Raphael Groten's Inner Sanctum is a collection of twenty-two hypnotic electric guitar solos that create an ethereal atmosphere of well-being and hope. Recorded over a three-day period in the deep hibernation of this year's Vermont winter, a few of the tracks appeared on other albums on acoustic guitar and Raphael also included his arrangements of four cover tunes that fit in beautifully. Inner Sanctum is Raphael's seventh album, and all seven have been quite different from each other with the constant that they are all intended to soothe, heal and uplift - and are very beautiful and heartfelt.

In addition to the wonderful music, all of Raphael's album covers have been very impressive, and the dramatic picture of a bear (illustrated and designed by Gabriel Tempesta) on the cover of this one is also worth mentioning. Quoting Raphael: "The cover image showed itself to me in a meditation one night. In my visions, Bear came to me and reminded me that this music was made in the time of hibernation, during the time of the cave. It is intended to assist the listener in accessing their own inner sanctum. A place of rest and dreams and peace." Inner Sanctum is a little bit of heaven!

After recording all of the tracks, Raphael mixed and chose the playing order of the pieces to create a sonic journey "that carries the listener into the embrace of sanctuary within until they emerge awake, attuned and renewed." I never really thought electric guitars were instruments suited for relaxing and/or ambient music, but Raphael (and a few other guitarists) have really changed my mind about that! Some of the tracks have some additional reverb for a more open and spacial effect, but otherwise, it's all just Raphael and his 1970's vintage Gibson Marauder guitar.

There are too many tracks on the album to write about all of them, but the album itself is a breath of fresh air as it soothes and draws you into a place of peace and well-being. The cover tunes that Raphael arranged for the album are two versions of "Amazing Grace," a very subdued and relaxing version of Paul McCartney's "Blackbird," and the closing track, Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah." All are very recognizable, shimmering in their most essential form. I also really like the title track, an otherworldly but very peaceful ambient piece. "Patience" is my favorite track on the album. Hushed and serene with a rhythmic repeated pattern, it's a hypnotic beauty! "Eternities" creates a fascinating feeling of openness and mystery - another favorite.

Inner Sanctum is a great album from the first note to the last! It is available from Bandcamp, Amazon, Apple Music/iTunes, and many streaming services including Spotify and Pandora. This is music with a purpose, but it is also an exceptional listening experience! Very highly recommended!