The Journey On

Product Description A suite of guitar & ensemble exploring the theme of a journey. Review Torrey Ferrell is an acoustic guitarist that you'll hear a lot of in the future. The multi-hued The Journey On; is a provocative collection of tunes that encompasses everything from Michael Hedges-like soundscapes to more introspective pieces to dramatic Irish-inflected ballads and more uptempo numbers as well. All of it is done well and the presentation of the CD itself is first-rate, including excellent liner notes. The album kicks off with The Wayward Minstrel, a mid-tempo solo acoustic guitar number that has elements of classic folk music to it, albeit instrumental folk music. The Michael Hedges comparison emerges with the next song, which is the title track. Unique playing methods and tunings yield a fiery and exotic cut. Thundering drums and solid bass flesh out the song more than expected. The piece is evocative yet full of energy. Northwest Passages is classic new age acoustic guitar (which is one of my favorite genres). incredibly visualistic, I can almost imagine scenery rolling by as I drive through mountain passes ablaze with autumn glory. The addition of violin on the song is a masterstroke it adds a wistfulness with nary a trace of melodrama. Wonderful. Torrey is joined on the CD by a number of accompanists, notably his co-producer who contributes keyboards, e-bow, fretless bass, and percussion. In addition to guitar, Torrey himself plays assorted whistles, and other artists chime in on drums, piano, the aforementioned violin, and flute. The album is a good mixture of moods. A Field of Summer which is a delicate and gentle meandering tone poem duet of guitar and flute is followed by the passionate Irish-flavored Whistling Up The Wind, an album highlight, especially on headphones. The mix on this song is spot on! Perfectly balanced, especially the placement of the violin and the bass. Towards the end of the song, some real fireworks explode unexpectedly. Seriously dramatic music, wow! The latter part of the CD, starting with Circles Around a Placid Moon, is more reflective and is flat out gorgeous. Highly evocative, expertly recorded and played, it should delight fans of Will Ackerman or other lesser known practitioners of this kind of music. The songs are soundscapes that can transport the imaginative listener far away. Not that each song sounds the same. In fact, the transition from Circles... to its successor, Sphere, is markedly distinct. But the overall mood as the album winds down is introspective. A Healing Place uses low whistle and synthesizer to great effect, creating a somber and almost melancholy mood of reflection and longing. Near to Heaven is a quiet and peaceful guitar and piano duet, enhanced by synth and violin. The album ends with A New Shore, a blend of plaintive yet melodic guitar and perfectly recorded and mixed sound effects of waves hitting the beach and seagulls. Cuts like this are pure magic to my ears. Torrey Ferrell has delivered a sparkling and accomplished debut recording with The Journey On. His liner notes indicate he is a thoughtful and sincere artist. I can only hope that someone of his heart and mind (and talent) will stand out from the pack. This is an excellent debut, a heartfelt album, and represents what would be a solid addition to any acoustic music lover's CD collection. --Bill Binkleman, Wind and Wire Magazine
ASIN: B00005V4ZS
VSKU: DBV.B00005V4ZS.G
Condition: Good
Author/Artist:Torrey Ferrell
Binding: Audio cd
Note: Any images shown are stock photographs and product may differ from what is shown.
Condition Notes: Individually inspected: Guaranteed to play perfectly or your money back. Case may show wear and may be in library packaging. Ships Fast!