The Sounds of India

by Ravi Shankar

Product Description:

Personnel: Ravi Shankar (spoken vocals, sitar); Chatur Lal (tabla); N.C. Mullick (tambura).

Although THE SOUNDS OF INDIA was recorded in 1973, years after Ravi Shankar had established himself in the West, it is unusual in that here he finally chooses to explain himself to his listeners--perhaps a recognition that Indian music's faddish appeal was wavering and that a serious exposition was in order.

Shankar introduces each track with an explanation of the elements of Indian classical music, including the raga, microtones, drone, and various talas, or rhythmic cycles. The second track, "Dadra," carries a six-beat structure--unusual for Shankar--and its light, playful feel will be familiar to fans of older Bollywood film music. An excellent primer for Indian music enthusiasts.