Terry Oldfield is one of the world's most diverse and well-traveled musicians. He has journeyed to the four corners and beyond to learn indigenous instruments, styles, techniques, and customs.
Spirit of Tibet is a deeply atmospheric homage to this culture that is dedicated to spiritual principles and sacred values. The disc has two long-form compositions: "Footprints of Buddha's Children" is nearly 25 minutes and "Tears for Tibet" is 25 and a half minutes. It is a bittersweet soundscape that mourns the plight of Tibetan refugees and celebrates their efforts to keep their culture and religion alive. It is a wonderful juxtaposition of two styles. While the music is only vaguely similar, in terms of emotional and spiritual response, this CD will appeal to fans of
David Parsons,
Steve Roach, Kirby Shelstad, and Robert Carty. Those artists have also recognized the fortitude of this culture.
Yungchen Lhamo and
Nawang Khechog also inspire similar responses, as they have lived the experience. ~ Jim Brenholts