Ancient Future - - a group who seemed to hit their stride in the 80’s and then with their release of “World Without Walls” in 1990, they were called “Trendsetters” by Billboard Magazine. As the world of “fusion” music was emerging, they were at the head of the crowd.  The lineup of 4 musicians (and sometimes guest musicians sitting in) has since become a chamber ensemble of more than thirty performers from around the world with over a dozen smaller ensembles within it.  Their early vision of creating world fusion music seems now to have come to fruition.

In June of this year the group (those five who performed World Without Walls and Asian Fusion recordings) reunited to perform for the first time in more than 15 years.  Capitol/EMI Records chose to celebrate this reunion by releasing a digital version of World Without Walls and has made it available for download purchase through various retailers (iTunes and Amazon.com MP3 store to name a few).  With 10 tracks coming in at a cost of about $10.00 it is money well spent.

Mathew Monfort, Jim Hurley,
Doug McKeehan, and Ian Dogole

Culturally diverse and deeply rich, you will find a blend of the exotic sounds from lands near and far; African, Balinese, Indian, Middle Eastern, South American, Europe and Asia.  You will easily pick out the familiar sounds, seeing in your mind, dancers and musicians sharing their joy and passion – almost as though you are there. 

Admittedly, I have a weakness for violin and this album does not disappoint in that realm.  What is exciting for me is the span of cultures I hear within the notes of that violin.  But then, there is that tabla, and ohhhhhh, so happy I am.  As to music for dance – not all pieces will move you to get up and do what we know best.  That said, I have uploaded this in my iPhone and find myself listening to it with headphones on when I need a “time out” to catch my breath and renew. 

I love the extra notes that came with this download.  Lots of historical information and the photos take me back to a time - - - when as I was learning this dance art and honing my skills – deep sigh.

So, with a little bit of jazz, a whole bunch of doumbek, some guitar and violin strings - - envision yourself in a room of pillows, exotic colors and textures and music from afar.

Here is a peek at the tracks:

Lakshmi Rocks Me
Dance of the Rain Forest
April Air
14 Steps
End of the Beginning
Turkish Taffy
Alap
Indra’s Net
Nyo Nyo Gde – I felt like I was sitting in a Japanese Garden
Gopi Song

For information on how to download this CD go to ancient-future.com - you will be able to download their ringtones, MP3’s, and books as well as see the calendar for workshops and tours and more.  On my “danceable” scale I would rate this in the 5 arena, but for listening – pure music enjoyment take it up to a happy 8.