“Compass of the Heart” by Michelle Qureshi
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
I have often wondered how award-winning guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, Michelle Qureshi, continues to top herself. It’s not an easy thing to do. Here, in “Compass of the Heart,” through 14 intricate and concise musical journeys, Michelle Qureshi has created a gorgeous new album that elegantly explores the moods and colors of acoustic guitars.
Michelle drew inspiration for the album from many life experiences: From forest bathing to gardening, a trip to Scotland with her adult daughter to go “back in time,” to writing then a nostalgic lullaby, “Layla’s Lullaby” (named for her daughter), and other personal reflections on Michelle’s life, “Compass of the Heart” was born.
Juxtaposing the timbre of steel strings with nylon strings, finding the awesome nuance between them, and even inviting the nylon string ukulele to her musical palette, the album “Compass of the Heart” guides the listener to a deeply intimate space that provides both joy and wonder.
With its warm and welcoming ambiance, “Carry Me” beautifully opens the album. And so, we are “carried” very nicely into all that follows.
Gently shifting energies, playfully weaving in and out of the sonic landscape, make “In the Forest” perfectly delightful. This charming piece takes us into a space of rejuvenating “forest bathing.”
A calming and patient tempo characterizes “Lavender Fields.” This is super relaxing and tranquil. Acoustic steel and nylon string guitars blend smoothly together in the very pleasant “Sort Your Blessings.” Here we are invited to remember what is truly important.
Some other highlights from this wonderful album: “Marigolds” is melodic and carefree. Interwoven melodic guitar lines dance intricately between acoustic and steel string guitar. With its colorful and dynamic mood, “Irises” is a favorite. This is joyful, bright, and mood elevating.
The very special “Layla’s Lullaby,” written in honor of Michelle’s daughter, is gentle, soothing, and full of love. The song draws on nostalgic memories from the now adult Layla’s childhood when Michelle used to softly sing to her baby daughter. This is very melodic and sweet.
Gentle and delicate, “Not Just For Us” is another favorite. Here we have a beautiful and comforting dialogue between two guitars, skillfully composed and designed to elicit feelings of blissful tranquility.
Inspired by a visit to the famous Prince Street Gardens in Scotland, the track of the same name is light and sparkling. This is calming and energetic at the same time. Effortlessly invoking feelings of peace and serenity, “Simple Blessings” invites us to a quiet space of gratitude. This is melodic and warm and another favorite.
The album closes out with the bright and upbeat “Sweet and Sunny.” With its playful melodies and heartfelt rhythm, the song title describes it perfectly. Here, both the complexity and simplicity of life experiences are beautifully showcased.
Overall, “Compass of the Heart” brings us perfectly back into our heart space with effortless grace and ease. It’s an invitation to reconnect with ourselves in a very unpretentious and authentic way. It’s wholeheartedly Michelle.
Releasing September 12, 2025, get it here: https://www.michellequreshi.com and pre-save here: https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/3a5LskV0l6htnLjgAgy9K9
