"I loved his debut album "Beautiful" and was excited to hear about the release of his sophomore album entitled "From The Sky" and let me tell that this is an incredibly gorgeous follow-up to his debut and in fact, this is even better. "From The Sky" is a lot alike his debut album in general but is brighter, sunnier and more upbeat. "The Promise" is a new turn for Farish's music including some tribal chants and some childrens' tribal choir with a great melodic soundscape."
From The Sky by Ryan Farish
Felipe Sahurie | 05/06/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is Ryan Farish's follow up to his "Beautiful" CD.Invigorating and inspiring, the songs on this CD are pensive, meditative and reflective.If, like me, you loved "Beautiful's" infectious good cheer and impossible to resist hooks, you'll not be disappointed with From the Sky.
Farish branches out into Deep Forest-ish territory with third world chant/chorale samples on the opening "The Promise" (set off against his usual piano, snare/high-hat beats, and flowing keyboards).He incorporates these same elements in a few other spots on the album (e.g. the celebratory "Joy").
"Living Water" opens with breathy wood flute samples and also features the first noticeable appearance of acoustic guitar, deep in the mix but easily heard on headphones, and the beats have a more sensuous if not primal urgency, counterpointed by almost blues-jazz piano.
Some songs hone closer to the sound Farish perfected on Beautiful, such as "Home Again" and "Legacy", which is a trippy beat-laden "happy to be alive" kind of tune featuring excellent use of female chorals with piano, beats and lush synths, as well as some funky bass rhythms."Miles Away" is a slower tempo piece that would be ideal accompaniment for a brisk walk along a country lane.
The title track is a slow tempo song but dramatic affair which again uses orchestral strings to greater effect than simply applying a layer of wash of violins."Rejoice", the album closer, starts off sounding like Ray Lynch before veering over into Deep Forest tribal chants set against a percolating backbeat, lilting lively flute samples, and eventually Enigma-esque rhythms, all the while retaining the particular plucked string synth sound.
My favorite song from this CD would have to be the beautiful "Pacific Wind", which features stunning female vocals with a nice piano piece to back it up.
In conclusion, "From The Sky" amply displays Ryan's strong blend of reverbed piano, bubbly beats, expert layering of assorted keyboards and chill-out/electronica effects, as well as production that is flawless in every respect.I highly recommend this CD to all music lovers, trust me, you won't be disappointed with this CD, I know I wasn't........
"
Simply Beautiful New Age Music
medievalcrusadesbabe | Ohio USA | 11/02/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"You may have heard snippets of Ryan Farish's music if you have ever watched The Weather Channel. His music has been featured on the Weather on the 8's as well as Storm Stories. But his credits are not limited to TV snippets; his music also graces a documentary, and has found its way into the NPR radio stations and featured on CBN's 700 Club.
It was, however, mp3.com that made this artist. He originally released his music on mp3.com, rapidly becoming one of the most downloaded artists on the site. His New Age music is inspiring, providing compositions that explore his melodies fully with a very upbeat and positive inclination.
This CD contains twelve tracks, with no times listed, and it runs about an hour. This is very professionally produced, with string arrangements by John Majkut.
Some highlights include "The Promise" which is reminiscent of Deep Forest, with drums, lovely piano composition, tribal voices and choir. This piece has a lovely upbeat rhythm and a delightful piano melody. A very good opening introduction to this CD.
Also "Home Again" which has a stand out beat, Again, bright, melodic and almost inspirational. "Walk With You" takes an almost Eastern turn, adding flute to accompany the piano with the return of the choir and tribal beat. A nice blending of rhythms and style.
It's easy to see why this CD is #3 on New Age Billboard Chart. The music is always upbeat, even when it takes a time out to contemplate. It is inspirational in feel, and the compositions are worth taking the time to appreciate. As in all New Age music, this CD can be a focal point, or a soundscape for your personal space. A must have for your New Age collection. maf"
As a newcomer to New Age music...
Catfish | Stillwater, OK USA | 10/20/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"and therefore to Ryan Farish, I can say that I really enjoy his albums but cannot compare him to other New Age musicians. I bought "Beautiful" because I saw a piece on Mr. Farish on TV, and I really enjoyed that CD. This CD is much the same as "Beautiful", so you know what to expect if you have the previous CD. I have both these CDs at work, and I play them so that I can get some work done...they are ideal for that! The music is well, relaxing, but not sleep-inducing. I just can't come up with any words to characterize this music, so, if you are tempted, listed to the downloads. I think you will like them!"
Inspiring!
smoothjazzandmore | Clay, NY USA | 11/02/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Since his last release, Farish changed residences from the East to the West. The Norfolk, Virginia native moved to Los Angeles late last year, a big change of scenery him and his wife. Farish explained to his fans that he wanted to be on the west coast to pursue a career as a successful music composer and become involved in movie projects. Farish's use of vocal arrangements on the various tracks such as "The Promise" is a refreshing chance of pace from his previous releases. It shows his diverse musical talents. He also uses South African vocal arrangements in the track, "Rejoice!" Listening to this CD gives me extreme pride and joy. Its soothing melodies are uplifting and inspirational. Much like last year's Top 5 Smooth Jazz and More selection "Beautiful", "From the Sky" will be a CD at the top of this year's "best of" list as well. Farish is a talented musician and a future star in the music world."