Matthew’s Yoga Music, Volume 2 is part of an eight-volume series of improvised piano albums intended for yoga practice, massage therapy and/or “your own personal times of reflection and contemplation.” The only addition to the (digital) piano is “harmony ball texture,” which sounds very much like gently-tinkling wind chimes and adds a soft, atmospheric touch to the music. Although this series of albums was designed for specific purposes, the music is very well-suited for relaxation and soothing background music as well as more focused listening. Some of the albums have a number of open spaces in the music to allow yoga instructors to speak, and this one has a few, but not many and they are brief. As is true of all eight volumes in the series, Volume 2 consists of four 15-minute segments. Some segments are more dramatic than others and some are quiet and peaceful, making each track suitable for a slightly different focus or mood. Matt Johnson offers all of his recordings and sheet music as free downloads from his website, so it won’t cost you a penny to give it a listen! I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

Track 1 begins with a very hushed, mysterious tone that becomes more poignant as it evolves. Overall, this segment is very peaceful and somewhat melancholy. Some passages are on the ambient side, but there is a lovely melodic theme that runs through the piece.

Track 2 has a very dreamy and wistful “call and response” first movement that becomes more vibrant as it opens up. The beautiful melody wanders freely and almost conversationally, telling a heartfelt story as if to a close friend.

Track 3 beings with a simple minor key intro that becomes one of the darker themes on the album. Very meditative and introspective, it seems to be focusing on loss or disappointment without brooding or feeling anger.

Track 4 is much lighter and brighter - the sun peeking out from behind a cloud after a rainstorm. This segment has a peaceful flow while expressing feelings of hope and inner calm from the beginning to the end.

Matthew’s Yoga Music is a fascinating series! It is available for free from www.MattJohnsonMusic.com and to buy on Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby.