Andreas Vollenweider's track, "Hirzel," is a new age instrumental with staying power. For over 30 years, it has entered my mind unexpectedly. There's an exploratory vibe to the melody that could underscore archaeologists studying artifacts they find in a cave.
"Hirzel" also demonstrates how musical stylings from vastly different eras can coexist. The tune's central melody, played on the harp, could almost pass for a music box arrangement--until the electric guitar crashes in and brings the listener into more modern times. Somehow, it manages not to sound like a clash between genres.
Not every artist can make two worlds sound harmonious. Vollenweider does, however, on "Hirzel."
