Album Notes

Eric Chiryoku is one of the finest multi-instrumentalists ever to have emerged from his side of the ocean in recent years. His blend of pop and folk-oriented soundtrack music stretches the imagination to a point where the listener willingly allows his or her heart and soul to be caressed by some of the most wonderfully innovative piano, flute and violin based 'Eric' compositions.

Eric Chiryoku's first release 'Winter Story' won widespread critical acclaim around the world. His latest album 'Spring of Life' is likely to surpass that accolade.

Eric was recently awarded two 2007 International Online Music Award nominations for Best Composer and Best Male Solo Artist, and in 2006, he was awarded Best Instrumental Soundtrack for the song "Winter Story".

Music Reviews:

Review of music: Silent Wind

A few years ago when I was hanging out regularly at the original POP site, the name of Eric Chiryoku was bandied about with great regularity. Knowing the calibre of artist The Gathering had attracted, I wasn't surprised at some of the intense praise heaped at his feet; this is a different world to many other websites. Unfortunately, at the time, I only got to hear Eric work on some collabs so I guess this is the very first time I've had him all to myself - as it were. Just for the record, Eric is a New Age instrumentalist and while New Age is not my idea of musical heaven, a professional and experienced track definitely is.

Nirvana buddy.

'Whenever Ifm frustrated and down, I like to reach out for the wind for it brings warmth and calm to my heart. Close your eyes and you can even hear the beauty of its sound....' Eric says in the song comments and I'd say that is probably the best way to approach this track. Certainly if you are a fan of the aforementioned professional and experienced track, this is everything you would have expected. Music played with great style and emotional content, enhanced by a mix so clean and clear, it's balm to the ears. Which is what it is supposed to do, I guess.

As I say, I've never been a fan of the style but I am more than willing to admit that Eric Chiryoku is an excellent musician in every respect. The main weight of the track is carried by a perfectly rendered piano, aided to perfection by the occasional dab of cello and light strings. All very tasteful in fact. When I am looking for something to chill out to this is the kind of track I would automatically reach for, dramatic without being overblown, pretty without being sugary or sweet. The kind of track, in fact, that should be taken seriously because there is certainly a serious and intelligent musician behind it.

Elegant and gentle New Age. Highly Recommended.

By Steve Gilmore( Music Producer and regular online music review guru)

Review of music: Spring Of Life
I would say that this music is really something extraordinary since it has an ability to break down all the barriers helping us to understand each other better.This wonderful, mystical and very expressive music comes directly from the heart. If I were asked to describe it with three words, I would say “beautiful, peaceful and, more important, happy”. That’s why I enjoy listening to it and telling my audience about it.

Dmitry Shakin (Radio Program Producer, “NEW ERA: EVENING DREAMS” Radio Show, Vladivostok Broadcasting Corporation-Russia)

Review of music: Wishes
Just listened to Wishes... GREAT!! My very congrats for all the passion you put in and all the special emotions that are present in every note. Amazing mood and sweet melodies that touch the heart... The piano and that violin sound so beautiful, it's a pleasure to listen. I'm happy to have found you and your music!

Corrado Rossi (Pianist, Music Producer-Italy)

Review of music: Silent Wind
This is absolutely a gorgeous composition. Everything in the right place, technically speaking, but I never had any doubt, considering the evident talent of the author. The track is charming and fascinating in a new age way, a way who may relax and make you think, seducing gently and building something unique in your soul. Simply awesome!

Guthorm, The Wimshurst Machine( Musician, Producer-Italy)

Review of music: Lotus Flower
Absolutely beautiful track from Eric Chiryoku. I don't know if I'm just crazy about Eric's work, but I find his creations SO visual and emotionally moving ...

Chris Bishop (Music Producer, Project Overseer Productions Webmaster-United Kingdom)

Review of music: Shore
A very moving piece! You have a very special gift indeed, and I'm glad I found your music!!I'm inspired and humbled by your talent. It's a pleasure for me to come back from time to time and listen to your beautiful, heartfelt music!

Brian Mattson,(Music Producer, United States)

Shore has such wonderful melodies! This sound is almost a mix between Jerry Goldsmith and James Horner type melodies. Very beautiful and Absolutely incredible.

Nathaniel Drew (Film Scoring Composer and Producer, www.nathanieldrew.com- Unted States)