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Compiled from twenty-five record labels and several private collections, this four disc boxed set is an accumulation of spiritual, ritual and meditative music from forty countries around the world. Each CD has a central, unifying theme: Voices of the Spirit/Songs and Chants; Harmony and Interplay/Ensembles; The Pulse of Life/Rhythm and Percussion; and Music of the Heart/Melody. But, Global Meditation, is by no means an instrumental mantra to meditate by. Instead it draws on the traditions of many diverse cultures: A Balinese monkey chant, an African pygmy yodel, Japanese taiko drumming and a Tibetan religious chant to name a few. It is a comprehensive overview of what different sects and ethnic groups perceive as deeply meaningful ways to alter their consciousness through music. The set is primarily made up of recordings from the last twenty years. However, the track, "Hawaiian Name Chant," was recorded on a wax cylinder by Helen Roberts in 1923. This primitive recording technique accounts for the scratchy nature of the sound of this particular cut. On many of the others, unnecessary noise and tape hiss were sampled and eliminated through the computer-generated Sonic Solutions process. This gives the older analog tapes sound qualities comparable to the modern, digitally recorded performances. All of the selections were chosen for their authenticity and although some are quite beautiful, others will sound strange to our western ears. This is certainly the most ambitious anthology of world music ever assembled and will be an intriguing addition to any music collection. Each disc is available separately, for those who may not want to buy the whole box at once and a portion of the sales will be donated to the Rainforest Alliance. (SC) © 2000 Dr. Rock'n'Roll
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