The Swiss harpist Andreas Vollenweider has developed his own sound over the past thirty years in which elements from pop, smooth jazz and new age come together. "Music is much more than an acoustic decoration," explains Vollenweider in the accompanying booklet. A bold statement, because the music on this album grinds dangerously close to the 'muzak' that can be heard in worldwide elevators and
… lounges. According to Vollenweider, the compositions are intended as a soundtrack to an 'inner quest' that every listener can undertake. With the composer's eyes closed on the cover, Vollenweider seems to want to guarantee his listeners a calming trip. The music is carefully played, but the pieces on Air usually sound shapeless. An abundance of rippling synthesizer parts, rushing brooks, harp strum and whisper vocals, ensures that the listener who is looking for musical depth can be disappointed by this album. (PdK)more
