Atlantis Lost - Artist: Eric McCarl,   Label: Weaving Libra  Review Atlant Lost is the second part of Eric McCarl's Trilogy of Light series. This one uses intellectual curiosity and the mysterious longevity of an ancient continent as a musical metaphor for the introspective strength that lies sometimes dormant in all of us, but like adrenaline, it is there when it is needed. Eric McCarl plays a passionate piano with compositions that are reflective and thought provoking. I can't wait for his third installment.

Two Horizons  - Artist: Moya Brennan,   Label: Decca   Review Two Horizons is the fourth solo release from the lead singer for the enormously popular Celtic band Clannad. Moya (Enya's middle sister) takes on the grand tales of the kings of Tara and using her illustrious voice, wondrous Celtic style and creative imagination, offers one of the best Celtic albums of the year. There is much beauty in her music.

Waiting For The Moon - Featuring Daya - Artist: John Adorney,    Review                                                                         Label: Eversound Records Waiting For The Moon was an album that literally knocked my socks off. The compositions were intricately soothing and the vocals featuring Daya were sweet and evocative. Even though I wrote the review many months ago, the refrain from the song Mavoh Mavoh still echoes in my mind. "I will love from eternity to eternity"

Celestial Body  - Artist: Shankar & Gingger,   Label: Mondo Melodia  Review This is one duo that I would love to see in person. The eerie "mewing" voice of Gingger and the incredible performances of their double violins on the album Celestial Body made it an album that I prize in my collection. The Eastern fusion blended with classical elements made for a good listen any time. We will be hearing more from them soon.

New Frontiers - Artist: Sean Grace,   Label: NCA Records  Review One of the best and brightest of the new comers is flutist and composer Sean Grace. His album New Frontiers blends Celtic and jazz styles in an extraordinary magical/musical formula that would make Merlin blush. His energy on the album could power a small city and entertain them simultaneously. If you loved Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson, then you may feel the same way about Grace.

Passionate Voice  - Artist: Lisbeth Scott,   Label: Dove  Review After I heard Lisbeth Scott's soaring vocals on State of Grace II: Turning to Peace I hoped I would hear the angel sing again. The multi-instrumentalist, song writer and singer offered us Passionate Voice and our prayers were answered. The album mixes world appealing contemporary Christian vocals, contemporary, and pop tunes that comment on everyday life and the strength of one's faith. Great stuff.

The Twilight Realm  - Artist: Aine Minogue,   Label: Little Miller Records  Review The best thing that came from Ireland and settled in New England since the shamrock is Aine Minogue. Her delightful offering, The Twilight Realm gives a glimpse into the magic world of fairies and folklore. Her celestial voice and glorious harp produces music that is an elixir for the soul. It is steeped in Celtic tradition and touched with the magik of the fairies. Great stuff.

Once Upon A Spell  - Artist: Kathy Haggerty,   Label: RGM  Review Once Upon A Spell is a fresh, innovative album that features dreamy sequences and a new direction in fantasy traveling. Tuvan throat singing, Greenspeak (New Age Fantasy Vocal?) and lush soundscapes are there for the sampling. Kathy Haggerty has developed a unique style that puts her in a class all her own. It makes you wonder what this sonic sorceress will come up with next. I can't wait.

Peaceful Journey  - Artist: Bill Leslie,   Label: Capital Broadcasting Company  Review If you ever want to hear what the honest beauty of Appalachia sounds like, the verdant forest trails, the magnificent mountains and the steadfast spirit of the mountain folk, then listen to Bill Leslie's album Peaceful Journey, A Celebration of North Carolina. Not only will you hear a gorgeous contemporary blend of New Age instrumentals and Celtic ensemble pieces, but also an album of remarkable composition. It one of my particular favorites.

State Of Grace II: Turning To Peace  - Artist: Paul Schwartz,                                                                                         Label: Windham Hill Released in 2003 but on the charts for quite some time in 2004, this is one of my favorite albums that blends some terrific crossover elements. State of Grace II Turning to Peace features not only some of the best vocals ever recorded with the seraphic voice of Lisbeth Scott, but some soaring singing by chorale as well. The overall theme is timely and the Latin and classical elements add Old World texture to the modern contemporary instrumentals. Hit replay.