Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/859762
August/September 2017 27 art & soul MUSIC T here are at least two things that would pair very well with Re.Generations, the new album from New Mexico music producer Amani Friend, aka Liquid Bloom�One would be an intense yoga session, and the other activity also involves a lot of stretching and grunting, if done right. The nine sensual songs—produced with musical assistance from Friend's friends, including Porangui, Deya Dova, Ixchel Prisma, Arsen Petrosyan, Numatik—combine nature sounds, Peruvian ritual chants, Persian lute instrumentals, a steady stream of cello, and lyrical meditative guidance that combine to create a stew that's just the right amount of hypnotic. Except for the album's close, the music isn't actually sleep-inducing; on several songs (especially "Numatik" and "Resonant Migration") the beats speed up enough to entice listeners to get up and dance. That's no surprise since Liquid Bloom has spent years on the international dance and festival circuit, playing his other-worldly tunes for people seeking the catharsis and escape of communal movement. Like any good artist steeped in dance, Liquid Bloom understands the importance of wind-down music and the last few entries of Re.Generations are defi nitely on the quieter, meditative side. While a few more upbeat cuts would have been welcome, listeners to Re.Generations will undoubtedly feel more calm, thankful, and, yes, regenerated, after the album draws to its peaceful close. (White Swan Records) —Neal Broverman U ma—a new collaboration between yogini and Kirtan singer Mercedes Bahleda and World Music composer Ferenz Kallos—has been referred to as the "new Enya." While no one will likely ever fully fi ll the shoes of the iconic Irish vocalist, Uma defi nitely calls to mind her lush, ethereal sounds with their own Indian chants, Tibetan prayers, and relaxing soundscapes. Bahleda's voice is certainly an instrument of wonder and with cellist Noah Hoffeld and Kallos' violin and top-notch production—he's worked in different genres and mixed 38 albums for artists as diverse as the Gypsy Kings and Indian musician Reema Datta—your attention won't waver over the seven songs, many of which clock in at more than 10 minutes. Uma's album opener, "Om Shanti (Sanskrit Mantra for Peace)" is available in both eight-minute and 25-minute versions, and features the stylings of opera singer Jenna Karl, layered over Bahleda's own impressive singing, as well as strings and harmonies that will indeed call to mind Enya. Don't get the impression though that Bahleda and Kallos are trying to completely replicate that musician or sound like just another meditation album; songs like "Om Shanti," "Sky Dancer/Kancaoma," and the gorgeous "Guru Mayaran (Sanskrit Mantra to Honor the Teacher)" have notes of Sarah McLachlan's earlier work and even Madonna's Ray of Light period. Bahleda and Kallos don't have to compare themselves to anyone else, they're quite impressive all on their own. (White Swan Records) —NB Mercedes Bahleda and Ferenz Kallos Uma Re.Generations MUSIC Liquid Bloom