Yoga Zone: Music for Yoga Practice
This mostly acoustic compilation of 13 cuts by such Windham Hill artists asWilliam AckermanandMichael Hedgesmesh well for a soothing, even-paced (although sometimes a bit busy) musical experience that's excellent as accompaniment to a yoga routine. With a slow, steady rhythm, "The White Spirit" from French duoUmanunfolds the collection splendidly, transporting the listener to an exotic, rhythmic place perfect for focusing the mind and stretching the body. Other standouts include "Bridges" from Celtic-folk artistsNightnoise, featuring a lyrical acoustic guitar and plaintive violin;Philip Aaberg's poetic "Crying Smile"; and Patrick O'Hearn's electronic "87 Dreams of a Lifetime," whose cadences are just spirited enough to keep your body moving while still laid-back in delivery and meter.Yoga Zoneis a solid collection whose only weakness lies in its demand to be listened to rather than used to underscore physical movement.--Karen Karleski