CD Review – Tranquil Times, by Darlene Koldenhoven

Grammy Award winner Darlene Koldenhoven, who acted with Whoopi Goldberg in the Sister Act movies and sang on Yanni's Live at the Acropolis concert special, gives her angelic vocals a rest to showcase her impressive musicianship in her first all-instrumental release.

Deservedly named the Best New Age Album at the 13^th annual Independent Music Awards, the CD is a prime example of quintessential new age music at its most pure. Koldenhoven's lyrical compositions are just heavenly, brought to life beautifully by Koldenhoven's graceful touch on piano and synthesizer.

Koldenhoven's keyboard constructs are embellished further by the talents of Courtney Jacob on flute and Mike Miller on guitar on two tracks each. The addition of these sounds provides sonic seasoning to Koldenhoven's musical entrees.

If you're looking for a CD to take you away, this is it.

--Raj Manoharan