Rhythm of the Earth

David Arkenstone and his wife, Diane Arkenstone, have created on their label a veritable catalog of artists, all excelling in different new age/world music genres — all by themselves! The latest incarnation of their expanding musical palette is a sonic soundscape that functions as a rhythmic tribute to the planet. "River of Life" balances lighthearted, whimsical flute passages with heavy thumping tribal percussion and exotic ethereal vocals, while the lengthy "Birth of an Island" begins mystically before its hypnotic ambience gives way to an African chant and native vibe. "The Quiet Desert" is all expansive, atmospheric exotica, a bit less intense rhythmically yet very much in tune with the more esoteric work in Arkenstone's recordings. The switch-off between the trippy, ambient vibe and thick rhythms continues throughout this crisply produced recording.