Gopalnath, Kadri: Scintillating Sax - South Indian Classical Music
Label: Dunya

This is a really cool CD! Gopalnath is a brilliant saxophonist who uses an alto sax to perform Indian classical music ragas. He uses this "western" instrument in such a way that he's attracted a lot of attention from serious jazz circles. This CD is not an East-West "fusion", though. These are truly traditional S. Indian classical songs performed through a different choice of instruments. The improvisational aspects of Gopalnath's sax playing may resemble some of the wildest jazz licks - but the music is distinctly Indian and incredibly exotic. I dare the jazz shows to give this CD a play! Try: 1,3,4,5.

1. Full of celebratory flourishes. Lively improvisation and interaction w/ violin. Perky & rhythmic. This is a raga that prays to the elephant-headed god Vinayaka.
2. Lively and melodic improvisations, some very dramatic moments. Sax alternates w/ violin; has a very strong jazz-like sound to it.
3. A more contemplative piece, begins w/ meditative & flowing improvisations, picks up some intensity later. Fun bouncy sounds of the jew's harp.
4. This is a long piece, that starts really softly and develops rather slowly. A clay pot (ghatam adds some percussive tones. The melodic theme is slowly built up, halfway through the piece the improvisations become more and more lively. Strong finishing flourishes from a variety of instruments (including jew's harp & the ghatam).
5. Apparently this is a snake-charmer's song. Very cool & exotic.
6. Short & sweet - playful improvisations.
Also short & sweet & playful.