Port Of Mystery
Though the album cover claims differently, there is nothing "essential" about this package. Created, as most samplers are, without input from the artist,Port of Mysterytakes half of its selections from the tossed-off albumOptimystique, a dated 1980 recording that Yanni's old record label, Private Music, rereleased in 1989. The older pieces and their antiquated instrumentation, notably "The Magus," sound almost comical when tracked next to newer pieces such as "Looking Glass" and "You Only Live Once." If you are seeking a truly worthy Yanni sampler, start your search withReflections of Passion.--Terry Wood