This #Feature Friday we have @charu.bsky.social‘s Ragas & Waltzes.
It looks like we’ve found a style of music about which I can really not say all that much and that I actually had to research. In 4 of the 6 tracks on this album, Charu Suri interprets waltz’s by Strauss (although, whether she means Johann or his brother Josef is a bit unclear), while the other two are ragas; a style of classical Indian music.
From what I could find out, a raga is used to “color” the emotions of it’s audience; a theme that’s actually running throughout the entire album. By using the two main styles, waltz and raga, as a foundation that’s “colored” by the inclusion of elements from jazz, Charu created something very unique to my ears.
The piano is the dominant instrument in all songs, with drums, violin, harp, double-bass, flute and electric guitar being used in a (mostly) supportive fashion. The two ragas feature the guitar by Noshir Mody and the flute by Al Jewer more prominently. The work of each instrumentalist is outstanding. The experience and sensibilities of the musicians are very audible in how light their touches are, how restrained and dynamic their playing sounds.
Everything feels light, fluid and organic, with melodies that are both familiar and memorable. There is so much beauty, life and joy in this album, with it’s variety only enhancing the sensation of movement and growth. It’s truly gorgeous music.
Well, this is absolutely charming. This goes in my Sunday morning playlist. Gentle, a deft touch and smooth. There’s a really exquisite use of dynamics in Suri’s playing that carries these compositions along. Its melodic flourishes and chord choices have a timeless quality that, while feeling nostalgic it still feels modern.
I am not one for being overly into musical prowess; I concern myself with what drives the music. Production and technical prowess are never a factor for me, but when I hear love in a musician’s work, and on top, they have a fine playing style, I will sit back and applaud.
Being able to play well is one thing, but being able to stay true to your musical heart is what will buy you time with me every day of the week.
There’s classical mixed with Irish folk and jazz in this album, and it is just gorgeous. What a lovely surprise.
This #FeatureFrisay thing really does throw up some stunners.
Go and check it out.
My favorite track from “Ragas and Waltzes“ by @charu.bsky.social is “Waltz for My Father.” Listen for an interesting shift in the song’s tone about halfway through, adding another dimension to what was already a beautiful piece of music.
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