Kimberly Haynes
What a multifaceted journey through many musical hues! Awaken Me offers a spectrum of “songs from the heart of a seeker” woven through a tapestry of world instruments. Dreamy but not sleepy, Kimberly Haynes has a voice that is, in turn, prayerful, inspirational, sacred, sassy, and passionate. Awaken Me includes performances by pianist Peter Kater, vocalists Tina Malia and Aeone, Native American flute player Al Jewer, and percussionist Byron Metcalf. Didgeridoo master Stephen Kent, percussionist Christo Pellani, and Gregoli’s guitars round out the sound.
Singer/songwriter Haynes draws from various musical styles to create a beautiful mosaic of authentic, joyful stories. References to Joni Mitchell, Shawn Colvin, and other well-known singers are easy to make. Kimberly marries her soulful voice and compassionate heart with beautiful melodies and lyrics that guide and encourage the listener to a path of healing and well-being.
There are equal parts magic and mystery throughout the music that traverse many styles, genres, and expressions. Chants are interspersed among devotional ballads that chronicle a profound and personal spiritual journey. The message of the album is hopeful, worshipful, and above all, one of personal growth and empowerment.
Producer/multi-instrumentalist Gregoli has curated this acoustic contemporary gem as a blend of Native American, Asian, South American, and Celtic traditions rooted in American folk. He intertwines these threads into a vibrant soundscape that both supports and expands upon Kimberly’s heart-centered message of hope and healing. Included is a reimagining of Olivia Newton John’s “You’re the One That I Want” as a love song to Krishna. The closer, “Do I Dare (Earth Mix),” is a mind-bending rhythmic adventure that rides the listener into the sunset of the soul. Awaken Me is a wondrous ride with eloquent and insightful lyrics alongside near-perfect musical accompaniment that leaves you wanting more. MusicMedicineWoman.com
—LLOYD BARDE (LLOYDBARDE.COM)