Dub Mantra Sangha is the aptly titled new release from musician and producer Joss Jaffe.
Sangha is the Sanskrit word for community, and this release sees Joss bring together 15 guest musicians, representing five languages and three continents, to form a multi-cultural jubilee of mantra, musicianship, and creativity. Some of these languages are represented in Sanskrit chants such as “Ganesha” and “Gayatri,” as well as a vibrant Hebrew “Elohim,” joyous Hawaiian “Aloha,” and a soulful English language “Body & Mind.”
The musical bed on each track is an exploration in dub with smoky beats, laid-back vibey bass lines, classic horn arrangements, and vibrant percussion. These backbeats all create the foundation for energetic, celebratory songs and laid-back jams as well as more spacious and meditative numbers.
Multi-instrumentalist Jaffe’s personal creative mantra and mission is for his music to unite people through spirit, love, joy, community, and consciousness. It is apparent that this is woven into the very fabric of this project, as he has assembled quite a group of collaborators for Dub Mantra Sangha.
The album features stellar artists including Jai Uttal, Shimshai, Silvia Nakkach, Masood Ali Khan, Sheela Bringi, Aco Takenaka, Dave Stringer, Suzanne Sterling, Jaya Lakshmi, Karnamrita Dasi, Donna De Lory, Wah!, Sophia Mae Lin, and Mykal Rose (Black Uhuru). Joss Jaffe and these musicians have together created a unique, joyous, and festive musical carnival of love, community, spirit, and sound. Press play and join in the festivities.
Dub Mantra Sangha CD Review
by Joss Jaffe
Tataouine/BMI
Reviewed by Joe Kara, who loves his double life working in music and teaching Yoga in Hollywood and the Valley. And he plays bass, too. Facebook/ Twitter. @JJKara
Joe Kara enjoys a double life working in music and teaching Yoga in Hollywood and the Valley. He plays a little bass, too. @JoeKaraYoga