Michael Stribling: Press

CD Review – Safely in the Arms of Love, by Michael Stribling

Keyboard wizard Michael Stribling takes his usually sunny disposition in a bold new direction with this dark tour-de-force that soundtracks an epic journey from the highlands to the city to exile and, finally, safely into the arms of love.

Stribling's imagined story takes place in the foreboding depths of the medieval ages, and as such, he has cooked up a musical alchemy that is every bit as brooding as those dark times. But as in those days, there are bright spots in the music as well, so all is not doom and gloom.

This is not to say that the doom and gloom is bad. In fact, this makes the music that much more dramatic and compelling. The bits of sunshine that do peek through provide glimmers of hope for a better future.

The set opens with the subdued pop anthem "Spirit of the Highlands," which gains momentum in the middle section with some propulsive percussion and establishes an initial sense of hope and confidence. "The Royal City" is as regal as it sounds, with synthesized horns heralding great expectations.

Clouds begin to form with "Dark Times (The Inquisition)," a dynamic track that interestingly starts out sounding like a ubiquitous piece of incidental music from the 1960s/1970s Mission: Impossible television series and unlikely becomes the most rocking piece on the CD, like dark pop.

The highlight of the album is "Miserere Mei," a total creep-out that sounds like a Gregorian chant gone horribly wrong, but in a good way. After a very gothic, Transylvania-style pipe organ intro, an eerie choir of male and female voices chants "Miserere Mei" to a crescendo, followed by a dark synthesized passage, and then more chanting. The choir sounds similar to the choir in John Williams' "Duel of the Fates" suite from the Star Wars prequels, as well as the choir in the musical motif during the encounters with the monolith in 2001: A Space Odyssey. This one track encapsulates the spirit of the CD and is especially spooky at night.

Although not the final track, "Desolation and Absolution" is a peaceful resolution to the involved themes preceding it. The serene and tranquil tones instill a sense of quiet release and expectant hope for the future.

Once again, Michael Stribling has used his musical canvas to render a portrait of a visceral world of drama and emotion, and it is quite the experience to behold.

Michael Stribling - Safely in the Arms of Love
(Leela Music LM11a)

Concept albums haven't been the most popular type of album in recent years [perhaps even for decades], and multi-instrumentalist and composer Michael Stribling's new album is most definitely a concept album. Safely in the Arms of Love has a narrative story about a forbidden romance between a travelling Scottish highlander and a beautiful [aren't they all?] young woman from a different culture, which may be Islam. The fifteen tracks musically animate this tale of love surviving all, and I have to admit that it is a pretty good musical adventure. Mr Stribling is a one man band, perhaps even the term orchestra is more apt on this album. Musically, the music veers between prog-rock, new age and Celtic - it is dramatic, tender, romantic and beautifully performed. The fifteen track titles are: Spirit of the Highlands, Stormy Seas, Far Away From Home, The Royal City, Alchemist's Workshop, Byzantine Carnival Parade, Veiled Dancers, Asian Flower, Alone in the Night, Kyrie, Dark Times (The Inquisition), Miserere Mei, Escape & Pursuit, Desolation & Absolution, Safely in the Arms of Love. To add to the romantic flavour of the album, the inlay cover illustration is a section of "The Kiss" by Gustav Klimt. There is definitely a narrative feel to the music, and reading the short story printed within the inlay should enhance the musical experience. As you will appreciate this isn't Conan the Barbarian set to music, it may - to some ears - sound more like the soundtrack to a Mills and Boon romance, but I think they may be missing the point, which is that narrative music still exists, and it can sound very good indeed!

Safely in the Arms of Love
Michael Stribling
2011 / Leela Music
1.1 hours

In the tradition of Michael Stribling's previous six albums, Safely in the Arms of Love is the soundtrack to a story or message created by Stribling. Fully orchestrated and performed on keyboards, the music ranges from very bold and cinematic to quiet and introspective, from joyful to hopeless despair. A variety of world music influences and a broad range of powerful emotions make this a fascinating musical journey. The story itself is told in the liner notes and on Stribling's website, but even without the text, it is obvious that this album is telling a very adventurous tale.

The story begins with "Spirit of the Highlands," which tells of a young man leaving his home in the highlands against his father's wishes. He is headed for the continent, seeking his fame and fortune. Celtic flavors include pennywhistle, fiddle, and what could be the drone of bagpipes. "Stormy Seas" depicts the challenge of crossing over to the mainland. Dark, intense, and very dramatic, this is one of my favorite tracks. "Far Away From Home" is much quieter and more reflective. The boy eventually finds "The Royal City" where he becomes an apprentice in his uncle's alchemy shop. The majestic and stately music describes the grandeur of the city. One day, the boy hears the sound of the approaching Byzantine Carnival Parade — mysterious and exotic. Fascinated, he leaves work, goes to the carnival tents, and is lured by the sultry music of "Veiled Dancers." The beauty of one of the Asian dancers and her slow, sensual movements captivate the boy, and he returns later that night to find his "Asian Flower." The music here is smooth and simple, conveying the magic of new love.

The story is set in Europe during Medieval times, when the Inquisition was in full force, and the young couple knew that their being together would mean serious trouble. Officials arrest the boy and take him away. "Dark Times (The Inquisition)" is full of dread and the feeling of imminent danger. While imprisoned, the boy could only pray and ponder his fate. "Miserere Mei" is pitch black with organ, chanting, and the feeling of utter despair. When all seemed lost, three shadowy figures appeared, opened the cell door and led the boy away from his captors. "Escape and Pursuit" is intense, agitated, and very dark. Guitars and strong rhythms suggest a breathless chase that fades out near the end. Later, the shadowy figures reveal themselves to be the boy's father and uncle, and his lady love. "Desolation and Absolution" begins mournfully, but turns around about halfway through, becoming hopeful and full of grace. Now "Safely in the Arms of Love" as the story comes to an end, the mood of the music is light, warm, and full of optimism.

Michael Stribling is a master of this kind of musical story-telling, so if you are new to his music, this is a great place to start. Fans of his previous releases will find much to love about Stribling's newest work. It is available from Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Recommended!

CD: Safely in the Arms of Love
Artist: Michael Stribling
Contact: www.leela-music.com

While Michael Stribling's new CD portrays a fictional tale of life's transitions, his own story reflects the real-life changes and cycles of human experience. Although he began piano lessons at the age of 7, he was swept up in the first wave of Beatle-mania and switched to drums where he became so accomplished that he eventually went on to play and tour with Johnny Mathis in the mid 70's. He became even more deeply immersed in the music industry as a performer, composer/arranger, producer and engineer, as well as having played in numerous musical theater productions, and worked as an announcer on a rock radio station. However, in the early 80's he left the music world behind to attend graduate school where he became a psychotherapist, and later studied with world-famous transpersonal therapist Stan Grof.

Although it took many long years, he eventually came full circle and returned to music in 2005. Since then he has certainly made up for lost time having released seven albums which have attained numerous accolades and top ranking in their genre on a variety of new age music charts. Not only has he returned to music in general, but also to his first instrument, piano and keyboards. His years of study in psychology and personal growth have fostered a spiritual perspective, which is mirrored in name of his music company: Leela Music (Leela means "divine play"). In his words, "The mission of Leela Music is to help others in their journey toward wholeness through the gift of music, by creating works that inspire and uplift the human spirit." He adds: "that after all those years and projects, working for others, Leela Music has been my opportunity to "do it all myself."

This idea of a divine play is particularly relevant on his latest release, "Safely In The Arms Of Love" which is a concept album that follows a storyline similar to a play. He characterizes it as "The story of a young highlander's adventures… fifteen original compositions describe his leaving home for the big city, falling in love, getting in trouble with the authorities, and escaping to freedom." While the details of this particular tale, as outlined in the liner notes, are all original, it bears some semblance in form to the mythical pattern popularized by Joseph Campbell in "The Hero's Journey" which is a metaphor for the process of growth and self realization. Although stories vary, "the quest" is common to a variety of literary and film works such as Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and even Siddhartha to some extent.

Michael is not a novice as a musical storyteller. His previous CD "Paradise Lost" solemnly relates the saga of the displacement of the Native American peoples at the hands of the Europeans. While there is indeed a narrative that accompanies this latest album, it is a tale told in music – and well told it is. Opening with "Spirit of the Highlands," you can almost feel the mist drifting across the moors as sounds that evoke bagpipes, pennywhistles, and Celtic harp set the scene for the drama to unfold. On the second track entitled "Stormy Seas" the mood changes as the hero barely survives a dangerous ocean crossing in foul weather – his first of many challenges. The music takes on a driving ominous tone, which makes it clear that the security he has known is behind him. On "Far Away From Home" harp arpeggios, keyboards and synth flute wistfully convey an air of longing. The clouds begin to clear however as track four, "The Royal City" erupts in fanfare, ushering in the entrance to a magical kingdom. Orchestral flourishes swell and swirl and bells ring with appropriate grandiosity. Each track has it's own very distinctive character and sound which lend to the storybook-like feel. This is exemplified as the next track, "The Alchemist's Workshop", conjures a mystical soundscape that evokes images of candles and incense burning whilst beakers of colored liquid bubble and brew. Things go from esoteric to exotic as the "Byzantine Carnival Parade" begins on track six, leading eventually into the seductive and entrancing "Veiled Dancers." You can just envision the hero's wide-eyed wonder as he gazes upon sights never before seen.

Michael has shared the story eloquently in word and music, so I won't attempt to re-tell it in it's entirety here, but by now an idea of the feel and flow of the album should be apparent. This release shows remarkable breadth and depth in it's composition, arrangement, and performance, and further reveals Michael Stribling as an emerging talent, although the term "re-emerging" would be more fitting. "Safely in the Arms of Love" is a grand adventure in music and imagination.

Artist: Michael Stribling
Title: Safely In The Arms of Love
Genre: New Age Instrumental
Label: Leela Music
Release Date: September 1, 2011
Website: www.leela-music.com
Source Link: Muzik Reviews.com

Michael Stribling has been many things. Radio announcer, composer/arranger, engineer, musician, musical theater performer and family therapist are just some of his accomplishments. After a life transition, he decided it was time to focus on his own music, and Leela Music, or "divine play" was created. Safely In the Arms of Love is Stribling’s 2011 release.

"Spirit of the Highlands" spirals outward on wings of bagpipes and ambient music. A whisper of chanting echoes in the background as the wind instruments take over the piece. Jingling bells, feathery percussion and strings take you away .on a ghost dance of the past. If you close your eyes, you feel like you are floating through the air. All of a sudden, the song picks up tempo and you are cresting on dragon wings spiraling through the sky, laughing as your soul takes flight on a journey that is only beginning. An excellent piece! Marvelous composition!

"Alchemists Workshop" leads you down a flight of stairs into the inner workings of an alchemist mastering the mysteries of the universe. Ambient sound, keyboard playing and light percussion bathe you in the possibilities of what may yet unfold. What hides behind the hidden veil of darkness? A pensive pause in the music and down you go, further into the alchemist’s lair. Delicate horned instruments lead you into a dance from which you cannot escape and wouldn’t even if you could. This track is very compelling as the repeating harmony keeps you in its spell.

"Miserere Mei" has a darker feel. Organ music heralds the sinister presence of something as yet unseen. A light hiss combined with ghostly chanting made you feel like you are witnessing something great and terrible at the same time. Darkness unfolds like a malignant flower. Fear blossoms in your heart and your breath catches in your throat. Images of a Black Mass and Rosemary’s Baby come to mind as the notes weave their spell of terror and suspense. The use of near cinematic imagery and audio cues in this piece are phenomenal. It is my favorite on the album.

Michael Stribling is a talent worth checking out. His work in the mental health field combined with his studio time make for an interesting combination. The use of harmony and melody throughout the album to create different atmospheres and reaction from the listener is both artful and skilled. I found myself listening to this album repeatedly, loving the light songs like "Spirit of the Highlands" and the darker music of "Miserere Me" for the way they captured my imagination. A great find and one I will keep in my listening library.

Stars- 4.5/5

CD Title: Paradise Lost
Artist: Michael Stribling
www.leela-music.com

I consider Michael Stribling's Paradise Lost commendable for two reasons. It is an evocative song cycle, creating a sound-scape that effectively captures the majesty and nobility of nature and the indigenous populations that inhabited this continent for centuries, as well as the misguided energies that intruded on that "paradise" and brought a culture of suffering still afflicting the populations of the beautiful continent today.

Secondly, he does this using instrumentation dominated by synthesizer and electronic instruments, to which this reviewer generally responds unfavorably. Stribling manages, however, to capture the heart and spirit of his subject and trace a quietly epic and poignant arc, grounded with the heart and passion of the archetypal themes, an astute and well-tuned musical vocabulary, and some keen placement of older, more organic sounds here and there — rifle, wind, snare drum, the calls and commentary of hawk and wolf, etc.

It's a satisfying journey, and despite the subject, is uplifting. Stribling's arrangement of recurring and evolving melodic themes carry the listener seamlessly — symphonically when warranted, more contemplatively when required — from the Eden of America's indigenous days, through the assault of the Europeans' brutality and greed, and ultimately to the redemption and peace of the Spirit World.

The suite flows nicely, and, as I mentioned, is so evocative of the true Spirit of his subject that the listener can often forget that these are synthesizers pouring forth the majesty of heart and drum.

Paradise Lost
By Michael Stribling
Label: Leela Music
Released 8/2/2010

The First Nation

There is some wonderful music by Native Americans artists out there, but there is not a lot of music about Native Americans. In Paradise Lost, Michael Stribling's finest work to date, we, as listeners and participants, accompany the artist somewhat like the characters in John Milton's Paradise Lost where we, as readers, accompanied Adam and his angel in a quest to uncover the sins of man. They are all too obvious in both cases. In this electronic musical epic, the drama unfolds like an orchestrated performance or a classical work. The music does an amazing job of chronicling the plight of Native Americans from when they were "discovered" by the Europeans up to modern time. The work is imparted in three deferential acts, the land as it was, the coming of the white man, and the resulting tragedy. It may still be in dispute as to whether Scandinavia or Italy was responsible for the discovery of the New World, but none can argue as to the vast wealth that was discovered there. Sometimes wealth is measured not in nuggets or doubloons, but in knowledge. My vote is for knowledge. Although many societies are noted for their intricate intertwining of man and nature, none is stronger or more evident than that of the Native Americans. However, with the influence of the white man, no society was more stifled or vanquished more rapidly.

It appears that one can actually feel a sunrise, the golden light of day warming the earth and giving life a jump start. In the first song, Prairie Dawn, Michael has created the vastness of the sea of grass and flowers that is Middle America. Its wind driven amber waves hide as much mystery and as much sustenance as any salty counterpart. Within that mystery is the stalwart countenance of a people that have braved the hardships of their environment and carved their history long before wooden ships sailed into their lives.

Sometimes the sound of their hoof beats resounded like thunder across the grasslands. Few creatures have made such great contributions to their environment than the Tatonka. The buffalo are a source of food for many tribes and they are the subjects of countless stories and parables in the Native American oral history. Guardian of the Plains pays tribute to the power and majesty of the beasts that are equated with endless blue skies, numbers once ranging in the hundreds of millions, and the singular concept of freedom.

One can almost envision Natty Bumpo darting through the undergrowth, flintlock in hand in pursuit of the elusive whitetail in the thrilling tune, Hunting Party. Native American's respect for nature and all the animals that made up his surroundings taught him to thank the spirits for not only the meat, but the sacrifice of the creatures. The pace in this song is relentless and the guitars are reminiscent of Jan Hammer's familiar sound, making it a very exciting tune.

There is somberness to the tune, Approaching Storm. We sense that lightning flashes and thunder echoing off the canyon walls and the clouds thickening in the distance. In the East, rivers will swell and lakes will rise. In the Middle of the country, nourishing waters will help to grow the corn and wheat that are staples, and in the west flash floods will sweep the land. In the desert, flowers will bloom by the millions and give the stars themselves earthly competition. Rain means many things to many people.

Paradise Lost [is] the sound of a thousand voices throughout the ages praying for peace. It asks the question, "Why can we not be ourselves and live in peace with all creatures?" The intruding sound of the iron horse and the foreboding shrill of the Age of Machinery permeates the song, challenging the ersatz notion of progress.

I could expound on all thirteen tracks, but space is a concern. Leave it to say that I have enjoyed Michael Stribling's latest offering more than any of his works that I have reviewed before. I liked its concept, its content, and most of all, its commitment. His electronic compositions formed purposeful scenarios that will endure in heart and spirit.

Rating: Very Good

Michael Stribling
Paradise Lost
Leela Music

Thematic "concept" albums are relatively rare in New Age music, but Michael Stribling's Paradise Lost does not just belong to that singular category, but also comes highly recommended. Stribling commands impressive control of his assorted electronic keyboards and uses that combination of surgical skill and artist's soul to paint a musical portrait of life for the Native American peoples. Ranging from ambient-like soundscapes to more active electronica-laced pieces, Stribling concentrates less on "sounding" Native and more on conveying his "story," which allows his musicianship to shine through loud and clear. Regardless of one's personal beliefs on the subject matter, this is an excellent New Age music release for fans of electronic keyboard-based music.

Michael Stribling tells of Paradise Lost

In the millennium before the nation of America was founded and a new way of life was envisioned, Native Americans lived brave and free throughout the land. History tells of the conflict and injustice imposed upon indigenous people thought to be hindering this new way of life, but in fact Native Americans were already living the proverbial American dream in sacred lands they viewed as paradise.

Michael Stribling has released an album to commemorate the past while honoring every Native American who lived and died protecting their sacred homeland. To me, Michael’s dedication struck a familiar chord concerning our present values and the high price we readily pay to keep the diverse ethnicities comprising the America of today free.

Paradise Lost is Michael’s seventh in an enduring lineage of New Age Electronic albums making an impact in the genre, winning awards and universal acclaim during his years as an accredited musician producing outstanding ambient music. His electronic discography like recent The Promise which dealt with life transitions is indeed a success and in my role as review publicist, quickly identified his exemplary artistry in the first few measures, so Paradise Lost is not worlds apart from earlier albums, but is clearly a monumental one as those familiar with his music would agree.

Paradise Lost has 12 symbolic songs defined by three movements and while retracing the ancestral life experiences of Native Americans, the perspective I determined from this viewpoint ranged from total relaxation to energetic, so you will find Paradise Lost is not gloomy or somber and I felt more epic in nature. Another point worthy of mention knowing this album recounts the Native American experience, conceptual electronic orchestrations are the expressive medium given during this rendition so a harmonious contrast to more traditional depictions by wood flutes, chanting or bass drums.

Prairie Dawn is first of 5 songs to reveal a distant gaze upon the clear majestic landscape and of people living during this historic period, emerging with a more ambient view of tribal culture where spacious orchestrations echo the expansive lands of our past. French horn heralds in Guardian of the Plains, then strings become like strands of wheat gently moving in the breeze while flute sets the melody upward in flight during Forest Heart. Synthesizer projects a windswept Eagle Above, River Below, then growing excitement and tempo ensues while racing among the scenic timberlands in Hunting Party.

March of Destiny is first of 3 songs to reference the battle over territorial supremacy and true to song title, a crisp drum cadence is timed in lock step rhythm to a salutary march across the open wilderness while horns make the melodic call to arms then a swirling crosswind of mystery surrounds the more ambient Approaching Storm with blended electric guitar strides and again in Vision Quest where a drifting cloud of haziness finds origins by long extended atmospheric notes.

Paradise Lost ( Title Song ) is first of the final 4 songs to represent the loss of humanity and prized territories, shown by contrasting synthesizer runs, an elevated prominence boldly reaches an ascending summit while heightening the majestic image this project in entirety symbolizes. Lament for the Land is more tributary by a solemn narrative that is likened to the soulful Hymn for the Fallen.

Return to the Spirit World is a song telling of a higher perspective during Michael’s closing adaptation, and while entering into an ever rising plateau of instrumental ambience, each expansive layer also finds equable ground for every note to build a foundation upon, coinciding with the present unified territories everyone observes today from every corner pointing North and South, East and West.

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+