Luminarias is Robert Hauver and Rick Eckerle. They are from the Hudson Valley in New York, so it is a bit unusual to hear a CD titled Sea Waltz from that landlocked area. The music is a bit unusual as well. Combining traditional (guitar, bass, piano, violin), electronic (synths, processors) and unusual (kalimba, bansurai flutes, penny whistles) instruments with accordions, Hauver and Eckerle achieve something out of the ordinary. The music evokes oceanographic and seascape imagery. It also has the feel of Irish/Celtic shanty songs that are typically associated with the mariners of yesteryear. The CD is an enhanced CD-Rom with a video of Californian, Hawaiian, and Canadian coastal scenery. Tiny sea shells in the spine of the jewel box add a flair for unique packaging. The music, while unusual, is good new age fare. It is an enjoyable listen.
© Jim Brenholts /TiVo