CD Review: Wind

Carmen Tosca

Mar 7, 2010
Melissa Kucirek

Carmen Tosca - Photo Courtesy of Carmen Tosca

Instrumental and New Age album Wind is constant positivity and seamless orchestration.

Immediately into Carmen Tosca’s first track Wind its clear that this collection of instrumental transforms to a story similar to a “Choose Your Own Adventure.” Each turn, each moment passed is an inspired encounter.

In each of Wind's 11 tracks, Tosca carries the listener to multi-levels of electric and classical sounds. Some feel like the listener has heard them before; they can’t quite place it, maybe in a movie. Synthesizers infiltrate beds of piano and bongo drums tumble wildly through seamless songs.

South African Origin

Tosca, who grew up in the South Africa capital of Pretoria, welds a world of ambient sounds. These songs are the perfect companions to her photography portfolio. Unbeknownst to the listener, the compositions are continuations of piano-driven songs written year’s prior.

A personal favorite is “Dance With Light.” As the steady piano garners attention, in walks a symphony of percussion. Now, for those not used to listening to instrumental or New Age music, the idea of clashing sounds minus words is daunting. In “Il Pleure Dans Mon Coeur” vocals appear in the beauty of the French language.

80s Soundtrack Synthesizer

“New Life” opens with water, an almost gurgling sound. Half expecting the song to break into the theme song from “The Neverending Story,” the stirring piano interrupts the 80s sounding work. It’s a bit like “Heathers” or “The Secret of My Success” scores. As the song progresses, the electronica becomes more pop sounding. It’s a burst of sound and energy – much like the “Hoosiers” soundtrack. Okay, enough with the 80s soundtracks.

As the title suggests, the elements of nature collaborate generously throughout Wind. What’s interesting is Tosca’s constant positivity. The emerging energy is light, and never feels dull or heavy. It’s as if the sounds dance through the air.

This music is ideal for yoga, Pilates or a spa setting. However, the premise to enjoy the ethereal journey – no matter the mood- is warmly welcomed in Wind. For this writer, the songs reminded her of 80s soundtracks. In no way is it a bad reflection on Tosca. Rather, it’s a sign that the writer watches way too many movies.

Music is a Universal Language

One of the best things about instrumental music is the imagination the listener garners. The compelling strings and sounds almost dare listeners to fill in the blanks, and create their own adventure. Tosca's Wind besieges the audience with eclectic imagery and a tapestry of flavorful music beds. Each piece is a new opportunity to explore music’s universal language.