Los Angeles based Tonehenge has released their first CD of the same name. Their name is derived from tone - tonus, a sound; and henge - ancient structure. They classify themselves as "crossover, electronic dance music, sweetened by vocals and strings, with Pop, World, and Rave influences." Tonehenge is the brainchild of vocalist and cellist Mystic Pete (Peter Ludwig) and is co-produced by Atom Smith. The CD features the vocals of Ana Robles, Dawnia Carlson, Kinga Toth, and several others. 
      This 16-track collection delivers an amazing array of sounds and styles, including three dance remixes of "The One," "1000 Nights," and "You Are Mine" as well as a drum and bass mix of "Raver." Just sampling the first 4 tracks (online at www.cdbaby.com/cd/tonehenge) immediately shows the amazing diversity of Tonehenge. The vocalists featured on this CD were well chosen and enhance the entire listening experience. One disappointing note for this reviewer, however, was that Mystic Pete's amazing cello playing wasn't more prominently featured on more tracks. 
      Peter Ludwig (a.k.a. Mystic Pete) has had an interesting musical career. He started playing cello in 3rd grade, and he studied as a trance medium in his teens, channeling extraordinary voices. He has played in orchestras, accompanied poets such as Coleman Barks, and wailed at raves. His love of Trance, Dance and World music, and his mastery of improvisation led to the evolution of Tonehenge. 
      Tonehenge has been playing raves, parties and events for the last couple of years. With the electronic scene moving toward live acts, Tonehenge's compelling vocals, strings and catchy rhythms, combined with their dancers and imagery, could be at the edge of the next musical wave. Let's hope we can catch them on tour soon. 

Max's personal Martini Rating = 2 Martinis
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