Slow Music for Fast Times

Slow Music for Fast Times is exactly that. Taken from the NPR program "Hearts of Space," it calls itself a "long drink from an oasis." It certainly has a soothing, contemplative feel to it. The music is slow and nicely varied, ranging from choral pieces ("Choral Masterworks: Alleluia") to chanting ("La Buddha") to a guitar-based sound ("The Lamentation of Turlough O'Carolan"). David Darling's "Children" is one of the most outstanding pieces in the project. It is particularly affecting, with a haunting, bittersweet sound to it. John Boswell's "4 a.m" is another outstanding piece; it's evocative and moody, somehow capturing exactly what 4 a.m. sounds like. Bill Douglas' "Lake Isle of Innisfree" has an a cappella opening and a woodsy, open feel to it. Slow Music for Fast Times is background music; quiet and atmospheric, it's music to read, relax, or go to sleep to.