A Review
Asana 3: Peaceful Heart is not your typical yoga album. While it certainly sets a tranquil mood with its Eastern-inspired soundscapes and meditative chants, it also ventures into unexpected sonic territory, incorporating elements of dub, ambient electronica, and even avant-garde jazz. This eclectic blend of styles creates a unique listening experience that is both calming and invigorating.
The album opens with a traditional invocation by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, setting the stage for a journey into inner peace. Asha Puthli’s sultry vocals on “Asha” immediately grab your attention, blending seamlessly with the hypnotic tabla rhythms. Bill Laswell’s contributions, “I’ve Got a Passion” and “Aman (Peaceful),” infuse the album with a dub-infused groove, while Karsh Kale’s “Oceanic” adds a layer of ambient electronica. Robert Musso’s rendition of “Om Shantih Shantih Shantih” provides a moment of pure serenity before the album culminates in the breathtaking “Samadhi State” featuring the legendary Pharoah Sanders. Sanders’ soaring saxophone improvisations are a revelation, taking the listener on a transcendent journey that is both spiritual and exhilarating.
What Makes This Album Special:
- Eclectic Fusion of Styles: Peaceful Heart seamlessly blends traditional Indian chants and instrumentation with modern electronic and jazz influences, creating a truly unique and captivating soundscape.
- World-Class Musicianship: The album features an impressive lineup of talented musicians, including renowned producer Bill Laswell, vocalist Asha Puthli, and avant-garde jazz legend Pharoah Sanders.
- Immersive Atmosphere: The album’s production is top-notch, creating a rich and immersive sonic experience that transports the listener to a place of peace and tranquility.
- Versatile Appeal: While marketed as a yoga soundtrack, Peaceful Heart transcends genre boundaries and appeals to a wide range of music lovers, from fans of world music and electronica to those who appreciate spiritual and meditative sounds.
Highlights:
- “Asha”: Asha Puthli’s mesmerizing vocals and the hypnotic tabla rhythms create an irresistible groove that will have you swaying along.
- “I’ve Got a Passion”: Bill Laswell’s dub-infused production adds a unique and unexpected twist to the album.
- “Samadhi State”: Pharoah Sanders’ saxophone performance is a tour de force, showcasing his unparalleled improvisational skills and spiritual depth.
Areas for Improvement:
- Track Sequencing: While each track is strong individually, the album’s sequencing could be improved to create a more cohesive and flowing listening experience.
- Limited Information: The album lacks detailed liner notes or information about the individual tracks and contributing musicians, which would enhance the listener’s appreciation and understanding of the music.
Overall:
Asana 3: Peaceful Heart is a captivating and unique album that defies easy categorization. It’s a musical journey that takes the listener on a sonic exploration of peace, tranquility, and spiritual awakening. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or simply a music lover seeking something different, Peaceful Heart is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Recommendation:
Highly recommended for fans of world music, electronica, jazz, and anyone seeking a sonic escape that is both calming and inspiring.
Where to Find It:
You can find Asana 3: Peaceful Heart on various online platforms, including Amazon, Apple Music, and Spotify.
Transparency: I have no affiliation with the artists or labels involved in this album. This review is based on my personal listening experience and interpretation of the music