Kold9.com - Music for your soul

California's David Arkenstone blends global, cinematic, and rock elements into his new age sonic tapestries. A music lover since the age of ten, when he moved to California from Chicago, Arkenstone has immersed himself in all kinds of music, and played keyboard and guitar in numerous bands from his youth.

It was when he discovered the lush arrangements and exotic approach of Kitaro that Arkenstone ventured into new age music. The increasing synergy between computer technology and musical instruments also inspired him; most of his works were created partly or entirely on his Macintosh along with synthesizers and guitars. This blend of electro-acoustic textures is showcased on albums like 1998's Book of Days, and works from his other project, Troika. Arkenstone returned in mid-2000 with Caravan of Light. Frontier followed a year later. In 2002, Arkenstone had two Grammy nominations and several Billboard new age smash hits under his belt. The legacy continued with the releases of Sketches From An American Journey in June 2002 and Atlantis in September 2004.

In the Wake of the Wind is a remarkable achievement, not just for the scope of its concept (this is a storytelling album) but for the depth and beauty of the music telling said story. David Arkenstone utilizes his writing talents to tell an interesting tale about a young man, Andolin, his travels across a wide and magical world, and the strange and captivating events that happen to him. The music is spellbinding, with keyboards, guitars, orchestral instruments, and percussion blended to create moods varying from introspection to excitement to passion. Arkenstone has chosen the songs well; having read the story, it's easy to visualize it coming to life as you listen to the music. The illustrated map detailing the young hero's journeys across the world is a nice touch, too. The strongest tracks are the cheerful "Papillon"; the introspective, stargazing "The Southern Cross"; the sea-tinged "Overture"; and "The Stardancer." Cinematic and wondrous, this is an excellent album.