Solstice Gems

Album Description

"Solstice Gems" by Paul Winter Consort is a captivating journey through the seasons, expertly crafted to celebrate the Winter Solstice and the turning of the year. Released in 2002 under the Living Music label, this New Age album spans nearly two hours, offering a rich tapestry of instrumental and vocal pieces that evoke the spirit of the solstice and the natural world.

The album opens with the traditional carol "Tomorrow is My Dancing Day" and closes with "Minuit/Adeste Fideles," framing a diverse collection of original compositions and arrangements. Highlights include the multi-movement "Turning Point Suite," which explores various aspects of the solstice through evocative musical landscapes, and the enchanting "Dawnwalker" and "Primavera," which capture the essence of renewal and rebirth.

"Solstice Gems" features a blend of acoustic and electronic elements, showcasing the Paul Winter Consort's signature sound and their deep connection to nature. The album's themes of light, darkness, and the cyclical nature of time are beautifully woven into each track, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Paul Winter Consort or new to their music, "Solstice Gems" is a compelling exploration of the solstice and the changing of the seasons.

1 jan 2002

(P) 2002 Earth Music Productions, LLC

About Paul Winter Consort

The Paul Winter Consort is an American musical ensemble renowned for their serene and beautiful compositions that blend elements of jazz, classical, and new age music. Led by the visionary Paul Winter, the group has been captivating audiences since the 1960s, with a sound that was ahead of its time and continues to resonate today. Their music is characterized by its soothing melodies and intricate arrangements, often featuring the distinctive bass playing of Eliot Wadopian. The Consort has been artists-in-residence at New York's Cathedral of St. John the Divine since 1980, where they have performed and recorded, adding a spiritual dimension to their musical offerings. Their discography includes notable albums like "Icarus" and "Wintersong," and they have been honored with multiple Grammy Awards, including Best New Age Album in 2007 and 2011. The Paul Winter Consort's music is a journey of sound and spirit, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a world of harmony and reflection.