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A stroke of Omnesia

   Every once in a while you'll hear an album that is evocative, lyrical and spiritual all at once. I'm not sure if I would like to categorise Anuj Rastogi's debut album Omnesia because it transcends any particular genre. A lot of people associate him with Indian Electronica and it's very evident in this album but there's something that goes beyond just a label here. Let me explain...

A total of 10 tracks with 4 interludes gives you a fair insight into this very talented man's mind. What I truly appreciated is that he is not one to shy away from experimentation or from unusual juxtapositions; this album is an interesting journey in exploring music. Without any conventional trappings of "desi" music (Thank God for that!) his album brings together a vast gamut of sounds - the instruments used are as diverse as they come; the vocals evoke emotion and are passionate to say the least. There is something very unique about his sound especially since he shares space with other wonderboys of electronica like Midival Punditz or the infamous Mr. Sawhney or Mr. Singh (Nitin and Talvin respectively for the uninitiated). To his credit, the sound is fresh and shows that a lot of thought and effort have been put into the production. He hasn't given into cliches of using ragas or alaaps to give it a traditional flavour. Kudos to him for that.

String Theory is the first track from the album that sets the tone for the rest of the album with the surreal sound of the flute. As you move into the next song, Blue Orchid, the lounge effect is on full display and don't blame yourself if you feel yourself mellowing down and just taking in the sound. Breaking News - both tracks - present a fluid interaction between the tabla sitar and I found the background sounds of voices particularly effective. The spoken word by Anuj himself is poetic and has philosophical undertones and shows an artist who is sensitive and aware of the world around him. I particularly liked the interaction between tabla and sitar and the way they reach a crescendo and then soothe alternatively.

  C'mon has strong vocals and the opening strains were reminiscent of an Oasis or Coldplay guitar riff. But as ever, the song surprised and meandered into a whole other tone. There's a worldliness about this track that brings together different genres and still manages to create a unique identity. Promoted heavily, The River is a track that starts out with a desi ghazal feel but the pace picks up before you know it and soon it reaches a frenzy. Again, fantastic production value.

  Let it go/Jaane do is by far my favourite track on this album. For starters, the female vocals are simply fantastic. Soulful and uninhibited, Sandra Chibuluzo, take a bow! It is definitely one that will be getting a lot of airplay and rightfully so. It is easily the kind of track that has instant appeal and repeat value. The last few tracks on the album again showcase Anuj's artistry in different light. Turmoil in the West has a bilingual effect and though I couldn't understand a word of the Yugoslavian lyrics, I have to applaud the experimentation. And honestly, it works. The last track Grasshopping is a surprising tune that might just overtake my proclaimed favourite. I think it's the edginess of the track that has me rooting for it.

  For someone who has been a producer and composer for a while now, it makes me wonder why he didn't attempt this album earlier. He is no stranger to afficionados who will remember him for co-founding the Dishoom! sessions or his tracks on the recently released Indian Electronica Collection. Omnesia is a strong debut album and an interesting experience for anyone who wants to look beyond the typical sights and sounds of the world today. And I say sights because a lot of the sounds on this album evoke strong visuals and if that was the intention, it certainly has succeeded! LISTEN UP to Anuj Rastogi.   

PS: Special mention has to be made of the stylistic album cover! Subtle and artistic are the words that spring to mind.

It's a small world...

  The Small World Music Society is hosting its sixth annual fall celebration of international sounds till October 5, 2007. The series of performances at the Small World Music Festival, began on September 20th and will continue to regale audiences, with music from all over the world at various venues across the city.

  This festival has played host to several artists who have made their Canadian debut and thereafter moved onto flourishing careers. Many award-winning artists have visited this festival and this year is no exception.

Artists who are participating this year include Estrella Acosta, Mamak Khadem, Plan C, Dhoad Gypsies, Constantinople, Homayoun Sakhi, Amazones, Gould goes Global, Brina, Carmen Consoli, World on a String, Jayme Stone, Marcel Khalife, Mariza, Mr. Something Something and Oliver Mtukudzi. While all of the names may not be familiar to those who listen to mainstream pop, rest assured they are accomplished virtuosos in their respective realms.

  True artistry is on display with each presenting their own expressions and interpretations of a truly global world. Whether it's the Dhoad Gypsies from Thar Desert in Rajasthan who brought their vibrant colours and super-energised dancing to an upcoming collaboration called World on a String where different string instruments will be played for your pleasure, it's all there.

For concert schedules and further details, look up the Small World Music Society webpage or follow the link on the Mybindi homepage. Open your minds and LISTEN UP to some global sounds brought right to your doorstep. 

A Genius that is A R Rahman

  "Do you have some music by A R Rahman?" my friend from Serbia asked me innocently. I was completely zapped at her opening sentence. A R Rahman? Her? Desi Music? What gives??? Shock, horror gasp!! After the initial shock settled down and I was done with my theatrical outburst, I was pleasantly surprised to find that my Serbian friend had heard some music from the Genius himself on Youtube and was interested in listening to some more of his music. She explained that she was fascinated by his use of traditional Asian sounds and his effortless control over Western musical instruments too.

  In fact, she described the album Yuva in great detail, outlining every song and its inspiration and possible global connections. Knowing her to be a music student, I'm not remotely surprised that she can appreciate different music from different parts of the world. But that she is curious to hear more and sample more of Rahman's music is truly complimentary to his global appeal.

  Rahman was recently in Washington to perform the Indian national anthem in front of dignitaries such as Bill Clinton, Bill Gates and a host of other big names. He also received an award for excellence in music and art. Awards have never been an issue for this talented man who has a plethora of them, under his belt. On the international stage, he was the first mainstream Indian musician to work in London's West End with the legend himself, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Many may even remember his collaboration with the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. His film soundtracks have been blockbusters several times over. He has always promoted new talent in some form or the other, be it singers or musicians.

  In the final appraisal, it's not just his achievements that distinguish this man from the rest of the pack. It's his humility and sincere devotion to music. Having heard him in a press conference once, I was amazed to see how unaffected he was by the media attention. His soft-spoken, shy demeanour is backed by perfect manners and astute insights. A spiritual person, he has been known to work late hours in his studio in Chennai (formerly Madras) and call his music his "meditation."

  A lot of great music has been created by this man but there are some personal favourite soundtracks that stand out more than others. Yuva - while the lyrics didn't quite appeal to me, the international sounds he employed in the album were remarkable. For example, there was a touch of typical Indian sounds with the mridangam, tabla; a distinct Mediterranean sound in tracks like Fanaa, etc. Another album I thoroughly enjoyed was Bombay - a decade old album but still good music, even now. Dil Se, Taal, Rang De Basanti, Swades - all fantastic albums that received both critical and popular acclaim. If you ever have an opportunity to listen to something in Tamil, I'd suggest picking up Minsara Kannavu - even if you don't understand the language, it's an amazing soundtrack.

  While I wrote out some of my favourites above, I'd suddenly remember some track that I really loved and realised that to pinpoint a few albums is far too difficult. Then there are times where you like a few tracks on an album more than the others. All said and done, A R Rahman continues to create beautiful music. Have a listen to something (Pray for me Brother) from his latest solo album... LISTEN UP to A R Rahman...

Girl Power!

  Toronto plays host to two female artists who are as different as it gets on Saturday, September 22. Fancy a wild guess? One is the reigning Queen of summer with her brand of dancehall, R 'n B and soul, while the latter is known for her candy pop and film career. To put you out of your misery, it's Rihanna and Mandy Moore who are visiting Toronto this weekend. The former is performing at the Molson Amphitheatre and the latter is scheduled to perform at the Danforth Music Hall.

Mandy Moore was heralded as one among many princesses of Pop when she entered the music scene along with Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Jessica Simpson. She didn't taste success as quickly as her illustrious companions but she certainly was the youngest, being born in 1984. But she has steadily built a fan base with tracks like Candy and I Want To Be With You and her movie career is what keeps her busy these days. Initially criticised for her "juvenile" brand of bubble gum pop, she has attempted a more mature sound in the years that followed. With respect to her latest album, Billboard has stated that "Wild Hope is the gratifying sound of a singer finally finding her comfort zone. Gone is the sugary pop of Moore's early career, replaced instead by thoughtful musings on love and life...an album full of subtle, but undeniable hooks." Toronto will hear an older, more mature Mandy as she performs this Saturday night.

  Rihanna's reputation precedes her as the reigning hit maker with monster hits such as Umbrella and Shut Up And Drive under her belt. Her earlier hits such as Pon de Replay earned her the label of being someone who could churn out dance hits. She has worked since then to change that image with a more softer, sexier image. Having worked with talented artists such as Timbaland, Jay Z and Justin Timberlake has only reaffirmed her standing in the world of popular music. You can expect to hear her infamous anthem of summer Umbrella resonating through the streets of Toronto this weekend.

  LISTEN UP to Mandy Moore and Rihanna - two young achievers in the world of music.

Calling All The Lost Souls...

  Toronto's Phoenix Concert Theatre plays host to James Blunt on October 1 this year. On a promotional tour for his new album, this low-profile concert promises a glimpse into 2006's biggest breakthrough artist. With his sophomore album titled "All the lost souls" Blunt will be aiming to replicate the stupendous success his earlier album Back to Bedlam which featured immortal tracks such as Three Wise Men and the more famous You're beautiful. His first album was inspired to a great extent by his experiences in the British army, having served in Kosovo. There was an underlying theme of sadness and philosophy in the lyrics and music. Even his videos had a looming tone of doom and darkness. Whether that will change with the new album is yet to be seen. But the grapevine has it that the latest offering will have more positive strokes of romance, love, heartbreak - all imparted in true Blunt style.

  The album is set for release on September 18 in North America,although the first single from the album 1973 has already been receiving airplay. You can check the video out below, thanks to the link from Youtube.com. 

  Some trivia for you. Wikipedia informs me that the song "was inspired by Blunt's nights out in a club called Pacha in Ibiza, which opened that year." Blunt seems to have a connection to Ibiza as it is also his home where he recorded much of the new album. I can't say that I don't envy him! To live in Ibiza, be fabulously talented and travel the world - what more can you ask for! LISTEN UP to the enormously talented James Blunt.

50 Cent v/s Kanye West?

  Today marks the release of two new albums. Two brand new albums by chart topping, multi-million album selling artists. Say hello to the new offerings from Kanye West "Graduation" and "Curtis" by 50 Cent. While the hype of the album release precedes any real talk about the albums per se, it will be interesting to see how things pan out.

Both artists have been competitive at the get-go and have promised to outsell the other. 50 Cent apparently has been quoted as saying that he will quit releasing solo albums, should West outsell his new album. Publicity gimmick or not, they certainly seem to have everyone's attention.

It's a smart marketing move in my opinion. It makes even more sense when you realise that it is an attempt to raise the rapidly diminishing rap music market share. Billboard has reported that the rap segment has seen a 40% drop since 2000. Circa 2007 and we're informed that U.S. rap album sales fell 20 percent in 2006, according to music research company Nielsen SoundScan. By lashing out at each other and indulging in smart moves such as the jest staring contest at the MTV Video Music Awards, these two music icons have managed to grab eyeballs.

  Going back to the music per se, both artists have had successful albums in the past. Their musical styles are different with 50 Cent focussing more on his background and personal battles and naturally guns and violence. Kanye West on the other hand, has been known for his controversial outburts against stereotypes and his attempt at "positive" rap music that is devoid of blood and gore.

Fair amount of print and bandwidth has been used over pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of both artists and ultimately it will be the moolah that decides who is the bigger star. Then again, it's not just the money that's at stake. You have to take into account the egos at hand as well as whether it will just be popular choice or critical acclaim that distinguishes either album.

Whatever your parameters may be, the timing of these albums will definitely be a shot in the arm for the fledgling rap music industry. While we wait for the final outcome and hopefully some good music, LISTEN UP to 50 Cent and Kanye West.

It Won't Be Soon Before Long

  That's the name of Maroon 5's latest album, after the highly acclaimed debut record Songs about Jane. What's more is that the name of their second album ("It won't be soon before long" duh!) pretty much describes my state of mind before they play at the Air Canada Centre early next month (October 4, 2007.) Their upcoming concert in Toronto is part of their world tour to promote their second album.

  Released after a gap of five years, this album shot to the top of the Billboard 200 charts within a week of sales. Needless to say, the first single off the album Makes me Wonder (view it below) is playing on radios all over the world. During the course of my web-surfing ways, I found out that it was the number one selling single and video on iTunes even before its release! After the official release, the album broke iTunes sales records notching over 100,000 albums. The second track Wake up call was recently released and has the signature Maroon 5 stamp.

  Although there is a distinct evolution in their sound, there still is somehow an essentially Maroon 5 tinge to the new album. It's still grungey-soulful-motown influenced but has a rockier edge to it. Discussing their new album, front man and lead vocals, Adam Levine has been quoted as saying that this album is "sexier and stronger" than their previous work. That in itself must have been a challenge considering the phenomenal worldwide success that Songs about Jane received. Although I'm excited about listening to their new songs live, I think I'll be reminscing about the older tracks when they play live in Toronto next month. LISTEN UP to Maroon 5 in Toronto, live on October 4. I know I will be!

Summer belonged to...

...a select few artists that received tremendous airplay. Every time I flipped on the radio, I'd hear these guys singing their hearts out. So here's looking at the top tracks that had us swinging this summer...

Rihanna - Umbrella: Who'd have ever thought that singing about an umbrella could get you this far?! Just kidding! The lady with an unique voice and sound has ruled the airwaves this summer. You couldn't miss her signature "aye, aye, aye" at the chorus of this track. And of course, the video is below for your viewing pleasure. The video has Rihanna in a brand new light as a sultry stylish diva, compared to her earlier days of loose jeans and baby-girl tops in Hey Mr DJ. I guess having a mentor like Jay-Z puts you in a whole other league altogether!

Justin Timberlake - Summer love: You couldn't escape hearing his voice on the radio this year. His brand of pop-hiphop-RnB somehow manages to find a way to hit the charts with alarming frequency. A smooth voice, a good sense of rhythm and experimentation are all virtues this former boy band member possesses. Add that to a good looking face and you have the women swooning too. All that put together my friends, amounts to greater record sales! Now who would complain about that...

Shop Boyz - Party like a rockstar: This track received tremendous amount of airplay on radio stations all over the city. It isn't one of my favourites but I know others who swear by the track and love it to death. I guess everyone has a rockstar in them somewhere, just dying to come out. Well with this track, I saw many "rockstars" do their thing on the dance floor and it's safe to say I have a very different appreciation for the word "rockstar" now!

Sean Kingston - Suicidal: This young artist released his debut track this summer to popular appreciation. Although I can't say the idea of feeling soo-side-ale (suicidal) in love gives me the butterflies, I have to admit there's a nice lazy summer groove to it, based on reggae with a dash of good ol' fashioned pop. I thought I noticed a faint trace of Stand by me in its bass line. In any case,  Mr. Kingston has landed a chart-busting hit this summer.

Timbaland - The way I are: Although this talented artist has been around long enough to have worked with Jay Z, Missy Elliott and a galaxy of other RnB, rap and hip hop superstars, his recent album Shock Value has his signature style and sound. The earlier release from the same album, Give it to me, featuring Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake was a popular hit too.