Friday, January 9, 2015

A Calm and Quiet CD, Simple Treasures and A Giveaway



My husband and I have very distinct differences when it comes to what kind of music we listen to. But when I got this CD from Jeff Gold to review, Rick was willing to listen to it and give me his thoughts. Honestly, I thought he wouldn't like it, but he did.

Here was my husband's take on the CD:
Jeff Gold's third album, "Simple Treasures", continues his style of light and calming compositions that have gained the attention of wellness centers and yoga instructors. His website describes his offerings as "soothing melodies for relaxing". All twelve tracks [total running time 58:51] feature piano and strings, with various other instruments. Gold produces all the sounds, either on the actual instrument or through the use of keyboard and computer. 
This is not "my kind of music" and I cannot compare it with works in the same genre. However, as a fan of music that's substantially more boiserous, I found the album surprisingly Not Boring. I thought all the tracks were very similar with nothing particularly innovative or jarring -- but what else would you expect from music designed to calm and soothe? 
The quality of the sound is excellent. Gold's technical proficiency in mixing the various instruments provides no miscues that might disturb the relaxing effect. There is a tendency to overuse the violin while ignoring its potential; otherwise, the music shows a rare talent for both composition and production. 
Gold has the ability to produce music in other fields, I'm sure. But he seems to have "found his calling" and has made a substantial contribution to the genre with this album. Listeners who appreciate calming instrumentals will find in "Simple Treasures", tunes that are both simple and treasures.
Now here is my take on the CD:
I found Jeff's CD to be very relaxing and calming. It was a wonderful CD to be playing in the background as I puttered around the house, cleaning, working on the computer, and generally doing my day-to-day activities.  It just seemed to keep the whole atmosphere of the house quieter and calmer. Most of the time I was not even really aware of the specific tune playing, but was aware of a pleasant peacefulness.I enjoy that.
I can see this being a great CD to play for your kids to keep them calmer and more relaxed, especially at bedtime. I know several friends who would well be able to use this CD for their autistic children to help set the mood for their day. Artists and writers could easily use this to keep them from becoming frustrated  and tense as they try to create their works.

You can see, we have differing ideas on music, but we both thought it was a wonderful CD. I really think this would be great for quiet time in a classroom or an artists studio. You would find yourself staying calm and relaxed all day. When I was homeschooling my children, I used to use similar CD's (or cassette tapes, it was that long ago) as my boys were studying. Both worked through their assignments with less grumbling and trouble. Jeff's CD would have been perfect then!

Jeff has generously offered to give one of my readers their own copy of his CD, "Simple Treasures". Use the Rafflecopter form below to enter. And thanks Jeff!!

You can purchase "Simple Treasures" or any of Jeff's other CD's HERE!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We received samples of the products for the purpose of review. No other compensation was given. All opinions expressed here are those of the author.

Open to Continental US Residents only. Must be 18 or older to enter. Limit one entry per household/address. All entries will be verified. Winner will have 24 hours to respond to winning notification if if no response then another winner will be chosen. Contest ends at 12:01 AM 1/14/15. The Minister's Wife Stamps and Saves is not responsible for the delivery of the prize. The company sponsoring this giveaway is solely responsible for the delivery of the prize to the winner(s). The Minister's Wife Stamps and Saves is not responsible for lost or misdirected emails or physical mail. This giveaway is in no way administered, sponsored, or endorsed by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google, Instagram, or any other social media. Void where prohibited by law.

1 comment:

  1. "Sleep Well for Kids" is an album for kids for bed time and other relaxation times. Very cool! ;)

    ReplyDelete