Alaska Women Singer/Songwriters for Peace
CD, 14 different artists
(LoveLifeMusic Productions, 2010; CD, $15 or MP3 Download, $9.99; see www.lovelifemusic.com for more.)

It’s no secret to most of us living here in the Great Land that Alaskans are a unique and talented bunch; this amazing CD is no exception. As noted at their website, Alaska Women Singer/Songwriters for Peace “was created with a holistic universal philosophy in mind of unconditionally participating in the giving while experiencing the joy of receiving.” In short, the founders of LoveLifeMusic, Homer-based Shawn Zuke and Milo Matthews, wanted to create a CD of women singers and songwriters for a non-profit project to support the South Peninsula Haven House (also located in Homer), which supports and empowers people impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. That in itself is a worthy endeavor, and yet the music on this CD inspires the listener beyond.

The style of the songs is termed “fresh eclectic and contemporary, ” which is very apt. From the beautifully smooth To Be by Susan Brakeall and inspirational Make Your Own Peace by Robin Hopper to Emily Kurn’s lively version of Whitebird and Monica Lettner’s memorable Keys to the Kingdom the listener is treated to fantastic range of voice. For this review I listened to the full CD one time through, making notes as I went. Then I promptly listened to it again, purely for enjoyment. Yes, it’s that great!

To check it out yourself, go to http://lovelifemusic.com/akwomencd.html to hear clips and learn more about each singer/songwriter. And, if you’re a female musician or visual artist interested in participating in Volume 2, see the site for more information.

Shawn Zuke notes that “when you do what you love you are supported energetically, which in turn allows dreams to manifest naturally.” Amen, Sister! It’s very obvious in this little gem of joy.

(For more on Haven House, see www.havenhousealaska.org.)

~ Review by Keila Swan