"Radhe Radhe - Rites of Holi" is a captivating album by the renowned jazz pianist and composer Vijay Iyer, released under ECM Records on November 7, 2014. This album is a unique blend of free jazz and traditional jazz, presented in a live setting, offering a dynamic and immersive listening experience. The album is a soundtrack to the experimental documentary film of the same name, directed by Prashant Bhargava, making it a multimedia collaboration that celebrates the vibrant Hindu festival of Holi.
Inspired by the centennial of Igor Stravinsky and Vaslav Nijinsky's "The Rite of Spring," Iyer and Bhargava explore the themes of devotion and transcendence through the lens of Holi, the festival of colors that celebrates the divine love between Krishna and Radha. The album is divided into two parts: "Adoration" and "Transcendence," each featuring a series of live performances that capture the essence of the festival.
The album features a stellar ensemble of musicians, including Amir Elsaffar on trumpet, Jennifer Curtis on violin, and Tyshawn Sorey on percussion, among others. The performances are intense and evocative, with Iyer's piano playing at the heart of the ensemble, driving the music forward with his signature rhythmic complexity and melodic inventiveness.
"Radhe Radhe - Rites of Holi" is a testament to Vijay Iyer's ability to blend cultural narratives with contemporary jazz, creating a sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and strikingly innovative. The album's short duration of 33 minutes belies its depth and richness, making it a compelling listen from start to finish. Whether you're a fan of jazz, world music, or simply great music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout