Dive into the depths of introspection with "Reflective Rhythms," a collection of thought-provoking songs by Xak Stahl. This playlist weaves together melodies that evoke contemplation and serenity, guiding you through a journey of self-discovery and emotional exploration. Featuring tracks like "In-Between," "Whispering Shadows," "Innocence Lost," "Until We Meet Again," "Ab Imo Pectore," "Shadows & Light," "Rising Through the Darkness," and "Whispers of Hope," each song is a testament to the power of music to touch the soul and inspire reflection. Allow the gentle waves of sound and the subtle reflections in the lyrics to lead you to a place of peace and inner clarity.

Reflective Rhythms

"Whispers of Hope" is a poignant ballad that captures the essence of "Shelter of the Heart," a powerful debut novel by Xak Stahl. This emotive song tells a story of resilience, love, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity, mirroring the journey of the book's protagonist, Sam Bennett.

Set in the vibrant yet unforgiving streets of West Hollywood, "Shelter of the Heart" follows Sam, a once-aspiring artist now struggling with homelessness and addiction. The novel explores Sam's path to redemption as he rediscovers his passion for art and finds unexpected kindness in a world that had seemed indifferent to his pain.

Just as the song speaks of "a flicker of hope, a spark of light," the book delves into themes of second chances, the healing power of creativity, and the transformative nature of compassion. Through Sam's eyes, readers experience the harsh realities of life on the streets, the struggle to rebuild a shattered sense of self, and the profound impact of a supportive community.

"Whispers of Hope" encapsulates this journey from despair to hope, from isolation to connection, reflecting the novel's central message that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone. The lyrics, "Through the pain and fear, we'll find our way, Together we'll rise, with each new day," echo the book's underlying theme of resilience and the strength found in human connection.

This song serves as both a companion piece to the novel and a standalone testament to the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.

Lyrics:

In the neon glow of the city streets
Where shadows dance and dreams retreat
A heart worn down, yet still it beats
Yearning for a place to belong

In the quiet storm of a restless night
Echoes of a life once shining bright
A flicker of hope, a spark of light
Guides the way through the darkest dawn

Whispers of hope, in the cold night air
Promises of love, a heart laid bare
Through the pain and fear, we'll find our way
Together we'll rise, with each new day

Footsteps echo on the broken ground
Lost and alone, where no love is found
Yet in the silence, a gentle sound
A voice that calls, "You're not alone."

With every breath, a chance to start
To heal the wounds, to mend the heart
In the shelter of a tender heart
We'll find our strength, we'll find our home

Whispers of hope, in the cold night air
Promises of love, a heart laid bare
Through the pain and fear, we'll find our way
Together we'll rise, with each new day

In the darkest hour, when hope seems lost
We'll stand together, no matter the cost
For in each other, we'll find the strength
To face the night, to go the length

Whispers of hope, in the cold night air
Promises of love, a heart laid bare
Through the pain and fear, we'll find our way
Together we'll rise, with each new day

So hold on tight, to the dreams we weave
In the shelter of love, we will believe
For in the whispers of hope, we'll find
The courage to heal, the strength to shine

Whispers of Hope

Buy on iTunes

"Whispering Shadows," written and performed by Xak Stahl, is a haunting indie folk ballad that explores the delicate landscape of a relationship in distress. This emotionally charged track weaves together introspective lyrics with a melancholic melody, creating a poignant narrative of love, loss, and regret.

Stahl's vocals carry a raw vulnerability, perfectly capturing the song's themes of emotional disconnection and unspoken pain. The lyrics paint vivid imagery using natural elements as metaphors for the relationship's decline, from wilting flowers to dimming stars, enhancing the song's atmospheric quality.

Musically, "Whispering Shadows" builds a soundscape that mirrors its lyrical content. Gentle acoustic guitar work intertwines with subtle, atmospheric elements, creating a sense of intimacy and introspection. The chorus, with its whispering wind and approaching storm, adds a layer of foreboding that heightens the emotional impact.

The bridge offers a moment of wishful thinking and desire for reconciliation, adding depth to the song's exploration of complex emotions. The outro's repetitive, almost mantra-like quality emphasizes the lingering pain and unresolved feelings.

"Whispering Shadows" is more than just a song; it's an emotional journey through the complexities of human relationships. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt the pain of growing apart from a loved one, offering a musical space for reflection and catharsis.

Lyrics:

Yesterday I saw you, 
but your smile was out of reach
Tried to find the words, 
but you turned away, said it’s just fatigue
One day turned into weeks
Now months blend into years
And a silence grows that only heightens all my fears
You’re lost in a labyrinth of thoughts, 
shadows cloud your mind
Distance fills the space where our laughter used to shine
I can’t find a way, I can’t see the path
But my soul feels heavy, and my heart starts to crack

"Whisper in the dark," the night wind gently sighs
"A storm is near, I feel its quiet rise"
Flowers close their petals and the rivers lose their song
Stars dim their light, showing something's deeply wrong

Ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah
Ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah

Just the other night, caught in life’s endless race
I failed to notice tears, that sadness in your face
Overlooked the signs, lost in my own grind
Now you’ve pulled away, left our love behind
You’re lost in a labyrinth of thoughts, 
shadows cloud your mind
Distance fills the space where our laughter used to shine
I can’t find a way, I can’t see the path
But my soul feels heavy, and my heart starts to crack

"Whisper in the dark," the night wind gently sighs
"A storm is near, I feel its quiet rise"
Flowers close their petals and the rivers lose their song
Stars dim their light, showing something's deeply wrong

Ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah
Ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah

If I could turn back time, hold you closer than before
Erase the shadows, bring light to where you’re torn
Every whispered word, every silent plea
I’d hear them clearly, bring you back to me

Ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah
Ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah
You’re really hurting (ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah)
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah
You’re hurting (ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah)
Ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah

Whispering Shadows

This deeply personal and emotionally charged ballad is a poignant tribute to a mother's unwavering faith and a son's complex journey of love, loss, and healing. The song delicately balances themes of spiritual devotion with the weight of hidden trauma, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and cathartic.

Through gentle melodies and introspective lyrics, the song explores the dichotomy between a mother's steadfast belief and her son's struggle with faith in the aftermath of childhood abuse. It touches on the guilt of keeping secrets, the pain of loss, and the ongoing search for personal spiritual reconciliation.

The chorus serves as a powerful refrain of love and hope, expressing the desire for understanding and connection that transcends even death. The bridge offers a glimpse into the narrator's ongoing journey, honoring his mother's memory while seeking his own path to healing and faith.

This song speaks to anyone who has grappled with family secrets, religious trauma, or the loss of a loved one. It offers a raw and honest look at the complexities of faith, family, and personal growth in the face of profound adversity.

Lyrics:

You were a woman of faith, dear Mom
Your love for the Lord never waned
You found comfort in prayer, in the church's embrace
And I longed to share in your grace

But I held a secret deep inside
A pain too great to confide
I was just a child, innocent and pure
But a man of God stole that from me, I'm sure

I never wanted to burden you, Mom
With the truth of what happened, what I've become
But I know you're watching from above
And I hope you can see my heart, and my love

As you fought for each breath, dear Mom
Your faith was the last thing you held on
You clung to it tightly, with all your might
And I prayed to the Lord to make things right

But those memories still haunt me
The guilt and shame that won't set me free
I wish I could have told you, Mom
But I didn't want to break your faith, your bond

I never wanted to burden you, Mom
With the truth of what happened, what I've become
But I know you're watching from above
And I hope you can see my heart, and my love

I'm still searching for my own faith, Mom
Trying to find my way in this world
But I know you're with me, every step I take
And I'll honor your memory, for heaven's sake

I never wanted to burden you, Mom
With the truth of what happened, what I've become
But I know you're watching from above
And I hope you can see my heart, and my love

I love you, Mom, more than words can say
And I'll carry your memory with me, every day
Until we meet again, in God's embrace
I'll keep searching for my own faith, and my grace

Innocence Lost

"In-Between," written by Xak Stahl and soulfully performed by Zoé Le Fleur, is a poignant indie-folk ballad that delves into the complex emotional landscape of healing. This introspective track explores the liminal space between overcoming depression and anxiety and adjusting to a new, calmer reality.

Le Fleur's vocals carry a delicate vulnerability, perfectly capturing the song's bittersweet tone. Her nuanced delivery brings to life the conflicting emotions of relief and disorientation that come with newfound stability after emotional turmoil.

Musically, "In-Between" creates a soundscape that mirrors its lyrical content. Gentle acoustic guitar melodies intertwine with subtle, atmospheric elements, creating a sense of space that echoes the emotional "in-between" described in the lyrics. The arrangement maintains a delicate balance between melancholy and hope, mirroring the protagonist's journey.

The chorus serves as a powerful reflection on the complexities of healing, with its refrain of "feeling okay, yet not okay" resonating deeply with anyone who has navigated the aftermath of mental health struggles. The bridge offers a moment of self-awareness, acknowledging the possibility of personal change and the shifting dynamics of relationships post-recovery.

"In-Between" is more than just a song; it's a compassionate exploration of an often-overlooked aspect of the healing process. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt caught between two emotional states, offering a melodic validation of these complex feelings and a reminder that healing is a journey, not a destination.

Lyrics:

I woke up today, the sun on my face,
No shadows creeping in, no dark embrace.
But there's a hollowness, a quiet space,
Where once the storm would rage, now just an empty place.

I've climbed out of the abyss, found solid ground,
But in this newfound calm, something's missing, I've found.
My friends, they've stepped back, their worries now unfound,
Maybe they're facing their own battles, now that I'm not around.

In this in-between, where I'm neither high nor low,
I’m learning to live, in a world I barely know.
It’s a strange kind of peace, a calm yet hollow show,
Feeling okay, yet not okay, it's a feeling I can't outgrow.

The laughter feels distant, the silence too loud,
In this space of nothing, I’m lost in the crowd.
They say I'm better now, no longer under a cloud,
But in this quiet after, I miss the noise somehow.

I've healed from the pain, but there's an ache I can't define,
A sense of loss in this newfound peace of mind.
My friends are now distant, caught in their own line,
Their worries untangled, while I unravel mine.

In this in-between, where I'm neither high nor low,
I’m learning to live, in a world I barely know.
It’s a strange kind of peace, a calm yet hollow show,
Feeling okay, yet not okay, it's a feeling I can't outgrow.

Maybe they're finding their own way,
Now that I'm no longer in disarray.
Or maybe I’m the one who's changed,
In this calm, everything feels so strange.

In this in-between, where I'm neither high nor low,
I’m learning to live, in a world I barely know.
It’s a strange kind of peace, a calm yet hollow show,
Feeling okay, yet not okay, it's a feeling I can't outgrow.

I’m standing on this edge, of what’s real and what’s not,
In the calm after the storm, in this empty spot.
Finding my way, in this new, quiet plot,
Feeling okay, yet not okay, in this in-between I've got.

In-Between

"Until We Meet Again," a soul-stirring composition by Xak Stahl, is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection. This acoustic ballad, featuring delicate guitar work and emotive piano accompaniment, creates an intimate soundscape that perfectly complements Stahl's introspective lyrics and heartfelt vocal delivery.

The song weaves a tapestry of memories and emotions, capturing the bittersweet essence of farewell tinged with the hope of reunion. Stahl's vocals carry a raw vulnerability that resonates deeply, conveying both the pain of separation and the strength found in cherished memories.

Lyrically, "Until We Meet Again" paints vivid imagery of shared moments, from laughter and dreams to the comfort found in each other's presence. The chorus serves as a powerful affirmation of love's persistence beyond physical boundaries, offering solace to those experiencing loss.

The bridge introduces a spiritual element, suggesting a continued connection through nature and the cosmos, adding depth to the song's exploration of eternal bonds. The outro leaves listeners with a sense of peace and hope, reinforcing the idea that love transcends even death.

This track stands as a testament to Stahl's ability to craft deeply personal yet universally relatable narratives. "Until We Meet Again" is more than a song; it's a cathartic journey through grief, remembrance, and the unbreakable ties that bind us to those we love, even when separated by time and space.

Lyrics:

When the sun sets low
And you think of me
Remember the laughter
The love, the glee
The moments we shared
The dreams we chased
The joy in our hearts
The smiles on our face

Life's a journey
With its highs and lows
But in your hearts
My memory glows
Hold on to the good
Let the bad ones fade
In the warmth of love
Our bond is made

Hold on to the joy
Let go of the pain
In the light of our memories
Love will remain
Until we meet again
In the sky so blue
I'll be waiting there
Watching over you
We'll find each other
Where the sun never sets
In a place of peace
Where our hearts connect

When storms would come
You were my shield
In your embrace
My heart could heal
The whispered words
The laughter's light
Our bond grew strong
In darkest night

Life is fleeting
But love endures
In every heartbeat
It assures
Let not sorrow
Cloud your mind
For in your hearts
I’m intertwined

Hold on to the joy
Let go of the pain
In the light of our memories
Love will remain
Until we meet again
In the sky so blue
I'll be waiting there
Watching over you
We'll find each other
Where the sun never sets
In a place of peace
Where our hearts connect

If ever you feel 
Lost and alone
Look to the sky
You’re not on your own
My spirit's there
In the whispering breeze
In the rustling leaves
And the swaying trees

Remember me with joy
Not with tears
For in the afterlife
I’ll be near
Until we meet again
Hand in hand
In a realm of peace
In a promised land

Until We Meet Again

"Love Spell" by Zoé Le Fleur is a captivating techno-trance track that weaves an enchanting audio tapestry of romance and mysticism. The song's hypnotic beat serves as the perfect backdrop for Le Fleur's ethereal vocals, creating an immersive experience that truly feels magical.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nocturnal ritual, blending elements of nature and magic to describe the intense connection between two lovers. Le Fleur's delivery is both seductive and otherworldly, perfectly capturing the song's theme of casting a spell of love.

The track's production is masterful, with pulsating synthesizers and rhythmic percussion that mirror the heartbeat of desire described in the lyrics. 

As the song progresses, the repeating chorus acts like an incantation, drawing listeners deeper into its spell. The bridge section provides a moment of dynamic shift, building tension before the final chorus brings the magical journey to its climax.

"Love Spell" is more than just a song; it's an auditory experience that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, leaving listeners entranced and yearning for more. It showcases Zoé Le Fleur's unique ability to blend electronic dance music with elements of the arcane, resulting in a track that's as danceable as it is thought-provoking.

Lyrics:

In the night I see your face
Feel the magic in this place
Whisper words to call your name
Love spell glowing like a flame

Ooh I cast a spell on you
Ooh now you feel it too
Ooh our hearts they intertwine
Ooh forever you’ll be mine

Mix the potion under moon
Silver stars will guide us soon
Candles flicker in the dark
Binding love from spark to spark

Ooh I cast a spell on you
Ooh now you feel it too
Ooh our hearts they intertwine
Ooh forever you’ll be mine

Hear the winds they softly sigh
Woven threads will never die
Hands connected magic flows
In this spell our passion grows

Ooh I cast a spell on you
Ooh now you feel it too
Ooh our hearts they intertwine
Ooh forever you’ll be mine

Love Spell

Space Goblins blends the energy of grunge and punk rock with touches of pop, electronic, and power pop. Upbeat and melodic songs with a raw and powerful sound, yet always with a Beatlesque hook. If you love intense riffs, vibrant synths, and catchy melodies, this album is for you. 🚀🎸🔥

You Always

The turn of every tide
Right before my eyes
No longer compromise
Manifest desire

Im born on dirt on deprive
Ive lost my will to fight
Im taxed by their design
Sail off fuel by fire

you can come you can go you can save your soul
you will find no end of the rainbow
And im chasing a dream life
Im chasing a dream 

The turn of every tide
Right before my eyes
No longer compromise 
I'll manifest desire
and fly.... 

you can come you can go you can save your soul
you will the truth at the end of the road
you can come you can go you will find no end of the rainbow

The turn of every tide
Right before my eyes
No longer compromise
I'll manifest desire and Fly

Western Drive

The Turn of Every Tide

Doodles #5

Out Of Miracles

Another improvisation of another pop song, drawing on the inspiration of the moment and, as usual, without much to say, beyond. Being optimistic and purely by chance, there might be a moment of homage to Brian Wilson in the chorus.


Mercy

where the song started

Leaving Palma, the sun sets low Grandkids wait



https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=_6S491-6RbU&feature=shared


https://open.spotify.com/album/31PVoD1Uhav6qNRdgF6qJe?si=YMo0u84TSI6PpsQZumlSWQ



https://music.apple.com/us/song/piano-piano/1827598683


https://music.amazon.it/albums/B0FHW5N9S1?marketplaceId=APJ6JRA9NG5V4&musicTerritory=IT&ref=dm_sh_yDNF8wZyTYkUPzvJDdvFICLlO&trackAsin=B0FHW7D31B



Piano Piano.mp3

I wish I’d met you when
You’d run down alleys
And back again
I wish I’d met you when
Time had no tallies
No guardian 

[Chorus] 
I could have been
At your shoulder
I could have been 
Between you and him
I volunteer to be your soldier 
Burn as your Seraphim 
I’ll worship you as promised
Forgiven and admonished 
Cos I was never there 
Forever remained 
The empty chair 
The empty stare
Cos I was never there 

I wish I’d met you when 
You cried in corners 
Without a friend 
I wish I’d met you when 
You hated you 
Scratching at your skin 

[Chorus] 
I could have been
At your shoulder
I could have been 
Between you and him
I volunteer to be your soldier 
Burn as your Seraphim 
I’ll worship you as promised
Forgiven and admonished 
Cos I was never there 
Forever remained 
The empty chair 
The empty stare
Cos I was never there

[Bridge] 
I was only down the road 
So close 
So close
So close 
But it might have been the nearest star 
So far 
So far 
So far

[Cello break] 

I wish I’d met you when 
You bathed the kids 
And I worked instead 
So glad I met you when 
The midnight coats
Were beckoning 
At the stroke of midnight 
The dying moments of eighty-seven 
You became my Cherubim
Arriving at our private heaven 

[Chorus] 
I could have been
At your shoulder
I could have been 
Between you and him
I volunteer to be your soldier 
Burn as your Seraphim 
I’ll worship you as promised
Forgiven and admonished 
Cos I was never there 
Forever remained 
The empty chair 
The empty stare
Cos I was never there


Neverthere

Hilma Hilma three years old.

Xak Stahl: Alchemist of Sound, Architect of Emotion

Xak Stahl is a genre-blurring music artist, sonic storyteller, and relentless experimenter. Every track he creates is a new world—a kaleidoscope of indie folk, alt-pop, electronica, and global flavors—infused with raw emotion and boundless curiosity. Xak’s music isn’t just heard; it’s felt.

From Shadow to Spotlight

For Xak, music is metamorphosis. His journey began in the shadows, transmuting heartbreak and struggle into songs that glow with hope. Early anthems like “Neon Dreams” and “Rising Through the Darkness” invite listeners to find their own light. His newest project, Major Arcana, channels the mysteries of the Tarot—each song an archetype, each lyric a step along the path from the Fool’s first leap to the wisdom of The World.

More Than Music: A Multisensory Universe

But Xak isn’t confined to sound. As a visual artist and writer, he crafts immersive stories that spill across genres and languages—sometimes haunting, sometimes playful, always honest. Whether he’s conjuring lush soundscapes, weaving bilingual lyrics, or creating striking visuals, Xak’s art dares you to feel deeper and dream wilder.

An Invitation to Transformation

Join Xak Stahl on a sonic odyssey that blurs borders—between genres, between artforms, between you and the music. Each release is an invitation to explore, to heal, to become. For Xak, every song is a spell, every album a universe. The only question is: are you ready to step inside?

Love Spell

XAK STAHL

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