Aykanna Shares Love of the Divine
From “I am Woman” and “Adi Shakti” to “Jai Ma,” Aykanna blends sounds and genres from slow, sacred chanting to funky experimental beats. Through music and mantra, they express the many dimensions of the divine feminine. Aykanna is soulful Sukhdev Jackson and Grammy-nominated percussionist Akahdahmah. They are partners in music and life. In all of their work, they demonstrate love for each other and for the divine. The duo is committed to sharing each song, as an artistic expression and as a sacred healing sound current.
Men, don’t be deterred by the album’s name. Mother pays homage to the sacred masculine through the strong and soothing voice of Akahdahmah. My favorite track, “Mother, Father” pays equal weight and respect to the divinity of both Shiva and Shakti and the beauty in the unity of the two.
Mother and the Divine Feminine
Mother contains references to the Tantric text Devi Mahatmya accompanied by frequent repetition of the evocative phrases “Sat Nam” and “Wahe Guru.” It provides a fitting soundtrack for a Kundalini practice. Syncing Aykanna’s “Har Haray Haree” beats with long pranayama breathing practices is a combination both transcendent as well as fun. The fun comes from the chant’s island-inspired reggae beats.
The album’s fierce spoken word, uplifting devotional chants, and heartfelt offerings are a delight. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch Aykanna perform live. The duo is known to play for many classes including those of Guru Singh, Krishna Kaur, and Kia Miller.
