CD showcases label’s positive-message artists

By Guy D’Astolfo

YOUNGSTOWN — Niayana Recordings has produced the first fruits of its expansion plan.

The Youngstown-based record label has signed nine artists and is showcasing them on a compilation CD that it released this week.

“Niayana Recordings Presents The Compilation, Version 1.0” includes 18 songs — two from each artist. Most of the artists are from the Mahoning Valley and all are from Northeast Ohio.

The independent label was started in 2002 by local jazz-funk- fusion band SounDoctrine to release its own albums and the solo work of band member Jim Couchenour. Last year, Niayana announced it would expand the label’s scope by signing other acts.

“We feel the Youngstown area has some of the best-kept secrets in the world when it comes to musical talent,” said Gerald Beulah Jr., company chairman. “Niayana” can now be a platform to present our area’s very talented artists to the world.”

Beulah uses the term “pure music” to describe the artists and music on his label, a reference to the Christian values and uplifting messages of the songs.

Musically, “The Compilation” ranges from Christian contemporary to gospel to hip-hop to jazz fusion.

“Our vision was to encompass the best of all musical styles and not just be known as a jazz or hip-hop or even a Christian label,” said Beulah. “We produce pure music that the entire family can enjoy,” he continued. “This release represents our goals in a way that many will find extreme yet inspiring, because of the continuity that exists in the music and the artists.”

The CD includes original music by Joe Thomas, worship pastor of Victory Christian Center in Coitsville; hip-hop artists Divine Soldiers of Akron; Nu Soul artist Stefano; singer-songwriter Allison; acoustic soul artist TaRee; Christian songwriter Jon Austin; Cleveland-based jazz-gospel artist Phillip K. Jones II; Couchenour and SounDoctrine.

“The Compilation” was recorded at three locations: Listen Studios, Girard; Boss Studios, Poland; and Fynal Step Audio, Youngstown.

The album is available at Quest Bookstore in Coitsville and all Borders Books & Music and Barnes & Noble locations in the area. For online purchases and downloads, go to CD Baby, Tune Core, iTunes, Rhapsody or Amazon.com.

Beulah said Niayana will release solo albums for each of its artists in the future.