Album Notes

"If music is truly from the heart it should have the ability to move you." It was in search of music that may invoke that very cord, that inspired the diversity of sound and culture implemented into this current release.

This music is a representation of one of the cultural cross-sections of America. A mixed heritage ranging from Native American to the farmers of Kentucky, to the hills of West Virginia. Michael never consciously decided to bring out these roots in his music, although, as he has learned our roots are inevitable. By embracing these roots, you help keep your ancestors alive.

"Michael Joseph has put history to music and he has done it well...a tranquil homage to the past..."
RJLANNAN, The New Age Reporter. (Full review posted at www.mjosephu.com)

"O-GLEPI captivates you from the very first track and gets better." WAWL, Chattanooga, The Flyingman

“….O-Glepi begins with folky acoustic guitar chords under a Native flute melody called "Ancestors Song." Then a hit of acoustic blues guitar with flute on "Gourdhead." Humble and refreshing, O-Glepi is a sweet taste of contemporary acoustic music with Native (and other) roots.”
Scott Stevens - Spin the Globe, KAOS

“….hauntingly beautiful and sad at the same time. Sometimes you can hear the cries of the Native American …. There is no doubt Michael has perfected his craft it shows on every song. There are also influences from other cultures, like the Spanish influenced Red on White ....It is truly worth your time to sit down and listen to the beauty of this music.“
Ken Hamlett, publisher - UNSIGNED MAGAZINE, 5.0 stars

“…. my love of music has dominated my life in ways that I wouldn't have dreamed of when I was younger. And yet it has always fed my soul and enriched my life beyond measure; just the right album will do that for you. O-Glepi is such an album.

…. With the haunting washes of flute that define this music, one is tempted to label it "new age" but Joseph's former life as a punk rocker cancels out any hints of bloodlessness often associated with "new age" music.

There is a feeling of spiritual calm ….all evokes a sense of peace, grace and beauty that gives one a feeling of hope.

All the material here showcases Joseph's masterful guitar skills, and often recall his previous punk rocker roots, especially on "Gourdhead", "Red On White (Blood On Snow)" ….Not a note out of place or a moment wasted; music for the heart and the head.

…. "Sparrow" will leave you a glowing feeling long after it's done. O-Glepi is nectar from the gods that should be sipped and savored--allow it to feed your soul.”
Gina Morris - E.O.M.Entertainment-4.5 STARS!

"Sparrow brings out the down-to-earth composer and guitarist in Michael as he does a bit of magic and turns a tiny bird into a soaring eagle." RJLANNAN, NAR

“...the Native chants seem to exist well after they actually appear...so much of what occurs is implied rather than actually recorded... We hear what we want to hear, because we think it needs to be there; it feels like it shouldn’t actually be audible for the masses...you’re summoned into the music...yet, able to give your own input rather than being forced into participation.”
Indie Review- Chase Scott


*The next album is already in the works; it includes more use of odd time signatures, more finger-style picking, it’s dynamic and a lot more structured. Yet, it includes an even more diverse cultural feel with different ethnic music. However, it still pulls off the heart and soul that is presented in O-Glepi.