HOWARD GREEN

Tapestry of Light

New World Music (2002)

reviewed by Dene Bebbington

Here's another "solid" release from the New World label. This is my first experience of Howard Green's music, though knowing it fell into the new age genre I had a good idea what to expect. The stereotype of new age music of being overly sweet is somewhat unfair, but it is rare to be surprised by something in this genre. It is good to have a source of music that's reliable in this respect, yet now and again I would like to encounter some music that stretches the boundaries of the genre.

Howard is said to be on a spiritual journey and meditates regularly, and he likes to go on retreats. That got me wondering if new age is the only genre where the music is usually tied to a particular aspect of a musician's worldview. Answers on a postcard to Wind and Wire!

As the title suggests, Tapestry of Light presents the listener with light and uplifting compositions. Acoustic guitar and cello are the main instruments on the album; in addition there are keyboards, drums, electric guitar (I presume), and angelic/heavenly female vocals - both wordless and singing lyrics. As one would expect with this kind of album there is an emphasis on melody, plus there's a lot of rhythmic passages. Sometimes the listener can get wrongfooted, for example, the first track "Whispering Shadows" gets going nicely with melodic vocals and a pleasant rhythm, then the tempo and mood change during interludes when the acoustic guitar comes in.

I found it interesting that the use of cello on the album doesn't have the mournful quality that it often has elsewhere. The presence of this instrument conjures up thoughts of Secret Garden's music, but without the sad edge. The mood is generally light, and sometimes evocative.

Tapestry of Light is worth a listen if you like new age music. It's a pleasant blend of some traditional instruments, vocals, and gentle synth pads.