On a Positive Note - Music Review
Dateline: 07/21/99
Lots of people think New Age music is boring and, some of it is rather quiet and peaceful. But I've been listening to four really nice New Age albums this week and they were definitely on the jazzy side.
The music of composer/musician Dino Pacifici is difficult to categorize, but mostly it's a contemporary sound with a positive attitude. I realize that these terms sound absolutely silly, like a linguistic cop-out, but his range really does reflect a creative awareness of our times, and there is none of that smoky, boozy energy that is generally found in older jazz. The message is upbeat and affirming to life. It's clean and fresh. It's very clear he's one of us!
Before I did this review, I had no idea of who Dino Pacifici was. I've learned that he is a Canadian, the winner of professional awards, and a highly respected musician from these reviews. He is a gifted artist working through his own spiritual process and communicating his insights via the language of sound.


ACQUIESCENT RESONANCE   
Lots of unexpected sounds and rhythmic undercurrents within an ambient frame. Jazz, but not entirely instrumental. From time to time a husky voice appears to make offbeat commentaries on music. He made me laugh! Like the guy says, "It's not the kind of music it is. Fast or slow, it's got to have soul."

THE JOURNEY  
An incredibly involving album. Although it's made of many parts, but it's really one complete piece. As a listener you are drawn along through one soulful mood after another. A lot like Vollenweider, but with a hundred times more depth. Honestly, I never knew jazz could be so sweet! A  wonderful  listening experience.


URBAN OASIS  
Sophisticated and savvy, the sounds of this album will saunter and sway through your apartment, condo, or penthouse. Yes, you can dance to this music. I would advise that you don't even try to restrain yourself! The instrumentals are so smart and witty, that at times I found my  whole body  thinking in jazz. Let your feet lead the way!


RANDOM FACTORS 
Seventy-one minutes of exceptionally smooth jazz. This is definitely not a rehash of the old standards we've heard for years, instead we're presented with new themes gathered from new thought, experience, and awareness. Every selection in this marvelous medley is performed with inventiveness and an unexpected new age twist.

Barbara Bianco - About.com