Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Indian classical music with Shobha Gurtu's captivating album, a tribute to the legendary singer's extraordinary talent. Known as the "Thumri Queen," Shobha Gurtu's husky yet melodic voice has been inspiring audiences for over six decades. This album, recorded live at the prestigious National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), showcases her mastery of the thumri style, along with other light classical genres like dadra and qawwali.
The album features three mesmerizing tracks: "Sooraj Mukh Na Jaibe (Dadra) - Live," "O Na Bat Kar Mere Humnawaz - Live," and "Saiyan Bina More Chain (Thumri) - Live." Each track is a testament to Gurtu's expansive, spontaneous, yet laidback singing style, as described by the Times of India. Her ability to blend strength with suppleness and vigor with grace creates a unique combination of acquired technique and innate spirituality that permeates every note.
Shobha Gurtu, the chosen successor to the influential Indian classical vocalist Begum Akhtar, received her earliest training from her mother, Menakabai Shirodkar. Her contributions to Indian classical music have elevated the cultural heritage of the nation, making her a jewel in the crown of Indian music. This album is a rare opportunity to experience the genius of Shobha Gurtu, a singer who effortlessly added pure classical passages into her singing, thus creating a new form and reviving the magic of forms like thumri.
With a duration of 54 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the enchanting world of Shobha Gurtu's music. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of Indian classical music or a newcomer looking to explore its rich traditions, this album is sure to captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more.
Vinylscout