Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Indian classical music with Amjad Ali Khan's "Golden Raga Collection, Vol. 1." This captivating album, released on February 25, 1999, under the Times Music label, offers a mesmerizing journey through two exquisite ragas performed live. Spanning a duration of 59 minutes, the album features the soul-stirring "Raag Haripriya" and the evocative "Raag Lalita Gauri," both rendered with masterful precision and emotional depth by the legendary sitar virtuoso, Amjad Ali Khan.
Amjad Ali Khan, a stalwart of the Kirana gharana, is renowned for his profound belief that "every rāga has a soul and every musical note is the sound of God." This philosophy is beautifully exemplified in this live recording, where Khan's intricate playing and expressive nuances bring these ragas to life. Accompanied by Sukhvinder Singh Namdhari, the album showcases the dynamic interplay between the sitar and tabla, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both traditional and innovative.
"Raag Haripriya," with its gentle and contemplative mood, unfolds in a vilambit (slow), madhya laya (medium tempo), and drut (fast) teen taal (cycle of 16 beats), offering a comprehensive exploration of the raga's emotional spectrum. The subsequent "Raag Lalita Gauri," performed in madhya laya teentaal (cycle of 16 beats), is characterized by its lyrical and melodic beauty, showcasing Khan's virtuosity and his ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection.
This album is a testament to Amjad Ali Khan's artistic brilliance and his enduring contribution to the world of Indian classical music. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, "Golden Raga Collection, Vol. 1" promises an unforgettable musical experience that celebrates the timeless beauty of raga music.
Vinylscout