Deep, Profound, Spiritually Uplifting and very Terry Oldfie
medievalcrusadesbabe | Ohio USA | 09/11/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Terry Oldfield's music has a very definite spiritual edge to it, speaking from the depths of the soul and providing the perfect accompaniment to those moments when you sit in contemplation of life.
Terry is known for his music for TV productions, especially National Geographic, and scores for movies such as The Falcon that Flew with Man. Previous works include In the Presence of Light and Zen.
This CD explores the depth of Terry's music, combining his talented alto and soprano flutes with the beautiful vocals of Dani Vickery. Add to this some keyboard fill, male choir voices, and the song of the humpback whales and we have a very impressive presentation.
There are four tracks on this CD, for a total time of 52:49. The cover art of a whale tale in a blue ocean to a blue sky speaks of the title more than the words alone... Out of the Depths.
The first track, Deep Connection, starts with the flute. Light, airy, with the vocals of Dani Vickery echoing the flute to create a very ethereal feeling for this piece. A very soft, lilting and serine composition, highlighting Terry's expertise of composition and flute skills.
The second work, De Profundis, is a continuation of the first piece, and progresses melodically into a melodic chant, performed by Dani Vickery and a male choir, reciting an excerpt in Latin from Psalm 129 - Out of the Depths I have Cried to Thee Oh Lord, Lord Hear My Voice. It progressively becomes more brooding with keyboards providing an orchestral backfill and then easing back into a solo piano and finally the flute. Dani Vickery's voice and the flute assure the piece never becomes dark, providing the lighter, more airy elements to the piece fading to completion.
Ocean Song introduces the element of whale song, starting with a whale solo. Dani Vickery and the flute are added into the mix, creating a hauntingly beautiful composition. Again, it is kept light, airy and has a surrealistic feel to it at times. Ms. Vickery harmonizes with the whales and the flute at times, in some places she repeats the melodies, allowing the whales to stand out in the piece and lending it the human element. The flute weaves the entire composition together.
Out of the Depths picks up the pace a little with tempo, still incorporating the element of the whale song and Dani Vickery and using a variation of the chant of Psalm 128, now in English: Out of the Depths, I have Called Thee; Lord Hear My Voice Calling Thee Tonight. Flute takes the forefront again, repeating the melody of the chant, and it progresses with keyboard orchestral fill and the repeated chant by Ms. Vickery and the songs of the whales. The piece ebbs and flows, sometimes accentuating the whales, sometimes emphasizing the chant. Ms. Vickery harmonizes with the whales, echoing their song at time, creating a very lovely, very poignant musical composition. The chant has variations at times and Ms. Vickery works this well. She has a very lovely voice and her skills to either lead or blend are center stage in this piece. The flute again weaves the melody in and out of the vocalizations. The piece comes hauntingly to a close with the whales and Ms. Vickery drifting softly out to sea.
A very impassioned work, skillfully created, masterfully executed. If you are looking for an inspiring work for spiritual contemplation or for music to accompany those quiet, meditative moments, this CD will provide the right atmosphere. And if you are new to Terry Oldfield, this is a great introduction. Those who know his work will be adding this CD to their collection. maf"
A potent tranquility and meditation enhancing CD
Julie E. Bristow | Tasmania, Australia | 06/17/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was familiar with this recording already but had lost my original cassette which was just entitled 'Out of the Depths De Profundis.. I do feel that there is less whale song on this edition (that could be my memory) but the recording still has a very powerful relaxing sound which is magic.. and I would higly recommend it for playing during meditation or just to calm when stressed.."
Track Listings (4) - Disc #1