tag:wychazel.net,2005:/blogs/blog?p=3Blog2024-02-21T05:58:42-12:00Wychazelfalsetag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/73548912024-02-21T05:58:42-12:002024-02-21T05:59:22-12:00New Release . . . "Harmonic Resonance"<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/396810/de9733c7ee9a83fecb2d648809447154959a7e54/original/harmonic-resonance-front-image.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" height="1388" width="1398" /><p><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">The Wychazel studio pixies are celebrating the release of the first album of 2024 - “Harmonic Resonance”. As you might expect, their celebrations involve the usual late night tea-drinking sessions and some serious biscuit-dunking. Various potato based crispy products are also being consumed although not openly. Some things are best kept secret. </font></span><br><br><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">“Harmonic Resonance” has been recorded as a companion album to my two previous Tibetan Bowls albums, featuring the unique sounds of Tibetan Bowls (of course) and various styles of eastern chant against an immersive background of evolving low frequency drones. Deeply relaxing, recommended for meditation, visualization and Chakra work. Given all of the music I have managed to produce to date, it might surprise you to know that my Tibetan Bowls albums have so far been my most popular musical genre (along with the Shaman series) attracting the interest of various meditation groups, yoga/exercise groups and even film production. So if you are new to the genre and maybe looking for something different to help you relax after a busy day, you might like to give this a try? Of course, if you liked my previous Tibetan Bowls albums, you just might like this one too:-) </font></span><br><br><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">As always, a big bunch of thank-you's to all of you lovely people and Happy Hippies out there for supporting my music through the years. I hope you will enjoy “Harmonic Resonance”</font></span><br> </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/73223432023-12-21T04:20:29-12:002023-12-21T04:20:29-12:00MG Music Award<p> </p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/396810/897f7fbe8730643dd41d6cd166b7cec06d999c70/original/2023-12-fb-post.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />After 58 published albums, any reasonable person might have thought that all of you long-suffering folks out there would have got thoroughly fed up with me but, strangely, it appears not. Two No.1 albums this year and now Father Christmas (cunningly disguised as an ordinary Postie – without a white beard or reindeers) has surprised me with this little goodie. Ooooo. So . . . a big bunch of thank-you's firstly to all of you lovely lovely people out there who have stuck with me through the 30 years since my first signing, buying my albums and generally supporting my musical obsession with encouraging comments, feedback and the occasional request for my bank details:-) Of course, a big dollop of additive-free gratitude with extra festive sprinkle to those fantastic folks at Medwyn Goodall Music, Med & Wendy, for marketing my music, for producing such beautiful album artwork and for sending me exotic tea bags, biscuits and this wonderful award ( . . . takes a bow and exits stage left to the fading sound of sleigh bells).</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/72848482023-10-08T20:55:53-12:002023-10-16T02:55:22-12:00MG Music Top 10 No.1 - October 2023<p><span style="color:rgb(5,5,5);"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/396810/9ffc37325f177bc5320377362b38ba7b6cee9957/original/a-brighter-dawn-image-for-blog.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />A thousand thanks to all of you wonderful folks out there who have been buying "A Brighter Dawn". Those lovely people at MG Music have told me that it is now No.1 in their latest website sales chart. A perfect excuse for me to open a big packet of chocolate HobNobs<img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t58/1/16/1f929.png" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="🤩" height="16" width="16" /></span></p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/72601892023-08-20T19:32:34-12:002023-10-04T20:40:40-12:00MG Music Top 10 No.1 - August 2023<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/396810/5f220f6597bc81778218dd889eff03153f7fbe6b/original/hathor-image-for-blog.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p><span style="color:rgb(5,5,5);">A big bunch of thank-you's (with extra topping) to all of you folks, folkettes and happy hippies out there who have been buying my most recent album "The Temple of Hathor". Those lovely people at MG Music have just confirmed that is has achieved the No.1 position in their latest website Top 10 listing. The Wychazel studio pixies will be celebrating in their usual outrageous style with chocolate HobNobs, various varieties of crispy potato products and some late night tea drinking sessions. As ever - thank you all for your interest in my music</span></p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/72280382023-06-16T19:22:37-12:002023-10-04T20:38:37-12:00Introducing . . . The Temple of Hathor<p><span style="color:#111111;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/396810/e19d3ab8d210bae2447eb1da467b941ac25cbf5d/original/hathor-booklet.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Hello Folks and Folkettes</font></span></p><p><span style="color:#111111;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">The Wychazel studio pixies are celebrating the publication of another album: The Temple of Hathor.</font></span></p><p><span style="color:#111111;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">As the title might suggest, this one is rich with strong flavours of the mystical Middle East. Inspired by the beliefs, art and culture of ancient Egypt and the vibrant rhythms and unique sounds of some of the instruments from the region – the Santur, Oud and Duduk to name but three.</font></span></p><p><span style="color:#111111;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3"><span>For those of you with a nerdy fascination for ancient religions, Hathor, was one of the most important goddesses in ancient Egypt. </span></font></span><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3"><span>Her wide popularity resulted in more temples dedicated to her than to any other goddess of the time. </span>The most impressive being the temple complex at Dendera.</font></span></p><p><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3"><span>Hathor </span></font></span><span style="color:#111111;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3"><span>was a solar deity, goddess of the sky, of women, motherhood, fertility and love. She took many forms, often depicted as a cow or human wearing a headdress comprising two horns holding an image of the sun. H</span></font></span><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3"><span>er most common earthly manifestation was human, although she could also assume the various forms of a cow, cobra, lioness and, perhaps more strangely, a sycamore tree.</span></font></span></p><p><span style="color:#111111;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">She was believed to be the mother of the Pharaohs who were regarded as direct earthly representatives of the gods. Being so strongly associated with Motherhood, she was the go-to goddess for anybody wishing to have children or wanting protection from anything that threatened the well-being of their families. She could be fiercely protective and was not above being vengeful in such situations. </font></span></p><p><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">During less demanding times, she represented music, dance, joy and sexuality. She was the consort of several male Gods and the mother of many of their children. As with many divine beings, she was able to cross boundaries between worlds and would help the souls of the deceased into the afterlife. </font></span></p><p><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">She was commonly called the "Golden One" as her beauty was said to be like the radiance of the sun.</font></span></p><p><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">Hathor was a member of the divine entourage that accompanied Ra as he sailed through the sky in his barque – the ancient Egyptian equivalent to today's luxury yachts.</font></span><br><br><span style="color:#202122;"><font face="Arial, sans-serif" size="3">As always, a big bunch of thank-yous to all of you lovely people and Happy Hippies out there for supporting my music and I hope you will enjoy “The Temple of Hathor”.</font></span></p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/71573442023-02-24T07:32:55-12:002023-02-24T07:47:02-12:00Introducing . . . Aurora<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/396810/ad6c4b5fc2f5d28f6f37f5e7a2d491f6fd9d4704/original/aurora-cd-cover-image.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p> </p><p><span style="color:#000000;"><font face="Times New Roman, serif" size="3">2023 is a milestone year for me because it marks 30<sup> </sup>years since my first published album. I truly never expected my musical life to last for so long but, unbelievably, Aurora is my 56<sup>th</sup> album. Some very special people, close friends and family have helped me during my musical journey, offering comments, technical advice, inspiration and unending encouragement. Too many names to mention here but you know who you are . . . thank you! With special thanks also to all of you lovely people, Happy Hippies and virtual friends out there who have been buying my music through the years. I hope you will enjoy Aurora.</font></span><br><br><span style="color:#000000;"><font face="Times New Roman, serif" size="3">The inspiration behind Aurora has come from several sources. The beautiful snowy landscapes featured in the recently screened “Blue Planet” series inspired not only the original album concept but also influenced my selection of sounds, background effects and general musical mood. I was also unable to resist acquiring a few new synths which have, at times, taken the musical direction fairly close to the vibrant Chillout styles so favoured by a great many musicians who specialise in software synths and electronica. Aurora is a continuous-play album with no silent pauses between tracks. </font></span></p><p><span style="color:#000000;"><font face="Times New Roman, serif" size="3">So, dim the lights and open a bottle of something nice (unless you are driving, doing stuff with heavy machinery or working in a busy office) and imagine yourself in a twilight world of pure white snow where the Aurora spreads its cosmic light across the sky. All around you the sounds of drifting icebergs echo majestically across the ocean, mingling with an abundance of sentient marine life. Switch the music on, relax and let your imagination do the rest. </font></span></p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/71088222022-11-23T00:26:11-12:002023-02-20T08:17:23-12:00A blast from the past . . . <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/c81a8341750c2c12eae4f238cfd9cf48ffa7990e/original/whispered-secrets-02.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>If you are younger than a certain age, still enjoying the blooms and excesses of youth, you could be forgiven for not being able to make any sense of this photo at all:-) It is an obsolete piece of musical kit known as a cassette tape. Think of it as a non-downloadable mp3 that comes as a long coil of flimsy magnetic tape in a strangely designed plastic case. The sound quality was at best dubious - prone to a high frequency hissing overtone - the mechanism wasn't known for reliability and the tape would often stick (especially in damp weather) or uncoil to tangle itself in the works of whatever machine was trying to play it. A musical equivalent of Russian Roulette. Its advantage lay in its portability but little else. Unlike the superior vinyl records of the time, a cassette could played in the car where the noise of the engine helped to mask the weaknesses in sound quality:-) <br><br> . . . getting back to the photo . . . this humble cassette is one of the original “Runestone” demo tapes produced a whole 30 years ago at the end of 1992, which started off my recording career. Now celebrating its 30th birthday, copies were sent to 7 selected record companies with 5 saying yes (one of these companies taking a whole year to respond) one rejection letter and one no reply. Runestone folded back in 2011 but this tape holds great sentimental value to me and has been a regular item on display in my recording setup ever since. I have no idea if it still plays. The album was re-named “Stonehenge” by the record company and released the following year . . . on CD as well as cassette.<br><br>So . . . "fast forward" 30 years and I have just finished recording "Aurora" which will be my 56th published album. I have no idea how I have managed to produce so many but would like to thank all of you lovely people and Happy Hippies out there who have been buying and supporting my musical efforts during all these years:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/70671882022-09-23T04:56:03-12:002022-09-23T04:56:04-12:00Pagan Priestess<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/b36fe00bf1a3beed3951b348f8d5ff06d94fe599/original/pagan-priestess-booklet.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The Wychazel studio pixies are pleased beyond measure to announce the release of another new album: Pagan Priestess. </p>
<p>If you can move away from all of the anti-social tendencies, the excessive candle-burning and elaborate costumes depicted in various media productions about Vikings, there is a lot of softer stuff to be found in Norse mythology. </p>
<p>While it is fair to say that most of the interactions between the Norse Gods and other inhabitants of the nine worlds of ancient myth rarely ended well, some of these Gods did have a softer side. </p>
<p>Take the goddess Freyja and her twin brother Freyr for instance. Originally from Vanaheim, these two were associated mainly with love, beauty, fertility and magic. Quite a different set of values to those held by the gods of Asgard – for whom feasting and fighting seemed to be the preferred pursuits . . . followed by more fighting. Needless to say the gods from both of these worlds didn't always get on with each other. </p>
<p>Vanaheim was one of the nine Norse worlds bound together by the roots of the sacred tree Yggdrasil. It was one of the more pleasant worlds and the original home of Freyja and Freyr. Any self-respecting Viking warrior who had died in battle after fighting bravely could count on a 50% chance of being raised to an afterlife in Freyja's domain - Fólkvangr, </p>
<p>The other 50% would end up in Odin's Hall . . . to enjoy an afterlife of feasting and (as you've already guessed) fighting. </p>
<p>When she wasn't raising fallen warriors, Freyja would spend her time fending off unwanted marriage proposals while searching for her absent husband and crying tears of gold. Freyja wore a much coveted magical feathered cloak and must have appeared more than a little unusual as she travelled through the worlds in a chariot drawn by two large cats, usually accompanied by the huge boar – Hildisvini – presumably some kind of pet? </p>
<p>The music on “Pagan Priestess” has been inspired by some of the folklore, instruments and musical influences from Scandanavian sources which have played an important part in the evolution of Gaelic and Celtic musical styles. Instruments include Skin Drums, Reed Pipes, Bowed strings, Whistles, Chant and percussion. This album perhaps has more of a feminine emphasis than the previous two (On Pagan Shores and A Pagan Land). Thanks to your support, both of these earlier albums achieved the No.1 position in the MG Music top 10 listings and I hope you will enjoy this one too. </p>
<p>As ever, my thanks to all you lovely people and Happy Hippies out there for supporting my music, for your encouraging feedback and emails.</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/70072942022-07-04T04:12:45-12:002022-07-04T04:12:45-12:00Wild Orchid<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/7942d0f825adc1ad22c76da8dc9746b8bc71fcf5/original/wild-orchid-cd-image.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Wild Orchid contains a lot of new sounds made possible as a result of a major studio upgrade.</p>
<p>It had been nearly seven years since my last studio upgrade and, since that time, there have been huge advances in the types of synths and sample libraries available. My setup had lasted longer than expected but was starting to struggle with the complexity and heavy processing demands of many of these new sounds. Ironically, the new kit was delivered on a day of widespread power outages because of storm Eunice back in February. Once the power came back on, it became pretty clear that there would be a big learning curve involved. Many of the screens looked very different to any I had seen before and there were so many new features, options and facilities to choose from. I understood how to switch the kit on and off but what to do in between those two activities was a complete mystery:-) </p>
<p>Anyway, fast forward to July . . . and I now have 2 albums ready for release, Wild Orchid and, for later this year, a sequel to “On Pagan Shores” and “A Pagan Land” which will be released this coming Autumn. </p>
<p>Wild Orchid contains 50 minutes of gentle music for relaxation, visualization or maybe simply to create an appropriate ambience for the next time you order a Chinese takeaway? Go on – treat yourself:-) Instruments include GuZheng, Koto & Yangqin, Bamboo Flutes, Gamelan, Bowls, Bells & Gong, Guitars, atmospheric effects, synths & samples. It is a continuous play album with no silent pauses between tracks. Perfect with noodles:-) </p>
<p>As ever, big thanks to all of you lovely people and Happy Hippies out there for your support and interest in my music. I hope you will enjoy this album:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/69993722022-06-22T05:45:53-12:002022-06-22T05:45:53-12:00Introducing . . .<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/597c1a35b67ae218f399295034354a193bbca09f/original/ravvast04.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Introducing . . . my Rav Vast drum. This lovely instrument could perhaps be regarded as a younger cousin of the Hang Drum. I stumbled across it late last year while searching YouTube for tutorials to help me with my first efforts at playing a Hang Drum which I bought in Glastonbury last September. Although the size and shape is similar, the sound is quite different, being far more sustained with purer note pitching and fewer chaotic harmonics. The different sound is the result of the design of the note keys themselves, which are cut into the casing (like tongues) in the Rav Vast drum as opposed to being hammered into raised panels in the casing of the Hang Drum. The drum pictured here is quaintly described in the catalogues as an 11 note double-ding model in a B minor Celtic scale. Of course, a single ding version is available and, in case you are wondering what a double ding is (as was my original thought) the “ding” is the bass note and main percussive element. So, dings and double dings aside, this drum is likely to play a cameo role in a future Wychazel album – perhaps in a third Beltane Moon album which I hope to produce for spring 2023. In the meantime, I'm going back outside to make the most of this lovely UK summer weather, and try not to alienate too many neighbors with my efforts to become a socially acceptable Rav Vast player.</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/69741322022-05-18T05:44:48-12:002022-05-18T05:44:48-12:00May 2022<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/799946e57c6ae06819504e867769bed46032917d/original/may-2022-fb-post.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />“Writer's Block” is an annoying affliction that tends to affect most people who work in creative professions from time to time. My recent encounter started back in January, somewhat ironically at the same time I took delivery of a new custom-built music PC with latest release recording software. After a couple of weeks I had managed to work out how to toggle the power switch located at the back of the machine, but what to do in between turning it on and off eluded me completely:-)</p>
<p>However, they do say (whoever “they” are) that trying to come up with new ideas can be like waiting for the proverbial bus. Nothing comes for ages and then several arrive all at once. So . . . after a few weeks of sleepless nights (always the best time to write music) I find myself with 2 finished albums ready for publication later this year.</p>
<p>First off the blocks will be “Wild Orchid” - inspired by sounds of the Far East – to be released June-July. “Pagan Priestess” will follow in the Autumn – completing the trilogy started by “On Pagan Shores” and “A Pagan Land”. I'm not sure what to do next although a lot of household tasks have been building up and a friend has given me a badly damaged antique Mandolin to restore. It had been rejected by a charity shop – the mandolin, not my friend:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/69112852022-03-01T23:39:51-12:002022-03-01T23:43:54-12:00Hang Drum Harmony<p><span class="font_small"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/626a66e3f8ee228bc9e2dc22376e6d3769e29767/original/hang-drum-harmony-cd-front.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_medium" alt="" /></span></p>
<p>I was lucky enough to find a Hang Drum in a shop in Glastonbury last September and such things can be impossible to resist. </p>
<p>The Hang Drum has only been around since 2000 and used to be extremely difficult to acquire. Now known by several names and more widely manufactured, it is a type of steel drum that looks like a cross between a circular BBQ and a flying saucer from an early low-budget Sci-Fi movie. Its lovely mellow sound, rich in harmonics and overtones, has caught the imagination of an increasing number of niche musicians and sound therapists alike. It is never easy to forecast how well, or otherwise, an album is likely to be received and this one is a real unknown because of the unusual sound and nature of the instrument itself but I hope it will appeal to anybody who might be looking for something a little different. Album released March 2022 . . . </p>
<p>Instruments include Hang Drum (D minor Kurd tuning) Singing Bowls, Gong, Ice Bells, RMX Percussion, Synths & Samples.</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/68767122022-01-21T23:08:57-12:002022-01-21T23:14:04-12:00Hippy New Year:-)<p>A big new-year thank you to all of you lovely people out there who bought "Mulled Wine & Mistletoe" during the run up to Christmas. MG Music have just told me that it has achieved No.1 position in their website sales chart for the last quarter of 2021. Thanks also to my co-writer on this album, Noel Bannister.<br><br>I shall celebrate with some chocolate HobNobs and a brand new tea bag. Wishing you all a hippy new year:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/67947142021-11-01T23:15:02-12:002021-11-01T23:15:02-12:00It's that time of year again . . . <p><span class="font_small"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/2c5f2993fa21812d70bbecf9549cab1384e66393/original/mulled-wine-mistletoe-mp3-tag.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p>. . . tis the season to be jolly or, hopefully, it soon will be. What better way can there be to help you get into that certain festive mood than to listen to some traditional olde-worlde Yuletide music? Other mood-enhancing aids are available but just in case music is your thing – read on. Published a whole year sooner than planned “Mulled Wine & Mistletoe”is a collaboration album between my good friend and choral arranger supremo Noel Bannister and yours truly (wearing my Wychazel Christmas hat). The album features a collection of 17 traditional carols, some going back to the Tudor era. Some you will know, others you may not have heard or maybe you might know them by different names? The album has been produced using sampled instruments of the kind you would have heard around the 1500's plus a few modern additions. So. If Crumhorns, Fidule and Recorders are your thing or you simply have a festive urge to listen to something different, this album could be the perfect accompaniment to your mince-pies and beverage of choice. </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/67429912021-09-10T22:55:47-12:002021-09-10T22:55:47-12:00Mirage<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/01bb9d4f707aeb7190832927120e349afdd490ea/original/mirage-cd-image.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The Wychazel studio pixies are delighted to announce the release of another new album . . . “Mirage”. </p>
<p>As the title might suggest, this one is rich in Middle Eastern influences, delicately spiced and garnished with instruments and lively rhythms of the region plus an extra topping of chant samples and a sprinkle of atmospheric effects. A tasty smorgasbord of music with no silent pauses between tracks. </p>
<p>As per usual, I have cobbled together a YouTube video which features one of its complete tracks. A perfect excuse to settle down with your beverage of choice (with optional nibbles) crank up the volume and treat yourself to an unashamed moment of blissful “me-time”. The video can be found on the Videos Page or by searching YouTube for "Wychazel - Mirage". </p>
<p>Mirage is likely to be my final album for 2021 and I am currently finding some new sounds and gathering ideas for my next projects. One of these will be a follow-up to “Zen Garden” and “TAO” once again inspired by musical influences from the Far East (not to mention the occasional Chinese Takeaway:-) I shall also be working on my very first “Hang Drum” album. The Hang Drum is an instrument that I have wanted to acquire for years but they have been notoriously difficult to get hold of and are usually priced beyond reach. However, I managed to find one during a recent stay in Glastonbury and it sounds beautiful. All I have to do now is learn to how to play it:-) </p>
<p>In the meantime, I hope you will enjoy “Mirage”. </p>
<p>Thank you, as always, to all you supportive people and Happy Hippies out there for your interest in my music:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/65978472021-04-07T22:11:07-12:002021-04-07T22:11:26-12:00A Pagan Land<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/d91781ef846f2d5bab16404980fa4d35bd478f4d/original/blog-banner-a-pagan-land.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br> </p>
<p>Introducing . . . “A Pagan Land” . . . due to be released later this month (April 2021). </p>
<p>Intended as a sequel to last year's “On Pagan Shores” this follows similar musical themes with both Celtic and Gaelic influences. Choice of instruments is similar too although, after the success of “On Pagan Shores” I couldn't resist treating myself to some new drum libraries and choirs. Just like its predecessor, this album takes its inspiration from Norse myths and legend and incorporates various atmospheric effects to enhance the visualization aspects of stepping into an imaginary pagan world. </p>
<p>Also like its predecessor, this album proved somewhat difficult to produce because of another bout of dreaded “writer's block” half way through recording. Doh! I can't complain about this really because it is only the second time this has happened to me during the last 10 years and “A Pagan Land” is (unbelievably) my 50th published album. Of course, “writer's block” isn't always a bad thing because it does free up time for those outstanding DIY projects and normal life stuff. </p>
<p>So . . . if you are one of those lovely people out there who liked “On Pagan Shores” it could soon be time to put on those Viking helmets once again, settle down with your preferred beverage and crank the volume up to No.11 for part 2 of the musical journey. </p>
<p>Thank you, as always, for your interest in my music:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/64488252020-10-03T21:41:11-12:002020-10-03T21:45:47-12:00TAO - A Path of Peace<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/fc32596b86e22d61461b7e913c4fb0b67b13ae4a/original/tao-front.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Hello Lovely People and Happy Hippies:-) My final musical offering for 2020 is now available through all the usual channels. Entitled TAO - A Path of Peace, this has been written as a companion album to my 2018 album Zen Garden. The success of Zen Garden (which reached No.1 in the MG quarterly sales listing) gave me a good excuse to invest in some new Far-Eastern style instruments, synths & samples. Sadly, my painful attempts to get a socially acceptable performance out of an authentic bamboo Xiao flute (bought in a moment of unfounded optimism) did not make for easy listening and, needless to say, didn't make it to the album. A positive selling point if ever there was one. The flute does make a very nice wall decoration so it wasn't a complete waste of money:-)</p>
<p>I hope you will like this album and, as ever, thank you for supporting my music.</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/63860532020-07-16T04:35:56-12:002020-07-16T04:35:56-12:00A Sense of Hope<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/bfa3ce92d02b104890e325f08e73593a2cd3b23e/original/a-sense-of-hope-image-for-video.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Inspiration for writing music (or for any creative pursuit) can come from many sources and this one owes a lot to the simple pastime of having spent time enjoying the changing faces of nature from my home during the Lockdown. This period of forced seclusion has given many of us a unique opportunity to slow down and see nature through different eyes. Watching the seasonal changes here in the UK, as Spring's new growth displaced the last remnants of Winter before easing its way gently into Summer has seemed like a powerful symbol of recovery, renewal and hope. Most of my music takes its inspiration from ancient cultures and folklore but this one comes quite simply from a sense of hope. </p>
<p>Finally, big thanks and socially-distanced Hippy hugs to all of you lovely people out there who have taken the time to let me know about how music has been helping you through these difficult times. I hope you will enjoy “A Sense of Hope”.</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/63788212020-07-07T07:52:42-12:002020-07-07T07:52:42-12:00On Pagan Shores<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/e6404fbcc0b05422bbe8e80fb51c6632c5b2ea3c/original/tree-booklet-2.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Any attempt to forecast how well a new album is likely to be received usually misses by a few degrees either way or even by the proverbial mile. An example was my 2011 album “Walkabout” which is one of my favorites to this day but also my least successful by some convincing margin:-) </p>
<p>Last February's release of “On Pagan Shores” felt like a leap in the dark because it was far more up-tempo and generally different to my usual efforts. Along with Walkabout, this too felt like another immediate and personal favorite so I was expecting that maybe 3 people might like it - with me being one of them:-) </p>
<p>Anyway, it seems that the needle on my ACME Forecastingometer swung the wrong way because I have been told by those nice MG Music pixies that “On Pagan Shores” has just achieved No.1 status in their latest quarterly sales listings. YAYY:-) This is especially good news because I have spent the last 10 lockdown weeks recording a sequel. Similar in mood with musical influences both Gaelic and Celtic, this is planned for release early next year. </p>
<p>So . . . a huge heap of thank-you's (with tasty toppings all round) to all of you lovely people and Happy Hippy Viking types out there for buying this album, for your encouraging emails and feedback. As ever, celebrations here are likely to involve several packets of HobNobs and one or two excessive late night tea-drinking sessions:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/61970192020-01-31T23:25:01-12:002020-02-01T00:09:38-12:00Copyright & YouTube<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/840e8607a3732b7bf72028a0e1c6dc942feab698/original/blog-copyright-header.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />I am always happy to give permission to more or less anybody who bothers to get in touch to ask if they may use my music as part of a pet project or creative video. A few of the videos people have lovingly crafted to put on YouTube are pretty stunning and must have taken much thought and time to put together. But . . . and there is a but . . . prompted by a recent incident where most of the MG Music catalog was found to be being shared illegally on YouTube, a whole bunch of Copyright Infringement notices have been issued and a lot of content is being removed.</p>
<p>So, if anybody out there wants to upload and share my music without risking any unpleasant legal consequences, here are a few ground rules: </p>
<p>Never share whole albums. That's a definite no-go. </p>
<p>If you have a favorite track, please don't just upload it with a scan of the CD Cover image. At the very least, say a few words about why the track is important to you or, if video production is your thing, please create a video that people are going to want to watch - include motion clips, slideshows etc - something more than a single static image. Don't simply use YouTube to share audio files.</p>
<p>And . . . if you want to use my music, please ask me first. </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/61044212020-01-28T09:43:28-12:002020-01-28T09:46:05-12:00On Pagan Shores<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/fa20fb480f89c7c3ca86cfbf6b332a021aecde51/original/blog-banner-on-pagan-shores.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Introducing . . . “On Pagan Shores”. This is a little more lively than my usual style, with more emphasis on drumming patterns and musical influences from both Celtic and Gaelic sources. The album takes its inspiration from Norse myths and legends and incorporates various atmospheric effects to enhance the visualization aspects of stepping into an imaginary pagan world. </p>
<p>The album started life back in February 2019 but suffered an unwelcome bout of the dreaded “writer's block” during its second track. This happens from time to time and is usually unexpected and always annoying. It is not always bad news because, during such times, any outstanding household tasks, DIY projects and normal life stuff tends to get done - or at least started. </p>
<p>A timely quirk of fate arrived during the autumn in the form of an email advertising a new cinematic drum library and I was hooked straight after listening to the demos. It all sounded very pagan and primitive and was exactly the right kind of thing to breathe new life into the album. </p>
<p>So . . . I hope all you lovely people and Happy Hippies out there (with or without Viking hats) are going to like “On Pagan Shores”. Thank you, as always, for your interest in my music:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/61109802020-01-15T23:18:57-12:002020-01-16T09:37:01-12:002020<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/124548aea84c14a073d453c08fba6f4e59088307/original/2020-blog-insert.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Is it too late to wish all of you lovely folks and Happy Hippies a Happy New Year? The general pace of life tends to move somewhat faster than my ability to keep up but the cold light of January has brought the realization that I really ought to do something to justify my existence. So . . . this rambling post (if you are still reading it) is firstly to thank a few people for supporting my musical efforts throughout 2019 and secondly, to let you know what's going on in the Wychazel World for the first part of 2020. </p>
<p>First and foremost, thanks to all you beautiful people out there for supporting my music:-) Last year saw two of my albums achieve the No.1 position in the MG Music quarterly sales charts (Akashic Dream and Beltane Moon 2). After nearly 3 decades since my recording career began, that kind of thing is very encouraging:-) I have recently been told that my monthly listeners on Spotify have just topped 50,000 - which is good news too.</p>
<p>A big highlight last year was to receive an award (pictured above) from my dear friends and owners of MG Music, Med and Wendy, for having achieved eight No.1 albums on their label. Ironically, by the time I collected the award, Beltane Moon 2 had become the ninth No.1. So, big thanks to Med and Wendy for all of the advice and general support they have given to me - especially in my solo incarnation since the untimely demise of Runestone. </p>
<p>Of course, there is no point in having friends unless you use them:-) An unwelcome email came along a few weeks ago saying that my website was about to be moved to another provider and was likely to need redesign. An initial look at the new software left me drinking lots of cups of tea, looking blank and feeling somewhat worried. Now, the good thing about Med is that he can be very responsive in a positive way when any of his Artists need some kind of tech support. I'd obviously managed to get him at a good time (or perhaps he didn't want to spend too much time listening to my arty tantrums and needy grizzling - or it might have been the threats) because he offered to redesign the whole thing for me. YAYY - good result:-) So, a few more thanks to Med and the promise of a double-cone ice cream (with chocolate flake) next time I make the trip to sunny Cornwall. </p>
<p>Also new is my very own Wychazel video channel on YouTube. This provides access to all of my home-produced videos from the same page. With 22 videos so far, featuring a selection of my favorite tracks, I thought it about time I had my own channel. </p>
<p>The channel can be found by searching YouTube for wychazel.music or you can just visit the Videos page on this website.</p>
<p>Moving into 2020, I have three albums planned. "On Pagan Shores" is due for release next month and there are two video tracks available from the Videos page if you want to take a sneaky tea-break and (hopefully) enjoy a preview. Sometime during the summer should see the release of "TAO" which is a follow up to the popular "Zen Garden" and the third album will be at the end of the year . . . More information will be posted nearer the time or you can also sign up for a Newsletter if you wish to be kept informed. </p>
<p>Finally, my thanks to one and all once again with a sprinkle of good wishes for the year ahead . . . Chris (aka. Wychazel)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60632022019-07-10T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:04:49-12:00Beltane Moon 2<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/5e5c67c7b0e476ad5091702c8a1f8bfd958e4b37/original/beltane-moon-ii-cover-image.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Those nice folks at MG Music have just told me that "Beltane Moon 2" has come out at No.1 in their latest Top 10 listings. A thousand thanks (with extra topping) to all you Happy Hippies, website friends and lovely people out there for buying it, for your emails and support. Celebrations will involve the usual outrageously late tea drinking sessions and more than one packet of HobNobs.</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60632002019-02-06T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:05:21-12:00Beltane Moon 2<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/5e5c67c7b0e476ad5091702c8a1f8bfd958e4b37/original/beltane-moon-ii-cover-image.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p class="western" lang="cy-GB">With thanks to my many website friends who have taken the time to let me know Runestone has been missed - this album is for you.</p>
<p class="western" lang="cy-GB">Like its predecessor, this is a continuous play album with no silent pauses between tracks. Instruments include Guitars (Acoustic, Electroclassical, 12 String & E-Bow), Mandolins, Dulcimer, Wooden Flutes, Djembe, Frame Drums & Percussion, Synths & Samples and atmospheric effects. Beltane Moon 2 is my second solo return to musical roots and has been written in a similar atmospheric musical style that originally launched my career in the New Age music scene. I hope all you lovely people out there will enjoy it.</p>
<p class="western" lang="cy-GB">Beltane is all about our connection with the continuing cycle of nature, new growth, renewal and the promise of easier times to come. Its timing marks the transition away from the harsh cold months of winter into the promising signs of Spring and the abundance of Summer. To our ancestors, the rising of the Beltane Moon was powerfully symbolic and a reassuring sign that a new cycle was about to begin. Life was about to get better. </p>
<p>One of its tracks (The White Fox) is featured in a 9 minute YouTube video. This also includes some more info about Beltane. Why not treat yourself to a tea-break (maybe with a biscuit or 3) and enjoy a few calming moments away from your busy day? </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631992019-01-09T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:05:34-12:00Hippy New Year<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/e14f727b645a254b33daec16ccf0a28200f25b2c/original/large-banner-2-19.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />As always, my heartfelt thanks to all of you lovely people out there for buying my music and for your supportive emails and comments. Wychazel seems to have been a popular choice in the run up to Christmas as I have just been told that my Akashic Dream album has scooped the No.1 chart position in the latest MG Top 10 listing. I couldn't ask for a better start to the new year, so thanks again to all involved:-) Celebrations will include several outrageously late tea-drinking <span class="text_exposed_show">sessions with more than a few packets of Hob-Nobs. All being well, 2019 should see the release of 3 new albums from me. The first is a sequel to Beltane Moon (imaginatively named Beltane Moon 2) which is due for release in early Spring. Sometime in the summer, another Native American album will complete the White Wolf Spirit trilogy - no prizes for guessing the title of that one. And after that . . . "Tao - Path of Peace" a meditative album with an Oriental flavour, similar in style and pace to last year's No.1 album Zen Garden. More information will be available nearer the time but, for now, I'd like to wish you all a Hippy New Year:-)</span></p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631982018-10-04T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:05:44-12:00Zen Garden<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/262a9cda17211f9f346c61987a9481716dd2774b/original/zen-garden.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Big thanks to all lovely people and happy hippies who have been buying my Zen Garden album. It has gone straight into the latest MG Music Top 10 listing at No.1. Planned celebrations are likely to include more than a few packets of Hob-Nobs and some outrageously late tea-drinking sessions:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631972018-08-25T12:00:00-12:002020-01-16T09:38:26-12:00Zen Garden<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/262a9cda17211f9f346c61987a9481716dd2774b/original/zen-garden.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Hi Folks and Happy Hippies . . . Here is another album by yours truly "Zen Garden". Definitely one of my most relaxing so far. Mainly inspired by lounging around in the garden during the most excellent Spring and Summer we've had in the UK, doing nothing except watching the myriad of bird life and colourful insects going about their daily routines. Unashamedly lazy.</p>
<p>As ever, thank you for your emails, support and interest in my music:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631962018-06-17T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:06:03-12:00One World Music Radio Awards<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/e14f727b645a254b33daec16ccf0a28200f25b2c/original/large-banner-2-19.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />A thousand thanks to all of you lovely people out there who both nominated and voted for my music in the recently announced One World Music Radio Awards for 2017. Nominations were "Beneath an Autumn Moon" in the Best New Age Album category and "Shaman IV" in the Best Native American Album category. I am delighted to announce that, thanks to your votes, both albums achieved second place ( . . . bows to applause, walks off stage and trips over lighting cable)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631952018-06-08T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:06:20-12:00Cloud Forest Temple<p class="western" lang="cy-GB"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/f8fca90422fe0ecd8ca29f59788a152f27f5e36c/original/cloudforest-temple-cd-front.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />The website pixies are delighted to announce the release of another brand new album – Cloud Forest Temple. As usual, there is a video on YouTube featuring one of its tracks. At around 8 minutes long, it should be just right for sneaking in a quick tea-break if you are watching at work (make sure the Boss doesn't see you though).</p>
<p class="western" lang="cy-GB">This year marks my 25th year in the music business, having had my first album published in June 1993. The good news or bad news (depending on your point of view) is that I haven't run out of ideas yet and you can expect another couple of albums from me later this year. I am currently working on a sequel to Beltane Moon and it feels nice to go back to my original Runestone style that launched my career all those years ago. A big bunch of thank-yous to all of you lovely folks out there for your support and interest in my music:-) </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631932017-10-06T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:06:37-12:00Beneath an Autumn Moon<p> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/9e793cef50f1019d3a6d8f06a1b0301d454d9ad8/original/autumn-moon.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p align="LEFT">It is a well known saying that life begins at 40. I think I might have missed out or somehow slept through it BUT . . . now seems like the perfect time for me to open that celebratory bottle of something nice with perhaps a side garnish of crisps?</p>
<p align="LEFT">It always feels good to see the completion and release of a new album, but this one is extra special because it is my 40th published album "Beneath an Autumn Moon".</p>
<p align="LEFT">If you have some biscuits nearby and feel the urge to take a well-earned tea break (make sure the boss isn't watching), there is a rather fine family-friendly video on YouTube which features one of the tracks "To Dance with Falling Leaves". Go on, treat yourself - it is only 10 minutes. Put your feet up and visit the VIDEO page for the link:-)</p>
<p align="LEFT">As always, big thanks to all of you lovely people out there who have been buying my albums through the years, for your emails and general support. Hope you'll like this one:-)</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631922017-09-20T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:06:49-12:00Runecaster - September 2017<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/1e0c2ce2530648dbc139104e838bf724719319c7/original/runecaster-cd-image.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" />. . . pleased to announce (queue anthemic fanfare, smoke machine & laser lights) the release of my first ever "best of" compilation. 140 minutes of meaty-free goodness:-) Runecaster is a personal choice of original tracks and re-mixes taken from 15 albums. The selection includes tracks from five albums that have made it to No.1 in the MG Music sales charts plus some favourites from my lesser known work.</p>
<p>A good showcase for anybody not familiar with my music or a perfect gift for that certain special somebody in your life or even for somebody you have only just met. I'm not one to mention that Christmas is only 13 weeks away . . . but . . . Christmas is only 13 weeks away:-)</p>
<p>Featuring such a mouthwatering smorgasbord of relaxing, atmospheric tracks, hopefully there is something for everybody. All tracks are guaranteed gluten-free and suitable for Vegans too. </p>
<p><em>"With big thanks to Medwyn & Wendy Goodall for friendship, encouragement and support during my solo musical journey and for showing me that there is life after Runestone. More big thanks to all of you lovely people out there who have been buying my work through the years.”</em></p>
<p>Did I mention Christmas . . ?</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631902017-04-19T12:00:00-12:002020-01-16T09:20:45-12:00R.I.P. Roland EG-101<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/f79f1dfc5d8a47797cce28d1df73acdf45c7520c/original/eg-101-blog.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_inline border_" alt="" height="161" width="333" /></p>
<p>The Roland EG-101 synth . . . after a few modifications now gracefully retired to live out the rest of its days as a plant trough. I can't decide what to plant in the middle section yet:-)</p>
<p> </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631842015-07-12T12:00:00-12:002020-01-16T09:18:52-12:00MG Music Top 10 - July 2015<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/52e3892213bc11d0f03e2a6a11243b0b2d9fa397/original/top-10-blog-july-2015.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_inline border_" alt="" height="260" width="780" /></p>
<p>Those nice folks at MG Music phoned last week to tell me that no less than five Wychazel albums have found their way into this quarter’s Top 10 listing . . . with Beltane Moon and Tibetan Bowls II occupying the two top slots! YAYYYY:-)</p>
<p>I would like to say a huge thank you to all of you lovely people out there for your support in buying these albums and also for your encouraging emails. Needless to say the whole thing has been cause for wild celebration here in the Wychazel studio (late nights of outrageous tea drinking, loads of incense sticks and several packets of crisps).</p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631822014-10-11T12:00:00-12:002020-01-16T09:17:30-12:00Unwashed in Glastonbury<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/a1c5abac36162c814bf964029f16d53574be89b5/original/glastonbury-tor-2014.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_inline border_" alt="" height="176" width="442" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Contrary to popular belief, it is not true that most people who stay in Glastonbury give up washing until they go back home. Possibly the case during festival time but not generally so. I came back from a few day's stay (nicely scrubbed and sparkly clean) to find my boiler had died. So, it has been the other way around for me - no hot water at home for the first week in October:-)) Glastonbury is such a lovely place to visit in early autumn and I couldn't resist buying another Tibetan bowl to enhance my collection and maybe use in a project next year? It was more than a little bit sad to see the closure of the only two remaining CD shops (Tor Records and the fantastic little shop that used to reside at the back of Gothic Image). I used to spend hours browsing through all kinds of unusual music that is so difficult to find anywhere else unless you already know about it. Shame! If you ever find yourself in Glastonbury, the Abbey ruins are a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the town itself - very calming, very healing. Buy some fish food from the Abbey shop to feed the huge carp living in the lake. </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631812014-09-29T12:00:00-12:002020-01-16T09:21:54-12:00Something old, something new . . .<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/62146c2a5d8190b252569b2468479b605c8a4837/original/stonehenge-2014.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_inline border_" alt="" height="169" style="display: block;" width="554" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>No trip to the west country would be complete without the obligatory visit to Stonehenge. The place has changed dramatically since my last visit, now with an impressive new visitor centre and a smart new cafe in place of the previous catering facilities (shed) which, you would be forgiven for thinking, might well have been built at around the same time as the henge itself. Gone are the slightly nasty portaloo toilets and gone too is the intrusive road that used to cut through the monument between the henge and the heel stone. Magical and inspiring as always . . . and makes me think about writing another album in the old Runestone style? </p>Wychazeltag:wychazel.net,2005:Post/60631792014-08-17T12:00:00-12:002020-01-15T06:03:56-12:00In the face of temptation<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/396810/246def4d6f221cfbab2cb4ee87cc28f4cac93bb8/original/wychazel-logo-for-youtube.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_center border_" />It's happened again. A phone call from Med. He is wildly enthusiastic about some new synth demos that "might just suit my style of music". I remain reserved because phone calls like this nearly always result in a couple of sleepless nights thinking about all the tempting possibilities, followed by inevitable financial damage to my credit card. As usual, he is quite right and I am now the proud owner of a couple of lovely new sound libraries. Nice arcane, medieval sounds with some beautifully primitive drum samples so evocative of times long forgotten . . . I can feel a new album coming on:-) </p>Wychazel