Karen Salicath Jamali never composes the usual way, and honestly, that’s what makes her work such a spellbinding listen. Her latest single, “Angel Haniel’s Clearing,” off the upcoming album Angel Melodies 3, is yet another glistening feather in her already celestial cap. This piece was brought to life through a dream, like much of her work. Usually, music comes via sheet music or studio noodling. And while that is great and all, Jamali’s music came as a fully formed vision in sound and light. That’s peak creativity. It’s like she has climbed to the top of her work, she’s reached the purpose, and climbed up to its transcendentalist aspect.
From the get-go, the piano feels alive with intention. Deep, resonant tones ripple like gentle waves beneath the surface, carrying the melody with a kind of solemn grace. Meanwhile, delicate treble notes dance across the top—glimmering, prattling, almost like the emotional flickers we try to hide but can’t. It’s got that fragile, contemplative tone that sneaks up on you and softens something tight in your chest. The piece comes as melancholic and luminous, like a late afternoon sun through gauzy curtains; it carries sadness, yes, but also clarity and calm.
And let’s talk about its spiritual muse, Archangel Haniel. Associated with grace, intuition, and emotional clarity, Haniel’s energy is all over this track. It’s not hard to imagine this composition as an energetic clearing, a sonic ritual for shedding burdens and finding a sliver of peace. Mastering by Maria Triana (yep, the same legend who’s worked on Dylan and Aretha) adds that golden polish, while the mesmerizing cover art, which made me do a double take, painted by Jamali herself, visually echoes the song’s serenity.
Karen’s story never stops being remarkable. After a near-death experience unlocked her spontaneous musical gift, she’s gone on to create over 2,500 pieces, rack up awards, and play Carnegie Hall eight times. With “Angel Haniel’s Clearing,” she shows that music is her calling.
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Review by: Naomi Joan