Johann Sebastian Bach said that; “Music is an agreeable harmony for the honor of God and the permissible delights of the soul.” Catherine Corona’s new album, “The Voice of The Stillness”, seems to confirm this famous quote. Indeed, when you look at how the album came to be, you can’t help feeling awed and inspired – while its message of hope transcends language and religious barriers. It makes you pay attention to The Voice of The Stillness.
Catherine Corona is a songwriter, author, director, and meditation practitioner. In a time of going through extended cancer treatment, Catherine became aware of the melodies she had in her soul. After about a year, she began to record them on her phone, and after another year she began to put lyrics to some of the melodies, which eventually became “The Voice of The Stillness”. The album is arranged by composer David Stern, while Jonathan Galle did the violin solos and mixing. To learn more about Catherine, visit catherinecorona.com
This episode of Dream Mixtape is dedicated to Catherine Corona. You get to hear the songs “The Voice of the Stillness”, “Mother of Creation” and “Om Shanti Om”:
The Voice of The Stillness
The album opener is the title track. We are greeted by Corona’s incredible voice and a gentle synth in the background. We are also introduced to “the voice”. Here a divine being, or God, is communicating directly to our souls. It is a representation of the experience that inspired Corona to record the album. It serves as a guiding star for the creative process that would follow. Notice how the song changes around 2 minutes and 10 seconds; Suddenly, it stops. This is the exact moment, “the heartbeat and breath of creation”. It is incredibly beautiful, as the silence seems to “talk back” with Corona as the medium. “The Voice of The Stillness is a phenomenal album opener, honest and unpretentious!
Next out is “Amen”. It is a timeless piece with a neoclassical touch. Anyone living 300 years ago would instantly understand its meaning. The combination of harp and violin is inspired – and there’s even a hint of rhythm, which adds an exciting layer of sound. The song is from beginning to end filled with a deep sense of gratitude – a rejoicing kind of amen, telling the world about how great it is to be alive. It is over 5 minutes long, but time seems to fly while listening.
But don’t take my word for it. Listen to it yourself:
Allah Akbar
I love Corona’s international approach. Although He has many names, we are worshipping the same God. “Allah Akbar” is a triumphant piece. It starts carefully with gentle flutes, then violins join in. “God is great,” sings Corona, and our conflict-ridden world suddenly seems a lot smaller. “Om Shanti Om” continues this impression, now focusing on a prayer for peace. It is beautiful beyond words.
At this stage, it is necessary to point out how well the songs are arranged and recorded. Stern has taken Corona’s original ideas and given them an almost divine expression. It is both classical and modern at the same time, from harp to synths. “It’s in Your Glory” is a heartfelt piece. Here we meet a loving, compassionate, and personal God. Notice the variation in sound, and how the harp and violins have different stories to tell. The harp is perhaps a symbol of heaven, while the violins are more about glory here on earth. It is a fascinating soundscape.
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
The next part of the album has excellent meditative qualities. “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” is one of the most popular Hindu mantras dedicated to Vishnu as Lord Krishna. The arrangement is, as usual, well-made; A tasteful mix of East and West. “I Am Free” is a thoughtful piece with a hint of melancholy. I like the many layers of sound, the flute and strings, and Corona’s lovely voice. The instrumental “Adonai Sepharoth” gives time to think and reflect, while “Open My Eyes” is reminiscent of 1970s peace and love. It is a hopeful sound, and when the violin comes on, it is impossible not to be touched.
The last part of the album is all about love. “Mother of Creation” is a tribute to Mother Mary, Queen of Heaven, and Her mercy and compassion. The melody is sweet, a timeless hymn. “Oh My Beloved” is a romantic ballad, telling about a tearful goodbye. One of the best songs here is saved for last; “Oh God Beautiful” is a neoclassical jewel. There’s so much beauty in the world. Listening to the song makes you take it all in and appreciate it to the fullest.
In conclusion: I started this review with a Bach quote, and I’ll end it with one too. Bach said that “I play the notes as they are written, but it is God who makes the music.” Listening to Catherine Corona’s “The Voice of The Stillness” feels like an awakening. We join Catherine in her global musical discovery, where the image of God is not restricted to one faith. It is one of the most heartfelt, joyous and optimistic albums in a very long time. David Stern has done a fantastic job arranging the songs. Listen, and “The Voice of The Stillness” will tell you something important.
Score: 94/100 – See our scoring policy.
For more information and music samples, visit catherinecorona.com