Experience the intimate genius of Ravi Shankar in "The Living Room Sessions, Pt. 1," a captivating collection of four ragas recorded in the comfort of his own home. Released on April 1, 2012, via East Meets West Music, this album is a testament to Shankar's enduring mastery of the sitar and his deep understanding of Indian classical music.
The album opens with "Raga Malgunji," a meditative piece that reflects on the spiritual distance between the human and the divine. Shankar's deep musical experience and brilliant technique shine through in this introspective raga. The album continues with the lighter, lyrical "Raga Khamaj" and "Raga Kedara," showcasing the artist's versatility and range. The album concludes with "Raga Satyajit," a spontaneous composition dedicated to the late director and friend of Shankar, Satyajit Ray.
Accompanying Shankar on this musical journey are tabla player Tanmoy Bose, treble tanpura player Kenji Ota, bass tanpura player Barry Phillips, and an unidentified tamboura player. Their seamless musical dialogue creates a uniquely stirring listening experience, both intimate and masterly.
"The Living Room Sessions, Pt. 1" is not just an album; it's an invitation into the home and musical genius of Ravi Shankar. The album spans a wide range of Indian classical styles, offering a rich and varied listening experience. With a duration of just over 52 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Shankar's later work and a delightful addition to any music lover's collection. The album earned Shankar the Grammy Award for Best World Music Album, further cementing his status as a legend in the world of music.