David Arend's "Astral Travels" is a captivating journey through sound, blending the natural world with the vast expanse of space. Released on November 6, 2015, under the Navona label, this 42-minute album is a testament to Arend's ability to evoke vivid imagery through music.
The album begins with "Sequoia Sempervirens," a three-part suite that paints a vivid sonic portrait of the towering redwood forests. From the gentle light filtering through the limbs to the quiet stillness of nightfall, Arend captures the essence of these ancient trees with remarkable detail.
The second half of the album, "Voyager '3 Sheets to the Wind'," shifts its focus to the cosmos. This five-part suite follows the path of the Voyager spacecraft, from its departure from Earth to its encounters with the outer planets and finally into interstellar space. Arend's compositions are both intimate and expansive, offering a unique perspective on our place in the universe.
Throughout "Astral Travels," David Arend demonstrates a deep understanding of both the natural and cosmic realms, creating a sound world that is as immersive as it is beautiful. This album is a must-listen for anyone seeking a fresh and engaging musical experience.