Michael Stribling is saying with his music. Inspiring! The CD is available from www.leela-music.com, cdbaby.com, amazon.com, iTunes, and Digistation.com. Recommended!

Michael Stribling Gets in Touch with His Inner Light
Love, Light, and Water, Michael Stribling -- Five Stars

On his fourth CD, Love, Light, and Water, contemporary instrumental keyboardist Michael Stribling offers a refreshing change of pace from the dynamic and propulsive intensity of his previous, percussion-heavy albums. This time, Stribling's muse provides a mystical revelation of peace, solemnity, and mystery, resulting in a musical journey that fuses the boundaries of New Age and neoclassical music.

The album opens with the velvety, spacey synthesizer chords of "First Adventures," a brief introduction that revives the sonic majesty of "Procession of the Avatars," the opening track from Stribling's previous venture. Stribling follows that up with the quirky, quizzical reverie of "Dream Frontiers," before segueing into the symphonic sweep of "New Love."

In fact, "New Love" is indicative of the most striking aspect of Love, Light, and Water – its orchestral feel. Although Stribling created every single note and sound with keyboards and synthesizers, many of the songs sound as if they were recorded by a full orchestra. Compositions such as "New Love" and "Bright Silence, Quiet Light" simulate lush orchestral strings laden with graceful horn/flute melodies, while touches of classical guitar can be heard on various tracks as well.

"First Adventures," "Pleasant Journeys" (with its beautiful understated tablas), "Before the Dawn," "Sunrise," "Behind Every Cloud," "Prairie Rain," "Afterglow," "River Canyon," and "Dancing on the Water" feature Stribling's classic New Age keyboard and synthesizer sounds, but they never sound electronic.

Stribling's inward musical journey winds down with "Quiet Conversation," which is exactly that – an intimate exchange between Stribling's piano and synthesizer, and "At the Gates," a calm and hopeful anticipation of things to come.

While the music overall is quiet, it is far from simple. It is full of intricate harmonies and patterns found in serious, disciplined classical music and sophisticated popular music such as that by The Police and Genesis. Also, every song title accurately conveys the feel of the given track. The lasting impression is one of music that, while generated electronically, is far from the tinny and metallic timbres of many of Stribling's peers and is, in fact, simply beautiful music.

Atmospheric Artwork

With the tinkling of wind chimes and the subdued supplement of horns your soundtrack to Another Day in Paradise begins. This is the newest album by Michael Stribling who follows up to the success of his previous album Songs of Hope and Healing, which I enjoyed. However, I believe I like his newest work even more. There is something energetic about it. Also something comforting with a bit of promise in every track.

Paradise is, of course often equated with Eden. For some paradise is a tropical island with warm breezes and the lap of ocean waves in the background. For others it is the smell of pine needles and the first snow of the season. For many it is a full stomach and a place to sleep where no demons can penetrate. For most I am sure, it is peace for the spirit. Michael’s blend of atmospheric tracks is the musical panacea we have been looking for.

The opening track is called "A Further Glimpse Beyond/Procession of the Avatars". A bit wordy I suppose, but the song is quite rhythmic as well as memorable. What gives the tune its otherworldliness is the feeling of floating music that enfolds the listener like a melodious embrace. The second theme, "Procession of the Avatars" may not be what we obviously think in this modern age of computer personas. Instead, it may be the embodiment of everyday deities that touch our lives without making a physical presence. Call them what you will, but they are out there.

"Asian Dawn" has the eerie sound of a shakuhachi flute that conjures up the mysterious East. It also has the droning of the contemporary world throughout. Even though the music represents the rise of the red sun from the blue Pacific, the tune carries the distinctive quality of witnessing the event in black & white. Talk about dichotomy.

"Celebration" at first did not seem to belong on the album, but then it did. Yes it was confusing to me too. However, the search for a paradise on any level when ending in triumph is a cause célèbre. Sometimes, just waking up is a reason. Getting the job you always wanted, or climbing to the heretofore unassailable pinnacle. This is that festivity. It is perky and upbeat. Everything the occasion deserves.

"Ocean in the Sky" has whale song mixed with electronica and while not exactly Space music, it is very enjoyable. It is a tune that almost, but not quite languishes as it meanders through your mind. Droning background is the canvas for whirling washes of sound and high pitched colorful echoes all the way through.

Honorable mention goes to two other tracks — "On a Quiet Afternoon" and "Union". Some of the titles make you ruminate for a spell. I did that when the title "Union" came into play. At just over fifteen minutes long, the music is everything you might think. Pensive, drifting sound could be a theme for meditation, lovemaking or creatively coming to a conclusion. We are always looking for answers and to many paradise might be in the discovery. On the track "On a Quiet Afternoon" a strong piano lead takes us by the hand and welcomes us to the mid day where peace and serenity are the watchwords. Michael’s music lets you actually feel the warmth of sun and wind, the slow moving shadows of leafy trees and the sweet smells of oranges as the day progresses. This is my favorite track on the album.

As we hear in Stribling’s music, paradise is many things to many people. It is exciting to have a musical accompaniment for your ongoing search. This is the third album of Michael’s music I have reviewed and as I said, it is my favorite. My idea of paradise? You can always find it if you read between the lines.

Rating: Good +

MICHAEL STRIBLING
Another Day in Paradise Leela Music (2007)

Michael Stribling explores a variety of musical landscapes using his considerable assortment of keyboards on Another Day in Paradise. His composing and performing skills continue to impress me, as they did on his debut Songs of Hope and Healing. I think this is his best release to date. Varying from powerful anthem-like tunes such as the opening "A Further Glimpse Beyond/Procession of the Avatars," with its trumpet fanfare, march-like drums, and triumphant air to the world-fusion inspired haunting shakuhachi flute and birdsong of "Asian Dawn" to the flowing synth washes, sequenced notes and bell tones of "The Sacred Land," Stribling takes the listener on a musical voyage that alternately invigorates and soothes but always entertains.

While playing Another Day in Paradise, I was alternately reminded of Chris Spheeris' Culture, James Asher's The Great Wheel, and David Antony Clark's Beyond Africa. All of these recordings (Stribling's included) feature a trans-global mindset, evidenced through use of an impressive assortment of keyboards as well as all kinds of percussion. All of them also intersperse quieter pieces or passages with dynamic musical songs or movements.

Besides those mentioned above, there are eight more tracks on the CD. "Celebration" evokes its title through a blend of cheery synthesizers, burbling effects, dramatic tribalesque percussion and a flowing lead flute-like keyboard. "Ocean in the Sky," intermixes waves, shore birds and whale song with synth washes and pads that gently undulate and flow, becoming gradually spacier and more ambient before the emergence of subtle Berlin-like sequenced notes. "Forever Young" opens with "ponging" synths amidst the sounds of children playing and set against light-hearted music which builds in intensity with the addition of many rhythmic elements as well as other keyboards. "Evolution" once again brings world fusion elements into play with gamelan-ish tones, gentle but spirited tuned wooden percussion (perhaps meant to be kalimba?) and shaker rhythms. As the cut gathers steam, ethnic singing (I assume African in origin both by the dialect and musical "clues") and more propulsive drums/percussion are introduced until the cut takes on a more joyous feel.

The centerpiece of the album is "Union," a sprawling fifteen-minute opus that eschews the power and drama of some of the other tracks here in favor of a soothing and slowly morphing soundscape comprised of a multitude of keyboards, later evoking the forlorn mood of the desert via some great sampled wind instruments and a slow subtle rhythm imparted through synth bass beats. There is also a faint air of majesty and regality as well, but you have to listen for it.

In stark contrast, the next track, "When Angels Dance" flies in the face of titular expectations as Stribling dials up an electronica infusion with lots of overtly "synthy" synths and gently pulsing techno beats. I'm not saying this is dance floor material, since the melodic component is still "pretty" and the beats are deep down in the mix, but it does stand in dramatic contrast to the previous piece. Finally, the (too short) "At the End of the Day" closes things out featuring soft piano, synth strings and some soothing retro-style keyboards.

Michael Stribling (along with other artists such as Marshall Styler and Harrison Edwards) is swinging our focus back to electronic keyboard-based new age music as it used to be back in the "good old days," but using contemporary instruments propelled by his own unique vision. In his talented hands, we are assured of a new supply of music to help us take imaginary trips to distant lands from the comfort of our living rooms. Another Day in Paradise may not be as good as visiting a real paradise, but that's what our imaginations are for, right? The album rates a solid recommendation from me and I look forward to much more from this artist.

Another Day In Paradise
Michael Stribling
2007 / Leela Music
1.1 hours

"Another Day In Paradise" is the [third] release from multi-instrumentalist Michael Stribling. This new CD is a soundtrack of sorts for a typical day in paradise, and literally picks up where "Out of the Darkness, Into the Light" left off. More electronic and ambient than acoustic or melodic, the music brings the listener an uplifting mood and a positive state of mind. Johnny Mathis' percussionist and a radio disc jockey for a number of years, Stribling combines those pop sensibilities with his advanced training in psychology and spiritual studies to present a unique musical point of view. Calling his label "Leela," which means "divine play," Stribling's mission is "to help others in their journey toward wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit." Stribling uses a variety of ethnic musical stylings to give his music a universal theme that can bridge a multitude of cultures. Unlike some of the other spirituality-themed recordings out there, Stribling does not present a world of all sweetness and light. His music has a strong positive feel to it, but does not ignore some of the darker moments or influences that come into everyone's lives.

"Out of the Darkness, Into the Light" ended with "A Glimpse Beyond," and "Another Day in Paradise" begins with "A Further Glimpse Beyond" coupled with "Procession of the Avatars," which is based on the 13th century Benedictine plainsong, "Adoro Devote." Starting with a feeling of floating in vast open space, the march then brings quite a contrast in mood and a cinematic feeling of triumph. "Asian Dawn" makes another mood shift with bamboo flute, keyboard ambience, and the sounds of birds in the background. Both calm and dramatic, this piece has a very haunting quality. "The Sacred Land" has an upbeat and catchy rhythm over a very atmospheric foreground; in the middle, the two styles merge, perhaps symbolizing the natural and the man-made working together. "Ocean in the Sky" is once more ambient and ethereal, with vast open space and the sounds of sea creatures and wind. "Forever Young" is light and whimsical, with the sounds of children's voices contributing to the carefree spirit. "On A Quiet Afternoon" is a languid piano piece—effortless and easy. Other instruments come in with countermelodies and color, but this is mostly a lovely piano piece. "Union" is an epic 15-minute piece that is serenity set to music—don't try to wake up to this one in the morning! Sigh... "When Angels Dance" is another beauty. Free and energizing, yet perfectly calm, it makes me think of fluffy white clouds gliding across a brilliant blue sky. "At the End of the Day' is content and sleepy, relaxed and ready for the journey to dreamland. What a great day!

"Another Day In Paradise" is an excellent listening experience with full attention or in the background—it works nicely either way. Michael Stribling is well on his way as a major force in new age music, continuing a tradition but also blazing his own trails. His music can be found at leela-music.com, amazon.com, cdbaby.com, and iTunes. Recommended!

Former Johnny Mathis drummer turned New Age keyboard/synthesizer player Michael Stribling keeps you wide awake -- and happy -- with bouncy, driving, and multilayered melodies and rhythms that approach the sonics of stadium rock acts like Journey, Yes, and Genesis. The CD features both beautiful soundscapes and propulsive numbers like the energetic "Forever Young," which sounds the most like a Genesis track. The only thing missing are vocals by Phil Collins. Other highlights include "Procession of the Avatars," "The Sacred Land," "Celebration," "Evolution," "When Angels Dance" and "At the End of the Day." This is a truly masterful work.

Michael Stribling's Paradise Filled with Joy
Another Day in Paradise, Michael Stribling -- Five Stars

Michael Stribling's third CD, Another Day in Paradise, cements the New Age keyboardist's status as one of the most dynamic composers of our time. The collection of 11 instrumental compositions is an exhilarating musical journey that celebrates the vitality of life and pulsates with a positive, energetic vibe that just makes you feel glad to be alive.

The former Johnny Mathis drummer's pop sensibilities and knack for rhythm manifest themselves in the form of propulsive percussion, hook-laden grooves, and infectious bass lines. The proceedings start with the mystical tones of the previous album's final track ("A Further Glimpse Beyond") before segueing into an epic theme ("Procession of the Avatars") that, with its solemn melody and march-like percussion, could be a perfect opening theme for the Olympics.

On a couple of songs, Stribling introduces an ethnic flavor into the mix (the Far East flute sounds of "Asian Dawn," the Middle East-like melody of the intimate "Union," which features a pop cultural musical reference or two for discerning listeners). The CD also features introspective interludes such as "On a Quiet Afternoon" and "Ocean in the Sky," a symphony of marine animal sounds against the backdrop of lush synthesizer tones that would make an ideal soundtrack for an IMAX nature/science documentary.

A human element is added through the presence of wordless vocals, for example, ancient tribal chants ("Evolution") and the laughter of children at play ("Forever Young"). Other inspiring tracks include the reverent "Sacred Land," the high-spirited "Celebration," and the buoyant synth-pop of the electronica-tinged "When Angels Dance."

The album closes on a peaceful note with the aptly titled "At the End of the Day," which revisits the ethereal siren tones of "New Day Dawning" from Stribling's first CD but creates a beautiful new melody accented with graceful piano chords. It's a fitting coda to the bliss and joy that have come before and gives us a chance to take it all in.

Stribling makes music that stirs the soul, and it's clear from this album that Stribling is in the right place spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Listening to this CD will put you in the same place as well. Stribling's music surges with the energy and life force of the universe, and the result is another day in paradise.

Out of the Darkness, Into the Light This follow-up to his award-winning debut album sparkles with driving electronic beats, astral high strings, evolving filtered synths, lush atmospheres, and melodic pianos and bells—a CD that soothes without overdoing the electronica.

MICHAEL STRIBLING
Out of the Darkness, Into the Light Leela Music (2006)

Michael Stribling’s follow up to Songs of Hope and Healing is a more cohesive and fully realized recording. Out of the Darkness, Into the Light is still slightly of two minds, as was his previous album, but this time the split personality is only apparent when going from track two to three.

The CD opens with the propulsive energizing “Driven,” a bouncy slice of electronica propelled by pulsing bass beats and a flurry of melodic synthesizers. After this four-minute song, the CD starts to settle into its primary groove, attuning most of the remaining nine tracks to an ambient/spacemusic/new age vein. While I wouldn’t mind hearing Stribling record an entire album of music like “Driven,” I also think his forte is the quieter more introspective pieces which dominate this fine CD. The title track features wavery synths, buzz-sawing keyboards, and subdued pulsing bass beat, segueing into a harpsichord bridge with melancholic gothic undertones, before yielding to a more triumphant celebratory explosion of bell trees and crescendoing cymbals and finally subsiding into a repeat of the song’s opening.

Things really start to gel with the third track, “Northern Lights”, with its gently soaring spacemusic washes and mournful synth flute (later in the cut) that lazily circles the assorted keyboards. “Letting Go/Afterthought” has a funereal opening with layers of synths cascading and washing over the listener, and the warm lead flute line tints the song with a sad kind of beauty. The keyboards disappear leaving a lone piano to play a lovely refrain that has a nostalgic flavor to it. Once again, Stribling reintroduces the previous keyboards towards the song’s conclusion (this appears to be his signature touch, i.e., the reappearance of a song’s opening melody and instrumentation).

“Seven Faces of Home” features a circular piano refrain surrounded by synth washes and subtle choral effects, almost as if the piano was adrift on a slowly undulating sea of musical textures. “Ripples of Awareness” harkens back to any number of golden age electronic new age music recordings, aglow with twinkling synths, shimmering keyboards, and an ethereal cosmic sense of wonder, concluding with spot-on sampled flute and what I think is a soprano sax. “Longing” is an album highlight with flitting retro keyboards and sequenced notes over warm washes, perhaps a little reminiscent of Ray Lynch, however with less of a classical music influence. Closing out the album is “Glory and Honor/A Glimpse Beyond” which starts off with an assortment of retro synths, twinkling like dancing starfields and an undercurrent of muted hand drum percussion. The percussion eventually becomes more prominent and evolves into a more pronounced East Indian-influenced tabla soundalike, but the synths ground the track more in the electronica/new age genres than in anything remotely like world fusion.

I thought Songs of Hope and Healing was a very solid recording (albeit one that bounced around a bit) and showed great promise for the artist. It was obvious to me that Michael Stribling had talent when it came to wielding his electronic keyboards. With Out of the Darkness, Into the Light, Stribling ratchets up both his technical prowess and also narrows his artistic focus to a much tighter beam, the result being a highly recommendable collection of ambient and electronic new age music that is, for the most part, centered around the quieter, sedate side of things. Color me impressed with the strides Michael Stribling has made in just one album and consider me solidly in his camp of followers, as you will be too if you latch onto this fine CD.