Kaushiki Chakrabarty
Pure (Sense
World Music 047, 2004)
Kaushiki Chakrabarty’s latest recording in
Pure, on Sense World Music. The young Indian vocalist is regarded by many as
one of the finest singers in the Indian Classical music scene. Kaushiki
Chakrabarty’s performance was recorded live at the Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch,
London on the 30th of August 2003.
The performance features Kaushiki Chakrabarty on vocals, Yogesh Samsi
on tabla, Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty and Sri Chiranjib Chakrabarty on harmonium,
and Ranjana Ghatak on tanpura. The piece selected is Raga Madhuvanti, divided into 4 sections: 1.Alap; 2.Khayal
‘Shyam bhaee, Ghanashyam nahi aye more dware’ in Ektaal (12 beats); 3.Khayal ”Kahe
maan karo sakhiri ab’ in Teental (16 beats); and 4.Thumri in Raga Misra Mand
‘Morey Saiyan Bedardi’ in Keherva (8 beats).
On the liner notes, John Ball and Ranjana Ghatak mention: “Kaushiki has
already proved herself as a versatile artist. One of the central tenets of
Kaushiki’s music is voice culture. She doesn’t like to be typecast into groves
like classical or light musician, her flexible voice means that she is capable
of adapting to any style. Kaushiki recently performed at Pandit Jasraj’s
celebration of his distinguished musical career in Kolkata. Jasrajji was so
moved by her performance that he was prompted to make an announcement on stage
that he found in Kaushiki the one who will keep the lamp burning as the
worthiest successor of the classical vocal music tradition of India.”
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
