Cousteau's Dream [New Age/V.A]

A mix-and-match compilation project packaged as a tribute to the memory of Jacques Cousteau, the famed ocean explorer and environmental crusader, Cousteau's Dream is a low-key, high-minded collection of soft instrumental works compatible with an ocean's most serene state. Few of the mostly keyboard-generated compositions on this disc stir waves, making it an appropriate choice for laid-back listeners who favor the idea of tranquil ocean-gazing on a becalmed afternoon. The assembled tracks, from Vangelis, Aria, Kitaro, and others, along with two original pieces (including "Sun's Comin' Out," a semireverential work for trumpet and keyboards from Richard Burmer), exude a more earnest New Age inclination. Subtle grooves appear during Kamal's twinkling "Shakuhaji Tales" and periodically in Aria's "Un Bel Di," but the overall tone of the disc is better reflected by a worshipful, requiem-like selection such as Michael Hoppe's "Lachrymosa" or the brief, solemn beauty of Vangelis's "Eternity." The Kenny G tune, "Theme from Dying Young" seems a little out of place here, though 2002's Enya-like "Stella Maris" is a treat. The label, Real Music, says its EarthSea Institute will donate more than two dollars from each disc's sale to environmental groups. --Terry Wood





1. Vangelis - West Across the Ocean Sea 2:43
2. Kamal - Shakuhaji Tales 5:22
3. Richard Burmer - Sun's Comin' Out 5:17
4. Aria - Un Bel Di 5:17
5. Yanni - Secret Vows 3:59
6. Kitaro - Nageki 5:19
7. Kenny G- Theme from Dying Young 4:03
8. Kevin Kern - To Sleep on Angels' Wings 4:28
9. 2002 - Stella Maris 5:16
10. Tim Wheater - Circle's Edge 5:58
11. Michael HoppÈ - Lachrymosa 2:51
12. Vangelis - Eternity 2:10
13. Frederic Delarue - Future of the Sea 3:46

DESCARGA

PASS:musicmund