I have heard many combinations of different cultures come together beautifully in music. However, RAVEN WOLF (Raven Wolf C. Felton Jennings II) has combined two unique styles I am not sure I have heard before. He brings Native American music together with Saint Louis jazz. I am not a huge jazz fan, but am a huge blues fan. He might have just convinced me to check out some different jazz.

“Spiritual Jazz…on South 9th Street” is one of those CDs that takes you on a journey which is meditative, musical, moving, and mysterious. Alliterative, but true.

It begins with “Thank You Grandfathers/Be Now Again”. I like the simplicity of this song. Drums and sax—period. This sets the mood for the journey you are about to take. Relax, kick back, and drift away for a while. Jazzy and bluesy, “Love’s Future” is packed with emotion, yet playful. He has some excellent runs in this song.

“GHOSTORY” begins with an energetic piece entitled, “The Night”. Alejandra (Alley) Deheza and Benjamin Curtis brightly introduce us to their new concept for this album. Her voice is light and airy and floats above the powerful music which lies underneath.

Listen carefully to the lyrics as she guides us along the journey of her inner mind. Each song represents a different place in time, whether spiritually, emotionally, or otherwise. “Love Play” is a great example of the lyrical brilliance of the duo. I like their unique style. They have multi layered these songs with so many different sounds, yet, they flow together so gently. The mystical, ethereal sound draws you in on “Lafaye”. This is where School of Seven Bells and the theme shine. Another level of Alley’s mind, from written from a different aspect, as she does so well. There is a meditative quality to this song, but the energy of life abounds.

Rebirth is Anthony Greentree’s debut album. He puts a spin on it from the very beginning. “Anne of Cleves” begins with a Flamenco flair with the strings. I like the contrast in styles as the song continues. Beautifully constructed, the airiness of the flute rising above the slightly discordant harmonies blending together magically. There is a sound which reminds me of the early 60′s somewhere between the Beach Boys and King Crimson. This same sound can be heard on “Want You”. Extremely upbeat. A wonderful song that will take you to a more innocent time filled with love and peace.

“Flowing Rivers” gently sweep your spirit away. The title song, “Rebirth” is a short little piece which seems to me more like it should be a bridge in the middle of another song.

“Burst the Bubble is more upbeat, again reminiscent of the 60′s. Vocally, Anthony has the potential to be a great singer. This song, he seems reserved in his ability to project his voice well. It is like he is a little bit self conscious of himself, which he should not be. In time with continued growth, his voice will be more secure. He knows the notes, it is not a matter of pitchiness, just confidence. Even knowing it is supposed to be sung more quietly, there was a shakiness to this one. He does have a smooth relaxed voice though. However, in the next song, “Gentle Charm”, you can hear the vocal potential. He is much stronger on this piece than the last. It is a beautiful song overall. The lyrics are wonderful.

The mystery of Invocation begins from the first note of the organ. Dark and esoteric, deep and haunting, “Prelude A La Fey Noir” will hypnotize you.

“Fey Noir” further pulls you into the mesmerizing world of “Tuatha. The mix of electronica and hand percussion shows the musical cuisine of the world. Rich in dynamics and range, full of energy. Like a lightening bolt to one’s spirit. Tiracai’s violin smoothly flows into the mix with grace as Iannin’s percussion is spot on.

“Vibe Tantra” a powerful combination of music and haunting Mid Eastern vocals. Logran’s mid east drums will have anybody belly dancing around the house. The low end is complimented by the electric bass. Tiracai’s voice is beautiful with smooth control.

Jenna‘s newest release Wild Earth Child opens with a song called “Affirmation”. The simplicity of the melody behind her vocal also shows her simplicity of voice, a pure honest voice. “Green Man (Wild Earth Child)” is a lighthearted open tune blending guitar, flute, and percussion into a beautiful mystical vision. There is so much positive energy radiating from Wild Earth Child, you have to listen to it. The lyrics are well written with varying themes. If you are not up and swirling around your living room by now, something is wrong.

“Phoenix” takes you from one culture to another. Fast paced, full of energy and fire. There is quiet power in this song. Rich dynamics fill “Phoenix” will lift your spirit. Her vocals are bright and expressive. Listen to the lyrics and the message she is giving.

Brocc is a very entertaining group from the mystical British Isles. The music is a reflection of their lands time has forgotten. Imagine traveling through the mists to find Avalon. Each member brings his/her own unique perspective and talent. The multitude of instruments are blended together and combined with the lyrics and vocals so well. Their troubadourian style will evoke scenes from the Welsh countryside of various eras. Most of the material is original, however, their renditions of some classic favorites are quite well done.

13 Moons opens up with “Call of the Wild Woods”. The recorder is beautiful at the beginning, as well as the percussion. This leads into smooth guitar and mellow vocals. I am not sure if it reminds me of troubadours or more something one would hear in a Parisian cafe. Either way, it is a sweet song that instantly relaxes you. It also leads the way to more mystical places. “In This Moment” has wonderful lyrics. The melding of all the instruments was beautifully done. The harmonies are fantastic.

Tuvan throat singing. A style of singing which most of us are unaware of, myself included. It is a style of singing from the Tuva people of Southern Siberia. Within this style, there are many sub styles. Here, Soriah, a master Tuvan throat singer, calls upon the talents of Ashkelon Sain of Trance to the Sun fame. Together, they have produced some of the most interesting, haunting, and texturally diverse sounds in a most magickal way.

Imagine the Siberian world of centuries past. The Tuvan people have used their environment to produce this mystical, ethereal sound. This is a journey of a different kind, which, while some images flow together from one culture to another, some are distinctly Siberian in nature. Close your eyes and let yourself be transported to yet another realm full of surprises. A place where time stands still, yet is overflowing with energy.