Album Review—Kind As The Shade

When Music Speaks to the Soul: A Journey Through The Bentley Project’s “Kind As The Shade”

Music is the soul’s sanctuary when the latter needs some inspiration. “Kind As The Shade” is a serene and heart-touching Ambient Tone Poem from The Bentley Project that resonates with this paradigm. Inspired by the poetic works of John Neihardt, particularly “The Sound My Spirit Calls You”, this album is a profound tribute to the beauty of the Earth. In creating this mesmerizingly beautiful album, The Bentley Project has blended the elements of early music, Impressionism, romanticism, world music, New Age, and jazz in a masterly fashion, so that the listeners are immersed in its soothing landscape.

“Kind As The Shade” is the latest masterpiece from The Bentley Project, an innovative harp and guitar duo with an illustrious career in the world of music. The team immensely benefits from the diverse musical backgrounds of Theresa and Mark Bentley. Their combined expertise enables them to produce distinctive sounds that transcend genres.

Theresa’s extensive experience performing with reputable bands such as The Kansas City Symphony Chorus, The Kansas City Chamber Orchestra, and The St. Joseph Symphony has honed her artistic depth. Notable collaborations with Roger Daltrey, Ray Charles, and John Tesh’s Olympic Orchestra have also contributed to her impressive musical abilities. As a versatile guitarist, Mark, the owner of Bentley Guitar Studios, brings his own unique perspective to the duo’s accomplishments. His capabilities have been shaped by his tenure as a Professor of Guitar at Missouri Western State College and Park University.

The Creation of “Kind As The Shade”

The Bentley Project’s “Kind As The Shade” is an excellent musical work that evokes deep emotions and transports listeners to a serene realm. The album’s hauntingly beautiful soundscapes bestow on the album the rarest power to soothe the mind and uplift the spirit. As evident from the heartfelt praise from fans, this album is a testament to the artists’ exceptional talents and their ability to craft music that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

The creative process behind “Kind As The Shade” is a testament to the duo’s remarkable chemistry and artistry. By drawing from their combined talents, they’ve crafted a rich and refined musical experience that seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements. The album’s timeless qualities are a direct result of this approach, making each song a unique and innovative addition to the duo’s discography.

Unpacking The Tracks

1. Distant Thunder (2:59)

The album begins with the most beautiful song “Distant Thunder”. I felt this song is meant to set the tone for the entire contemplative journey that follows. The notes and tunes are gentle. The piece evokes a sense of calm and invites us to step into a serene world where the soul is fully healed.

2. Chant of the Sunset (3:16)

“Chant of the Sunset” is an enthralling blend of ambient textures and soothing melodies. As the track unfolds, we move into a tranquil landscape and feel as though the soul is bathed in the warm, golden light of a setting sun.

3. Kind As The Shade (2:33)

The title track, “Kind As The Shade”, is a touching melody that showcases the duo’s ability to craft music that converses directly to the heart. The delicate, lacy patterns of sound create a sense of intimacy we will relish to the core.

4. Morning Shall Sing For You (3:05)

Moving to the third track “Morning Shall Sing For You”, we find the album taking a gentle, uplifting turn. The track’s soft melodies whisper into our ears the promise of a new dawn, in a way infusing hopes that will help resurrect our being from the clutches of despair.

5. Dance Of The Rose (3:51)

“Dance Of The Rose” is a lovely, slow-moving piece which is a startling proof of how the artists have mastered atmosphere and mood. The flowing rhythms and delicate notes that resemble the softness of rose petals create in us a sense of wonder.

6. Earth’s Fragrance Remembered (Eolyn) (2:16)

This track is a peaceful and contemplative piece, with a simple yet powerful melody that speaks directly to the heart. The use of natural sounds and instrumentation adds to the sense of connection to the earth.

7. My Whisper To You (3:00)

“My Whisper To You” is an intimate composition that is crafted with delicate melodies that feel like a soft breeze on a hot summer’s day.  In the tunes of this track, we discover a soothing atmosphere, while the gentle rhythms create a mood of tranquility.

8. Language Of The Hills (3:12)

I found “Language Of The Hills” an impressive composition by the team. The song centers on the themes of longing and yearning that is not only personal but also universally relatable. The track makes lavish use of natural sounds to suggest the soul’s connection with the land.

9. Kiss Of The Stars (3:33)

The album concludes with the dreamy song “Kiss Of The Stars”. This track moves us to a world we do not see around us every day. The melodies in this track initially create a sense of wonder and then leave us with peace and tranquility that lasts for a long.

Take Away

In “Kind As The Shade”, The Bentley Project has created a masterpiece that will transport listeners to a magical soundscape. With its vibrant interplay of classical, folk, and new-age sounds, this album is definitely a splendid musical work you are sure to admire. So, immerse yourself in the duo’s enchanting music and discover a trusted companion for life’s journey.