Kirtana – Robert Gass & On Wings of Song (Spring Hill Music)
Another album (see Jai Uttal's Dial M for Mantra) that draws on the power of kirtan chanting is the thoroughly more satisfying ‘Kirtana’ by Robert Gass and friends. Its lush, timeless Indian style may be more ‘middle-of-the-road’ and less ‘clever’ than the Jai Uttal downtempo electronica remix, but the real warmth of the 36-strong On Wings of Song choir brings a broad inner smile to the heart as these simple chants are bounced back and forth between soloist and choir, urging the listener to sing along and become active in the chanting experience, which I imagine is one of the CD’s primary purposes.

Although Mr Gass was probably anticipating a more reverential involvement, I find this CD provides a lovely warm housecoat whilst pottering about – all very homely and reassuring.

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