Track Information
Whispers: Echoes of “Come Home” are heard in the refrain. The lyrics of the refrain: “Whispers, whispers calling to me. Calling to me. Whispers, whispers calling to me. I pause to hear Your voice.” Each verse is set at a slightly higher timbre, portraying the connection with Spirit outside of the self as well as within oneself.
Glimmers of Light: Cascading light is pictured in the refrain. The verses change color, just as glimmers of light change color as they reflect off different surfaces.
Fueled by Fire: Hear the jagged edges of the flames in the shifting, driving rhythm throughout the piece. Visualize the smaller swirls of fire bursting into bigger flames.
Spirit of Starlight: A delicate piece depicting the stars and the many dreams offered to them every night. Embrace the sweet twinkling of the stars in the verses and get lost in staring at the stars in the sky in the bridge.
Make Space for Beauty: This piece embraces the complexity of grief. The lyrics of the refrain: “Make space for beauty. Make space within. Make space for the heartache and the joy to live. Make space for beauty. Make space within. Breathe it in. Feel it in your soul.” The bridge immerses one in the depth and pain of grief and then returns to the expansive, warm invitation to make space.
Playful Puppy Love: Dedicated to Topaz, my Golden Retriever. ❤️🐾A jaunty little piece that portrays the joy and playfulness Topaz brings into my life.
Voice of My Soul: The intro and refrain carry a wistful nostalgic feeling. The verses expand more, including flourishes that are reminiscent of angel wings. The bridge captures the fullness of physical presence with stirrings from within.
Centered in Connection: The melody of this piece came in a dream, the purest form of being centered in connection. The entire melody of this piece is held within the center register of the piano.
Walking with the Moon: The refrain depicts looking up at the sky to see the moon. The verses parallel the different phases of life along with the phases of the moon. As much as things may change, there is always a sense of familiar to return home to.
Nature’s Blessings: Majestic and expansive opening. Take your time with this piece and soak in the richness of nature. The verses loosely represent flowing water, canyons with birds, and taking in the tree canopies while walking in the woods.
More CD Information
“Outside the Lines” reflects the different ways of connecting to life around and within us, breaking from the mundane or what might be labeled ‘normal.’ It’s easy to fall into a routine and miss out on the profound ways in which we are supported and coexist with life around us. This collection reflects union with various aspects of nature, from the moon and stars to majestic scenery. It also points to listening to dreams, giving voice to our own soul, and sharing connection with other souls.
Recorded by Ann Ruane on a Ritmuller Grand Piano.
Mixing and Mastering by DAVID VARTANIAN, DV Productions
Graphic Design, Art & Photos by TRACY DELFAR
About the Composer--Ann Ruane
Although I feel a personal connection to all of the music I write, this particular collection feels like my personal journal set to music. “Outside the Lines” is permission to allow my inner light to shine more brightly, outside the lines of any perceived limitations. Living outside the lines is bigger than thinking outside the box.
My wish for you is to open to the places within you and allow these pieces to stir your own individuality, expression, and uniqueness. Break the mold and live “Outside the Lines.”