Search - :: Art of Concentration

IC B. (icberry)
Reviewed on 4/19/2009...

Musicians - Guitar: Scott Garcia, Flute: Caroline Chan, Piano & Keyboards: Kavin Hoo. Composer is Kavin Hoo. 



Far from being just another swirly New Age generic, this CD has really stuck with me as something I come back to and like for the music itself. Because I've enjoyed it so much, I thought it was a shame that no credits were offered for it, as if no one but the label had anything to do with it, so I went out looking for something to tell me who was behind it.
Kavin Hoo is a pianist, born in Malaysia, and a Berklee School of Music graduate who runs his own studio. He works with musicians in Asia and here to produce highly polished "smooth jazz" records from his own music studio, but this recording is would not be described that way. Most of the tracks are contemplative and gentle with a kind of underlying energy that is not based on rhythm, but balance. Melodically, it is keyboard based, but the sounds range from traditional, very melodic, song-like pieces to electronically treated tones that sound like gongs or bird-like whistles. One piece has a very different feel, with an acoustic guitar that sounds lifted directly from a folk-rock record.

I never knew this until I tracked down the origins of this recordking, but apparently, the album is "built" in several pieces, intended to lead the listener into a state of focused concentration. Here is what the "Lifescapes" catalog has to say about it. Take with a generous helping of salt: I thought the CD was remarkably nice on its own terms, and I'd like to find other music by Kavin Hoo, "scientific" or not.... Enjoy!
"Hidden within this beautiful music are rhythm and harmonic structures designed to increase mental focus and improve memory retention...."

""Art of Concentration" is a CD designed to help increase mental focus and improve memory retention. Using the theory of Pyschoacoustics, Binaural Beats and FFR (frequency-following response), the CD empowers the listener to study, read or work more efficiently instead of harder. This is done by tapping into the subconscious mind to generate brainwaves that boosts your metal health being and creative states. Created by the acclaimed producer of "Pure Relaxation", the "Art of Concentration" also showcases his signature new-age arrangements and provides a beautiful musical backdrop to the scientific nature of the CD."



"Track Listings

1. Convergence
2. Clouds of Seed

3. Whispering Thoughts
 
4. Timeless


- Utilizing Beta brainwaves. This 18+ minute segment may be used for any activities that require increased mental awareness and focus. Beta brainwaves reduces the amount of mindless "mind chatter" and can enhance the effectiveness of such activities like studying, working or exercising / dieting.



5. Consciousness

6. Unspoken

7. Galatea's Love


- Utilizing Alpha and Beta brainwaves. By adding higher frequency Alpha brainwaves, this 15+ minute segment puts you in a relaxed yet focused state that aids in problem solving and increases memory retention. 



8. Metamorphosis

9. Regeneration

10. Embrace



- Utilizing Alpha and Theta brainwaves. According to researchers, Theta brainwaves are associated with creativity and a state of deep relaxation with high receptivity for new experiences and learning. Listening to this 17+ minute segment will rejuvenate your mind and help unblock mental barriers. Perfect for brain storming sessions, learning new languages or breaking bad habits.

You may listen to each track separately or as a whole. Listening from track 5 to 10 at night may also lead to deeper sleep and greater relaxation.
"

A must-have!

ADHD Student | USA | 02/18/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am a junior in college with ADHD. I use this CD to focus while studying and get it done in half the time. I was really skeptical in buying this but it actually works! I also used it to help quiet my mind when I had trouble falling asleep. It really works!"

Pure focus

W\M\35 | VA, US | 01/26/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD has been invaluable at critical delivery times. It allows me to think, relax, and work all at the same time. I wish I could find version 2 of the same CD!



Priceless!"