Kevin Roth – Voyages – Vinyl Record

Description

Kevin Roth – Voyages – Vinyl Record

Kevin Roth’s Voyages is a reflective and emotive album by the renowned mountain dulcimer player and folk artist. Roth, known for his mastery of the dulcimer and his ability to blend folk traditions with meditative and spiritual themes, crafts a unique sonic landscape in this album. Voyages is a contemplative collection, with each track evoking a sense of journey—whether it be emotional, spiritual, or physical.

Roth is celebrated for his virtuosity on the mountain dulcimer, a traditional American folk instrument. On Voyages, the dulcimer takes center stage, providing a gentle, resonant foundation for the album’s melodies. His intricate fingerpicking and strumming patterns create a soothing, almost hypnotic effect throughout the record. The album blends folk with new age elements, resulting in a sound that is both earthy and ethereal. Roth’s music has a meditative quality, inviting listeners to slow down and reflect, much like the calm and introspective nature of a personal journey.

While the dulcimer is the focal point, Voyages features sparse instrumentation, allowing the subtleties of Roth’s playing to shine. Acoustic guitar, light percussion, and occasionally soft vocals may complement the dulcimer, but the overall feel is one of simplicity and space.

As the title Voyages suggests, the album is thematic in its exploration of journeys—whether they be physical travels or inner emotional and spiritual voyages. Each track is imbued with a sense of movement, but in a gentle, introspective way. Much of the album is soothing and tranquil, evoking images of quiet landscapes, peaceful walks, or moments of personal reflection. Roth’s music is often used for meditation or relaxation, and Voyages fits this mold perfectly, offering a calming, peaceful experience.

The production on Voyages is likely minimalist, highlighting the natural sound of the dulcimer and any accompanying instruments. The emphasis is on clarity and resonance, allowing the organic textures of the dulcimer to guide the listener through each track. The album’s sound design may include light reverb or ambient effects to enhance the dreamy, reflective mood, creating a sense of space and openness. This approach aligns with Roth’s ability to merge traditional folk elements with a new age sensibility.

Kevin Roth has been instrumental in bringing the mountain dulcimer to a wider audience. Through albums like Voyages, he continues to expand the possibilities of the instrument, blending folk traditions with modern influences. Roth’s work has inspired both dulcimer players and fans of folk music to explore the instrument’s unique sound. Voyages fits within the broader genre of new age folk, which combines the earthy, storytelling qualities of folk music with the contemplative, meditative aspects of new age music. This crossover has helped Roth build a following not just among folk purists but also among those seeking music for relaxation and reflection.

Voyages by Kevin Roth is a deeply contemplative and introspective album that showcases the beauty and versatility of the mountain dulcimer. Through its minimalistic, serene compositions, the album offers listeners a peaceful, meditative journey, inviting reflection on both inner and outer experiences. Roth’s mastery of the dulcimer and his ability to blend folk traditions with new age sensibilities make Voyages a calming and spiritually enriching listening experience. For fans of contemplative music and those who appreciate the emotional depth of folk, this album provides a tranquil and reflective space.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal with jacket cut

Flying Fish Records FF 384 1986

Track Listing
1. Balloons
2. Poet Song
3. Free Your Love
4. Belcimer Suite
5. When He Takes You to France
6. Cancoun
7. Zhang Hui
8. Dream Maker
9. Ghosts