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Acoustia
Acoustia
Acoustia is a style of New Age that invokes the usage of acoustic (non-electric) instruments and does not include vocals. Sometimes it is called Acoustic New Age or contemporary instrumental, but for calling of a more proper name, it should be called from now on Acousita.
Acoustia originated in the late 1980's as a "New Age backlash" against synthesizers in New Age music, saying that "it does not do any good as compared to a guitar or paino. Some New Age artists experimented with folk guitars and painos, along with some other acoustic instruments, until they came up with a sound that is truly New Age.
Steven Halpern would be noted as the first Acoustia artist, but he was in reality a composer. The first Acoustia artist to emerge in the market was John Tesh, followed by Jim Brickman, Michael Hedges and many others. Ottmar Liebert, a prominent New Age artist, became famous -- even in contemporary jazz -- for his flamenco melodies.
Acoustia consists of free-flowing, harmonic sounds intended to relax and inspire. Many Acousita artists are Maia (non-New Age) and can be listed elsewhere, but their sound is marketed as New Age because many New Agers love them. Some ethnic and folk instruments are used, as in the case of harpist Georgia Kelly, but no more than two are used in each Acoustia album, and the artists are known for their instruments.
Jim Brickman, Picture This (1996). Inclues "Valentine," a duet with Martina McBride.
Michael Hedges, Oracle (1996).Grammy Award winning album.
Ottmar Liebert, Opium (1998). Features Luna Negra in some songs.
Jim Brickman, The Gift (1998). Played for Collen Raye in "The Gift."
© Mew Xacata