Record Reviews
1 Review Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | SHAKTI ~ THIS MOMENT
ABSTRACT LOGIX 068 (Barcode: 700261493091) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is an album by the reformed group ShaktiFind albums by this artist, following a forty-six years break since the release of the last of the trio of albums recorded between 1975 and 1977. Led by British Jazz guitar virtuoso John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and Indian percussionist Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist, the current lineup includes also Indian vocalist Shankar MahadevanFind albums by this artist, violinist Ganesh RajagopalanFind albums by this artist and percussionist Selvaganesh VinayakaramFind albums by this artist. All four Indian musician utilize the konokol vocal technique. The album presents seven original compositions, three by McLaughlin, one each by Hussain, Mahadevan and Vinayakaram, one co-composed by all members of the band and finally one traditional Carnatic tune.
The music is a direct continuation of the Shakti concept of amalgamating Classic Indian music and Western Jazz improvisation, but this time there is much less emphasis on McLaughlin’s soloing and way more vocal and percussion contributions. However, the original Shakti spirit is wonderfully preserved and the result is absolutely delightful from start to finish.
McLaughlin is still a sublime guitar player, despite the slightly modest presence herein, and when he touches the strings magic happens time and time again. But the Indian players and especially the vocal contributions by Mahadevan are no less exciting, spiritual and aesthetically fulfilling. The konokol vocalese is, as always, delightful as well.
One of the McLaughlin tunes is a Gypsy / Flamenco tune, but is here dressed in an Indian regalia, showing how all music is interconnected, regardless of its origins.
Overall, although the album does not break and new ground, it is a wonderful reminder of former prominence and cross-cultural pollination. Shakti proves to be one of the greatest Jazz-World Fusion ensembles that ever existed, and McLaughlin is still my favorite guitar player of all time. This album is of course an absolute must to all Shakti, Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist and McLaughlin fans, but it has a universal musical value to all lovers of truly great music.
| | Updated: 24/07/2023Posted: 24/07/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
|
