Description
The legendary master drummer and world music pioneer Trilok Gurtu presents 'Mirror' - a fascinating fusion of classical Indian music, Western jazz, funk, and influences from Africa, the Balkans, and Brazil. Together with the renowned Arke String Quartet, he creates a musical mosaic of remarkable depth and expressiveness. Twenty years ago, Gurtu and the Arke String Quartet first collaborated - now they continue this partnership. The ten tracks on "Mirror" range from the dynamic opening "Peace Is Not Peaceful" to the hypnotic groove of "Five Illusions" and the atmospheric soundscape of "After the Storm." A standout piece is "The Cathedral," which achieves a unique dimension with baroque-like elegance and Gurtu's tabla playing. His konnakol singing and experimental sound effects give the album an unmistakable signature.
Also noteworthy is "Scirocco," a driving funk piece in which Gurtu not only showcases his distinctive rhythmic style but also experiments with water buckets and electronic effects. The fusion of acoustic virtuosity and modern soundscapes runs throughout the entire album. "Tornavento" evokes the meditative, serene atmosphere of the Mahavishnu Orchestra's classic "You Know, You Know," inviting listeners to immerse themselves in profound sonic landscapes.
"My spiritual master once said: 'You are a mirror of God.' This realisation inspired me to create music that unites rather than divides," says Gurtu. With 'Mirror', he delivers a powerful statement for unity and spirituality. The compositions exude a special emotional depth, further amplified by the outstanding interplay between the string quartet and percussion.
With a career spanning over five decades, alongside legends such as John McLaughlin, Joe Zawinul, and Don Cherry, Gurtu remains a fearless sonic visionary. His unique style, blending South Indian rhythms with Western soundscapes, has made him one of the most significant percussionists of our time. "Mirror" marks another milestone in his impressive body of work - full of depth, energy, and musical sophistication that transcends genres and explores new sonic dimensions.
