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Nathen Aswell

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BIO

Nathen was born in Montreal and has been a professional vocalist / bassist / guitarist since 1977, graduating from Concordia University’s Music Program in 1985. Since calling Vancouver his home in 1992, he’s enjoyed making music with numerous local, national and international acts, including ABBA-Cadabra, Randy Bachman, Keith Bennett (Tin Sandwich), Joani Bye & The Homewreckers, Susan Crowe, The Euphorics, Gary Fjellgaard, Babe Gurr, The Hitmen, Russell Marsland, Lowry Olafson, Mark Perry, The Aaron Pritchett Band, Lyndia Scott, Shari Ulrich, Bill Usher and Edith Wallace.

Nathen’s musical life began in the Catholic church of his youth, and he’s remained active in liturgical / sacred / inspirational music ever since. He performs regularly at many local churches, including Unity of Vancouver, Spiritual Centre for Dynamic Living, Canadian Memorial United Church, St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church, The Centre For Spiritual Living in White Rock, and Unity of the Valley in White Rock.

Nathen believes that his purpose in this life is to inspire and heal through his music. His debut CD “Little By Little” is a powerful realization of his purpose, fully intertwining his two passions of music and spirituality. (Nathen is currently writing songs for his second CD.)

In an effort to build relationships and get his music out into the world, Nathen attends and performs at as many music conferences and events as he can. (In January, he performed at the Posi Awards in Orlando, FL; in April, he performed at the Affiliated New Thought Network Conference in Phoenix, AZ; and in September, he’ll be performing at the Circle Of Love Gathering on Quadra Island, BC.) As a direct result of experiences like these, Nathen now performs at House Concerts (www.ConcertsInYourHome.com), Kirtans (devotional chanting nights) and New Thought churches in both Canada and the U.S. (including Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Kelowna, Kamloops, Edmonton, Calgary, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax, Seattle, Ojai, Phoenix, Kansas City and Orlando).

Nathen now presents his music with his voice and with the NS Stick (http://www.Stick.com/instruments/ns), an 8-stringed electronic instrument that can be plucked like a bass, strummed like a guitar, or tapped with both hands like a piano.

PRAISE

27/6/10
(Written to Sue Hodge, Edmonton singer/songwriter and House Concert host)
I heard Nathen create some incredible music & passion at the Centre (for Spiritual Living Edmonton) today!! That man is a gift!
Rebecca Bissonnette (Edmonton, AB, Canada)

(This morning at CSL Edmonton,) it was as though time had simply ceased to acknowledge itself passing; it was so beautiful to hear you that I can't find the words to convey what I felt, what I experienced. Thank you.
Namaste.
Christine Meyer (Edmonton, AB, Canada)

21/6/10
(Written to Brock Tully, host of “One of a KIND Stories”)
Hi Brock,
This evening was very special for me. Mostly I came to hear Nathen sing his music, and I was very touched by his beautiful songs. I have heard him sing his own compositions before, a year ago at a House Concert in Dartmouth when I happened to be there visiting my mother, and she and I both loved it. Tonight I found his performance even more deep and strong; at once intimate and powerful. For me, he wears his soul on the outside when he sings and speaks about his musical journey. When I left, I found myself feeling transported to a place of calmness and love.
Love,
Carol Ann Fried (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

14/6/10
Dear Nathen,
Thank you for all the thought and heart that goes into your newsletters.  I was up early this morning and listened to the “How Great Leaders Inspire” message (twice). It obviously spoke to you, as it did to me. You are certainly answering the “why” part of your life. Congratulations, Dear One. Thank you for the quotes (like you, I love them). You are following your “Path with a Heart” (Teachings of Don Juan by Carlos Castaneda). “A path without heart is never enjoyable. You have to work hard even to take it. On the other hand, a path with heart is easy; it does not make you work at liking it.” It has taken me to 70 to find mine... until then I worked very very very hard... ‘nuf said... Lovely topic for our next coffee chat.
Thank you for being MY inspiration!
Love and blessings,
Rev. Dorothy Blandford (White Rock, BC, Canada)

12/6/10
Dear Nathen,
I absolutely love your newsletters, AND I continue to enjoy them more all the time as you bring with them your thoughts, inspirations and reflections. I truly loved last month's newsletter. I printed your inspirational thoughts and kept them in sight. I shared them with others and they continue to inspire.
And now, this month, you bring more inspiration. I just listened to the video on the link you proposed and again I am inspired.
I always seek to understand WHY I chose to do what I do in my life. I often wonder whether I've made the right choices, though I tend to think I have. And today, I will spend the rest of the day thinking about exactly why I think what I do is important. I'll probably think of all those people who have suddenly, because of an accident and a con-commitant brain injury, lost so much of who they were. I will hope and pray that through the research and teaching that I do, I can help bring new hope to their lives... AND I hope that when my time has come, that GOD will say to me, GOOD EFFORT. I hope...
I thank you for sharing your journey, and indirectly helping me reflect on my own.
God bless and have faith!
Carolina Bottari (Montreal, QC, Canada)

6/6/10
Dear Nathen and Sheila... It was truly delightful to see you both last night and to experience your playing Nathen! I love that I can hum and or sing to your songs... they have stuck in my heart and mind since I first heard you...!  Thank you so very much... You are both an inspiration! I enjoyed Sue and Browne as well....beautiful times!
Lots of Love from me to you!
Mahalia Mohl (White Rock, BC, Canada)

I was just listening to your CD in my car the other day. You have a very nice tone quality in your voice and I like your arrangements.
I’m glad I have met you... and Sheila.  I think we all enjoyed ourselves (at your House Concert) last night. I know I did.
You are a very personable person, Nathen. I wish you all the best in your music career and... life. You are definitely in the right field. I would love to be able to play that NS Stick like you do. You make what you do look so easy. That's a gift!
Till we meet again...
Love and light,
Bethanny Brooks (Surrey, BC, Canada)

16/5/10
Hey Nathen
I always enjoy and feel inspired by you and what you do. Thank you for being a part of my weekend! I am grateful that (my young daughter) Valerie was able to feel your energy and enjoy the show too. She said your show was "Beautiful!" I agree. Both shows. :-)
Love
Tetyana Lytviak (Calgary, BC, Canada)

9/5/10
I listened to your CD over the week-end and really enjoyed it. You have such a wonderful voice.
Warmly,
Joanne Duma (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

3/5/10
I am listening for the 4th and 5th times to “To Love”, with such gratitude and appreciation for the beauty and grace that I feel listening to these holy words. So much gratitude for you and your magic voice...
With love,
Lisa Webster (Kelowna, BC, Canada)

2/5/10
Nathen, your songs were beautiful today and I am very grateful for your care in choosing and preparing them.  It meant a great deal to me, especially to be led into my talk by your performance of "The Heart of the Matter."  Thank you, and many blessings.
Colette Mercier, RScP (Seattle, WA)

11/4/10
Hey Nathen,
What a joy it was to meet you @ Jodi's house concert and enjoy your music. Your music really struck a cord in me. It's an extremely cool way to fondly remember someone. I saw Marcy a week or so later. I can't wait till the opportunity arises when you can meet my husband. He's great! I know he'll love your music too. God is really amazing and I thank him for allowing me to meet you and Marcy! Your music truly blessed me! You both are really outstanding people whom I will ALWAYS keep in my prayers and share your music every chance I get!!
I look forward  to your newsletters! God Bless You and Yours!
Authentically,
Felicia Harrington (Phoenix, AZ)

3/4/10
Hi Nathen!
I just wanted to tell you that next year for 2010-2011 me and my friend Hayley Bone are going to be a modern duo for our competetive dance team called "Footsteps" and we are going to do our modern duo to your song "Breathe." We love and I listen to the song almost every night when I meditate and get ready to go to sleep. I love your music and still always listen to it to get inspired! God bless you. xoxo
Hannah C. A. Smith (Dartmouth, NS, Canada)

22/3/10
(Written to my mother) The evening at your home was not only an enjoyable one - but a memorable one. Your son is a special person and I was thrilled to hear his music.
Many thanks,
Tina (Kemptville, ON, Canada)

Dear Nathen -
We want to say thank you for sharing your talent and professionalism with us last night. The warm feelings and deep emotions as expressed within your songs were very meaningful. May you continue to share those God givent talents with others.
You touched our hearts in the dedication of the song for my birthday and our anniversary - many many thanks.
Your coming to Kemptville and sharing means so much to your Mother & Allison. We trust that you had a smooth return home.
Norma joins me in ending our love and best wishes.
George Fisher (Kemptville, ON, Canada)

(Written to my mother) Sorry I had to leave early as I was thoroughly enjoying Nathen's beautiful concert! His singing truly comes from the depths of his soul and touches the hearts of those who are listening.  Thank you for providing us with this special experience. No wonder you are such a proud Momma!
Phyllis Clayton (Kemptville, ON, Canada)

When I bought the tickets for your performance, I was quite certain I would enjoy it, as I am fond of almost all genres of music except Rap. However, I wasn't sure if my husband John would care for it, so I was pleased to hear him say, as we left the driveway that evening: "I really enjoyed that!" We both thought that you had a wonderful range of voice and that you sing "from the heart", which made for a spiritually edifying evening. Thank you so much for sharing your talent and giving us our first experience at hearing the NS Stick.
Shirley Boyle (Kemptville, ON, Canada)

20/3/10
Dear Nathen,
I was at Loyola High School in Montreal West for the Camp Kinkora benefit concert, and I really like your “Little By Little” music. The words (lyrics) and music are inspiring and keep us all glued (to our seats) song after song. I listen to your music on CD and share it with my friends and family.
Thank you from a fan! (My brother-in-law Douglas is sending you this email in appreciation of wonderful listening.)
Sincerely yours,
David O’Kill esquire (Montreal, QC, Canada)

Hi Nathen,
Dave’s not here right now, but I want to thank you for your correspondence. (Dave is new to e-mail but he’ll get the hang of it.) Rebecca (Dave’s sister and my partner) invited me to the Camp Kinkora benefit concert and I was able to enjoy your live music. Dave now shares his copy of your CD with me, and I really like your music for its “conscious” qualities; I’ve been a Zen and Yoga practitioner for 37 years now. Listening to “Little By Little”, I feel pleasure - as if I’m stepping into the consciousness of a young baby.
Dave and I will visit the “Music Store/Book a Concert/LInks” section of your web site when he is over next. 
Douglas Jack (Montreal, QC, Canada)

Hey Nathen -
You were really good on Saturday
and cool instrument!
Evelyn MacKenzie (Montreal, QC, Canada)

I loved the music you played at the (Kinkora Fundraiser) Gala. it was very relaxing to the mind and soul.
Pauline Leblanc (Montreal, QC, Canada)

7/3/10
The show was the most amazing House Concert I have ever been at. I will forever remember your uncanny style of being a master at the craft of playing your instrument, your smooth vocals and songwriter abilities, coupled with your highly personalized performance. Even the passion associated with your description of the inspiration behind writing every song made each song a unique experience.
Nobody could have convinced me that a performer has the ability to bring tears to each person’s eyes in the audience; you did, as if every song was written specifically for and specifically about each person in the room. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to sit in on this and take that influence with me in playing my own music. I know the theater will be sold out within the first hour next time you perform here.
I also thank you for the kind words after the show.
Blessings and peace,
Merv Flahr (Kelowna, BC, Canada)

Nathen,
Your performance and songs were heartfelt. I experienced a tremendous sense of peace and oneness with everyone in the room. Each song touched and healed a part of me.
Sincerely,
Ron Wade (Kelowna, BC, Canada)

27/2/10
Our evening with Nathen Aswell was an oasis of peace and tranquility. Beautiful melodies, thoughtful lyrics and fascinating stories. A wonderful way to stop the hectic pace of life for a few hours and enjoy the moment with friends and family! Thank you, Nathen!
I also enjoy listening to your CD, especially on the way home from a busy day at work. Very calming!!!
Kathleen Lougheed-Mercier (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)

On the evening of Feb 27th, I was fortunate to be included in a very special night of music and inspiration. It is not often you can say those two words together, as not every piece of music can truly inspire you or evoke such huge emotion. But if you are fortunate to hear Nathen (Aswell), you will understand this experience.
My boyfriend Andrew Scott invited his long time friend Nathen to Nanaimo to perform at his house... it was a small but intimate group of friends, and was nothing short of lovely.
Even though there were others there, I truly felt Nathen was singing just to us (Andrew and I). His words spoke to me and brought out so many feelings, and to be able to share this with Andrew was such a beautiful moment.
They say that music creates moments and memories... this is so true in this case. I bought Nathen’s CD and have been listening to it since the concert, and I can sit back and close my eyes and see him standing there performing for us. I can still picture the passion and his love for music as it carried through to his audience, he has the amazing ability to touch each person (in my humble opinion).
Nathen, I thank you so much for sharing this part of your life, it was truly a magical evening. And I am happy to have a new friend in my life.
Love and happiness,
Brenda Smythe (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)

29/11/09
What I loved about Nathen's performance was his skillfullness as a musician and his presence in the moment. He really gets what enhances the service and delivers it in an exciting and fresh way.
Robyne Walters, Musical Director, CSL Edmonton (Edmonton, AB, Canada)

What a treat it is to hear Nathen perform on stage and on his CD! Nathen’s style, be it meditative or upbeat, goes straight to my soul. Wonderful musical and songwriting talent! Thank you, Nathen, for the gift of you!
Hugs,
Ginette D'Silva (Edmonton, AB, Canada)

8/11/09
Thank you, Nathen. I'm sorry that I didn't get a chance to tell you how much I appreciated your beautiful music this morning. It put me in such a wonderful place of peace and love as I began my morning sermon. I know that the congregation felt it too. Thank you for sharing your creative spirit with us at Symphony of Life!
Blessings,
Rev. Karen S. Wylie, Symphony of Life (Ojai, CA, U.S.A.)

The first thing that I noticed about your performance at Symphony of Live in Ojai was the unique instrument which you play - that captured my attention. I thought it was a Chapman Stick and as it were, I wasn't too far off! But when the other musicians left the stage and it was you alone, that's when you really stood out! I heard a beautiful voice with much feeling, singing a beautiful song with such depth and meaning. Then too, your instrument ebbed and flowed in perfect sync with the melody.
Sincerely,
Connie Early (Sherman Oaks, CA, U.S.A.)

1/11/09
Nathen's warmth and internal radiance shine out through his vocal instrument and continue the journey through his NS Stick, leaving the audience feeling inspired and full of rhythm! His song choices, both the ones that he has written and others, keep you humming and joy-filled. Thank you, Nathen, for sharing your gifts with us.
Heather Haseltine, Music Coordinator, Unity Church of Nanaimo (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)

Greetings Nathen!
Thank you for filling my ears with your SUPER FANTASTIC Voice & Music!!!!
I enjoyed listening to you live when you came to visit Unity of Nanaimo, twice. I'm very happy I bought your CD (Little By Little), to listen to at home. I brought your CD over to friends of mine one evening, and they loved your voice. They said it is AMAZING!!! THANKS-A-MILLION for this GIFT & that you have taken the time to share it with us!!! “Namaste!”
Love,
Liane Moores (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)

I am listening to your CD in my car… and I love it!!!!
Marlene McIntosh (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)

Thanks for the newsletter, I enjoyed your performance today and hope to see you again. Blessings to you on your musical journey, thanks for sharing your talent. Namaste,
Lynn Constable (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)

25/10/09
Hi Nathen
It was great to hear you play. I really enjoyed your songs, and your CD is awsome. I look forward to your newsletter. Thank you for inspiring the world with your music. Look forward to hearing you live again.
Shelley DeMelo (Kamloops, BC, Canada)

Hi Nathen;
I thoroughly enjoyed your music and singing when you were here. I bought both your CD and DVD and listen to them often. Thank you for your lovely and inspiring gift; I would enjoy having you come as a guest to our Center anytime.
Blessings, Kathy Allenby (Kamloops, BC, Canada) 

A few weeks ago, Nathen attended our service in Kamloops and supplied the music for the whole service. It was so invigorating to sing our regular songs with Nathen and have him lead us. (We usually have a sound system and sing along with a CD; he offered a slightly different tempo and everyone felt very upbeat.) As the service proceeded, spirits rose and energy just buzzed in the room. We had a special event going on and we all were wearing orange. Nathen (the great sport) joined in and put on an orange vest and very quickly became one of us.
The most special part of Nathen's visit was the several pieces of his own music he offered during our interludes. What a gift he has. And we were truly blessed that wonderful Sunday.
Thanks a lot Nathen.
Lana Graham, President of the Board of Trustees, CSL Kamloops (Kamloops, BC, Canada)

11/10/09
Hi Nathen -
Everyone loved your visit! Several of us noticed a new thing happening - the spontaneous moving and clapping by the congregation was amazing, and something we have not seen before. I think it was the power of the bass (notes on your Stick), as well as the energy of the music. Thank you so much!
Blessings,
Bev Wright, Music Director, Unity Church of Victoria (Victoria, BC, Canada)

4/10/09
Hi Nathen,
I want to thank you for playing with Elio and I at my "All You Need Is Beatles" CD release last night, and the celebration with our circle of friends. It, by all accounts, was a very magical evening!
We performed 17 or 18 Beatle songs (no small task) and rocked the house!! 
I so enjoy playing with you as does Elio. Your artistry on the NS Stick is so great as is your beautiful voice. Singing 3 part Beatle harmonies live... is such a trip, and how beautiful they were. It’s one thing to work on songs in rehearsal and get that good feeling, but when it comes together in performance and the audience is right with you, then we get to really soar!
I also very much enjoyed working with you at MantraVani's "Summer Solstice" in June.
I look forward to more musical moments with you and for sure our big "Beatles In The Round" next year!
Thank you Nathen for your Gifts of music and of the heart.
Cheers,
Jerry DesVoignes, www.HealingVoices.net (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

27/9/09
My brotha,
You move me! Thank you. Our congregation received you with much love and appreciation.
Thank you for sharing who you are and shining your light.
My heart is full of gratitude.
Peace and blessings,
Barb Samuel, Music and Arts Director, Centre for Spiritual Living Kelowna (Kelowna, BC, Canada)

10/9/09
Hi Nathen -
Keep up the wonderful touch that you apply to your music, and the way you interact with your audience. I loved every minute of it and I am sure it will take you far someday soon. You are a natural.
Take good care,
Rosalind Kinnear, www.SpaSansSouci.com (Merrickville, ON, Canada)

6/9/09
My experience at the House Party was... amazing. I was BLOWN away! I wanted the CD SO bad and was blessed when Laura and I got them for free at the draw. I hope I can see you perform again! It would be amazing!!
Love,
Hannah Smith (Dartmouth, NS, Canada)

21/8/09
So I just got done listening to your album (Little By Little) for the first time. I’m floored by your courage, your range, your exploration, your musical gift, and dazzled by your genius. The opening bell evoked a huge grin. By the time the closing bell chimed I marvelled at the musical journey you had just taken me on.
Thank you.
Blessings, joy and peace,
Carmien Owen (Edmonton, AB, Canada)
www.Carmien.com

15/3/09
We met in Arizona last year at the (first Harmonizing with Humanity) music festival. It was a remarkable weekend.  
A year later, I find that your music still brings back the feelings of peace, tranquility, joy, excitment, and love that I experienced that weekend.  The other morning I was rollerblading, iPod cranking out the tunes, and experiencing such a lovely day. Then “Little By Little” came on. Though I was already high with joy from the day itself your song took it to a new level and heightened my experience beyound what I could have thought possible. The energy literally pulsed from my heart chakra!
I wanted to share with you that you and your music have a place of appreciation in my heart. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world.
Love and Light
Rebecca Brewer (Altamonte Springs, FL, U.S.A.)

8/3/09
... We have heard you several times over the past years at Unity of Vancouver and have always loved your voice. My talent is playing the stereo and I may not be knowledgeable about instruments but the way you were with your strings today was total at-one-ment. Thank you for such a beautiful experience. Look forward to seeing you sing and play again. 
Jan Roscovich (Richmond, BC, Canada)

8/2/09
Well, what can I say: I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED your House Concert last night - what a wonderful experience!!! Congratulations and thank you so much! What a great atmosphere, nice people, lots of good humour and, of course, tons of GREAT music - really well put together!
I hope you are flying on a cloud today and feel really happy and proud of yourself, because that's what you should be!
I so enjoyed the very personal touch of it and what, of course, added to it was that both Sheila and you made it so personal by sharing your appreciation and love for each other and some of your experiences (such as the 'spooned breathing') so openly with us. That was very beautiful to witness, and I feel honoured to have been allowed another glimpse of your life - thank you for that! I perceive Sheila as a very warm, gentle and caring woman with depth, and I can see that she is a really good 'travel companion' for you on your life's journey! Travel on, my friend, you seem to be on a really good path there!
 ... By the way, I love your CD - it's really nice and I played it last night while I was painting away, left-handed, of course! It got me singing and dancing away, and these vibes are now all captured in my newest painting 'My cup runneth over' - as conceived during your House Concert! Interestingly enough, I think it actually came to me during your song 'More Than Enough'. ;-)
 ... Enjoy this wonderful sunshine and again, congratulations on a great first House Concert of a whole series to be...
With much love,
Monika Becker (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Thank you for your songs, your spirit, your 'message', your beautiful presence ... I so-so-so-so-so-so-so-so-o-o-o-o-o-o-o enjoyed last night.  Fell in love with you all over again!  Loved Dave (Sinclair) too - wow, lovely guy as you said and holy moly wow musician!!! ...
It made my heart happy to see you again, and especially to see you so 'YOU' as a composer and performer... loved it, loved it, loved it.
Let's do that again soon!
xxxx Joey Minshall, vocal arranger / www.JoeyMinshall.com (Surrey, BC, Canada)

... What a fantastic house concert! Thank you for sharing your remarkable talent with us! I was beaming and smiling all night and all day yesterday too!  What a treat! Thank you so much for your generosity.
You really are an angel, you know?  There is something very special about you! I am blessed to be working with an artist like you who bares his soul so completely; so willingly; so openly. Thank you.
... it is all of us that need to show our gratitude to you for sharing your awesome talent with us. Drink it all in, Nathen. You so deserve it.  
Thanks for being you!
And thanks for believing in me too!
Hugs,
Jan Trerise, President of Musical Occasions / www.MusicalOccasions.ca (White Rock, BC, Canada)

29/11/08
Nathen has performed at the Unity Church of Calgary twice for our morning service and has also given 2 solo concerts. His music has always complemented the services and his CD has impressed everyone that has listened to it. I have always been impressed with his professionalism as he has had to perform for us both times coming straight from the airport. His gentle humour and intimate performances have always generated many fine comments from the congregation.
Bruce Petherick, Music Director, Unity Church of Calgary (Calgary, AB, Canada)

21/9/08
Nathen brings a gentle spirit and quiet power to us through his music and his sweet and peaceful soul. In his presence I feel the depth and authenticity of an open hearted seeker who reminds me that we are all just pilgrims on our way Home! 
Rev. Joy Young, Unity in Action (New Westminster, BC, Canada)

20/7/08
Nathen has performed at the Spiritual Centre for Dynamic Living on a number of occasions. He is a talented and versatile vocalist, guitarist and songwriter with a gentle, loving consciousness. It is always a joy to have him grace our stage.
Barb Brolly, Music Director, Spiritual Centre for Dynamic Living (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

6/6/08
I didn't really know anyone there and yet I walked in late and felt welcomed and at home immediately. You and Sheila have created true community... as you shared and were so unconditionally inclusive about allowing and inviting me to share what I do in the world... I knew being with you and your beloved community was an experience of "Being Home" of Oneness. As your songs vibrated through my physical body I was opened to the love that I am. I felt in harmony with everyone present and I was able to lay my mind in my heart and just be me!
Thank you dear friends... juicy blessings!!!
In loving appreciation
Ann Marie Wright (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Thank you so much for a warm and moving performance on Friday night. I love the way you connected so well with the audience and how you shared the inspirations behind your compositions. A beautiful evening. I’d like to have you do that at my place sometime; will see what’s possible down the road.
Love
Christine Hayvice (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

I’m a tad cynical. When I first met Nathen and heard his music I was thinking, “Hmm, spiritual, new agey performer, wonder if it’s for real.” I was wary of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Last week I was invited to Nathen’s house concert and got to hear him live in a very intimate performance. Better still, I was able to hear about and talk with friends in his social and performing circles. Now I’m convinced! Nathen is for real. He’s trying to live what he writes and sings about, no doubt left in my mind. And the house concert was great fun. For some numbers he had the whole room singing. During others you could have heard a pin drop. Now that I’ve seen both types of show, I wholeheartedly recommend either a solo performance like a house concert or one with his band and guests in a larger venue.
Kris Obertas (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Thank you for inviting us to your house concert last Friday. We were glad to be able to come to your house concert.
Since responding to your invitation, every morning when I wake up, the first tune that pops into my head is Little By Little.
Stephen and I really enjoyed the intimate and warm atmosphere of the house concert. I particularly enjoyed the simplicity of the show - you and a guitar. I was hoping you would be accompanied by your NS Stick but that may be for another show.
I thought it was really funny when Sheila would pop into the scene every time you were about to share a story about her or tell a story about how she inspired you to write some of the songs.
With our lives having been in over-drive since last summer and the pace not letting up anytime soon, being at your home concert was very meditative and relaxing for us both. It was one of those rare few hours where we did not talk about our home renovations or made plans for what work needs to get done that weekend. It gave us a chance to be “in the present”.
Daisy Mak (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Your house concert on Friday night was a special treat. The care in which you and Sheila took to make everyone feel welcome and special enriched the very personal musical performance. The evening was a sharing with community the joy of creative expression. 
With much appreciation,
Eleanor Lipov (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

We had a really great time at your house concert. Eleanor did more crying than I've seen her do in some time (but it was good crying). For my part I must say that you created a very special evening. Well done Nathen!
Cheers,
Joe Bourchier (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
 
Thank you so much for sharing your music, your tears, your laughter and your SELF in your recent house concert. It was inspiring in the truest sense of the word - to breathe in spirit.
Katherine Scott (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
 
Thank you for inviting me to share the rich experience of your Home Concert. It was a great time to spend with family, friends and new acquaintances while enjoying your beautiful inspirational music. I enjoyed the feeling of community, the laughter and  the introspection. I left your home filled with tranquility. In this busy world, we need more opportunities to come together with friends and share music, laughter and stories within the comfort of our homes.
Love and hugs to both you and my wonderful daughter,
Trudi Reynolds (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Thank you for your sweetness and preciousness. Your concert last night was absolutely beautiful. Your vision and mission will carry you far because it comes direct from your heart.
Thank you for being in my life.
Blessings,
Zoey Wren (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

I love your music and the consciousness of the message! It's wonderful to listen to something with words that I know will only bring me calmness and love. Funnily enough, since buying your CD I have been putting on Little By Little every morning at breakfast and singing along. It has now become my "morning song" because it gets me in such an uplifted mood. Plus I am now dreaming the lyrics to some of your songs and if that isn't a sign of their inspirational quality, I don't know what is. You have a unique gift. Bless you for having the courage and authenticity to share it so joyfully.
Sincerely,
Katherine Read (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

22/5/08
I was tremendously impressed by Nathen's ability in 4 areas:
- he sang his songs in an lovely and creative way;
- he played his acoustic guitar with amazing talent and ability;
- he managed to put some great words and thoughts into the lyrics he wrote;
- he also got me thinking that he and I should try to write a song together some day, in which I could only contribute a little to the lyrics, whereas the music and how that went with the words would be the subject of his magical endeavour!
David Balser (West Vancouver, BC, Canada)

Nathen's music stirs something deep within me.  His lyrics are rooted in love and hope for peace to ripple through the human condition. When he performs, he reveals his vulnerability. This allows me as the listener to unfold, and gently, little by little, be guided home.
Melany Dawn, World Rhythm Dancer (North Vancouver, BC, Canada)
www.LightInYourMind.Blogspot.com

10/2/08
Nathen Aswell is a phenomenally talented musician/composer who is very well known in the Metro Vancouver area through his years of performing in local churches, concerts and special benefits.
His beautiful energy inspires all who gather to listen to him - and he continues to touch hearts with his words and music.
I can’t say enough wonderful things about him and wish him well in every endeavor. He is a treasure. 
Rev. Carrie Hunter, Spiritual Centre for Dynamic Living (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

3/2/08
Nathen is a dream to work with! His is the embodiment of sacred service in his musical accompaniment for my Sunday services. His heart-felt lyrics and creative guitar playing make an amazing synergy with any spiritual message. We often co-create the service flow to incorporate his gifts with my message. 
The music on his CD "Little by Little" has a wonderful mix of positive music with a message of empowerment and depth.
I highly recommend booking Nathen for your Sunday services, for a house concert, and for leading meditations and chanting. His depth of Spirit, combined with his musical talent, is truly a gift to our churches, and to the world!
Rev. Sophia Ducey (Vancouver, BC, Canada)

27/1/08
Before Nathen opens his mouth to sing, before those talented fingers touch the guitar you know you are in the presence of a man who makes beautiful music and offers it generously as a gift to God and anyone lucky enough to be within earshot.
Don’t EVER miss an opportunity to listen to this man share his gift!
Rev. Terry Shea, Centre for Spiritual Living White Rock (White Rock, BC, Canada)

PRESS

Nathen Aswell is a gifted musician and songwriter from British Columbia. Many of you will recognize Nathen from Sound Connections and from the house band at the Empower Posi Awards and from those amazing "jams" out under the stars. Nathen is a totally amazing guitarist and bassist and his songs have rhythm!
These songs invite the listener to take a break from rushing around trying to complete the items on your "to do" list and instead, to breathe in the moment, allowing your good to find you and to realize that in this one moment you can do or be anything that you desire.
One of my favorites from this CD is the song "Here and Now". This song speaks about the importance of realizing that we have the power to restore our lives to the present moment. Instead of worrying about the future or regretting the past, we can embrace the "now" and make positive change.
"Choose Love" invites us to always choose the path of love. When faced with those everyday decisions about which path to choose, we can always find the right path by choosing the path that reflects love. Who wouldn't like a little more love in their lives?
"Little by Little" reminds us that every day is a new adventure and that anything we might undertake begins with that first step. Nathen reminds us that it is sometimes impossible to see the outcome of change when you're in the middle of it. With a totally cool groove and a positive spin, this song reminds us that everyone is undergoing the same remarkable possibility of positive change and that things happen "little by little".
I enjoy this CD. The songs are all catchy and upbeat, without being preachy. And, the songs all give us a glimpse into the wonderful energy and presence of Nathen.
Sue K Riley, emPower Music and Arts / www.EmpowerMA.com (June 2010)


In addition to being an exceptionally produced collection of songs that support a conscious life, Nathen Aswell’s debut CD “Little By Little” uses the power of vibration to create a spiritually interactive listener experience. The presentation opens and closes with a ceremonial ringing of a meditation bell, subconsciously preparing the listener for an energy-balancing, mystically cleansing connection to the Cosmos. Nathen sings directly to the soul, using a combination of professional excellence, entertaining melodies and a sincere delivery, including exceptional a capella performances and engaging harmonies. Song lyrics include messages for action-oriented personal growth, universal love and divine oneness. The musical style varies from light percussion and acoustic to adult contemporary, smooth jazz and a little funk. 
“Breathe” is a daring a capella duet with hair-raising harmonies that balance male and female energy in divine communion. “I Can See You” is a Divine embrace of omni-present love. “Choose Love” celebrates free will in a relevant distinction between fear and love-based decisions. “Psalm 96” is a work of artistic genius, blending the human voice with tastefully engineered effects to passionately deliver ancient poetry to soothe the body, calm the mind and regenerate the soul.  “Little By Little” is an introspective journey within, appropriate for any age and nearly every belief system.
Rosemarie Ashley, Positive Music Association (March 2010)

Set to funky little tunes and energetic grooves, singer-songwriter Nathen Aswell’s lyrics have the type of messages that are empowering, inspiring, enlightening, and relaxing. In fact, his lyrics read like mantras or meditations, or better, words in a "self-help" book. "Get out of your head and just do it... Animate, energize, stimulate, go to it... Do that thing that makes you sing..." 
How many times you have found a song in your head that repeats over and over and over? And how many times has a song left you in a good mood? And how many times has a song left you in a bad one? It happens to me all of the time. What can I say? I am audio orientated... Highly sensitive in that area.  
This week someone sent me a YouTube video featuring an artist from Detroit that sang about how "cold" it was there, and meant that in every sense of the word. I could feel her pain and her lyrics stuck with me... Stuck with me like a bad Dodger Dog. Urgghh! Not so good for the sub-conscious. Because after two days of singing her hook, I needed to purge. But, thank goodness I had something to replace it with. 
“Little By Little" by Nathen Aswell is the type of audio that you should listen to. Not necessarily for entertainment purposes, but for a better well being. In other words, these songs do a mind, body, and spirit good. Think of his music as something to power-up with when you are running low on energy. Like one of those protein bars that are complete or well-balanced. Or you could say, "A Nathen Aswell song a day keeps the head doctor away!" I think you get the picture. 
But, if you are the type that reads "self-help" books, takes yoga, believes in a higher power, and is inspired by Truth - this is the CD for you.
So, the next time you have a bad case of the blahs, be sure to check out "Do That Thing", "Be Still" “Little By Little”, and "I Am Walking" by Nathen Aswell. You will have a whole new attitude!
Jennifer Washington, Acoustic Fuel Co-Op

When Vancouver, British Columbia’s Nathen Aswell talks about his debut CD “Little by Little” one can’t help but think that he’s talking about a journey. In the liner notes, he writes about the journey of making the 13 tracks that make up the CD. The cover shot features a path through the woods, no doubt taken on one of those crisp fall days that the West Coast of Canada is famous for. And the songs themselves reflect a multi-faceted journey: a musical quest and a personal one.
I first met Nathen at the (Chapman) Stick seminar he hosted in Vancouver back in the mid-90s. At the time he was playing Stick. Since then, he has moved to NS Stick, yet another journey. On NS Stick, as this CD shows, Nathen has found his instrumental voice. Originally a bass player, the bass grooves on “Little by Little” are tight, solid, and crisp, with no shortage of pop-funk feel. The NS Stick chords and melodic accompaniments are likewise crisp and can’t help but reflect the influence of another wonderful NS Stick player: Don Schiff.
Nathen’s musical voice is strong - think of well crafted, Police inspired pop rock tunes – but the real highlight is Nathen’s actual voice. This guy can sing! Open, honest, real, enveloping, you can hear all this and more the instant Nathen’s vocals start. The lyrics are coming from a deeper place and it is as if Nathen has found a way into that deeper place and effortlessly lets those words launch themselves, with passion and commitment, out into the world. Of course the amount of effort it takes to sound effortless is obvious, but since the art is to conceal the art, then Nathen’s singing can only be described as masterful.
Two songs stand out for me. The title track, “Little By Little” has gotten into my head, and pleasantly doesn’t seem to want to get out, and his voice on “Psalm 96” is simply too much to try and define in these words.
I keep going back to the idea of “Little by Little” as the reflection and representation of a journey. It sounds like Nathen’s journey towards music and personal discovery, or perhaps little snapshots taken along the way.
Either way, many thanks to Nathen for sharing both the road and some of his stops along the road with me. If you’re looking for some inspirational, self-affirming music to accompany you on your journeys, I invite you to check out Nathen’s music too.
Jim Reilly, StickNews (an online newsletter for the Chapman Stick community)

If you ever need some listening music that is positive, happy and uplifting then you must acquire a copy of a CD called "Little By Little". Vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and composer Nathen Aswell has recorded an upbeat and uplifting performance of 11 originals. Nathen's crystal-clear voice is well out front in this recording and his vocal performances show that he has an incredible range (a la Stevie Wonder) and knows how to use it. There are plenty of styles presented on this CD. Just when you think it is going to be contemporary rock/pop throughout, Nathen comes up with a composition called "More Than Enough" that takes you back to the 30s style. This song is complete with a well-done vocal imitation of a trumpet solo just like the Mills Brothers (remember them?) used to do. The next track on the CD is a smooth jazz waltz called "Just Like This". Nathen's vocal is accompanied by guitarist Daryl Jahnke and drummer Shawn Soucy. A great duet sung on a song called "Breathe" features a flawless a cappella performance by Nathen and Linda Kidder. Another composition called "Psalm 96" and sung solo a cappella by Nathen uses reverb very effectively and the performance is simply the best. Other guest performers on the CD include drummer Phil Robertson, guitarist Andreas Schuld, cellist Finn Manniche and percussionist Lauri Lyster. The CD was mixed and mastered by Miles Hill. To purchase this great CD, go to www.bruha.com or www.nathenaswell.com on the internet, or e-mail nathenaswell@shaw.ca.
Bob Hales, president of Vancouver Musicians' Ass., Local 145, in "UPBeat" newsletter

Vocalist Nathen Aswell treads an easy-listening path to enlightenment on his debut CD Little By Little. Blue-eyed soul, lite funk and upbeat pop combine with Aswell's assured delivery for a pleasant, unbumpy, ride.
Shawn Conner, The Vancouver Courier

A fine, evidently trained Vancouver singer musically mapping his spiritual quest. You'll hear flashes of influences like Steely Dan occasionally but this is mostly an original set with some inspired arrangements.
John P. McLaughlin, The Province