Hearts of Space: Music to Soothe the Soul

About two years ago, I was listening to the radio late one evening and happened upon some of the most beautiful and ethereal music I've ever heard. I wasn't sure at first exactly what I was listening to, so I stayed with the show until a voice came on at the end, announcing that this had been another edition of "Hearts of Space."

That voice belonged to Stephen Hill, the host of this weekly radio show that presents "slow music for fast times." Since that late Sunday night when I first became enthralled with "Hearts of Space," I've been a devoted listener, and each week I always discover some new music to enjoy.

"Hearts of Space" fans are treated to what is often termed "space music." This show features the best in ambient and electronic music that often gives the listener the sensation of floating, flying, or being suspended in a moment in time. The songs on each weekly show are grouped around a theme; for example, a recent show with ambient ocean sounds was called "Oceanic," and featured many songs from the CD "Oceanic" by Vangelis (a master of ambient electronica).

One of the pleasures of "Hearts of Space" is the way it opens the listener up to new, unexpected sounds from across the globe. Being surprised and delighted by the unusual "Hearts of Space" playlists is part of the fun of the show (one week the show could feature acoustic guitar, the sounds of the rainforest, or Indian music and ecstatic chant.)

The music of "Hearts of Space" runs for one uninterrupted hour, with Stephen Hill giving an introduction at the beginning that lists all the songs on the show, and signing off at the end to recap what we've just heard. I listen to "Hearts of Space" at eleven p.m. each Sunday night on Northeast Public Radio. I find that listening to the show always puts me in a relaxed frame of mind and helps me drift off to sleep. I would highly recommend the show to anyone looking to expand his or her musical horizons while experiencing the wonderful, soothing effects of this beautiful and relaxing ambient space music.

At the "Hearts of Space" website at www.hos.com, you'll find searchable playlists, schedules and details for all the music heard on the show. The site gives information about where to find the show on a radio station in your local area, as well as how to purchase some of the music found on the programs.

Since I first started listening to "Hearts of Space," I don't really gravitate as much towards popular music anymore. I've gotten lost in the world of global music and gorgeous ambient sounds, and finding new space music to enjoy is a continual adventure. I've definitely let the "Hearts of Space" playlists be a starting point for further explorations into ambient music. If you're looking for sounds that are a little off the beaten track, definitely look into "Hearts of Space"; this slow music for fast times will feed your spirit and soothe your soul.