 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Store
Commissions
Print Shop
Library
The Library: Books |
| Books | Music |
|
My music tastes are very eclectic. There are very few kinds of music that I don't like, and the CDs I've listed here are ones I listen to most for background inspiration and motivation. Many are instrumental, since I don't always like to be distracted by lyrics when I'm trying to focus on a concept. Some have lyrics that are subtle enough for me to enjoy it without having them pull my focus too much. I've been asked why I don't list artists like Enigma here, as they're certainly in the genre of the trance/dance music I favor. Personally find them better for meditation than drawing. The list below is my die-hard creative playlist, though it may change at a moments notice. I'm just fickle that way. :) |
|
I am a huge Vanessa Mae fan - not only is she an extremely talented violinist, but her music is terrific to design to. Whether it's true classical, or one of her fusion blends, this is definitely music to inspire creativity. |
Albums by Vanessa Mae:|
I actually own a few David Arkenstone albums, though Celtic Book of Days is one of my all-time favorites. I've gotten some strong visuals from this album. |
|
This is just an all-over fun album. Very tribal and techno - a great late-night motivator! |
|
The Afro Celt Sound System really has to be experienced to be believed. Multi-layered, ethnic sound fusing talking drums and African beats with bodhran, Uilleann pipes and more in a soulful, rich and sensual blend. |
|
Words can't begin to express how much I love these albums. They are just glorious. Hildegarde von Bingen was a revolutionary 12th century German Benedictine Abess. She was a mystic, philosopher, poet, prophet, healer, radical reformer, and proto-feminist. She was also a musical genius, who turned her gifts of composition into songs of incredible beauty and devotion. Richard Souther, a modern composer also of tremendous skill, has taken Hildegard's songs and transformed them into modern art, with the help of synthesizers and world beats, and a talented pool of international vocalists and musicians. No matter what your religious beliefs, the passion and inspiration of this music is universal. To quote an exerpt from Illumination: "This collaboration, between two composers guided by the same light, could only exist today. But it has been in the making for over 800 years." Vision is more secular and adherant to her original compositions, while Illumination is more interpretational and flowing. Amazon.com has a terrific deal on both albums together, and I highly recommend it. |
|
I thought both of these shows were incredible, and I have great respect for the skill and imagination of Michael Flatley. Riverdance has helped bring Celtic dance and music into the mainstream, and Bill Whelan's compositions on Riverdance and Ronan Hardiman's work on Lord of the Dance balance Flatley's rhythmic dance beautifully. Between the two, I actually favor Riverdance, though both are great for inspiration. |
|
"Richard Searles is a classically trained guitarist whose performances blend elements of Celtic, Renaissance and World Music influences to create an experience at once soothing and evocative. The rich and melodic sounds of his hand crafted Mattingly guitar bring to vibrant life both the traditional music of a bygone era as well as his own original compositions." (- from artist bio) I dearly love Mr. Searles' music. Dream of the Troubador and Dance of the Renaissance both feature many wonderful period pieces, and not only make great work music but they can be played at any medieval gathering and still appease Period authenticity mavens. Earth Quest, however, is just pure magic, and perfect inspiration for a fantasy artist. |
|
Site Map
Home
F.A.Q.
Gallery
Store
Artist
Links |
|
All images, graphics, and content on these pages are © 2005 |