by Jim Brenholts
Back to the Garden reflects a yearning for -- and/or a return to -- simpler times. Dean Evenson and Tom Barabas have created a set of psychoactive compositions that tunes to the simplicity of the new age -- spiritually and holistically. Evenson and Barabas embrace all the qualities of the holistic new age with no hesitation and no shame. This disc's only drawbacks -- if, indeed, they are drawbacks -- are its steadfast dedication to its purpose and its sincerity. Both of these artists have true desires for their music to reach and, ideally, to heal the world. So, if every listener allows it to heal his or her corner of the world and shares it with one other person, it is achievable, albeit exponentially mind-boggling. This special disc will appeal to fans of Lisa Lynne, Susan Craig Winsberg, Riley Lee, and Stan Richardson.