Review / Comments ::

Benjy Wertheimer and Michael Mandrell seem to be a well–matched and imaginative pair. How they manage to blend such diverse cultures is beyond me, but their magical blend of Celtic and Indian music is a fine example of what World Music is all about. I never would have imagined that Celtic, Indian, and Jazz elements could be fused into such a cohesive whole, or to enjoy the album as much as I did. Both Benjy and Michael seem to be very talented at playing a wide variety of instruments! One can't imagine how only two artists can create such a big sound!

While I did enjoy this CD a great deal, there are two tracks that seem to be recorded live, (5) "Bhagavan Dude" and (13) "What was the Question," and their use of voice I found distracting rather than relaxing. Many tracks from this album were perfectly appropriate for therapeutic massage, yoga, and activities. I found the music both relaxing and energizing and have to admit after listening to it for the first time, I was a bit speechless.

Sit with it and share the wonder of the journey to Celtistan, a place that was born in the hearts of Benjy and Michael and now exists in the hearts and minds of their many fans as well.

This dynamic duo is one to watch... I look forward to sampling more of their flavorful musical collaborations.

Favorite Tracks Include:

• (3) "Sneakin' Out," is a fun little tune which brings to mind mischievous teenagers sneaking out to meet their friends. And you know how that goes, the harder you try to be quiet... the more noise you make!
• (7) "Waltz from the White Mountains," the notes wrap around your heart, echo across the valley and shift and soar upon the air.
• (12) "Touch of the Beloved," the slow and sensuous notes of this track seem to caress the ears like a lover's fingers trailing upon your skin...

Rating ::

Related Web Links ::

Benjy Wertheimer:  http://www.benjymusic.com/

Michael Mandrell:  http://www.michaelmandrell.com/

Available At ::

CD Baby US (CD)
Amazon.com US (CD)
iTunes Music Store US (AAC Download w/ DRM)

Album Copyright Information ::

© 2007 Benjy Wertheimer and Michael Mandrell

Review Date ::

Reviewed: October 2007
Last Updated: 01/01/2008
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