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CD Review  "Expedition"

Philip Feinstein is a multi-instrumentalist based in Australia. His album “Expedition” is a plethora of musical soundscapes that explore different sonic textures and sounds, worthy of film and television and radio. Picked from over 500 submissions, Philip’s title track “Expedition” is featured on the Songsalive! CD Sampler 12 and is an exquisite eclectic instrumental that showcases Feinstein’s composition and production skills. This piece has a certain medieval charm to it, as if we are in an English period film of time gone by, and also has moments of world music instrumentation. Feinstein is clever in his arrangements, and sensitive in his style. It’s a breath of fresh air to listen to instrumental compositions that are not too heavy, yet still emotional. The album has a staggering 17 tracks, and not all instrumental. Track 5, “Fantasy” features a female vocal and melody that could stand well in a musical theater production. As Philip promotes on his CD Baby page, this album is “a musical experience of life's journeys that is both inspiring and uplifting” and he truly has captured these feelings. Thoroughly entertaining, whimsical, and thought provoking, Philip Feinstein is your Rick Wakeman of today! Get your copy of the album on CD Baby http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/philipfeinstein and check out the Songsalive! CD Sampler 12 at http://www.songsalive.org/cdsamplers.htm

Interview with Songsalive!

1: Where are you from, originally and what brought you to Sydney, Australia?

I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. After lots of travel around the world, and not wanting to return to the apartheid regime of South Africa, I finally ended up in Sydney, Australia. And by that time, I had experienced music from lots of exciting places. Third world and South American music would have to top my list.

2. What style of music would you say you do?

Although many people describe my style of music as New World, meditation music, or just easy listening, I would say it relates best to movies and television. Mind you, I know of at least one doctor's operating room that has it playing . . .

3. What do you enjoy best - songwriting or performing and why?

I would say that I enjoy songwriting most, as very often there are no rules. It's great to be able to let your mood dictate the atmosphere and then create the music.

4. Who are your musical influences?

I feel that my musical influences come from the indigenous people of many countries. I remember, as a nine year old, I used to hide in the bushes in Johannesburg, watching the locals singing during their Sunday church services. In Fiji, I would sit around the campfire in awe of the beautiful sounds. But from a western perspective, I would say Mike Oldfield, Rick Wakeman and Keith Jarrett also had an influence.

5. Describe your favorite song you have written and why is it so special to you:

My current favorite song is "Are you going my way?" Firstly I was able to feature a young Sydney lady who has a fabulous voice and had never recorded before. Secondly the song has different sections, so it flirts strongly with my theme of travel. And finally, the rhythms and timings change around, which is one thing I love doing with my music.

6. What are your goals for the next 5 years musically speaking?

One of my current ventures is volunteer music teaching at refugee detention centers. Being a strong believer in self esteem, and feeling strongly for refugees anywhere, I am also currently trying to fill all Australian detention centers with music instruments and volunteer teachers. On a professional level, I would like to keep composing for film and television. I really enjoy the challenge.

7. Tell us about your recordings and what's in store next for you:

Many years ago I was composing with a great singer by the name of Barrington Davis. We never did many quality recordings, but I know that the songs are good. So, I would like to record many of them again. I also want to record some of the beautiful voices at Sydney's detention center.

8. Where can we buy your music?

The easiest place to get my music is on CD-Baby: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/philipfeinstein

9. What are your views about where the music industry is heading in your community, or on a global level?

I believe the music industry is at exciting crossroads. We have all seen many new genres entering the field. We have also experienced the videos that go with the music. I think the next big step is where the public will be able to change the music and videos as they experience it. It will be more integrated as viewers take more control. Locally it is exciting to see more and more music venues opening up. Gone are the days of complaining neighbours . . .

10. Anything pertinent you'd like to say about Songsalive!

I really believe that Songsalive is a very important avenue for new and established musicians to get out there. In fact, I would go so far as to say that Songsalive performs a great community service. Well done!

Visit Philip Feinstein's profile on Songsalive!