Many artist from all genres can sometimes resemble a particular tone or feel that sounds like another artist, which can be evident from the very beginning while listening to their music.  This is not the case with composing  artist David Wahler.  The New Age Antiquus album, officially released June 1 2009, has some personal trademark qualities not heard in projects from musicians established before him.  Beginning music as a young adult, then to formal music studies in college, David moved to the theater, directing several productions while performing with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, and New American Theatre.  This album has attracted attention in the Netherlands in particular and is featured on New Age Soundscapes with Music Choice premium services.  David also has a sense of giving, devoting himself and his time teaching music to handicap and disadvantaged children, in a worthwhile cause he found personally rewarding, and that I would also like to recognize about him publicly.  The Antiquus album debut has been described as New Age Ambient, Neo Classical, and Electronic, but let’s also add Orchestra and Chill Out, since they can also be used as reference adjectives to describe his material.  David points out that this album explores our common heritage through classical compositions, and that each of the 10 songs makes reference to an ancient myth, sacred love, or eternal truth that everyone shares.
Provoking many emotions, the mood is thoughtful and ever changing by the insertion of a light and airy feel at times, that then shift towards deep and mysterious surroundings as the measure bar in the sheet music moves into the next measure of the page.  This album does explore our ancient past to unveil our present in an unfamiliar way by incorporating a layering and mixing of piano, strings, flute, violin, and percussion in a mysterious, yet classical way.  Choral vocals reinforce his approach in style, echoing a graceful and poetic feel, while also shining bright by a deep, thought provoking mannerism that seems to stand out from the very beginning.  With this goal in mind, David has managed to produce a debut album that appears to stand alone in personal style and form, creating a model as an artisan would create a grand sculpture adorned with touches of gold, and crafted entirely out of sound.  David points out that this album explores our common heritage through classical compositions, and that each of the 10 songs makes reference to an ancient myth, sacred love, or eternal truth that everyone shares.  The mood is indeed very dreamlike and relaxing by a mod tempo rhythm that offers a positive connection by retaining your interest and imagination throughout the entire album.  Shifting tempo and key changes are what I believe give this album an effective transition in thought and feeling, linking the valuable bond between our very distant past and our ever changing future.
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Just beautiful !
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“Antiquus” is the debut from pianist/keyboard wizard David Wahler, but you’d be hard-pressed to find any evidence that this is a first recording. From the stunning cover artwork by Matt Strieby at Newleaf Design to the outstanding sound quality of the production, this is one very impressive recording - and I haven’t even mentioned the music yet! Even though it will be classified as an “ambient” or “new age” album, “Antiquus” rates very high on the “wow!” meter. Layers of sound produced on a variety of keyboards give the music a complexity that isn’t immediately obvious. Walher studied classical piano from a young age through college and then began working in theater. He taught music appreciation to disadvantaged and handicapped children before embarking on a career in retail and design. Finding something missing in his life, Wahler enrolled in the Berklee College of Music’s Electronic Music Production program and a new world opened for him. “Antiquus” is a musical exploration of our common heritage, and each of the ten tracks refers to an ancient myth, sacred love, or eternal truth. Wahler says, “I strive to unveil the answers to questions men and women have asked since antiquity.” Whether or not those questions are answered, “Antiquus” is a breathtaking exploration.

The title track opens with almost a whisper. Soft-spoken broken chords roll in the background as the spare, graceful melody brings is in. The echoing effect makes it sound like the music is being played in a large open space - perhaps an ancient Greek temple - and the sense of mystery is intriguing. “Kyoto Mist” is a cool, gentle daydream with piano, various plucked instruments, and sparkling bells and chimes. The patterns are simple and relaxed and the mood they create is serene. “Teresa” is a favorite. Beginning with the sound of thunder and bells in the background, the first chords are dark and mysterious. A gently rolling bass pattern lays a foundation for the very spare melody. As the piece develops, strings and voices fill the open spaces. “Teresa” reminds me of Michael Dulin’s keyboard work - stirring yet very peaceful. “Night Sky of Orion” suggests vast darkness pierced occasionally by sparkling light - tranquil and hushed. “Hyacinthus” is another favorite. In Greek mythology, Hyacinthus was a beautiful youth loved by Apollo who was killed when he was struck by a discus. The piece conveys profound grief and is achingly beautiful. “Lune Mysterieuse” picks up the tempo a bit with a gentle but compelling rhythm and plenty of atmosphere. I also love the closing track, “Ancient Dawn.” Overflowing with musical colors, this would be the perfect soundtrack to enhance a film of stunning images. Yum!

“Antiquus” is one of those wonderful albums that people are not going to be able to keep quiet about. I fully expect it to top the charts and to be on many “year’s best” lists for 2009 (including mine!). Check it out! Very highly recommended!!


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