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CD Review
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EarthRise Arts, CD Review >>
One of the benefits of following an artist through their career is watching the minor and not-so-subtle shifts that occur as time passes. From the opening “Jo Dil” of Canadian vocalist Kiran Ahluwalia’s latest, you are instantly taken by the accordion—as well as her voice, of course. That’s what has added to her reputation as one of the finest North American ghazal singers over the past half-decade. Wanderlust is her most musically mature outing to date, far surpassing the previous three outings. Her open-mindedness in finding connections is one of her most commendable qualities, and something that defines “Jo Dil,” as well as the closing “Haath Apne.” Beyond the superb accordion addition is the intent of these songs: to unite her love-stricken ghazal song form with another of similar intent, fado. Hence, two ways of expressing the desire for love and something divine, one Indian, one Portuguese, both beautiful. And when they merge in her music, there is no lack of magic. Credit her husband and fine jazz guitarist Rez Abassi, whose has constantly fused Eastern and Western elements in his own musical journey. His playing is magnificent throughout this recording, and he is never short on surprises. The sarangi addition, including the one that explodes on the upbeat “Yakeenan,” adds another dynamic to the rich plate. Hearing the djembe and talking drum speak alongside the more traditional drum of ghazal, tablas, reminds one of the lifelong work of men like Zakir Hussain and Mickey Hart. Wanderlust is a global walk through the pangs and ecstasies of love in many forms, yet the single uniting element—Ahluwalia’s diverse and superb voice—continues to define and expand upon the possibilities of Indian music today.
10/10/07
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