Tabla Mantra Music
Tabla Mantra welcomes the listener to a sublime dream world of sound and intricate rhythms woven together through the heart. This album is unique with its base in the Indian style of singing called tarana. It features an underlying slow and prosaic love song to god, followed by lyrics that are fast rhythmic syllables akin to scat singing.
This album’s percolating, cleansing, and fascinating style is entwined with a fearless artistry of vocals, strings, flute, and, of course, Daniel Paul’s tabla. It is obvious that this was birthed from Daniel’s heart, his genius, and his sensitivity.
Along with the outrageous rhythms, there’s amazing singing. The sacred names are caressed reverently and offered into the khumb — the collective song. Gina Sala’s evocative exotic voice delights along with Prajna Viera, C.C. White, and Neeraja Parsons. The strong men’s voices alternately lead and lurk in the background, offering their sentiments and weaving the melodies and rhythms with intense devotion.
Tracks such as the luscious and beautiful Gurudeva draw you in deep while Krishna Prabhu showcases Steve Gorn’s bansuri flute with Jai Uttal.
There is a magical feeling of space bursting with creativity. I listen, attentive and intrigued. I cannot stop playing Tabla Mantra in my classes, in my car, for ceremonies, and for others. Turn it up, tap your feet, move your body, and breathe in your heart.
Reviewed by Kristin Olson, the founder of Urban Yoga in Palm Springs who is a Desert AIDS Project and 100 Women Supporter. She has been teaching for 37 years and is a featured teacher at Bhakti Fest: Urbanyoga.org
