Essence features Peter Kater doing what he does best -- symphonic-synth new age with acoustic accompaniment. David Darling's cello, Cecil Hooker's violin, Rhonda Larson's flute, and Chris White's wordless vocals complement Kater's piano and synthesizer quite elegantly. That's a good term for this healing music treasure: elegance. It fits Kater's theme as the deep atmospheres surround listeners with love, grace, harmony, and warmth. This single long-form (75-minute) piece is a delight that will appeal to fans of Dean Evenson, Anugama, Merlin's Magic, and Deuter. ~ Jim Brenholts|

Rovi