The Wishing Well is the 23rd album from 2002, a group I started reviewing 26 years ago! When I first heard their music, they were among the flagship artists on the Real Music label along with Kevin Kern, Peter Kater, Liquid Mind and Bernward Koch, and I have always loved the depth and warmth of their music. 2002 began as a husband and wife duo (Pam and Randy Copus) some thirty-four years ago, layering a variety of instruments and voices to create a sound uniquely their own. For the last ten years or so, the group has also included Pam and Randy’s daughter, Sarah. Quoting the press release for the album: “‘The Wishing Well’ captures the essence of hope, healing, and renewal — a meditation on the beauty of making a wish and letting it ripple through the universe.” The album contains ten new, original instrumental tracks (most also feature wordless vocals) that were inspired by tales from other lands as well as a few personal stories. Smooth, gentle, warm and uplifting are words I often use when describing the music of 2002, and this album is no different in that regard, offering a safe haven to get lost in during these crazy times.

The Wishing Well begins with “Overture: The Restless Heart,” a more-orchestrated piece with a big, cinematic sweep. At about the mid-point of the track, the familiar wordless vocals enter, along with flute, harp, guitar, piano and violin, and from here on, the album is distinctly 2002. “Three Wishes” is relaxed and dreamy, soothing away any rough spots and replacing them with warmth and peace. “Twilight” shimmers with acoustic guitar, piano, angelic voices, and strings - a great piece for daydreaming or wishing upon a star! “The Spiral of Heaven” recalls a journey to the Four Corners region of the US many years ago where the stars seemed close enough to reach out and touch - awesome in its quiet peacefulness! “Dream Chasers” is classic 2002 - lively and upbeat yet very tranquil. “A Safe Harbor” keeps the piano front and center for most of the piece while voices and lush strings support the simple, heartfelt melody - beautiful and very haunting! “On the Wings of Angels” takes us to a place of ultimate peace and soothing relaxation. Strings, flute and guitar take most of the lead, painting pictures in soft pastel shades as we drift blissfully on a puffy white cloud. “Bellehaven” is something of a tribute to the birthplace of the band, a garage converted into a recording studio. Very light and ethereal, I find this one to be hypnotic and reassuring. The album comes to a close with “Savitri’s Dream,” which recalls the beloved book that inspired 2002’s 1999 album, Savitri. Piano, flute, harp, orchestral strings, choral voices and more take us to a place of warm tranquility, kindness and peace. Ahhhhhhhhhh….

The Wishing Well can be streamed and downloaded on Amazon, Apple Music/iTunes, and Bandcamp. It is also available on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. CDs can be ordered on Bandcamp as well as from 2002’s website. What a great way to start the year!!!