The Blessing Tree

The Blessing Tree is a unique fusion of classical instrumentation and ambient contemporary sound. Philip Riley blends modern technique with period instruments like the violin, acoustic guitar, Irish pipes and Irish whistle and others. Jayne Elleson's voice is the perfect compliment to such instrumentation, and has been described as lending a thematic air of 'longing and reverence.' Together, Riley and Elleson paint a Celtic journey, blending both ambient/New Age and subtle world music influences. When Elleson first came to record some vocals for Riley's music in 1993, it was destined to be significant musical partnership, with her exquisite voice offering the perfect complement to his evocative melodies. 'In our case, it was a great example of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts,' Riley says. 'Jayne sings my music so beautifully, better than I could ever have hoped for, and my melodies offer her a new avenue of vocal expression that suits her perfectly. It's a brilliant combination.' Riley and Elleson have developed a powerful music partnership that has produced musical scores for New Zealand films and documentaries, but it is their work together for their White Cloud releases that has refined their distinctive style. With The Blessing Tree, their subtle folk influences of Irish pipes and whistles and Celtic style conjures a timeless place of legend and beauty. It's an album that sings out from the heart.