Essence of Duality

When it comes to world fusion music revolving around Hindustani classical music, a template was set in stone by Shakti. But that template can be blown out of the water – as Hindol Deb, a sitarist from Germany, proves with Essence of Duality.

It is primarily designed as a jazz record where Indian instruments and elements play their parts, rather than orchestrating the music. The vocal improvisations hit their frenzied zenith on the temperamental and broody ‘Fragmented Within’. The accompanying harmonic transitions, drops and ascensions only enhance the raga’s vocalisation. ‘Offering’, on the other hand, is solemn and almost religious. Perhaps, Deb wanted to signify an offering to God through his music. Dreamy glides on the sitar over a lazy drone created by the sympathetic strings evoke a temple-like ambience. A throbbing double bass, swinging drums and a smooth piano forms the album’s musical bedrock, on which the sitar presents its case. Then again, it is usually dancing a duo with another instrument – be it the piano or saxophone, or even someone’s voice. Anoushka Shankar’s influence is unmistakable here. Though Essence of Duality provides a very engaging aural experience, its dual nature is not done enough justice. The album leans heavily towards the jazz end, while Indian elements take a backseat.