There have been numerous attempts lately to meld the rhythms and sounds of Central Asian music with jazz, with varying results. This one, lead by Dave CIpriani, is by far one of the most successful. He leads a band that takes the sonorities and tempos of India, but keeps it accessible with tones and harmonies that our ears are comfortable with, yet without taking away the special turmeric spices that keep the music flavorful.
Cipriani himself plays both classical guitar and Indian slide guitar, while various percussive sounds such as the Kalimba, Riq, Cajon and Zabumba are supplied in full by Aaron W. Chavez and Chris Payne. More western sounds are delivered by Eric Klerks/b and Michael Mull/as-cl. Together, the clarion call of the alto calls through the Indian percussion wonderfully on “Raga Shrivranjani” and “Eastern Promise.” The mix of western strings and Indian percussion make “Wayne’s Bane” a bluesy delight, and Mull’s clarinet add a traditional folk touch on the mystical “The Moors” and “Sujit’s Dream.” There’s a spaciousness and unrushed feeling to the music that mixes the timeless quality of the best of Indian music with the best of the Western harmonies and song structure, bringing out the strengths of each side of the planet. Excellently creative.