-Sally Idasswey, Option Magazine 1987

John Teleska, Heartland
John Teleska is a composer, arranger, producer, graphic artist and multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire. On this 45 minute collection of mostly original pieces, he plays various guitars, bass, hand percussion and hand drums with assistance from other musicians on soprano sax, pedal steel guitar and flute. It's lovely crafted music, rhythmic and tuneful with a slight Eastern flavor. A 'direct expression of the joy of being alive.' Oregon, Lothlorien and Winter Consort fans take note!

-Nathan Griffith, Sound Choice, Ojai CA 1987

John Teleska, Heartland
This tends toward ethereal jazz, based on a near eastern flavor, that is the mainstay of bands such as Oregon. The small ensemble includes variations on guitar, sax, and hand percussion, highlighting the versatile and luscious guitar of Teleska. The two solo pieces on side two reveal and insightful handling of the folk-rooted jazz guitar found in the styles of John Fahey or William Ackerman. The other shining light of this ensemble is Brian Scanlon, whose effortless soprano sax wanderings relflect the uplifting attitude of some of Charles Lloyd's more recent excursions. Passionate, invigorating, and infinitely pleasant as a means of absorption.

-Scott Gudell, FreeTime, Rochester, NY 1986

John Teleska, Heartland
Heartland is the project of Rochester resident John Teleska. Teleska, who is featured on six and twelve string acoustic guitars, created Heartland Productions and is responsible for arranging, producing, writing (except for one traditional piece) and recording all seven numbers. He even set up his own state-of-the-arts recording studio. He's achieved an exceptionally high level of sound quality, one that rivals other new age styled recordings by companies such as Windham Hill. Heartland proves an independent effort can be incredibly sophisticated throughout.

Drawing on a background that included studies with English classical guitarist Stanley Watson and the Eastman School of Music, Teleska creates a shimmering blend of baroque styled classical sounds, free flowing jazz and American folk. Much of the first side features Teleska on acoustic guitar as he effortlessly conjures up delicately soft melodies. Before the side is completed, he is joined by Kinloch Nelson on guitar, Brian Scanlon on soprano sax and flute, and Ed Marris on percussion. Together, they create a fuller, earthier world music sound that hints at the eclectic albums of Oregon and Shadowfax. Teleska is later joined by Michael Ives on vibes and Kathy Leigh Johnson, who contributes some serene vocals on Wandering Soul the tape's closing number.

Throughout Heartland, the musicians touch different cultures and countries for inspiration, but it doesn't stop there. Teleska and company have an affectionate respect for nature and the world around them. They're in sync with the elements and their natural surrounding and are content to leave harsher city scapes for other artists. The collective result is a serene recording that not only soothes our soul but is stimulating enough to challenge our mind as well.

Ordering Information

Prices listed include shipping and handling and all applicable taxes. Send your order via snail mail to: John Teleska, 38 Parkridge Drive, Pittsford, NY 14534. Make checks payable to John Teleska. Sorry, no credit cards or on-line ordering. Additional info: Call John at (585) 264-9497

Copyright © 2005 by John Teleska. All rights reserved. Updated 1/23/2005.