Deja-Blues
Déjà-Bluesis Steve Halpern's reinterpretation of one of his own recordings, 1978'sHear to Eternity. Altered slightly (via additional instrumentation, including Halpern recording bass tracks for the first time in two decades), the new version amplifies what Halpern calls the "world fusion" vibe of the original and delivers a satisfying, globally accented soundtrack for meditation and moments of trance dance. Though at times the bass parts lapse into predictability, the glowing "In the Hall of Records" can summon thoughts ofPatrick O'Hearn, and the soulful, wordless vocalizing of guest Melissa Phillippe, a modern-day addition, gives the title track a sensual,Pink Floyd-like aura. Flutes and percussion, along with Phillippe's voice, are the chief modifications to the original recording, and the ethereal bamboo flute passages from Schawkie Roth that float across the stilled waters of "Blues by the Ganges" can quiet the soul. Halpern, a one-man New Age music factory, sometimes presents his faithful with some thinly developed musical notions. Not this time. While not a classic, this remake offers an attractive option to those who prefer hints of rhythm in their meditation music.--Terry Wood