"At Her Creative Best" is a captivating album by the renowned Indian singer Shobha Gurtu, released on January 1, 2007, under Universal Music India Pvt Ltd. This album is a beautiful blend of Ghazal and Qawwali genres, showcasing Gurtu's mastery over the light Hindustani classical style, particularly the thumri genre. With a duration of 38 minutes, the album features four enchanting tracks, each a testament to Gurtu's expansive, spontaneous, yet laid-back vocal style.
The album opens with "Sejariya Kaise Aaun (Raag Des - Mand)," a soulful composition that sets the tone for the rest of the album. This is followed by "Dekho Guiya Phir Yaad Aaye (Raag Mishra Shivaranjani)," a track that highlights Gurtu's ability to evoke deep emotions through her husky, melodic vocals. "Ab Kaise Dharu Dheer (Thumri - Manj Kaamaj)" is a beautiful rendition that showcases Gurtu's expertise in the thumri style, while the final track, "Sajna Aaja Re Meet Piharwa (Birha)," is a poignant composition that leaves a lasting impression.
Shobha Gurtu, often referred to as the chosen successor to the influential Indian classical vocalist Begum Akhtar, has been inspiring audiences for over six decades. Her unique vocal style and ability to connect with listeners have made her a beloved figure in the world of Indian classical music. "At Her Creative Best" is a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the rich tapestry of Indian classical music and the timeless artistry of Shobha Gurtu.