Product Description

Inner Voices presents the haunting flute melodies of R. Carlos Nakai with the richness of a string ensemble in new arrangements of Nakai's melodies. The evocative power of the traditional flute is enhanced by the lush harmonies of violin, viola, cell and double bass in arrangement by two-time Grammy Award winner, Billy Williams. Williams' arrangements create a tranquil soundscape for the mellow tone of Nakai's flute that takes the listener on a meditative and peaceful journey into the inner world of memory and dreams. The ten songs include eight melodies drawn from earlier albums plus a luminescent rendition of the eternally popular Amazing Grace. A haunting solo for bass traditional flute rounds out the album.

Track Listing

1. Inner Voices
2. Canyon Reverie
3. Winter Solstice
4. 12/20/82 Song
5. Amazing Grace
6. Daybreak Vision
7. Kokopelli Wind
8. Songs for the Morning Star
9. Catfish Muse
10. Woodsong C

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #11913 in Music
• Released on: 1999-08-03
• Number of discs: 1
• Dimensions: .21 pounds

Amazon.com
With Inner Voices, R. Carlos Nakai revisits some familiar ground with new renditions of previously recorded material. Here the Native American flautist-composer's deeply resonant tones are countered and buoyed by Billy Williams's gently majestic arrangements consisting of violin, viola, cello, and bass. The title cut comes from 1998's Mythic Dreamer yet here takes on a more classic feel. The orchestra employs restrained and thoughtful strings, which in turn echo the melody line, play opposite Nakai for a grounded effect, and embolden the composition with gorgeously understated flourishes such as a low cello rumble or a slightly dissonant violin fill. On other standouts such as "12/20/82 Song" and "Winter Solstice," both on Changes, the artist's debut recording, Nakai's cedar flute beckons a return to balance, growth, and healing. The traditional hymn "Amazing Grace," having earlier appeared on Emergence, here becomes an aural blessing, as Williams's sweeping arrangements recall America's great Western plains and Nakai's melody floats above as an eagle on strong wind. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews

Inner Voices equals Inner Calm
This CD was one of the best purchases I've made in a long time. The peacefulness of Nakai's music calms the inner spirit and relaxes the body. I especially enjoyed the haunting melodies that reminded me of the beauty and peace of the Arizona desert. The music flows smoothly from one melody to another as Carlos encorporates the beauty of strings with the poignancy of the Native American flute.

A beautiful combination!
I have always enjoyed Nakai's music and have many of his recordings. This one is by far my favorite though. The blending of the Native flute and the strings is absolutely beautiful. It is relaxing and moving and peaceful and uplifting all at the same time - I love it.

YOUR FIRST NATIVE AMERICAN FLUTE ALBUM
Native American flute is a medium that, I have found, is either loved or hated. Proponents love the mellow woody voice of the flute and it nostalgic appeal. But I have found that those with whom I have shared my classic Nakai renditions and who don't find Native American flute appealing complain that there is no "accompaniment" in the form of strings and other conventional instruments. Frankly I love the sound of the flute for its own sake but recognize that we are acclimated to a more predictable musical presentation.

Inner Voices is the perfect compromise for those who want to enjoy Native American flute in a more conventional musical presentation. It is the perfect initial Native American flute album purchase. This album is wonderful! I find it the perfect companion for a placid meditation or for the drive home to wind down from a stressful day.

Once you make Inner Voices a part of your collection you will likely be ready for one of Nakai's many other beautiful recordings.