“Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
Our lives are made up of “moments in time.” Put them all together and we have the gift of perspective. We can look back, we can look forward, and we can look within. We can have a good look at the gamut of experiences and emotions that have comprised our lifetime. And if we are lucky, no matter what has transpired, we may end up with the “singular viewpoint” of a life well-lived.
David Wahler has had such a life and such a gift. Here, he shares with us a “peek behind the curtain,” and speaks poignantly through his talent in this beautiful musical novella. The emotions of life we find here are so masterfully conveyed through piano with instrumentation in over almost 38 minutes and 10 tracks, and range from love, guilt, reckless abandon, seclusion, and intimacy.
A little about David for those that do not know: David has embraced his dream of making music not just his career, but his life. David’s first album, “Antiquus,” was released in 2009 to critical acclaim, followed by “A Star Danced,” “Secret Dream,” “Becoming Bliss: One Hour Series,” “Spiritus,” and “Mosaic.” And since the 2019 release of his seventh album, “Two Hearts,” David has enjoyed worldwide success. David’s album, “Currents.” was released January 2021 and his album, “Collection,” was released in 2022. His award-winning album,”Blue Rose,” was released at the end of 2023. And now we have David’s new album release, “Singular,” which is certain to be a resounding success as well.
“Singular” opens with the title track which begins with soft, felted piano. It’s a perfect space for reflection and contemplation. Strings intertwine briefly and add a rich depth to the composition.
The relaxing “Lilt” follows, which is gentle, melodic piano, nicely played. Here we are drawn further into the loveliness that is this entire album.
“Love in a Meadow” is as playful as its title implies. We still have that gentle nature, and the ambiance is sweet as we uncover the many layers and nuances of this song.
We are never really alone, even if we feel that way. “Alone,” a nice felted piano solo, is flowing and not at all melancholy, but rather more introspective.
It would be a rare person that has never had to extend an olive branch to another. There’s a certain trepidation that comes along with this act, as well as hope for a positive outcome. “Olive Branch” perfectly captures these emotions. It’s soft and gentle, plucky, and hopeful all at the same time. I like it a lot.
How many “if onlys” do you have in your life? There is often that lingering question about what if you’d gone left instead of turned right? “If Only” again has that soft muted piano, along with gentle bell tones and quiet, calming synth instrumentation. Again, we have a few moments to contemplate our choices. This is really beautiful and dreamy.
“Lotus Lake” is a true favorite on this album. Supremely flowing, relaxing, and tranquil, we find ourselves easily transported to another place and time where we haven’t a care in the world. Piano is just gorgeous here as are the synth pads and soft bells. Very peaceful.
In music, the term “lento” refers to slow and deliberate pacing. “Lento” is just exactly that. Leisurely piano interweaves with lovely and heartfelt strings to bring us back to center.
Another favorite on “Singular” is “Fingers Touching.” David has perfectly captured that special exchange of energy we feel when touching fingers or holding hands with another person. Melodic and flowing, again, with soft and beautiful piano, ultra-dreamy and relaxing, with gentle synth pads as well.
This gorgeous album closes out with the tender “Love, Me” which with its felted piano lulls us effortlessly into a wonderful state of serenity. Get it? The whole album is a love letter to us all. And, like those, this album is to be cherished. Genius. A definitive “must have.”
Get it here: https://www.davidwahler.com/singular
David Wahler’s official website: https://www.davidwahler.com
