Loved it, from the first track to the last :)
author: PhilD
Ian has been steadily producing CDs for a while now. Black Sands is, I believe, his best effort yet. He called upon some excellent session musicians for this album and none of them failed to deliver. It was a project they believed in as much as Ian did. You can tell that from the first note to the last. A worthy addition to anybody's CD collection.
Best of luck Ian.
All the best
Phil
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Rushton has a masterpiece on his hands.
author: Peter Dent, NZ Musician Magazine, Dec/Jan 2006
This is an album of great musical diversity, of extreme national pride, light and shade, highs and lows. An entirely instrumental work, with many local and overseas guests. Rushton makes his presence felt on angelic-sounding acoustic piano, but there is also some outstanding guitar work (including dobro, slide etc), as well as a tight rhythm section. Adrift sounds like a collaboration between Coldplay and Joe Satriana or Steve Vai. The musicianship is such that even extremes of musical changes sound completely natural and harmonious. But in the end, this is Rushton's baby, he composed, produced and mixed "Black Sands" himself. The CD liner notes don't list individual performances unfortunately, just names. The photography and design of the cover are stunning, although the actual disk is far from professional. That aside, Rushton has a masterpiece on his hands. "Black Sands" evokes such powerful images it is impossible not to be enchanted by it.
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A fantastic example of musical collaboration!
author: Jet
It would be hard to be disappointed with the songs on this great CD. Ian Rushton has done a brilliant job in composing songs, arranging them, and coordinating the many talented guest players on this album. The moods vary from carefree to sombre, from whimsical to intensely atmospheric. Put this disc in your player, settle back with a good drink and some company, and let the music transport you to a variety of destinations. "Black Sands" is outstanding!
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This is some of the best original music I have heard in a long time.
author: Faron
Very enjoyable. As a fan of guitar based instrumental music, I really enjoyed this cd. But there is more to it than guitar. Much more. The music has definite substance. Very melodic and atmospheric. And a wide range of styles, sure to keep almost any fan of new age or rock interested through out. If your looking for something new and original sounding based heavily on melody, you won't be disappointed with this cd.
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