The Emerald Way

The year of this duo's namesake is long past, but Texas-based multi-instrumentalists and vocalists Pamela and Randy Copus continue to charm and inspire with glorious, ambitious atmospheres and melodies that float through the ears and into one's deeper consciousness. On their ninth collection, they take their rich textures on a journey down The Emerald Way, which refers to a moment in life when a pivotal choice must be made — do the expected or dive into the unknown. Thus, the expansive synth washes on tracks like the title song and the flute-tinged "Overheard in a Dream" are intentionally mysterious, even a bit murky, as if the music is taking you underwater, away from sunlight so that your choice isn't quite as clear — and you must trust your inner spirit to decide. The concept is based on Savitri by Sri Aurobindo, which finds the protagonist Savitri discovering that Satyavan has only one year left to live. She must decide whether or not she will remain with him in the emerald forest or search for a new love — opening a series of dramatic "Soul Doors" along the way. Real Music is still one of the few labels catering to artists more interested in relaxation and the health and exploration of the human soul than creating simple acoustic pop music. Those unfamiliar with the label should definitely start their journey into this magical realm with 2002.