White Swan Records

If I could only use one word to describe the album The Road, I would say “Peaceful.”  But this music is far more than that: through the soulful lyrics and expert instrumentation, every track is full of devotion. From the first notes to the last, this duo’s music not only touches the heart, it embraces it.

From the aptly titled first track, “Coming Home,” was taken on a journey inside, to my inner home, inspired to chant along as I listened. The following and title track, “The Road,” is one of my favorites; the song is elevating and filled with bhav—an attitude of devotion—with its beautiful lyrics and tasty orchestrations. I also enjoyed the uplifting feeling, vocal harmonies, and inspiring groove found in “Victory,” a song devoted to the playful Krishna, so much so that I was moved to dance!

“Mama Come Save My Soul” is another standout, a heart-warming lullaby meets chant in honor of the divine Mother. This song features Avasa’s very healing voice held in an embrace with a beautiful hypnotic musical accompaniment.

Through its lush harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, The Road is a stellar example of devotional sacred music: a must-have if you enjoy chanting and sacred music (or an excuse to break into ecstatic dance in your living room). It also provides an inspiring background mood for yoga class, meditation, or healing sessions.

Marla Leigh is a devotional world music composer, performer, and teacher. She is soon to launch an online percussion school, The Frame Drum Academy, and completing her debut album Rhythms in Ahava. marlaleigh.com

Marla Leigh

Reviewed by Marla Leigh Goldstein, a percussionist, flautist, composer, educator and producer who offers drumming retreats, workshops and online programs and loves composing music for Yoga: marlaleigh.com.

www.marlaleigh.com

The post The Road by Avasa and Matthew Love Review appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

By Tina Malia

Amida Records

Tina Malia’s magical voice carries the medicine of opening your heart. Her latest release, The Lost Frontier, is an incredible piece of musical art, combining folk, electronic, and rock influences. In what sounds like Joni Mitchell mixed with the ambient electronic feel of Portishead. Tina plays on all tracks and brings in a stellar array of guest artists and producers, including BlueTech and Lynx.

Also known for singing with sacred musicians Jai Uttal, GuruGanesh Singh, and Shimshai, Tina demonstrates her unique and appealing sound, showcases her musical talents, and reveals her love and devotion to her craft. Beyond merely using her voice, Tina composed the tracks on this album, completed the graphic design, created the drum programming, and produced the album.

All the tracks are unique, but one of my favorites is “Serendipity” because of its angelic vibe, lyrics, orchestration, heart-opening melodies, and lush downtempo grooves; it had me singing along. Tina also made a video for “Serendipity,” which you can find on her website, tinamalia.com (Tina Malia recently moved to Venice. Look for her to appear more around LA.)

I highly recommend The Lost Frontier; its groovy sound and soulful vocals also make it a great companion for a slow-flow yoga session.

Reviewed by Marla Leigh Goldstein, a percussionist, flautist, composer, educator and producer who offers drumming retreats, workshops and online programs and loves composing music for Yoga. She is teaching an upcoming urban wellness retreat June 9 in Santa Monica: marlaleigh.com.

Marla Leigh

Reviewed by Marla Leigh Goldstein, a percussionist, flautist, composer, educator and producer who offers drumming retreats, workshops and online programs and loves composing music for Yoga: marlaleigh.com.

www.marlaleigh.com

The post The Lost Frontier appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.