Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian classical music with Shivkumar Sharma's "The Golden Heritage," a timeless album released on January 1, 1997, under the Navras Records label. This captivating collection showcases the virtuosity of Shivkumar Sharma, a maestro of the santoor, an instrument he has elevated to unprecedented heights.
"The Golden Heritage" is a testament to Sharma's deep understanding and mastery of Indian classical music. The album spans a little over an hour and nineteen minutes, offering a serene and soulful journey through two distinct ragas: Puria Kalyan and Mishra Pahadi. Each track is a meticulously crafted piece, highlighting Sharma's ability to evoke a range of emotions and moods.
The album opens with "Puria Kalyan - Alap, Jor and Jhala," a slow and meditative piece that gradually builds in intensity, showcasing Sharma's exceptional control and expressiveness. This is followed by "Puria Kalyan - Gat In Rupak Tal," a composition set to a rhythmic cycle of seven beats, demonstrating Sharma's rhythmic prowess.
The second half of the album introduces the Mishra Pahadi raga, starting with "Mishra Pahadi - Dhun in Dadra," a composition set to a six-beat cycle, characterized by its lyrical and melodic beauty. The album concludes with "Mishra Pahadi - Dhun In Teen tal," a composition set to a rhythmic cycle of sixteen beats, showcasing Sharma's ability to navigate complex rhythmic structures with ease.
"The Golden Heritage" is not just an album; it's an experience that transports you to the heart of Indian classical music. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.