IONA

At times, the music sounds like that which is conveniently found near the candles and home décor in stores like Target, with titles like "Tribal Relaxation" or "Irish Rain." This Celtic-inspired music is never unpleasant in the least, but it certainly isn't anything groundbreaking, interesting, or even great. It's refreshing and soothing, but to be honest, there's nothing beyond that.

"Turning Tide" Soft keyboards with gentle vocals and pipes introduce the album.

"Flight of the Wild Goose" The highlight of this piece is the moving electric guitar. While the saxophone is pleasant, it isn't my thing, but the backing instrumentation is well done. The bass tone is especially good.

"The Island" Lovely piano begins the third track. Finally, there are lyrics, delicate though they may be. This is a solid song, if a bit repetitive.

"White Sands" Gorgeous flute and acoustic guitar play throughout this gentle piece.

"Dancing on the Wall" This is closer to straightforward music (Christian-themed rock, perhaps). It's not a bad song, but nothing spectacular.

"A'Mhachair" Calming synthesizers begin this one. A saxophone cuts through, in a way taking things back to the second track.

"Vision of Naran" Fretless bass and acoustic guitar give way to the lovely lead vocals. It isn't Joanne Hogg's most compelling performance, but she still sounds great. The song itself, however, is enchanting and one of the best pieces on the album. I love the melody.

"Beijing" Some pseudo-Oriental instrumentation and melodies make up this track, which, were it not for the title, might have stood on its own without coming across as trite. This is a prime example of the Pure Moods music I in a way referenced in the introductory paragraph.

"Iona" The song for which the band derives its name is more placid music with gorgeous feminine singing. Her pronunciation of that one word is heavenly and beyond words. I am speechless.

"Trilogy" The saxophone is back, again over airy synthesizer. Unfortunately, it's a dull piece that generally sounds like it should be a soundtrack for a steamy 1990s made-for-TV movie sex scene.

"Here I Stand" A lone female voice begins this short song. The pipes are a very peaceful addition.

"Columcille" Light synthesizer and bagpipes finish off the album.