Jonn Serrie is one of the leading space music artists in the U.S. His commissioned work for planetariums is legendary.
Gary Stroutsos is one of the world's leading flutists. He excels particularly on Native American flutes. These two virtuosos got together and collaborated on
Hidden World, a cross-cultural hybrid.
Serrie says, "(Music) exists to help us explore a sense of ourselves and our place in the universe." According to
Stroutsos: "...Music creates unity among peoples, cultures and nations. (It) can touch the soul, making it our universal means of communication." Taken out of context, such philosophies can -- and often do -- seem maudlin. However, listening to this CD with those words fresh in mind clarifies and validates the philosophies. This music transcends hypocrisy and conflict -- both internal and external.
Serrie and
Stroutsos do indeed touch the soul with their large and gentle atmospheres. The soundscapes are warm and comfortable. This CD will appeal to fans of Cornsmoke,
Coyote Oldman,
Zero Ohms,
Douglas Spotted Eagle, and
R. Carlos Nakai. ~ Jim Brenholts